Authored by Emilio (Spain), MSc Applied Mathematics
Choosing to move from the rural landscapes of a Spanish island to the largest metropolis in Europe was intimidating. Nonetheless, the last 18 months in London have turned out to be the most rewarding and exhilarating phase of my life.
London is a lively, multicultural, historic, and dynamic city that boasts a vast selection of restaurants, events, and attractions – navigating it is perpetually an adventure! However, acclimating to life in a new country can prove to be a challenge. Below are some insights I gained as an international student settling into London, along with tips and recommendations for adapting.
Relocating to London as a postgraduate student
The initial step in relocating to London is selecting the ideal place to call home. Utilizing Instagram, TikTok, and online forums, I explored various neighborhoods in London that might be enjoyable for living. I found that Camden Town features an energetic nightlife, Hackney is developing into a trendy area in east London, and Putney offers a tranquil, green residential environment.
Having visited London before commencing my Master’s, I had the opportunity to tour these neighborhoods firsthand before making my decision about where to live. After opting for Putney, my flatmates (whom I met during my undergraduate studies) and I utilized accommodation search platforms such as SpareRoom and Rightmove to locate budget-friendly house shares, arranged online viewings with landlords, and ultimately secured a charming flat close to Putney Heath.
Activities in London
Once you’ve settled in and decorated your new home, a realm of opportunities and events lies ahead – the challenge of residing in London is choosing which activities to join in on and carving out time for all of them!
Imperial’s South Kensington Campus is situated in the Albertopolis region, a vast area that celebrates art, industry, and science. Close by are fantastic museums like the Natural History Museum, the Science Museum, and the V&A Museum. These museums are fantastic for exploration, and some remain open late on Fridays. On the final Friday of every month, the V&A hosts a V&A Late, a public gathering where the museum turns into a mini rave with drinks and live performances!
Besides museum visits, I love wandering through East London neighborhoods such as Canary Wharf, Hackney, and Isle of Dogs. This area is rich with historical sites and artistic endeavors, making it a fantastic place to stroll and uncover unexpected treasures. My favorite location is Trinity Buoy Wharf – constructed on a former canning warehouse, it now accommodates a Series B startup that creates temporary structures from shipping containers. The site celebrates creative manufacturing and hosts various art studios, as well as the original lighthouse lab where the English chemist and physicist Michael Faraday conducted his work!
Dining out in London
London presents excellent deals if you know where to search, with countless options for budget-friendly yet superb meals. Throughout my time in London, I’ve compiled an extensive list of eateries that offer various deals around the city, making dining out more budget-friendly.
One such establishment is located in South Kensington, where an incredible seafood restaurant called Wright Brothers provides an Oyster Happy Hour, featuring oysters at just £1 each! It’s an amazing deal, particularly if you’re craving home-style seafood and wish to relish oysters to your heart’s (and wallet’s) delight!
Tooting in South London is also celebrated for its food scene. Tooting Market and Tooting Broadway Market are large indoor street food markets showcasing an extensive array of cuisines. If you’re looking for food that evokes memories of home, I highly recommend checking out the food markets in Tooting!
Escaping the urban hustle
While the city’s tempo is integral to London’s allure, there are moments when the Tube becomes too noisy, the streets too crowded, and the throngs are overwhelming. Fortunately, London is centrally located within a great network of trains and coaches, making it simple to break away from the city for a weekend.
My favorite destinations are Surrey and Kent. Canterbury is a charming medieval town in southern England, steeped in history and welcoming to students. In Surrey, the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) boasts an expansive botanical garden in Wisley, which is a delightful outing, especially during summer.
In summary, London is a lively city brimming with chances and places to explore, so take your time uncovering all it has to offer throughout your journey at Imperial!
To learn more about my experiences, <a href="https://www.imperial.ac.uk/Stories/my-imperial