Authored by Emilio (Spain), MSc Applied Mathematics
Choosing to relocate from a rural island in Spain to the largest city in Europe was intimidating. Nevertheless, the last 18 months in London have been the most rewarding and thrilling period of my life.
London is an eclectic, multicultural, historic, and lively city filled with an extensive range of restaurants, events, and attractions – each exploration is always an adventure! However, adapting to life in a new country can pose challenges. Here are some insights I gained as an international student transitioning to London, along with some advice and recommendations for settling in.
Relocating to London as a postgraduate student
The initial step in relocating to London is identifying the perfect place to reside. Utilizing Instagram, TikTok, and online forums, I investigated various areas in London that might be enjoyable to live in. I found that Camden Town boasts a bustling nightlife, Hackney is an emerging area in east London, and Putney is a serene, green residential neighborhood.
I was lucky to visit London prior to commencing my Master’s, providing an opportunity to explore these districts 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 such as SpareRoom and Rightmove to secure affordable house shares, set up online viewings with landlords, and ultimately discovered a lovely flat near Putney Heath.
Activities in London
Once you’ve settled in and personalized your new home, a plethora of opportunities and events awaits – the challenge in London lies in deciding which activities to participate in and finding time for them all!
Imperial’s South Kensington Campus is based in the Albertopolis area, a region that celebrates art, manufacturing, and science. Close by, there are remarkable museums like the Natural History Museum, the Science Museum, and the V&A Museum. These museums are fantastic to explore, and some even extend their hours late into Fridays. On the final Friday of each month, the V&A hosts a V&A Late, an open festivity where the museum transforms into a mini rave with drinks and live music!
In addition to museum visits, I take pleasure in exploring East London sectors like Canary Wharf, Hackney, and Isle of Dogs. This area is replete with historical and artistic landmarks, making it an excellent place for wandering and discovering. My favorite location is Trinity Buoy Wharf – constructed on a former canning warehouse, it now accommodates a Series B startup that builds temporary structures from shipping containers. The site honors creative manufacturing and features multiple art studios, along with the original lighthouse lab where English chemist and physicist Michael Faraday conducted his work!
Dining out in London
London provides great value if you know where to look, with a multitude of options for affordable yet quality food. Throughout my stay in London, I have curated a list of dining spots offering various deals that enhance the affordability of eating out.
One such establishment is located in South Kensington, where an amazing seafood restaurant named Wright Brothers holds an Oyster Happy Hour, allowing you to relish oysters for only £1 each! This is an excellent offer, particularly if you’re craving home-style seafood and wish to indulge in oysters without overspending!
Tooting in South London is also recognized for its vibrant food scene. Tooting Market and Tooting Broadway Market are expansive indoor street food markets that present a broad spectrum of cuisines. If you’re in search of food that evokes memories of home, I highly suggest exploring the Tooting food markets!
Escaping the city
Although the city’s tempo contributes to London’s allure, sometimes the Tube can be too loud, or the streets too congested with crowds. Thankfully, London is positioned at the hub of an excellent network of trains and coaches, simplifying the escape from the city for a weekend getaway.
My preferred destinations are Surrey and Kent. Canterbury is a stunning medieval town in southern England brimming with history and has many student-friendly venues. In Surrey, the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) features an expansive botanical garden in Wisley, which makes for a delightful excursion, especially during the summer.
In summary, London is a lively city abundant in opportunities and places to discover, so take the time to explore everything the city has to offer during your stay at Imperial!
To learn more about my experiences, <a href="https://www.imperial.ac.uk/Stories/my-imperial-story-emilio/" target="_blank"