Authored by Emilio (Spain), MSc Applied Mathematics
Choosing to leave the rural landscapes of a Spanish island for Europe’s largest metropolis was intimidating. Nonetheless, the last 18 months in London have represented the most rewarding and thrilling chapter of my existence.
London is a lively, multicultural, historic, and ever-evolving city filled with a diverse range of eateries, events, and attractions – every exploration is an adventure! However, adjusting to life in a foreign nation can pose challenges. Here are some insights I gained as an international student in London, along with tips and suggestions for when you’ve settled in.
Relocating to London as a postgraduate student
The initial step in relocating to London is finding an ideal residence. Using Instagram, TikTok, and online community forums, I researched different London neighborhoods that caught my interest. I found Camden Town’s lively nightlife, Hackney’s rising scene, and Putney’s serene, green residential ambiance.
Having visited London prior to beginning my Master’s degree, I explored these areas in person before settling on Putney. My flatmates (who I met during my undergraduate studies) and I utilized accommodation sites like SpareRoom and Rightmove to identify budget-friendly shared housing, arranged online viewings with landlords, and ultimately secured a pleasant flat close to Putney Heath.
Activities to enjoy in London
Once you’ve gotten comfortable and decorated your new abode, a vast array of opportunities and events lies ahead – the difficulty 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 region, a neighborhood that celebrates art, manufacturing, and science. Close by, you’ll discover remarkable museums such as the Natural History Museum, the Science Museum, and the V&A Museum. These venues are wonderful for exploration, with some even open late on Fridays. On the last Friday of each month, the V&A hosts a V&A Late, turning the museum into a vibrant event featuring drinks and live music!
In addition to museum visits, I love exploring East London regions like Canary Wharf, Hackney, and the Isle of Dogs. This area is brimming with historical and artistic treasures, making it an exceptional place to stroll and uncover. My favorite locale is Trinity Buoy Wharf – constructed on a former canning warehouse, it now hosts a startup creating temporary structures from shipping containers. The complex celebrates innovative manufacturing and houses numerous art studios, as well as the original lighthouse lab where Michael Faraday conducted his work!
Dining in London
London presents excellent deals if you know where to search, offering plenty of options for affordable yet delightful meals. Throughout my time in London, I’ve created a list of eateries featuring various promotions across the city, making meals out more wallet-friendly.
One such establishment is located in South Kensington, where Wright Brothers presents an Oyster Happy Hour, allowing you to relish oysters for just £1 each! This is a fantastic bargain, particularly if you’re yearning for seafood from home and wish to indulge without overspending!
Tooting in South London is also renowned for its culinary scene. Tooting Market and Tooting Broadway Market are expansive indoor street food markets boasting a wide array of cuisines. If you’re craving food that evokes memories of home, I highly suggest checking out Tooting’s food markets!
Escaping the city
Although London’s energetic pace is part of its allure, there are times when the Tube becomes too noisy or the streets feel overly congested. Thankfully, London is well-connected through trains and coaches, making it easy to retreat from the city for a weekend.
My top getaway spots 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 (RHS) boasts a significant botanical garden in Wisley, ideal for a summer outing.
In conclusion, London is a vibrant city brimming with opportunities and places to explore, so take your time to experience everything it offers during your stay at Imperial!
To learn more about my experiences, read my Imperial story.