Authored by Emilio (Spain), MSc Applied Mathematics
The choice to relocate from a rural island in Spain to the biggest city in Europe was intimidating. However, the last 18 months in London have turned out to be the most rewarding and thrilling period of my existence.
London is a lively, diverse, historic, and ever-evolving city featuring an array of restaurants, events, and attractions—navigating it is always a thrilling experience! Nonetheless, adjusting to life in a foreign country can pose challenges. Here are some insights I gained as an international student in London, along with tips and recommendations for settling in.
Relocating to London as a postgraduate student
The initial step in moving to London involves locating the ideal place to call home. Through Instagram, TikTok, and various online forums, I investigated numerous London neighborhoods that might be enjoyable to reside in. I learned that Camden Town boasts a vibrant nightlife, Hackney is a burgeoning area in east London, and Putney is a tranquil, green residential district.
I was fortunate to visit London prior to commencing my Master’s program, which allowed me to explore these neighborhoods firsthand before making a living arrangement decision. After selecting Putney, my flatmates (whom I connected with during my undergraduate studies) and I utilized accommodation search websites like SpareRoom and Rightmove to locate affordable house shares, coordinated online viewings with landlords, and eventually secured a lovely flat near Putney Heath.
Activities to enjoy in London
Once you’ve settled in and furnished your new space, a vast array of opportunities and events awaits you—the difficulty in London lies in choosing which activities to engage in and carving out time for them all!
Imperial’s South Kensington Campus resides in the Albertopolis area, a district honoring art, manufacturing, and science. Close by, there are magnificent museums such as the Natural History Museum, the Science Museum, and the V&A Museum. These museums are wonderful to visit, and some even remain open late on Fridays. On the final Friday of each month, the V&A hosts a V&A Late, transforming the museum into a bustling party with drinks and live music!
Apart from visiting museums, I take pleasure in exploring East London locales like Canary Wharf, Hackney, and Isle of Dogs. This area is rich in history and artistic endeavors, making it a charming place to roam and uncover new experiences. My favorite location is Trinity Buoy Wharf—constructed on an old canning warehouse, it now hosts a Series B startup that creates temporary structures from shipping containers. The complex celebrates creative manufacturing and accommodates several art studios, including the original lighthouse lab where Michael Faraday worked!
Dining out in London
London presents excellent bargains if you know where to search, offering numerous affordable yet delightful food options. During my stay in London, I’ve curated a list of dining spots with various deals across the city, making eating out more budget-friendly.
One of these spots is located in South Kensington, where an excellent seafood establishment called Wright Brothers has an Oyster Happy Hour, featuring oysters for only £1 each! This is a fantastic deal, especially if you crave the flavors of home seafood and wish to indulge in oysters.
Tooting in South London is also celebrated for its food scene. Tooting Market and Tooting Broadway Market are expansive indoor street food markets offering a wide range of cuisines. If you’re seeking food reminiscent of home, I highly suggest exploring Tooting’s food markets!
Escaping the city
While the city’s pace contributes to London’s appeal, there are times when the Tube may become too loud, or the streets too congested. Thankfully, London sits at the heart of an excellent network of trains and buses, making it simple to flee the city for a weekend getaway.
My preferred destinations are Surrey and Kent. Canterbury is a picturesque medieval town located in southern England, brimming with history and student-friendly locations. In Surrey, the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) features a large botanical garden in Wisley, which is a delightful day trip, especially during the summer.
Overall, London is a vibrant city teeming with opportunities and places to uncover, so take your time to explore everything the city has in store during your stay at Imperial!
To learn more about my experiences, read my Imperial story.