Authored by Emilio (Spain), MSc Applied Mathematics
Making the choice to leave a rural island in Spain for Europe’s biggest metropolis was intimidating. However, the last 18 months in London have proven to be the most rewarding and thrilling of my lifetime.
London is an energetic, diverse, historically rich city with a vast selection of restaurants, events, and attractions – there’s always an adventure waiting to be had! Still, adapting to a new country can present its challenges. Here are some insights I gained as an international student in London, along with several tips and suggestions for acclimating.
Relocating to London as a postgraduate student
The initial step in relocating to London involves identifying the perfect place to call home. I took to Instagram, TikTok, and online forums to research different London neighborhoods that might be enjoyable to reside in. I uncovered Camden Town’s vibrant nightlife, Hackney’s burgeoning scene, and Putney’s serene, green residential atmosphere.
Having previously visited London before commencing my Master’s, I took the opportunity to explore these neighborhoods personally before settling on Putney. My flatmates (whom I met during my undergraduate studies) and I leveraged accommodation websites such as SpareRoom and Rightmove to find budget-friendly house shares, organized online viewings with landlords, and ultimately secured a lovely flat near Putney Heath.
Activities in London
Once you’ve unpacked and furnished your new home, an array of opportunities and events awaits – the challenge lies in deciding which activities to participate in and carving out time for everything!
Imperial’s South Kensington Campus is situated in Albertopolis, a neighborhood celebrating art, manufacturing, and science. Close by are fantastic museums like the Natural History Museum, the Science Museum, and the V&A Museum. These museums are fantastic to visit, and some even extend their hours on Fridays. On the last Friday of each month, the V&A hosts a V&A Late, transforming into a mini rave with drinks and live performances!
Apart from museums, I relish checking out East London neighborhoods such as Canary Wharf, Hackney, and Isle of Dogs. This area is packed with historical and artistic landmarks, making it a charming place to explore. My favorite location is Trinity Buoy Wharf – established on an old canning warehouse, it now accommodates a Series B startup creating temporary buildings from shipping containers. The complex champions creative manufacturing and features several artist studios, in addition to the original lighthouse lab where Michael Faraday conducted his work!
Dining out in London
London provides great food deals if you know where to seek them. Throughout my time here, I’ve curated a list of dining locations offering various promotions around the city, making dining out more economical.
One such venue is located in South Kensington, where Wright Brothers features an Oyster Happy Hour with oysters available for just £1 each! It’s an incredible bargain, especially if you’re craving the taste of fresh seafood from home at an affordable price.
Tooting in South London is also renowned for its culinary scene. Tooting Market and Tooting Broadway Market are expansive indoor street food markets showcasing a wide array of cuisines. If you’re in search of food reminiscent of home, I wholeheartedly recommend checking out Tooting’s food markets!
Taking a respite from the city
While the buzz of London is part of its allure, there are moments when the Tube feels too noisy or the streets too congested. Luckily, London is well-serviced by trains and coaches, making weekend getaways a breeze.
My favorite retreats are Surrey and Kent. Canterbury is a picturesque medieval town in southern England, abounding in history and student-friendly venues. In Surrey, the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) boasts an expansive botanical garden in Wisley, ideal for a summer excursion.
All in all, London is a dynamic city teeming with opportunities and places to discover, so take your time to unveil all it has to offer during your stay at Imperial!
For more about my experiences, check out my Imperial story.