Authored by Emilio (Spain), MSc Applied Mathematics
Making the decision to transition from a rural island in Spain to the largest city in Europe was intimidating. Nevertheless, my past 18 months in London have been the most rewarding and exhilarating of my life.
London is a multicultural, diverse, historic, and lively city that offers an array of restaurants, events, and attractions – every exploration is an adventure! However, adjusting to life in a new country can present challenges. Here are some insights I gained as an international student in London, along with useful tips for settling in.
Relocating to London as a postgraduate student
The initial step to relocating to London is securing the ideal place to call home. By utilizing Instagram, TikTok, and online communities, I researched different neighborhoods in London that could be enjoyable to reside in. I found that Camden Town boasts an energetic nightlife, Hackney is a growing area in east London, and Putney offers a peaceful, green residential environment.
After visiting London prior to starting my Master’s, I explored these neighborhoods firsthand before choosing Putney. My flatmates (whom I met during my undergraduate studies) and I employed accommodation search platforms like SpareRoom and Rightmove to locate reasonable house shares, set up online viewings with landlords, and ultimately secured a pleasant flat near Putney Heath.
Activities to enjoy in London
Once you are settled, a plethora of opportunities and events is at your fingertips – the real challenge in London lies in selecting which activities to join and finding the time for them all!
Imperial’s South Kensington Campus is situated in the Albertopolis area, a district dedicated to art, science, and manufacturing. Close by, you’ll find fabulous museums such as the Natural History Museum, the Science Museum, and the V&A Museum. These museums are fantastic to visit, with some even keeping late hours on Fridays. On the last Friday of each month, the V&A hosts a V&A Late, transforming the museum into a mini rave, complete with drinks and live performances!
Apart from museum visits, I relish discovering East London neighborhoods like Canary Wharf, Hackney, and Isle of Dogs. This area is rich in historical and artistic landmarks, making it a wonderful place to meander and unveil hidden gems. My favorite spot is Trinity Buoy Wharf – once a canning warehouse, it now accommodates a Series B startup that creates temporary buildings from shipping containers. The complex celebrates innovative manufacturing and is home to various art studios, including the original lab where Michael Faraday conducted his work!
Dining out in London
London provides numerous bargains if you know where to seek them, with an ample selection of affordable yet delectable dining options. Throughout my time in London, I’ve curated a list of eateries with diverse deals around the city, enhancing the affordability of dining out.
One such establishment is located in South Kensington, where a seafood restaurant named Wright Brothers offers an Oyster Happy Hour, featuring oysters for only £1 each! This deal is exceptional, especially if you long for the flavors of home seafood and wish to indulge in oysters without spending excessively!
Tooting in South London is also celebrated for its culinary scene. Tooting Market and Tooting Broadway Market are expansive indoor street food markets showcasing a wide array of cuisines. If you are in search of food that evokes memories of home, I wholeheartedly recommend exploring Tooting’s food markets!
Escaping the city for a breather
While the city’s pace contributes to London’s allure, there are moments when the Tube becomes too noisy, the streets too congested, and crowds seem to be everywhere. Fortunately, London is surrounded by an excellent network of trains and coaches, making it easy to retreat from the city for a weekend getaway.
My favorite destinations include Surrey and Kent. Canterbury is a charming medieval town in southern England, brimming with history and student-friendly venues. In Surrey, the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) features a vast botanical garden in Wisley, which offers a delightful day trip, especially during the summer months.
In summary, London is a dynamic city filled with opportunities and locations to explore, so take your time to uncover everything it has to offer during your stay at Imperial!
To learn more about my experiences, read my Imperial story.
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