Authored by Emilio (Spain), MSc Applied Mathematics
Choosing to leave a rural island in Spain for the largest city in Europe was quite intimidating. Nevertheless, my previous 18 months in London have turned out to be the most rewarding and enjoyable period of my life.
London is an energetic, diverse, historic, and lively city boasting a vast selection of restaurants, events, and landmarks – discovering it is always an exciting experience! However, adapting to life in a foreign country can present its challenges. Here are some insights I gained while moving to London as an international student, along with a few tips and recommendations for settling in.
Relocating to London as a postgraduate student
The initial step in relocating to London involves finding the perfect place to call home. Utilizing Instagram, TikTok, and online communities, I investigated various neighborhoods in London that appeared enjoyable to reside in. I found that Camden Town features a vibrant nightlife, Hackney is a developing area in East London, and Putney is a tranquil, green residential neighborhood.
I was lucky to visit London prior to beginning my Master’s program, allowing me to explore these areas firsthand before making my living arrangements. After settling on Putney, my flatmates (whom I met during my undergraduate studies) and I utilized housing search websites like SpareRoom and Rightmove to locate affordable shared accommodations, organized online viewings with landlords, and ultimately found a lovely flat close to Putney Heath.
Activities in London
After you’ve settled in and furnished your new space, a plethora of opportunities and events await – the challenge in London lies in selecting which activities to engage in and finding 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 remarkable museums such as the Natural History Museum, the Science Museum, and the V&A Museum. These museums are wonderful to visit, and some even remain open late on Fridays. On the final Friday of each month, the V&A hosts a V&A Late event, turning the museum into a vibrant gathering with drinks and live music!
In addition to exploring museums, I love discovering areas in East London like Canary Wharf, Hackney, and Isle of Dogs. This region is rich in historical landmarks and artistic endeavors, making it a charming place to stroll and uncover new things. My favorite location is Trinity Buoy Wharf – established on an old canning warehouse, it now accommodates a startup specializing in constructing temporary structures from shipping containers. The complex champions creative manufacturing and contains several art studios, including the original lighthouse lab where Michael Faraday conducted his work!
Dining out in London
London presents great value if you know where to look, offering numerous options for affordable yet outstanding food. Throughout my time in London, I’ve compiled a list of eateries with various deals across the city, making dining out budget-friendly.
One such establishment is a seafood venue in South Kensington called Wright Brothers, which offers an Oyster Happy Hour, where oysters are priced at just £1 each! This is an incredible bargain, particularly if you long for the flavors of home’s seafood and wish to treat yourself to oysters without overspending!
Tooting in South London is renowned for its culinary culture. Tooting Market and Tooting Broadway Market are extensive indoor street food markets showcasing a wide array of cuisines. If you’re looking for food that brings back memories of home, I highly suggest checking out the Tooting food markets!
Taking a respite from the city
Although the city’s pace is part of London’s allure, there are moments when the Tube becomes too noisy, or the streets too congested. Thankfully, London is connected to an excellent network of trains and coaches, making it simple to escape the city for a weekend.
My favorite destinations are Surrey and Kent. Canterbury is a stunning medieval town in southern England brimming with history and student-friendly locations. In Surrey, the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) features a vast botanical garden in Wisley, making for a delightful day out, especially during the summer.
In summary, London is a dynamic city filled with chances and locations to explore, so take your time to uncover all that the city has to offer during your time at Imperial!
To learn more about my experiences, check out my Imperial story.