Authored by Emilio (Spain), MSc Applied Mathematics
The decision to relocate from a rural island in Spain to the largest city in Europe was intimidating. Nevertheless, the last 18 months in London have proved to be the most rewarding and enjoyable period of my life.
London is an energetic, diverse, historic, and dynamic city abundant with a myriad of restaurants, events, and attractions – every exploration here is an adventure! However, adjusting to life in a foreign country can prove to be difficult. Here are a few insights I’ve gained as an international student in London, coupled with some advice for getting settled.
Relocating to London as a postgraduate student
The initial phase of moving to London involves finding the right place to call home. I utilized Instagram, TikTok, and online discussion forums to investigate different areas of London. I uncovered Camden Town’s vibrant nightlife, Hackney’s developing scene, and Putney’s tranquil, green residential atmosphere.
Having visited London prior to starting my Master’s, I personally explored these neighborhoods before selecting Putney. My flatmates (whom I met during my undergraduate studies) and I utilized accommodation platforms like SpareRoom and Rightmove to locate budget-friendly house shares, scheduled online viewings, and ultimately secured a lovely flat close to Putney Heath.
Activities in London
After you’ve settled in, a multitude of opportunities and events beckons – the challenge in London lies in choosing which activities to engage in and finding time for everything!
Imperial’s South Kensington Campus is situated in the Albertopolis district, a region that showcases art, manufacturing, and science. Nearby, you can explore the Natural History Museum, the Science Museum, and the V&A Museum, all of which are delightful to visit, with some open late on Fridays. The V&A even hosts a V&A Late on the final Friday of each month, transforming the museum into a lively celebration with drinks and music!
Aside from museums, I enjoy discovering East London areas such as Canary Wharf, Hackney, and Isle of Dogs. These neighborhoods are steeped in history and creative projects, making them perfect for strolling and uncovering hidden treasures. My favorite location is Trinity Buoy Wharf, a creative center established on a former canning warehouse, now home to a startup constructing structures from shipping containers, art studios, and the original lighthouse laboratory where Michael Faraday worked!
Dining out in London
London presents excellent food bargains if you know where to search. I’ve put together a list of dining spots featuring deals throughout the city, making eating out more budget-friendly.
One such venue is located in South Kensington, where Wright Brothers presents an Oyster Happy Hour, offering oysters for only £1 each! This is an outstanding deal, particularly if you long for the taste of seafood from home.
Tooting in South London is also celebrated for its culinary scene. Tooting Market and Tooting Broadway Market are expansive indoor street food markets showcasing diverse cuisines. If you’re on the lookout for food reminiscent of home, I highly suggest checking out the food markets in Tooting!
Taking a break from the city
While the lively atmosphere of London contributes to its appeal, there are times when the Tube becomes too noisy or the streets too congested. Fortunately, London is well-linked by trains and coaches, making weekend getaways easy.
My preferred getaways are Surrey and Kent. Canterbury is a stunning medieval town in southern England, rich in history and accommodating for students. In Surrey, the Royal Horticultural Society’s Wisley garden is a delightful day trip, particularly during the summer.
In summary, London is a vibrant city brimming with opportunities and sites to explore, so take your time to uncover all that it has to offer during your stay at Imperial!
To learn more about my experiences, read my Imperial story.