Authored by Emilio (Spain), MSc Applied Mathematics
Transitioning from a rural isle in Spain to the largest metropolis in Europe was intimidating, yet the last 18 months in London have proven to be immensely fulfilling and enjoyable.
London stands as a dynamic, multicultural hub with a deep historical background, offering a diverse array of eateries, events, and attractions. Discovering it is perpetually an adventure, although adjusting to life in a foreign country can pose challenges. Here are a few insights I gained as an international student in London, along with suggestions on what to do once you have settled.
Relocating to London as a graduate student
The initial step in relocating to London is securing the ideal residence. I utilized Instagram, TikTok, and online communities to investigate various neighborhoods in London. Camden Town is famous for its nightlife, Hackney represents an emerging region in east London, while Putney provides a tranquil, green residential atmosphere.
Having visited London prior to commencing my Master’s, I checked out these neighborhoods firsthand before selecting Putney. My flatmates (whom I encountered during undergraduate studies) and I employed platforms like SpareRoom and Rightmove to locate affordable house shares, coordinated online viewings with landlords, and ultimately discovered a lovely flat near Putney Heath.
Activities to enjoy in London
After you’ve settled in, a plethora of opportunities and events is at your fingertips. The tricky part is determining which activities to engage in and allocating time for all of them!
Imperial’s South Kensington Campus is situated in the Albertopolis region, a neighborhood that honors art, manufacturing, and science. Close by, you can visit the Natural History Museum, the Science Museum, and the V&A Museum, all of which are fantastic to explore. Some even extend their hours on Fridays. The V&A hosts a V&A Late on the final Friday of every month, transforming into a vibrant event featuring drinks and live music.
In addition to museums, I take pleasure in exploring East London districts such as Canary Wharf, Hackney, and Isle of Dogs, brimming with history and artistic endeavors. My preferred location is Trinity Buoy Wharf, a creative manufacturing complex established on an old canning warehouse, hosting art studios and the original lighthouse laboratory where Michael Faraday conducted his work.
Dining in London
London provides excellent dining deals if you know where to search. I’ve created a list of budget-friendly food venues throughout the city.
In South Kensington, Wright Brothers has an Oyster Happy Hour offering oysters for only £1 each—a fantastic bargain, particularly if you miss seafood from home.
Tooting in South London is famous for its culinary scene. Tooting Market and Tooting Broadway Market feature a vast selection of cuisines. If you’re searching for food that evokes memories of home, I strongly suggest visiting these markets!
Escaping the city
While the vibrancy of London contributes to its appeal, there are times when the Tube becomes too noisy or the streets too congested. Thankfully, London has excellent connections via trains and coaches, making weekend getaways easy.
My favorite retreats are Surrey and Kent. Canterbury, with its charming medieval architecture in southern England, is filled with history and student-friendly locations. The Royal Horticultural Society’s garden in Wisley, located in Surrey, offers a delightful excursion, particularly in the summer months.
In summary, London is a lively city teeming with opportunities and places to discover. Take your time exploring all that it has to offer during your stay at Imperial!
For more insights about my experiences, read my Imperial story.