Authored by Emilio (Spain), MSc Applied Mathematics
The choice to relocate from a rural island in Spain to the largest city in Europe was intimidating. Nevertheless, the last 18 months in London have proven to be the most rewarding and thrilling of my existence.
London is a dynamic, multicultural, and historic metropolis boasting an extensive selection of restaurants, events, and attractions – exploring it is perpetually an adventure! However, adjusting to life in a new country can pose challenges. Here are some insights I gained as an international student transitioning to London, along with some advice on what to do once you’ve settled in.
Transitioning to London as a postgraduate student
The initial step in relocating to London involves selecting the perfect place to call home. I utilized Instagram, TikTok, and online forums to investigate various areas in London that might be enjoyable for living. I encountered Camden Town’s lively nightlife, Hackney’s burgeoning scene in east London, and Putney’s serene, green residential atmosphere.
Having visited London prior to commencing my Master’s, I personally explored these neighborhoods before settling on Putney. My flatmates (whom I got to know during my undergraduate studies) and I utilized accommodation platforms such as SpareRoom and Rightmove to discover budget-friendly house shares, coordinated online viewings with landlords, and ultimately secured a pleasant flat close to Putney Heath.
Activities to engage in London
Once you’ve settled in and styled your new space, a plethora of opportunities and events awaits – the challenge in London lies in selecting which activities to pursue and finding time for them all!
Imperial’s South Kensington Campus is nestled in the Albertopolis area, a district that honors art, manufacturing, and science. Nearby are fantastic museums like the Natural History Museum, the Science Museum, and the V&A Museum. These museums are captivating to explore, with some remaining open late on Fridays. On the last Friday of every month, the V&A hosts a V&A Late, transforming the museum into a vibrant event featuring drinks and live performances!
In addition to visiting museums, I relish discovering East London neighborhoods such as Canary Wharf, Hackney, and Isle of Dogs. This region is replete with historical and artistic initiatives, making it a wonderful place to stroll. My preferred location is Trinity Buoy Wharf, constructed on a former canning warehouse, now housing a startup that creates temporary structures from shipping containers. The complex celebrates innovative manufacturing and accommodates art studios, including the original lighthouse lab where Michael Faraday conducted his work!
Dining out in London
London provides great opportunities if you know where to search, with plenty of choices for budget-friendly yet delectable food. Throughout my time in London, I’ve compiled a list of dining establishments with various deals across the city, making eating out more economical.
One such establishment is located in South Kensington, where Wright Brothers offers an Oyster Happy Hour, serving oysters for merely £1 each! This is an incredible bargain, especially if you crave the taste of home seafood and wish to indulge in oysters to your heart’s desire!
Tooting in South London is also renowned for its culinary scene. Tooting Market and Tooting Broadway Market are expansive indoor street food markets featuring a wide range of cuisines. If you are looking for food that evokes memories of home, I highly suggest checking out Tooting’s food markets!
Taking a breather from the city
While the city’s pace is part of London’s allure, at times the Tube can become excessively noisy or the streets too congested. Fortunately, London is centrally located within a great network of trains and coaches, making it effortless to escape the city for a weekend.
My preferred destinations to visit are Surrey and Kent. Canterbury is a picturesque medieval town in southern England, abundant in history and accommodating for students. In Surrey, the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) features a vast botanical garden in Wisley, ideal for a sunny day outing.
All in all, London is a vibrant city brimming with opportunities and places to explore, so take your time to uncover everything the city has in store during your stay at Imperial!
To learn more about my experiences, read my Imperial story.