Authored by Emilio (Spain), MSc Applied Mathematics
Choosing to relocate from a rural island in Spain to the largest city in Europe was intimidating. Nevertheless, the previous 18 months in London have been the most rewarding and thrilling of my existence.
London is an energetic, diverse, historic, and busy metropolis with a plethora of restaurants, events, and attractions – exploring it is perpetually an adventure! However, adapting to life in a foreign country can pose challenges. Here are some insights I gained as an international student in London, along with tips and suggestions for settling down.
Relocating to London as a postgraduate student
The initial step in relocating to London is identifying the ideal place to call home. Utilizing Instagram, TikTok, and online communities, I explored various neighborhoods throughout London that appeared appealing. I found that Camden Town boasts a vibrant nightlife, Hackney is a growing area in east London, and Putney is a serene, green residential zone.
Having visited London prior to commencing my Master’s, I had the opportunity to explore these areas in person beforehand to determine where to reside. I opted for Putney, and my flatmates (whom I met during undergraduate studies) and I utilized platforms like SpareRoom and Rightmove to discover reasonably priced house shares, organized online viewings with landlords, and ultimately found a lovely flat near Putney Heath.
Activities to enjoy in London
Once you’ve settled in and embellished your new residence, a universe of opportunities and events awaits – the main challenge in London is deciding which activities to engage in and allocating time for them all!
Imperial’s South Kensington Campus is situated in the Albertopolis district, an area that celebrates art, manufacturing, and science. Close by, there are fantastic museums like the Natural History Museum, the Science Museum, and the V&A Museum. These museums are delightful to explore, and some even have extended hours on Fridays. On the last Friday of each month, the V&A organizes a V&A Late, transforming the museum into a vibrant venue with drinks and live music!
Beyond museum visits, I enjoy discovering East London locales such as Canary Wharf, Hackney, and Isle of Dogs. These neighborhoods are rich in historical and artistic landmarks, making them perfect for wandering and uncovering new experiences. My favorite spot is Trinity Buoy Wharf – constructed on a former canning warehouse, it currently accommodates a Series B startup creating temporary structures from shipping containers. The complex celebrates creative manufacturing and features several art studios, along with the original lighthouse lab where Michael Faraday worked!
Dining out in London
London offers excellent food deals if you know where to seek them, with plenty of options for affordable yet delectable meals. During my stay in London, I’ve compiled a list of dining spots with various promotions that make eating out more budget-friendly.
One such location is in South Kensington, where a seafood restaurant named Wright Brothers offers an Oyster Happy Hour, selling oysters for just £1 each! This is an incredible offer, especially if you’re yearning for seafood from home and want to enjoy oysters without overspending.
Tooting in South London is also recognized for its food scene. Tooting Market and Tooting Broadway Market are expansive indoor street food markets featuring a wide range of cuisines. If you’re in search of food that reminds you of home, I highly suggest checking out the Tooting food markets!
Escaping the city
While the hustle and bustle of the city contribute to London’s allure, occasionally the Tube can get too noisy, the streets overly congested, and crowds are omnipresent. Luckily, London is well-connected by trains and coaches, making it simple to flee the city for a weekend.
My preferred destinations are Surrey and Kent. Canterbury is a stunning medieval town in southern England, steeped in history and filled with student-friendly spots. In Surrey, the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) features a vast botanical garden in Wisley, which offers a wonderful day out, particularly in the summer.
In summary, London is a dynamic city brimming with opportunities and places to explore, so take your time to uncover everything it has to offer during your stay at Imperial!
To discover more about my adventures, read my Imperial story.