Authored by Emilio (Spain), MSc Applied Mathematics
The choice to transition from a rural island in Spain to the largest city in Europe was intimidating. Nonetheless, the last 18 months spent in London have been the most rewarding and enjoyable period of my life.
London is an energetic, multicultural, historical metropolis boasting a diverse range of restaurants, events, and attractions – venturing through it is consistently an adventure! However, adapting to life in a different country can pose challenges. Here are some insights I gained from relocating to London as an international student, along with helpful suggestions for when you’re settled in.
Relocating to London as a postgraduate student
The initial step in relocating to London is identifying the ideal place to call home. I utilized Instagram, TikTok, and online forums to investigate various London districts that might be enjoyable to reside in. I learned that Camden Town offers a vibrant nightlife, Hackney is a growing area in east London, and Putney is a calm, green residential neighborhood.
I was lucky to visit London prior to starting my Master’s program, giving me the chance to explore these areas in person before deciding where to move. After selecting Putney, my flatmates (whom I met in undergraduate studies) and I turned to accommodation search platforms like SpareRoom and Rightmove to locate affordable house shares, scheduled virtual viewings with landlords, and ultimately found a lovely flat near Putney Heath.
Activities in London
Once you’ve settled in and decorated your new space, a multitude of opportunities and events lies ahead – the challenge in London is deciding which activities to engage in and making time for all of them!
Imperial’s South Kensington Campus is situated in the Albertopolis area, a neighborhood dedicated to art, manufacturing, and science. Nearby are fantastic museums like the Natural History Museum, the Science Museum, and the V&A Museum. These museums are fantastic to explore, and some even offer late openings on Fridays. On the last Friday of every month, the V&A hosts a V&A Late, an open event where the museum turns into a small rave featuring drinks and live music!
In addition to visiting museums, I like to discover East London neighborhoods such as Canary Wharf, Hackney, and Isle of Dogs. The area is rich with historical and artistic endeavors, making it a splendid place to stroll and explore. My favorite location is Trinity Buoy Wharf – built on the site of an old canning warehouse, it now hosts a Series B startup that creates temporary structures from shipping containers. The site celebrates creative manufacturing and contains several art studios, along with the original lighthouse lab where Michael Faraday conducted his experiments!
Dining out in London
London has great deals if you know where to search, with numerous options for delicious yet affordable meals. Throughout my stay in London, I’ve put together a list of restaurants with various deals around the city, making dining out easier on the wallet.
One such venue is in South Kensington, where a seafood restaurant called Wright Brothers has an Oyster Happy Hour, offering oysters for merely £1 each! This is an exceptional deal, especially if you’re craving the flavors of home seafood and wish to indulge in oysters without spending a fortune!
Tooting in South London is also famous for its food scene. Tooting Market and Tooting Broadway Market are expansive indoor street food markets featuring a variety of cuisines. If you’re seeking food reminiscent of home, I highly advise checking out the food markets in Tooting!
Taking a break from the city
Although the bustle of the city contributes to London’s allure, there are times when the Tube becomes too noisy, the streets too crowded, and the throngs overwhelming. Fortunately, London is centrally located within a robust network of trains and coaches, making it convenient to escape the city for a weekend getaway.
My preferred destinations are Surrey and Kent. Canterbury is a charming medieval town in southern England, rich in history and student-friendly venues. In Surrey, the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) features a large botanical garden in Wisley, providing a delightful day trip, particularly during the summer.
All in all, London is a lively city brimming with opportunities and places to explore, so take your time to uncover everything the city has to offer while you’re at Imperial!
To learn more about my experiences, read my Imperial story.