Authored by Emilio (Spain), MSc Applied Mathematics
The decision to relocate from a rural island in Spain to the biggest city in Europe was intimidating. Nevertheless, the last 18 months spent in London have been the most rewarding and exhilarating of my life.
London is a dynamic, diverse, historical city boasting an extensive array of restaurants, events, and attractions – navigating it is perpetually an adventure! However, adapting to life in a foreign country can be quite challenging. Here are some valuable insights I’ve gained as an international student in London, along with suggestions on what to do once you have settled in.
Relocating to London as a postgraduate student
The initial step in relocating to London involves finding the ideal place to call home. I utilized Instagram, TikTok, and online forums to explore various neighborhoods in London that might be enjoyable to live in. I learned that Camden Town has a vibrant nightlife, Hackney is an emerging area, and Putney offers a tranquil, green residential environment.
I was lucky to visit London prior to commencing my Master’s program, which allowed me to explore these neighborhoods in person before deciding on my residence. After selecting Putney, my flatmates (whom I met during my undergraduate years) and I utilized accommodation search platforms like SpareRoom and Rightmove to locate affordable house shares, organized online viewings with landlords, and ultimately secured a lovely flat near Putney Heath.
Activities to enjoy in London
Once you’ve settled in and adorned your new home, a plethora of opportunities and events awaits you – the challenge in London lies in selecting which activities to engage in and fitting them all into your schedule!
Imperial’s South Kensington Campus is situated in the Albertopolis area, a district that celebrates art, manufacturing, and science. Close by, you’ll encounter fantastic museums such as the Natural History Museum, the Science Museum, and the V&A Museum. These museums are fantastic to explore, with some remaining open late on Fridays. On the last Friday of each month, the V&A hosts a V&A Late, transforming the museum into a lively rave atmosphere with drinks and live music!
In addition to museum visits, I take pleasure in exploring East London locales like Canary Wharf, Hackney, and Isle of Dogs. This area is brimming with historical nooks and artistic initiatives, making it a charming place to stroll and uncover. My favorite destination is Trinity Buoy Wharf – formerly an old canning warehouse, it now houses a startup crafting temporary structures from shipping containers. The complex honors creative manufacturing and contains several art studios, along with the original lighthouse lab where Michael Faraday conducted his work!
Dining in London
London presents various affordable dining options if you know where to look, with many places offering high-quality food at reasonable prices. Throughout my time in the city, I’ve compiled a list of eateries with diverse deals across London, making dining out less expensive.
One of these finds is in South Kensington, where Wright Brothers features an Oyster Happy Hour, allowing you to savor oysters for just £1 each! It’s an exceptional deal, especially if you’re yearning for home-cooked seafood and wish to enjoy oysters without overspending!
Tooting in South London is also renowned for its culinary scene. Tooting Market and Tooting Broadway Market are expansive indoor street food venues showcasing a wide array of cuisines. If you’re on the lookout for food that evokes feelings of home, I strongly suggest checking out the Tooting food markets!
Taking a respite from the city
While the city’s tempo is part of London’s allure, at times the Tube may become overly noisy or the streets overly congested. Thankfully, London is nestled within an excellent network of trains and coaches, facilitating easy escapes from the city for a weekend getaway.
My preferred destinations are Surrey and Kent. Canterbury is a stunning medieval town in southern England, rich in history and boasting student-friendly hangouts. In Surrey, the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) features an expansive botanical garden in Wisley, making for a wonderful day trip, particularly in the summer.
All in all, London is a lively city abundant with opportunities and areas to explore, so take your time to fully experience everything it has to offer during your journey at Imperial!
For more information on my personal experiences, check out my Imperial story.
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