Authored by Emilio (Spain), MSc Applied Mathematics
Making the decision to relocate from a rural island in Spain to the largest city in Europe was intimidating. Nevertheless, the last 18 months in London have been the most rewarding and exhilarating period of my life.
London is a dynamic, multicultural, historical metropolis brimming with diverse restaurants, events, and attractions – exploring it is perpetually an adventure! However, adjusting to life in a foreign country can present challenges. Here are some insights I gained as an international student in London, coupled with advice on what to do once you’re established.
Relocating to London as a postgraduate student
The initial step in relocating to London involves finding the perfect place to call home. Utilizing Instagram, TikTok, and online communities, I investigated different London neighborhoods that might be enjoyable to reside in. I found that Camden Town boasts a vibrant nightlife, Hackney is a burgeoning area in east London, and Putney offers a tranquil, green residential environment.
I was lucky to visit London before commencing my Master’s program, enabling me to explore these neighborhoods firsthand prior to making my living arrangements. After selecting Putney, my flatmates (whom I met during undergraduate studies) and I turned to accommodation search platforms like SpareRoom and Rightmove to locate budget-friendly house shares, scheduled online viewings with landlords, and ultimately secured a lovely flat near Putney Heath.
Activities to enjoy in London
Once you’ve settled in and furnished your new abode, a plethora of opportunities and events awaits – the real challenge in London is selecting which activities to engage in and carving out time for all of them!
Imperial’s South Kensington Campus is situated in the Albertopolis district, an area dedicated to celebrating art, manufacturing, and science. Close by are remarkable museums such as the Natural History Museum, the Science Museum, and the V&A Museum. These museums are wonderful to explore, with some staying open late on Fridays. On the final Friday of each month, the V&A hosts a V&A Late, transforming the museum into a lively venue with drinks and live performances!
In addition to visiting museums, I delight in exploring East London neighborhoods like Canary Wharf, Hackney, and Isle of Dogs. This region is rich in historical and artistic landmarks, making it a charming place to stroll and uncover new experiences. My favorite location is Trinity Buoy Wharf – previously an old canning warehouse, it’s now home to a startup that creates temporary structures from shipping containers. The complex honors creative manufacturing and contains several art studios, along with the original lighthouse lab where Michael Faraday conducted his work!
Dining out in London
London provides excellent deals if you know where to search, presenting many options for inexpensive yet tasty meals. Throughout my stay in London, I’ve compiled a list of eateries featuring various promotions citywide, making dining out more economical.
One such location in South Kensington is a seafood restaurant named Wright Brothers, which offers an Oyster Happy Hour, featuring oysters for just £1 each! This is an amazing opportunity, particularly if you’re yearning for the flavors of home seafood and want to enjoy oysters to your heart’s delight!
Tooting in South London is also renowned for its culinary scene. Tooting Market and Tooting Broadway Market are extensive indoor street food markets providing a fantastic array of cuisines. If you’re craving food reminiscent of home, I strongly advise checking out the Tooting food markets!
Taking a respite from the city
While the city’s pulse adds to London’s appeal, there are times when the Tube becomes too noisy, the streets too crowded, and throngs of people abound. Luckily, London is well-linked with trains and coaches, facilitating easy escapes from the city for a weekend.
My favorite destinations are Surrey and Kent. Canterbury is a stunning medieval town in southern England, steeped in history and offering student-friendly venues. In Surrey, the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) has a vast botanical garden in Wisley, ideal for a summer outing.
In summary, London is a vibrant city teeming with opportunities and places to explore. Take your time to uncover everything the city has to offer during your period at Imperial!
To learn more about my experiences, peruse my Imperial story.
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