Authored by Emilio (Spain), MSc Applied Mathematics
Making the decision to transition from the tranquil countryside of a rural Spanish island to the largest city in Europe was quite intimidating. Nevertheless, the last 18 months in London have been the most gratifying and enjoyable of my life.
London is a multicultural, diverse, historic, and lively city that boasts a variety of restaurants, events, and attractions – exploring it is perpetually an adventure! However, adapting to life in a foreign country can be tough. Here are some insights I gained while relocating to London as an international student, along with tips and advice for when you’re settled.
Relocating to London as a postgraduate student
The initial step in relocating to London is identifying the ideal place to call home. I utilized platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and online forums to investigate different areas throughout London that might be enjoyable to reside in. I learned that Camden Town features an exciting nightlife, Hackney is an emerging area in East London, and Putney is a peaceful and green residential neighborhood.
I was fortunate enough to visit London prior to commencing my Master’s, which gave me the opportunity to explore these neighborhoods personally before deciding on my move. After selecting Putney, my flatmates (whom I connected with during my undergraduate studies) and I utilized accommodation search websites such as SpareRoom and Rightmove to locate affordable house shares, arranged online viewings with landlords, and eventually found a lovely apartment close to Putney Heath.
Activities to enjoy in London
Once you’ve settled in and personalized your new space, a plethora of opportunities and events lie ahead – the challenge in London lies in selecting which activities to participate in and carving out time for all of them!
Imperial’s South Kensington Campus is situated in the Albertopolis district, an area that celebrates art, science, and manufacturing. Close by, you’ll find amazing museums such as the Natural History Museum, the Science Museum, and the V&A Museum. These museums are fantastic to visit, and some remain open late on Fridays. On the final Friday of each month, the V&A hosts a V&A Late event, transforming the museum into a small rave with beverages and live music!
In addition to exploring museums, I love wandering through East London districts like Canary Wharf, Hackney, and Isle of Dogs. This area is rich with historical and artistic sites, making it an excellent place to stroll and discover new experiences. My favorite location is Trinity Buoy Wharf, established on an old canning warehouse, now home to a startup that creates temporary structures from shipping containers. The complex fosters creative manufacturing and houses art studios, including the original lighthouse lab where Michael Faraday conducted his work!
Dining in London
London provides fantastic deals if you know where to seek them, with numerous choices for budget-friendly yet delectable food. Throughout my time in London, I’ve compiled a list of eateries with various offers across the city, making it easier to dine out without overspending.
One such place is in South Kensington, where a seafood joint named Wright Brothers presents an Oyster Happy Hour, offering oysters for only £1 each! This is an amazing bargain, particularly if you’re craving the taste of home seafood and wish to enjoy oysters without straining your wallet!
Tooting in South London is also renowned for its vibrant food scene. Tooting Market and Tooting Broadway Market are expansive indoor street food markets that showcase a wide array of cuisines. If you’re in search of food that reminds you of home, I highly recommend delving into the Tooting food markets!
Escaping the city for a breather
While the city’s pace is part of London’s allure, there are times when the Tube becomes too noisy, or the streets too congested, filled with crowds on every corner. Thankfully, London is centrally located within a robust network of trains and coaches, making it simple to get away for a weekend.
My preferred destinations are Surrey and Kent. Canterbury is a stunning medieval town in southern England, rich in history and featuring student-friendly locations. In Surrey, the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) hosts an expansive botanical garden in Wisley, which offers a delightful day out, particularly during the summer months.
In summary, London is a dynamic city teeming with opportunities and locales to explore, so take your time to uncover all that it has to offer during your journey at Imperial!
To learn more about my experiences, read my Imperial story.