Authored by Emilio (Spain), MSc Applied Mathematics
Transitioning from the tranquil countryside of a rural island in Spain to the largest metropolis in Europe was quite overwhelming. However, the last 18 months spent in London have proven to be the most fulfilling and enjoyable period of my life.
London is a rich, multicultural, historic, and dynamic city with an extensive array of restaurants, events, and attractions—navigating it is forever an adventure! Nonetheless, acclimatizing to life in a new nation can prove to be tough. Below are some insights I gathered as an international student in London, along with recommendations and advice for settling in.
Relocating to London as a postgraduate student
The initial step in relocating to London is identifying the ideal place to call home. I utilized Instagram, TikTok, and online forums to delve into various London neighborhoods that could be enjoyable to reside in. I found that Camden Town boasts an energetic nightlife, Hackney is a growing area in east London, while Putney is a serene, green residential locale.
Having previously visited London before commencing my Master’s, I had the opportunity to explore these neighborhoods firsthand prior to finalizing my move. I opted for Putney, and with my flatmates (whom I met during undergraduate studies), we utilized accommodation search platforms like SpareRoom and Rightmove to locate budget-friendly house shares. We arranged virtual viewings with landlords and ultimately discovered a lovely flat close to Putney Heath.
Activities to experience in London
After settling in, a plethora of opportunities and events awaits you. The challenge in London lies in choosing which activities to engage in and finding time for it all!
Imperial’s South Kensington Campus is situated in the Albertopolis area, a neighborhood that celebrates art, industry, and science. Close by are magnificent museums like the Natural History Museum, the Science Museum, and the V&A Museum. These museums are delightful to explore, with some extending their hours late into Fridays. On the last Friday of every month, the V&A hosts an event called V&A Late, transforming the museum into a vibrant gathering with drinks and live performances!
In addition to visiting museums, I appreciate wandering through East London neighborhoods such as Canary Wharf, Hackney, and Isle of Dogs. This region is filled with historical and artistic landmarks. My favorite place is Trinity Buoy Wharf—established on an old canning warehouse, it now houses a startup innovating temporary structures from shipping containers. The complex celebrates creative manufacturing and features several art studios, including the original lighthouse lab where Michael Faraday conducted his work!
Dining out in London
London boasts excellent food deals if you know where to search. Throughout my time here, I’ve gathered a list of eateries offering various deals across the city, making dining more budget-friendly.
One location is in South Kensington, where Wright Brothers has an Oyster Happy Hour, featuring oysters for merely £1 each! This is an incredible offer, especially if you long for a taste of home seafood.
Tooting in South London is also famed for its vibrant food culture. Tooting Market and Tooting Broadway Market are expansive indoor street food markets showcasing a diverse range of cuisines. If you’re seeking dishes that remind you of home, I strongly recommend checking out Tooting’s food markets!
Taking a break from city life
While London’s urban life is enchanting, sometimes the Tube can be excessively noisy, or the streets overly congested. Luckily, London is well-connected via trains and coaches, facilitating easy weekend getaways.
My preferred destinations include Surrey and Kent. Canterbury is a charming medieval town in southern England, rich in history and offering student-friendly venues. In Surrey, the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) boasts a vast botanical garden in Wisley, ideal for a summer excursion.
In summary, London is a lively city brimming with possibilities and places to discover. Take your time to explore all that the city has to offer during your tenure at Imperial!
To learn more about my journey, read my Imperial story.