Authored by Emilio (Spain), MSc Applied Mathematics
Making the choice to relocate from a rural island in Spain to the largest city in Europe was intimidating. However, the past 18 months in London have turned out to be the most rewarding and enjoyable of my life.
London is a dynamic, diverse metropolis with a rich heritage and an abundance of restaurants, events, and attractions – exploring it always feels like an adventure! Yet, adapting to life in a new country can pose challenges. Here are some insights I’ve gained as an international student in London, along with some advice and recommendations for getting settled.
Relocating to London as a postgraduate student
The initial step in relocating to London is identifying the ideal place to call your own. I utilized Instagram, TikTok, and online discussion boards to investigate various neighborhoods in London that might be exciting to reside in. I found that Camden Town boasts a vibrant nightlife, Hackney is an up-and-coming area in east London, and Putney is a tranquil, green residential locality.
Having visited London prior to starting my Master’s, I was able to explore these neighborhoods firsthand before making my living arrangements. I opted for Putney, and my flatmates (whom I encountered during my undergraduate studies) and I utilized accommodation search platforms like SpareRoom and Rightmove to secure affordable shared housing. We coordinated online viewings with landlords and ultimately found a lovely flat close to Putney Heath.
Activities in London
After you’ve settled in and adorned your new space, a realm of opportunities and events beckons – the difficulty in London lies in selecting which activities to engage in and managing time for everything!
Imperial’s South Kensington Campus is situated in the Albertopolis locale, a district that celebrates art, industry, and scientific innovation. Nearby, you can find several exceptional museums, including the Natural History Museum, the Science Museum, and the V&A Museum. These museums are wonderful to explore, and some even extend their hours on Fridays. On the final Friday of each month, the V&A hosts a V&A Late, transforming the venue into a lively celebration with drinks and live performances!
In addition to visiting museums, I relish exploring East London areas such as Canary Wharf, Hackney, and Isle of Dogs. This region is rich in historical landmarks and artistic endeavors, creating a delightful setting for wandering and uncovering hidden treasures. My favorite location is Trinity Buoy Wharf, established on an old canning warehouse. It currently hosts a Series B startup that constructs temporary structures from shipping containers and features several art studios, including the original lighthouse lab where Michael Faraday conducted his experiments!
Dining out in London
London presents numerous deals if you know where to search, with an array of options for affordable yet delectable dining. Throughout my time in the city, I’ve compiled a list of restaurants offering various promotions across the metropolis, making dining out more financially manageable.
One such venue is located in South Kensington, where Wright Brothers provides an Oyster Happy Hour, letting you enjoy oysters for just £1 each! It’s an incredible offer, especially if you’re yearning for seafood from home and want to savor oysters without overspending!
Tooting in South London is also renowned for its culinary scene. Tooting Market and Tooting Broadway Market are expansive indoor street food markets showcasing a diverse array of cuisines. If you’re in search of food reminiscent of home, I highly encourage you to check out Tooting’s food markets!
Taking a respite from the city
While the city’s energy and pace are part of London’s allure, there are times when the Tube can be overwhelmingly loud, or the streets exceedingly packed. Luckily, London is well-connected by trains and coaches, facilitating an easy escape from the city for a weekend.
My preferred getaway destinations are Surrey and Kent. Canterbury is a charming medieval town in southern England, filled with history and student-friendly spots. In Surrey, the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) boasts a large botanical garden in Wisley, which makes for a delightful day trip, especially during summer.
In summary, London is a lively city brimming with opportunities and places to discover, so take your time to experience everything it has to offer while you’re at Imperial!
To learn more about my experiences, read my Imperial story.