Authored by Emilio (Spain), MSc Applied Mathematics
Transitioning from a rural island in Spain to the largest city in Europe was intimidating, yet my past 18 months in London have been remarkably fulfilling and enjoyable.
London is a lively, multicultural metropolis with an extensive history and countless activities. However, adapting to life in a foreign country can be daunting. Here are some insights I’ve gained as an overseas student in London, along with suggestions for settling in.
Relocating to London as a postgraduate student
The initial step in relocating to London is securing a place to call your own. I utilized Instagram, TikTok, and online forums to investigate various neighborhoods. Camden Town is famous for its nightlife, Hackney is a developing area in east London, and Putney is a peaceful, green residential zone.
Having visited London prior to starting my Master’s, I personally explored these neighborhoods before selecting Putney. My flatmates and I took advantage of platforms like SpareRoom and Rightmove to discover budget-friendly house shares, arranged online viewings, and ultimately found a lovely flat close to Putney Heath.
Activities to enjoy in London
Once you’ve settled in, a plethora of opportunities lies ahead. The difficulty lies in selecting which activities to engage in and how to fit them all in!
Imperial’s South Kensington Campus is situated in the Albertopolis area, celebrated for art, industry, and science. Nearby are the Natural History Museum, the Science Museum, and the V&A Museum. These museums are fantastic to visit, with some remaining open late on Fridays. The V&A hosts a V&A Late on the final Friday of each month, transforming the museum into a vibrant party atmosphere with beverages and music!
In addition to museums, I relish exploring East London locales such as Canary Wharf, Hackney, and Isle of Dogs. These neighborhoods boast a wealth of history and artistic expression. My favorite location is Trinity Buoy Wharf, a creative center established on an old canning warehouse, showcasing art studios and the original lighthouse lab where Michael Faraday conducted his work.
Dining out in London
London presents fantastic food bargains if you know where to search. I’ve curated a list of budget-friendly dining options throughout the city.
In South Kensington, Wright Brothers runs an Oyster Happy Hour with oysters priced at £1 each—a fantastic deal for seafood enthusiasts!
Tooting in South London is renowned for its culinary scene. Tooting Market and Tooting Broadway Market provide a diverse array of cuisines. If you’re longing for a taste of home, these markets are certainly worth a visit!
Taking a break from the urban environment
While London’s vibrancy is enchanting, it can be nice to occasionally step away from the hustle and bustle. Thankfully, London’s train and coach systems facilitate easy weekend getaways.
My preferred retreats are Surrey and Kent. Canterbury is a historic town with student-friendly venues. In Surrey, the RHS Garden Wisley is a stunning place to visit, particularly during the summer months.
All in all, London is a dynamic city brimming with opportunities. Make sure to explore everything it has to offer during your time at Imperial!
To learn more about my experiences, check out my Imperial story.