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 quite intimidating. However, the last 18 months in London have been the most rewarding and thrilling of my life.
London is a dynamic, diverse, and historic metropolis filled with an array of restaurants, events, and attractions—discovering it is perpetually an adventure! Nonetheless, adapting to life in a foreign country can present its own set of challenges. Here are some insights I gained as an international student in London, along with advice on what to do once you’ve settled.
Transitioning to London as a postgraduate student
The initial step in relocating to London is finding the ideal place to call home. Utilizing Instagram, TikTok, and online forums, I investigated different areas in London that appeared enjoyable to live in. I learned about Camden Town’s lively nightlife, Hackney’s thriving scene, and Putney’s serene, green residential charm.
Having visited London prior to embarking on my Master’s, I personally explored these neighborhoods before deciding on Putney. My flatmates (whom I met during my undergraduate studies) and I used accommodation platforms like SpareRoom and Rightmove to locate budget-friendly house shares, arranged online viewings, and ultimately secured a pleasant flat close to Putney Heath.
Activities to enjoy in London
Once you’re settled, a plethora of opportunities and events is waiting for you—the real challenge in London is choosing which activities to engage in and finding the time for all of them!
Imperial’s South Kensington Campus is situated in the Albertopolis area, a neighborhood that honors art, manufacturing, and science. Nearby, you’ll find fantastic museums such as the Natural History Museum, the Science Museum, and the V&A Museum. These museums are wonderful for exploration, and some remain open late on Fridays. The V&A even organizes a V&A Late on the last Friday of each month, transforming the museum into a vibrant event featuring drinks and live music!
In addition to museums, I love wandering through East London neighborhoods like Canary Wharf, Hackney, and Isle of Dogs. The area is filled with historical and artistic landmarks, making it a charming space to explore. One of my favorite locations is Trinity Buoy Wharf, built on an old canning warehouse, now home to a startup that creates temporary structures from shipping containers. It celebrates creative manufacturing and houses art studios, including the original lighthouse lab where Michael Faraday conducted his work!
Dining in London
London presents many bargains if you know where to look, with numerous options for affordable yet delectable food. Throughout my time here, I’ve assembled a list of eateries with deals throughout the city, making dining out more budget-friendly.
One spot to check out is in South Kensington, where Wright Brothers features an Oyster Happy Hour with oysters priced at just £1 each! It’s an incredible offer, particularly if you’re craving seafood from home and want to treat yourself without breaking the bank.
Tooting in South London is also renowned for its food scene. Tooting Market and Tooting Broadway Market are extensive indoor street food markets showcasing a variety of cuisines. If you’re in search of food that helps you reminisce about home, I wholeheartedly recommend venturing to Tooting’s food markets!
Escaping the city’s hustle
While the vibrancy of city life in London is captivating, there are moments when the Tube is too noisy or the streets are overly crowded. Thankfully, London is at the heart of an exceptional train and coach network, making weekend getaways a breeze.
My preferred destinations include Surrey and Kent. Canterbury is a charming medieval town in southern England, steeped in history and equipped with student-friendly venues. In Surrey, the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) boasts a vast botanical garden in Wisley, ideal for a day out in the summer.
In conclusion, London is a lively city brimming with opportunities and sites to discover, so take your time to explore all it has to offer during your stay at Imperial!
To learn more about my experiences, read my Imperial story.