Authored by Emilio (Spain), MSc Applied Mathematics
The choice to relocate from a rural island in Spain to the largest city in Europe was quite intimidating. Nevertheless, the last 18 months spent in London have proven to be the most fulfilling and enjoyable of my life.
London boasts a rich tapestry of diversity, multiculturalism, history, and excitement, featuring an extensive array of dining options, events, and attractions to explore – navigating the city is perpetually an adventure! However, adapting to a new country can present its challenges. Below are some insights I’ve gathered from my experience moving to London as an international student, alongside advice on what to pursue once you’ve settled.
Relocating to London as a graduate student
The initial step in relocating to London is selecting the perfect place to call home. By utilizing Instagram, TikTok, and online forums, I researched several areas in London that appeared appealing for residence. I learned that Camden Town has a lively nightlife scene, Hackney is an emerging district in east London, and Putney is a tranquil and green neighborhood.
Having visited London prior to my Master’s program, I personally explored these areas before settling on Putney. My flatmates (whom I met during my undergraduate studies) and I made use of accommodation search platforms like SpareRoom and Rightmove to locate affordable shared housing, arranged online viewings with landlords, and ultimately found a lovely apartment near Putney Heath.
Activities in London
Once you’ve established your residence, a vast array of opportunities and events awaits – the challenge lies in deciding 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, industry, and science. Nearby are incredible museums such as the Natural History Museum, the Science Museum, and the V&A Museum. Some of these even extend their hours on Fridays, with the V&A hosting a monthly V&A Late on the last Friday, transforming the museum into a lively party atmosphere complete with drinks and live performances!
Apart from museums, I take pleasure in exploring East London areas like Canary Wharf, Hackney, and Isle of Dogs. This region is steeped in history and artistic endeavors, making it a delightful area to explore. My favorite location is Trinity Buoy Wharf, established on the site of a former canning warehouse. It now hosts a startup that creates temporary structures from shipping containers and features several art studios, as well as the original lighthouse lab where Michael Faraday conducted his research!
Dining in London
London presents great deals if you know where to search, with numerous choices for affordable yet delicious meals. I’ve compiled a list of eateries offering various discounts throughout the city, making dining out more budget-friendly.
One recommendation is found in South Kensington, at a seafood establishment called Wright Brothers, which features an Oyster Happy Hour, with oysters priced at just £1 each! This is an excellent deal, particularly if you yearn for the flavor of seafood from home.
Tooting in South London is famous for its culinary scene. Tooting Market and Tooting Broadway Market are expansive indoor street food venues showcasing a wide range of cuisines. If you’re craving dishes reminiscent of home, I strongly suggest exploring the food markets in Tooting!
Taking a breather from the city
While the vibrant pace of life contributes to London’s allure, there are times when the Tube becomes overwhelming or the streets too hectic. Fortunately, London is surrounded by an excellent network of trains and coaches, making weekend getaways easily accessible.
My preferred destinations include Surrey and Kent. Canterbury is a stunning medieval town in southern England rich in history and has many student-friendly venues. In Surrey, the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) boasts a vast botanical garden in Wisley, which is a lovely outing, especially during the summer months.
In summary, London is a dynamic city brimming with opportunities and places to uncover, so take your time to experience all it offers during your journey at Imperial!
To learn more about my experiences, check out my Imperial story.