Authored by Emilio (Spain), MSc Applied Mathematics
Transitioning from a rural island in Spain to the largest city in Europe was intimidating, but the last 18 months in London have been immensely fulfilling and enjoyable.
London is a lively, diverse city with a deep historical background and an array of restaurants, events, and attractions. However, adapting to life in a new country can pose challenges. Here are some insights I gained as an international student in London, along with a few suggestions for adjusting.
Relocating to London as a postgraduate student
The initial step in relocating to London is identifying the ideal place to call home. I utilized Instagram, TikTok, and online community forums to research different neighborhoods in London. Camden Town is famous for its vibrant nightlife, Hackney represents a developing area in east London, and Putney is a peaceful, green residential locale.
Having previously visited London before beginning my Master’s program, I had the chance to explore these neighborhoods firsthand. I opted for Putney and, along with my university flatmates, utilized sites like SpareRoom and Rightmove to find an economical house share. We arranged online viewings and discovered a lovely flat near Putney Heath.
Activities in London
Once you are settled, London provides endless opportunities and events. The difficulty lies in selecting which activities to engage in and making time for all of them!
Imperial’s South Kensington Campus is situated in the Albertopolis district, renowned for its contributions to art, manufacturing, and science. In the vicinity, you’ll discover the Natural History Museum, the Science Museum, and the V&A Museum. These venues are fantastic for exploration, with some open late on Fridays. The V&A also hosts a V&A Late event on the last Friday of each month, transforming the museum into a vibrant gathering with refreshments and live entertainment!
In addition to museums, I enjoy discovering East London neighborhoods such as Canary Wharf, Hackney, and Isle of Dogs. This region is rich in history and artistic endeavors, making it a delightful area to meander through. My favorite location is Trinity Buoy Wharf, a creative center built on a former canning warehouse, now home to a startup that constructs structures from shipping containers. It also hosts art studios and the original lighthouse lab where Michael Faraday conducted his work!
Dining out in London
London presents excellent culinary deals if you know where to search. I’ve compiled a list of food venues with discounts throughout the city, making dining out more economical.
One such venue is Wright Brothers in South Kensington, featuring an Oyster Happy Hour with oysters priced at just £1 each. It’s an incredible offer, especially if you have a craving for seafood from home.
Tooting in South London is also celebrated for its food scene. Tooting Market and Tooting Broadway Market are expansive indoor street food markets offering a wide array of cuisines. If you’re in search of food reminiscent of home, I strongly recommend checking out Tooting’s food markets!
Escaping the city
While London’s vibrancy is part of its appeal, occasionally the Tube and bustling streets can become overwhelming. Thankfully, London’s superb train and coach network makes it convenient to escape the city for a weekend retreat.
My preferred retreats are Surrey and Kent. Canterbury is a stunning medieval town in southern England with a rich heritage and student-friendly locations. In Surrey, the Royal Horticultural Society’s garden in Wisley makes for a wonderful day trip, particularly in the summer.
In conclusion, London is a dynamic metropolis brimming with opportunities and places to discover. Take your time to uncover everything the city has to offer during your stay at Imperial!
For more information about my experiences, read my Imperial story.