Authored by Emilio (Spain), MSc Applied Mathematics
Transitioning from the rural landscapes of a Spanish island to the largest city in Europe was a formidable task. Nonetheless, the last 18 months spent in London have proven to be the most rewarding and delightful of my lifetime.
London is a dynamic, diverse, historic metropolis boasting a plethora of restaurants, events, and attractions – delving into it is perpetually an adventure! However, acclimating to a new country can pose challenges. Below are some insights I gained as an international student in London, alongside some advice for adapting.
Relocating to London as a graduate student
The initial phase of relocating to London involves finding the ideal place to call home. I utilized Instagram, TikTok, and online communities to investigate different areas of London. I came across Camden Town’s lively nightlife, Hackney’s burgeoning scene, and Putney’s serene, green residential atmosphere.
Having previously visited London before embarking on my Master’s, I personally explored these neighborhoods prior to settling on Putney. My flatmates (whom I encountered during my undergraduate studies) and I employed websites such as SpareRoom and Rightmove to locate affordable house shares, arranged online viewings, and ultimately discovered a lovely flat near Putney Heath.
Activities in London
Once you’re established, a plethora of opportunities and events await you – the difficulty lies in deciding which activities to engage in and managing your time for all of them!
Imperial’s South Kensington Campus resides in the Albertopolis district, a neighborhood that honors art, manufacturing, and science. Close by are the Natural History Museum, the Science Museum, and the V&A Museum. These museums are fantastic to explore, with some offering late hours on Fridays. On the last Friday of every month, the V&A organizes a V&A Late, turning the museum into a vibrant event featuring drinks and live music!
Beyond museums, I enjoy discovering East London neighborhoods such as Canary Wharf, Hackney, and Isle of Dogs. This region teems with historical and artistic surprises. My preferred spot is Trinity Buoy Wharf, constructed on a former canning warehouse, now home to a startup crafting temporary structures from shipping containers. The complex celebrates innovative manufacturing and accommodates art studios, including the original lighthouse lab where Michael Faraday worked!
Dining in London
London presents great deals if you know where to seek them, with numerous options for budget-friendly yet outstanding dining. I’ve compiled a list of eateries with discounts throughout the city, making meals out more budget-conscious.
One such spot is located in South Kensington, where Wright Brothers features an Oyster Happy Hour, offering oysters for only £1 each! This is a fantastic bargain, especially if you’re longing for the flavors of seafood from home.
Tooting in South London is also renowned for its food scene. Tooting Market and Tooting Broadway Market are expansive indoor street food markets showcasing a diverse range of cuisines. If you’re searching for cuisine that evokes memories of home, I strongly advise visiting Tooting’s food markets!
Taking a breather from the city
Although the city’s pace is part of its allure, there are times when the Tube becomes overwhelmingly noisy or the streets excessively crowded. Fortunately, London boasts excellent train and coach connections, making weekend getaways a breeze.
My favorite destinations include Surrey and Kent. Canterbury is a charming medieval city in southern England, rich in history and friendly to students. In Surrey, the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) has a vast botanical garden in Wisley, ideal for a summer outing.
In summary, London is a lively city brimming with opportunities and sights to discover. Take your time exploring all that the city has to offer during your stay at Imperial!
For further insights into my experiences, check out my Imperial story.