Authored by Emilio (Spain), MSc Applied Mathematics
Transitioning from a rural island in Spain to the largest city in Europe was a significant challenge, but my 18 months in London have been extraordinarily fulfilling and enjoyable.
London is a lively, multicultural metropolis with a deep history and a diverse selection of dining options, events, and attractions. Exploring the city is always an adventure, although adapting to a new country can prove difficult. Here are some insights I’ve gained as an international student in London, along with advice for acclimatizing.
Relocating to London as a postgraduate student
The initial step to relocating to London is securing an appropriate home. I utilized Instagram, TikTok, and various online forums to investigate different London neighborhoods. Camden Town is famed for its nightlife, Hackney is a developing area, and Putney is a peaceful, green residential zone.
Having visited London prior to beginning my Master’s, I checked out these neighborhoods firsthand before deciding on Putney. My flatmates (who I met during my undergraduate studies) and I used platforms like SpareRoom and Rightmove to locate economical shared housing, set up online viewings, and found a lovely flat close to Putney Heath.
Activities in London
Once you’ve made yourself at home, London presents endless possibilities and events. The challenge lies in deciding which activities to engage in and allocating time for them all!
Imperial’s South Kensington Campus is situated in the Albertopolis area, a neighborhood dedicated to art, manufacturing, and science. In the vicinity are the Natural History Museum, the Science Museum, and the V&A Museum, all fantastic places to explore. Some are even open late on Fridays, and the V&A hosts a V&A Late event on the last Friday of each month featuring drinks and live music!
In addition to museums, I love exploring East London areas like Canary Wharf, Hackney, and Isle of Dogs, which are rich in history and creative projects. My preferred location is Trinity Buoy Wharf, an artistic manufacturing center featuring art studios and the original lighthouse laboratory where Michael Faraday conducted his research.
Dining out in London
London has excellent food deals if you know where to find them. I’ve curated a list of budget-friendly dining spots with discounts throughout the city.
One such place is Wright Brothers in South Kensington, which features an Oyster Happy Hour with oysters for £1 each. It’s an amazing bargain, especially if you’re longing for the taste of coastal seafood from home.
Tooting in South London is famous for its food scene, with Tooting Market and Tooting Broadway Market offering a vast array of cuisines. If you crave food that reminds you of home, check out the Tooting food markets!
Taking a break from city life
While the vibrance of London contributes to its appeal, sometimes the Tube can be too noisy, or the streets too crowded. Luckily, London’s train and coach transport system makes it simple to escape for a weekend.
My favorite destinations for a visit are Surrey and Kent. Canterbury is a stunning medieval town full of history and student-friendly venues. In Surrey, the RHS Wisley botanical garden offers a charming day out, particularly in the summer months.
Overall, London is a dynamic city brimming with opportunities and places to discover. Take your time to explore everything it has to offer during your stay at Imperial!
To learn more about my experiences, read my Imperial tale.