Authored by Emilio (Spain), MSc Applied Mathematics
Transitioning from a rural island in Spain to the largest city in Europe was intimidating, yet the last 18 months in London have been immensely fulfilling and enjoyable.
London is a dynamic, diverse, historic metropolis bursting with a variety of dining options, events, and sights. Every exploration feels like a new adventure! Nevertheless, adjusting to life in a foreign country can present its difficulties. Here are some insights I gained as an international student in London, accompanied by advice for acclimatization.
Relocating to London as a postgraduate student
The initial step in relocating to London is discovering the ideal place to call home. I utilized Instagram, TikTok, and online communities to investigate various neighborhoods. Camden Town is famous for its nightlife, Hackney is a developing district in east London, and Putney is a serene, green residential area.
Having traveled to London prior to starting my Master’s, I personally ventured into these neighborhoods before opting for Putney. My flatmates (whom I met during undergraduate studies) and I used platforms like SpareRoom and Rightmove to locate reasonable house shares, set up online viewings with landlords, and secured a lovely flat near Putney Heath.
Activities to enjoy in London
Once you’ve settled in, a plethora of opportunities and events lie ahead. The challenge is selecting which activities to engage in and managing time for them all!
Imperial’s South Kensington Campus resides in the Albertopolis area, a region honoring art, industry, and science. The Natural History Museum, the Science Museum, and the V&A Museum are all nearby and fantastic to explore, with some staying open late on Fridays. The V&A hosts a V&A Late on the final Friday of each month, transforming the museum into a lively celebration with drinks and live performances!
Apart from museums, I relish exploring East London, including places like Canary Wharf, Hackney, and Isle of Dogs. This area brims with historical and artistic landmarks. My favorite is Trinity Buoy Wharf, a creative enclave established on a former canning warehouse, now housing a startup and several art studios, including the original lighthouse lab where Michael Faraday conducted his work!
Dining in London
London showcases excellent food deals if you know where to search. I’ve put together a compilation of dining venues across the city offering discounts, making eating out more budget-friendly.
In South Kensington, Wright Brothers presents an Oyster Happy Hour featuring oysters at just £1 each—a fantastic find for seafood enthusiasts yearning for a taste of home!
Tooting in South London is renowned for its culinary scene. Tooting Market and Tooting Broadway Market provide an extensive array of cuisines. If you’re yearning for bites from home, I strongly suggest checking out these markets!
Escaping the city
While London’s urban life is alluring, occasionally the Tube and bustling streets can become taxing. Thankfully, London’s comprehensive train and coach network allows for an easy weekend getaway.
My favorite retreats are Surrey and Kent. Canterbury is a stunning medieval town in southern England rich in history and boasting student-friendly hubs. In Surrey, the Royal Horticultural Society’s garden in Wisley offers a delightful day trip, particularly during the summer.
All in all, London is a vibrant hub teeming with possibilities and destinations to discover. Take your time to uncover everything it has to offer during your journey at Imperial!
To learn more about my adventures, read my Imperial story.