Authored by Emilio (Spain), MSc Applied Mathematics
Transitioning from a rural island in Spain to Europe’s largest city was intimidating, yet the last 18 months in London have proven to be extremely fulfilling and enjoyable.
London is a lively, diverse, historical city with an extensive selection of restaurants, events, and attractions—navigating it is always an adventure! Nonetheless, adapting to the routine of a new country can be difficult. Here are some insights I gained as an international student in London, along with tips on what to do once you feel at home.
Relocating to London as a postgraduate student
The initial step in relocating to London is selecting the ideal place to call home. I utilized Instagram, TikTok, and online communities to investigate different areas in London. Camden Town is famous for its nightlife, Hackney is a rising area in east London, and Putney is a peaceful, green residential neighborhood.
Having previously visited London before commencing my Master’s, I explored these areas firsthand before choosing Putney. My flatmates (met during undergraduate studies) and I used platforms like SpareRoom and Rightmove to locate affordable house shares, orchestrated online viewings, and secured a lovely flat close to Putney Heath.
Activities in London
Once settled in, a plethora of opportunities and events beckon—selecting activities and allocating time for them can be the real challenge!
Imperial’s South Kensington Campus is situated in the Albertopolis district, celebrating art, manufacturing, and science. Close by are the Natural History Museum, Science Museum, and V&A Museum, all enjoyable to explore. Some even extend their hours on Fridays, with the V&A hosting a monthly V&A Late, transforming the museum into a vibrant gathering with drinks and live music!
Apart from museums, I relish exploring East London neighborhoods such as Canary Wharf, Hackney, and Isle of Dogs. This region is abundant in history and artistic endeavors, making it an intriguing area to discover. My favorite location is Trinity Buoy Wharf, a creative center established in an old canning warehouse, home to a startup and multiple art studios, as well as the original lighthouse lab where Michael Faraday conducted his work!
Dining out in London
London offers numerous bargains if you know where to seek, featuring countless options for economical yet excellent food. I’ve created a list of dining spots with deals throughout the city to make eating out more affordable.
One location in South Kensington is where Wright Brothers features an Oyster Happy Hour, with oysters priced at only £1 each—a fantastic value if you long for home seafood!
Tooting in South London is also recognized for its culinary scene. Tooting Market and Tooting Broadway Market are large indoor street food markets showcasing diverse cuisines. If you’re in search of food that brings back memories of home, check out Tooting’s food markets!
Taking a respite from the city
While the rhythm of London is enchanting, at times the Tube may become overly noisy or the streets too crowded. Thankfully, London is well-connected by trains and buses, allowing for easy escapes on weekends.
My favorite destinations include Surrey and Kent. Canterbury is a picturesque medieval town in southern England filled with history and student-friendly locales. In Surrey, the RHS boasts a magnificent botanical garden in Wisley, ideal for a summer outing.
In summary, London is a vibrant city brimming with opportunities and destinations to discover, so take your time to explore all it has to offer during your time at Imperial!
To learn more about my experiences, read my Imperial story.