Authored by Emilio (Spain), MSc Applied Mathematics
Transitioning from the serene countryside of a rural island in Spain to the bustling metropolis of Europe was quite overwhelming. Nevertheless, the last 18 months in London have proven to be the most rewarding and thrilling period of my existence.
London is a dynamic, multicultural, historic, and energetic city, brimming with a variety of eateries, events, and attractions – navigating it is perpetually an adventure! However, acclimating to life in a foreign country can pose challenges. Below are some insights I gained as an international student in London, accompanied by tips on what to do once you’ve settled in.
Relocating to London as a postgraduate student
The initial step in relocating to London is identifying the ideal residence. I utilized Instagram, TikTok, and online discussion boards to investigate different neighborhoods in London that might be enjoyable to inhabit. I found that Camden Town boasts a lively nightlife, Hackney is an up-and-coming area in east London, and Putney is a peaceful, green residential locale.
I was lucky enough to visit London prior to starting my Master’s program, which allowed me to personally explore these neighborhoods before deciding where to stay. After selecting Putney, my flatmates (whom I met during my undergraduate studies) and I employed accommodation platforms like SpareRoom and Rightmove to locate budget-friendly house shares, arranged online viewings with landlords, and secured a cozy flat close to Putney Heath.
Activities to enjoy in London
Once you’ve settled in and furnished your new abode, a plethora of opportunities and events are ready for exploration – the challenge in London lies in choosing which activities to engage in and finding the time to experience them all!
Imperial’s South Kensington Campus is situated in the Albertopolis area, a district that celebrates art, industry, and science. Close by, there are remarkable museums such as the Natural History Museum, the Science Museum, and the V&A Museum. These museums are fantastic for exploration, with some staying open late on Fridays. On the last Friday of every month, the V&A hosts a V&A Late, turning the museum into a lively event with drinks and live music!
In addition to museum visits, I enjoy discovering East London neighborhoods like Canary Wharf, Hackney, and Isle of Dogs. This area is rich in historical and artistic initiatives, making it a charming place to stroll and uncover new things. My favorite location is Trinity Buoy Wharf, which was developed on a former canning warehouse. It currently houses a startup focused on creating temporary structures from shipping containers, celebrating innovative manufacturing and featuring several art studios, including the original lighthouse lab where Michael Faraday conducted his experiments!
Dining out in London
London presents excellent bargains if you know where to search, with numerous options for affordable yet delicious food. Throughout my time in London, I have compiled a list of eateries with various deals across the city, making dining out more economical.
One notable location is in South Kensington, where a fantastic seafood restaurant named Wright Brothers offers an Oyster Happy Hour, with oysters for merely £1 each! This is an amazing deal, especially if you yearn for the taste of home seafood and wish to indulge in oysters to your heart’s (and wallet’s) joy!
Tooting in South London is also recognized for its culinary culture. Tooting Market and Tooting Broadway Market are large indoor street food markets, offering a diverse range of cuisines. If you’re seeking food that evokes memories of home, I highly suggest checking out the food markets in Tooting!
Taking a break from the urban environment
While the city’s tempo is part of London’s allure, there are times when the Tube becomes too noisy, or the streets are overcrowded with people. Thankfully, London is nestled within a great network of trains and coaches, making it convenient to escape the urban hustle for a weekend.
My preferred destinations are Surrey and Kent. Canterbury is a stunning medieval town in southern England, abundant in history and accommodating to students. In Surrey, the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) boasts a vast botanical garden in Wisley, which makes for a splendid day trip, especially during the summer.
Overall, London is a lively city teeming with opportunities and places to explore, so take the time to uncover everything it has to offer while you’re at Imperial!
To learn more about my experiences, read