Authored by Emilio (Spain), MSc Applied Mathematics
Transitioning from a rural island in Spain to the largest city in Europe was intimidating, yet the last 18 months in London have proven to be the most rewarding and thrilling of my life.
London is a dynamic, multicultural metropolis with a rich heritage and limitless activities, providing a wide variety of restaurants, events, and attractions. Nonetheless, adapting to a new country can be tough. Here are some insights I’ve gained as an international student in London, along with advice on what to do after you’ve settled in.
Relocating to London as a postgraduate student
The initial step to relocating to London is identifying the ideal place to make your home. I utilized Instagram, TikTok, and online communities to research different areas of London. Camden Town is famous for its nightlife, Hackney is a developing neighborhood in east London, while Putney is a serene, green residential area.
Having visited London before commencing my Master’s, I personally explored these neighborhoods prior to selecting Putney. My flatmates (whom I met during my undergraduate studies) and I used platforms such as SpareRoom and Rightmove to look for budget-friendly house shares, arranged online viewings with landlords, and ultimately found a pleasant flat close to Putney Heath.
Activities in London
After you’ve settled in and adorned your new space, a realm of possibilities opens up. The difficulty in London lies in choosing which activities to engage in and finding the time for everything!
Imperial’s South Kensington Campus is situated in the Albertopolis area, a sector that celebrates art, manufacturing, and science. In close proximity, you can visit the Natural History Museum, the Science Museum, and the V&A Museum, all of which are delightful to discover. Some even remain open late on Fridays, with the V&A hosting a monthly V&A Late, transforming the museum into a vibrant gathering spot with drinks and live music.
In addition to museums, I enjoy discovering East London neighborhoods such as Canary Wharf, Hackney, and Isle of Dogs. These areas are rich with historical and artistic landmarks. My personal favorite is Trinity Buoy Wharf, constructed on a former canning warehouse and now home to a startup creating temporary structures from shipping containers. It celebrates innovative manufacturing and houses art studios, including the original lighthouse lab where Michael Faraday conducted his work.
Dining out in London
London presents excellent food deals if you know where to search. I’ve put together a list of dining venues with discounts throughout the city, making eating out more economical.
One location is in South Kensington, where Wright Brothers features an Oyster Happy Hour with oysters priced at just £1 each. It’s an incredible bargain, particularly if you’re longing for seafood from home.
Tooting in South London is recognized for its culinary scene, with Tooting Market and Tooting Broadway Market offering diverse cuisines. If you’re seeking dishes that remind you of home, I strongly recommend checking out these markets!
Escaping the city
Although the city’s vibrancy adds to London’s allure, sometimes the Tube can be too noisy, or the streets may feel overly congested. Thankfully, London boasts excellent train and coach connectivity, making it simple to escape for a weekend.
My preferred destinations are Surrey and Kent. Canterbury is a stunning medieval town in southern England with a rich history and places that cater to students. In Surrey, the Royal Horticultural Society’s garden in Wisley is a delightful day trip, especially during the summer months.
In summary, London is a lively city brimming with opportunities and places to explore. Take your time to uncover all that the city has in store during your experience at Imperial!
To learn more about my experiences, read my Imperial story.