Authored by Emilio (Spain), MSc Applied Mathematics
Transitioning from a rural island in Spain to the largest city in Europe was intimidating, but the last 18 months in London have been truly rewarding and exhilarating.
London is a historically rich, multicultural city boasting an extensive range of restaurants, events, and attractions – discovering it is always an adventure! Nonetheless, adapting to life in a foreign country can prove to be difficult. Here are some insights I gained as an international student in London, alongside suggestions on what to do once you’re established.
Relocating to London as a postgraduate student
The initial phase of moving to London involves securing the right place to settle down. I utilized Instagram, TikTok, and online forums to investigate potential neighborhoods. Camden Town is renowned for its vibrant nightlife, Hackney is a burgeoning area in east London, and Putney is a serene, green residential locale.
Having previously visited London before embarking on my Master’s, I personally explored these neighborhoods before deciding on Putney. My flatmates (whom I met in my undergraduate studies) and I utilized platforms like SpareRoom and Rightmove to search for budget-friendly house shares, arranged online viewings, and found a lovely flat near Putney Heath.
Activities to enjoy in London
After you’ve settled in, a myriad of opportunities presents itself – the challenge lies in selecting which activities to engage in and carving out time for them all!
Imperial’s South Kensington Campus is located in the Albertopolis area, which celebrates art, manufacturing, and science. In close proximity are the Natural History Museum, the Science Museum, and the V&A Museum, all wonderful places to explore. Some even extend their hours on Fridays, and the V&A hosts a monthly V&A Late featuring drinks and live music!
In addition to museums, I love discovering East London areas like Canary Wharf, Hackney, and Isle of Dogs. This region is abundant in history and artistic endeavors. My favorite place is Trinity Buoy Wharf, home to a startup crafting structures from shipping containers, art studios, and the original lighthouse lab where Michael Faraday conducted his work!
Dining out in London
London presents excellent food deals if you know where to seek them. I’ve put together a list of budget-friendly eateries with various offers throughout the city.
In South Kensington, Wright Brothers provides an Oyster Happy Hour with oysters priced at only £1 each – ideal for seafood lovers! Tooting in South London is also well-known for its culinary scene, with Tooting Market and Tooting Broadway Market showcasing a diverse range of cuisines. If you’re on the lookout for food that evokes memories of home, check out the Tooting food markets!
Escaping the hustle of the city
While the vibrancy of London adds to its allure, at times the Tube and bustling streets can become too much. Luckily, London’s train and coach network allows for easy weekend getaways.
My preferred retreats are Surrey and Kent. Canterbury is a stunning medieval town filled with history and student-friendly venues. In Surrey, the RHS Wisley botanical garden is a wonderful day trip, particularly during summer.
All in all, London is a dynamic city teeming with opportunities and discoveries. Take your time to explore everything it has to offer during your stay at Imperial!
For more about my experiences, check out my Imperial story.