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 remarkably fulfilling and enjoyable.
London is a dynamic, diverse metropolis with a deep history and an extensive selection of restaurants, events, and attractions. Discovering it is always a journey, although acclimatizing to a new nation can be tough. Here are some insights I’ve gained as an international student in London, along with advice for adapting.
Relocating to London as a postgraduate student
The initial step in relocating to London involves finding the ideal residence. I utilized Instagram, TikTok, and online communities to investigate various regions of London. Camden Town is recognized for its nightlife, Hackney is a developing area in East London, and Putney offers a serene, green residential environment.
Having visited London prior to commencing my Master’s, I toured these neighborhoods firsthand before selecting Putney. My flatmates (whom I met during my undergraduate studies) and I leveraged platforms like SpareRoom and Rightmove to discover budget-friendly house shares, arranged online viewings with landlords, and secured a charming flat close to Putney Heath.
Activities in London
Once you’ve settled in, a universe of possibilities and events unfolds. The difficulty in London lies in choosing which activities to engage in and making time for them all!
Imperial’s South Kensington Campus is situated in the Albertopolis district, which celebrates art, manufacturing, and science. Close by are the Natural History Museum, the Science Museum, and the V&A Museum, all of which are worth a visit. Some even have extended hours on Fridays, and the V&A hosts a V&A Late on the last Friday of every month, transforming the museum into a vibrant celebration with drinks and music.
In addition to museums, I take pleasure in exploring East London neighborhoods like Canary Wharf, Hackney, and the Isle of Dogs, teeming with history and creative projects. My favorite location is Trinity Buoy Wharf, established on the site of a former canning warehouse and now home to a startup utilizing shipping containers for construction. It promotes creative manufacturing and hosts art studios, including the original lighthouse lab where Michael Faraday conducted his research.
Dining out in London
London presents fantastic food deals if you know where to seek them. I’ve compiled a list of dining establishments offering bargains throughout the city, making eating out more economical.
One location is in South Kensington, where Wright Brothers features an Oyster Happy Hour with oysters available for £1 each—a fantastic find if you miss seafood from home.
Tooting in South London is celebrated for its culinary culture, with Tooting Market and Tooting Broadway Market showcasing a rich variety of cuisines. If you’re in search of dishes that remind you of home, don’t miss the food markets in Tooting!
Taking a breather from the city
Although London’s urban pace is delightful, sometimes the Tube becomes overwhelming, or the streets feel overly crowded. Luckily, London’s train and coach network makes it simple to escape for a weekend getaway.
My preferred destinations are Surrey and Kent. Canterbury is a stunning medieval town in southern England filled with history and student-friendly venues. In Surrey, the Royal Horticultural Society’s expansive botanical garden in Wisley is a lovely outing, particularly during summer.
In summary, London is a lively city packed with opportunities and places to discover. Take your time to explore everything this city has to offer during your stay at Imperial!
To learn more about my journey, read my Imperial story.