Authored by Emilio (Spain), MSc Applied Mathematics
Transitioning from the rural countryside of an island in Spain to the largest metropolis in Europe was intimidating. Nevertheless, the past 18 months spent in London have proven to be the most rewarding and exhilarating of my life.
London is a dynamic, multicultural, historic, and vibrant city with an extensive variety of restaurants, events, and attractions—venturing through it is always an exciting journey! However, adjusting to life in a new country can be tough. Here are some insights I gained while relocating to London as an international student, along with some advice and suggestions for when you settle in.
Relocating to London as a postgraduate student
The initial step in relocating to London is identifying the ideal place to call home. By utilizing Instagram, TikTok, and online forums, I researched different London neighborhoods that might be enjoyable to reside in. I discovered that Camden Town offers a bustling nightlife, Hackney is an up-and-coming area in east London, and Putney boasts a tranquil, green residential environment.
I was lucky to visit London before commencing my Master’s, which enabled me to personally explore these neighborhoods prior to making my living arrangements. After selecting Putney, my flatmates (whom I encountered during my undergraduate studies) and I explored accommodation search platforms such as SpareRoom and Rightmove to discover budget-friendly house shares, arranged virtual viewings with landlords, and ultimately secured a lovely flat near Putney Heath.
Activities to enjoy in London
After you’ve unpacked and adorned your new space, a plethora of opportunities and events awaits—you’ll find that the challenge in London is deciding which activities to participate in and allocating time for them all!
Imperial’s South Kensington Campus is situated in the Albertopolis area, a district that commemorates art, industry, and science. Close by, there are remarkable museums, including the Natural History Museum, the Science Museum, and the V&A Museum. These museums are fantastic to explore, with some extending their hours late on Fridays. On the last Friday of each month, the V&A hosts a V&A Late, an open party where the museum transforms into a mini rave featuring drinks and live music!
In addition to museum visits, I relish exploring East London neighborhoods like Canary Wharf, Hackney, and Isle of Dogs. The area is rich in historical enclaves and artistic endeavors, making it a delightful region to stroll and uncover hidden gems. My favorite location is Trinity Buoy Wharf—established on an old canning warehouse, it now hosts a Series B startup crafting temporary structures from shipping containers. The complex celebrates creative manufacturing and accommodates various art studios, including the original lighthouse lab where the renowned English chemist and physicist Michael Faraday conducted his work!
Dining out in London
London presents fantastic deals if you know where to seek them, with numerous options for affordable yet high-quality dining. During my stay in London, I’ve compiled a list of eateries offering diverse deals throughout the city, making dining out significantly more economical.
One such venue is located in South Kensington, where there’s an incredible seafood restaurant called Wright Brothers featuring an Oyster Happy Hour, with oysters priced at just £1 each! This represents a superb deal, particularly if you yearn for the taste of seafood from home and wish to indulge in oysters to your heart’s (and budget’s) content!
Tooting in South London is also widely recognized for its culinary scene. Tooting Market and Tooting Broadway Market are expansive indoor street food markets boasting a wide range of cuisines. If you’re in search of food that brings back memories of home, I highly recommend exploring the Tooting food markets!
Taking a timeout from the city
While the city’s pace is part of London’s allure, there are moments when the Tube becomes too loud, the streets too congested, and crowds seem to be everywhere. Luckily, London is at the heart of an excellent network of trains and coaches, simplifying your escape from the city for a weekend getaway.
My preferred destinations are Surrey and Kent. Canterbury is a charming medieval town in southern England, rich in history and student-friendly venues. In Surrey, the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) hosts an expansive botanical garden in Wisley, a fantastic day trip, particularly during the summer months.
In summary, London is a dynamic city overflowing with opportunities and places to discover, so take the time to explore everything the city offers during your stay at Imperial!
To learn more about my experiences, <a href="https://www.imperial.ac.uk/Stories/my-imper