Authored by Emilio (Spain), MSc Applied Mathematics
Choosing to relocate from a rural Spanish island to the largest urban area in Europe was intimidating. Nevertheless, the last 18 months spent in London have been the most rewarding and thrilling period of my existence.
London is a lively, diverse, and historic metropolis with an extensive array of restaurants, events, and attractions—discovering it is always an escapade! However, acclimating to life in a foreign nation can be tough. Here are some insights I gained as an international student in London, along with several tips and recommendations for settling in.
Relocating to London as a postgraduate scholar
The initial step to moving to London is securing the ideal place to live. I utilized Instagram, TikTok, and online forums to investigate different neighborhoods in London that might be enjoyable to reside in. I learned that Camden Town boasts a vibrant nightlife, Hackney is a burgeoning locality in east London, and Putney offers a tranquil, green residential environment.
Having visited London prior to starting my Master’s, I was able to explore these areas firsthand before making a decision on where to live. After selecting Putney, my flatmates (whom I met during my undergraduate studies) and I utilized accommodation search platforms like SpareRoom and Rightmove to locate affordable house shares. We organized virtual viewings with landlords and ultimately found a pleasant flat close to Putney Heath.
Activities in London
Once you’re settled in and have decorated your new home, a plethora of opportunities and events await you. The challenge in London lies in 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 that showcases art, manufacturing, and science. Close by, you’ll find a remarkable collection of museums, including the Natural History Museum, the Science Museum, and the V&A Museum. These institutions are delightful to explore, with some staying open late on Fridays. On the last Friday of each month, the V&A hosts a V&A Late, an open celebration where the museum turns into a small rave featuring drinks and live music!
Apart from visiting museums, I love wandering through East London neighborhoods like Canary Wharf, Hackney, and Isle of Dogs. This region is filled with historical and artistic projects, creating a fantastic environment for walking and uncovering hidden treasures. My favorite location is Trinity Buoy Wharf, established on a former canning warehouse. It now hosts a Series B startup creating temporary structures from shipping containers. The complex celebrates creative manufacturing and includes several art studios, as well as the original lighthouse lab where renowned chemist and physicist Michael Faraday conducted his work!
Dining in London
London provides excellent deals if you know where to search, with numerous options for affordable yet tasty meals. Throughout my time in London, I’ve compiled a list of eateries with various specials across the city, making dining out more budget-friendly.
One such establishment is located in South Kensington, where a superb seafood restaurant called Wright Brothers offers an Oyster Happy Hour, letting you enjoy oysters for merely £1 each! This is an incredible offer, especially if you’re longing for the flavors of home seafood and wish to indulge 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 presenting a broad spectrum of cuisines. If you are in search of food that brings back memories of home, I highly recommend checking out the Tooting food markets!
Taking a breather from the city
While the city’s pace is part of London’s allure, there are moments when the Tube becomes overly noisy, or the streets feel too congested. Fortunately, London is centrally located within an excellent network of trains and coaches, making it convenient to escape the city for a weekend.
My preferred places to visit are Surrey and Kent. Canterbury is a stunning medieval town in southern England, abundant in history and accommodating spots for students. In Surrey, the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) boasts a large botanical garden in Wisley, which makes for a wonderful day trip, especially during the summer.
In summary, London is a dynamic city brimming with opportunities and places to explore. Take your time to uncover everything the city has to offer during your journey at Imperial!
To discover more about my experiences, <a href="https://www.imperial.ac.uk/Stories/my-imper