Authored by Emilio (Spain), MSc Applied Mathematics
The choice to relocate from a rural island in Spain to the largest city in Europe was intimidating. Nevertheless, the last 18 months spent in London have been the most rewarding and enjoyable period of my life.
London is a dynamic, multicultural, historic, and lively metropolis filled with a variety of restaurants, events, and places to discover – it’s perpetually an adventure! However, adapting to life in a foreign country can be tough. Here are some insights I gained as an international student relocating to London, along with some tips on what to do once you’ve settled in.
Relocating to London as a postgraduate student
The initial step in relocating to London is identifying the perfect place to call home. Using Instagram, TikTok, and online communities, I researched different London neighborhoods that appeared exciting to reside in. I found out about Camden Town’s vibrant nightlife, Hackney’s up-and-coming atmosphere, and Putney’s serene, green residential environment.
Having traveled to London before commencing my Master’s, I personally checked out these neighborhoods to determine where to live. I opted for Putney, and my flatmates (from my undergraduate studies) and I utilized platforms such as SpareRoom and Rightmove to discover budget-friendly house shares. We arranged online viewings and secured a lovely flat near Putney Heath.
Activities to engage in while in London
Once you’ve settled in, a myriad of opportunities is at your fingertips – the only challenge is deciding which activities to engage in and finding the time for them all!
Imperial’s South Kensington Campus is located in the Albertopolis area, renowned for its art, industry, and science. Close by, you’ll uncover the Natural History Museum, the Science Museum, and the V&A Museum, all fantastic for exploration. Some even extend their hours on Fridays. The V&A hosts a V&A Late on the final Friday of each month, evolving into a lively affair complete with drinks and music!
Apart from museums, I delight in exploring East London neighborhoods such as Canary Wharf, Hackney, and Isle of Dogs. These areas are steeped in history and artistic endeavors, making them ideal for wandering and uncovering hidden treasures. My favorite location is Trinity Buoy Wharf, constructed on a former canning warehouse, now home to a startup that creates structures from shipping containers. It champions creative manufacturing and contains art studios, including the original lighthouse lab where Michael Faraday once worked!
Dining out in London
London presents excellent food deals if you know where to seek them. I’ve created a compilation of affordable dining locations with discounts throughout the city.
One such location is Wright Brothers in South Kensington, providing an Oyster Happy Hour where oysters are just £1 each! It’s a fantastic bargain, particularly if you crave the flavor of home seafood.
Tooting in South London is renowned for its culinary scene. Tooting Market and Tooting Broadway Market are expansive indoor street food markets showcasing a variety of cuisines. If you’re in search of food reminiscent of home, I strongly suggest delving into the food markets of Tooting!
Taking a breather from the city
Although London’s urban life is delightful, at times the Tube can become excessively noisy or the streets too congested. Thankfully, London is well-connected via trains and coaches, making it easy to escape for a weekend.
My preferred retreats are Surrey and Kent. Canterbury, a magnificent medieval town in southern England, is rich in history and features student-friendly venues. In Surrey, the Royal Horticultural Society’s garden in Wisley is a charming day trip, especially during the summer.
In summary, London is a lively city brimming with opportunities and places to explore. Take your time to uncover everything it has to offer during your stay at Imperial!
To learn more about my experiences, check out my Imperial story.