Written by Emilio (Spain), MSc Applied Mathematics
Making the choice to move from a rural Spanish island to the largest city in Europe was intimidating. Nevertheless, the last 18 months in London have been the most rewarding and thrilling time of my existence.
London is an energetic, multicultural, historical, and lively city that boasts a diverse array of restaurants, events, and attractions – venturing through it is perpetually an adventure! However, adjusting to life in a different country can be a challenge. Here are some insights I gained as an international student in London, along with helpful tips and suggestions for when you are settled down.
Adjusting to London as a Postgraduate Student
The first step in relocating to London is finding the ideal place to call your own. I leveraged Instagram, TikTok, and online communities to investigate various London neighborhoods that might be enjoyable to reside in. I came across the lively nightlife of Camden Town, Hackney’s up-and-coming scene in east London, and Putney’s serene, green residential charm.
I was lucky enough to visit London prior to commencing my Master’s program, giving me the opportunity to explore these neighborhoods personally before deciding where to settle. After selecting Putney, my flatmates (whom I met during my undergraduate studies) and I used accommodation platforms like SpareRoom and Rightmove to find budget-friendly house shares, organized online viewings with landlords, and ultimately found a lovely flat close to Putney Heath.
Entertainment in London
Once you’ve made yourself comfortable and adorned your new home, a realm of possibilities and events lies ahead – the true challenge in London is choosing which activities to engage in and allocating time for them all!
Imperial’s South Kensington Campus is situated in the Albertopolis region, a neighborhood that celebrates art, manufacturing, and science. Close by, you’ll discover a collection of marvelous museums, including the Natural History Museum, the Science Museum, and the V&A Museum. These museums are excellent for exploration, with some open late on Fridays. On the final Friday of each month, the V&A hosts a V&A Late, transforming the museum into a vibrant party with drinks and live performances!
Aside from museum visits, I relish wandering through East London neighborhoods like Canary Wharf, Hackney, and Isle of Dogs. This region is rich with historical sections and artistic projects, making it a wonderful area to stroll and uncover hidden treasures. My top spot is Trinity Buoy Wharf – once an old canning facility, it now accommodates a Series B startup focused on creating temporary structures from shipping containers. The complex champions creative manufacturing and houses several art studios, including the original lighthouse lab where Michael Faraday conducted his work!
Culinary Adventures in London
London features fantastic deals if you know where to search, with plenty of options for affordable yet top-notch cuisine. During my time in London, I have compiled a list of dining spots offering various deals throughout the city, making eating out more economical.
One such venue is in South Kensington, where Wright Brothers presents an Oyster Happy Hour, allowing you to savor oysters for merely £1 each! This is an incredible deal, especially if you miss the flavors of home seafood and want to treat yourself to oysters without overspending!
Tooting in South London is also well-known for its culinary scene. Tooting Market and Tooting Broadway Market are expansive indoor street food markets that provide an extensive array of cuisines. If you desire food that reminds you of home, I strongly recommend checking out the Tooting food markets!
Getting Away from the City
While the city’s vibe is an integral part of London’s allure, there are moments when the Tube becomes too noisy, or the streets are excessively congested. Fortunately, London is well-linked by train and coach services, making it simple to escape the city for a weekend getaway.
My preferred getaways are 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) has a large botanical garden in Wisley, making it a delightful day trip, particularly during summer.
In summary, London is a lively city brimming with opportunities and places waiting to be discovered, so take your time to explore everything it has to offer during your stay at Imperial!
To find out more about my experiences, read my Imperial story.