Authored by Emilio (Spain), MSc Applied Mathematics
Transitioning from a rural island in Spain to the biggest city in Europe felt overwhelming. Nevertheless, the last 18 months in London have been the most rewarding and exhilarating period of my life.
London stands as a lively, multicultural, and historical metropolis, boasting a diverse range of restaurants, happenings, and landmarks – every exploration feels like an adventure! However, adapting to a new nation can present its challenges. Here are some insights I gained as an international student in London, along with suggestions for what to do once you’ve settled in.
Relocating to London as a postgraduate student
The initial task of moving to London involves selecting the perfect place to call home. Utilizing Instagram, TikTok, and online communities, I investigated various areas of London. I discovered Camden Town’s vibrant nightlife, Hackney’s burgeoning scene, and Putney’s serene, green residential atmosphere.
Having visited London prior to my Master’s program, I explored these neighborhoods before settling on Putney. My flatmates (who I met during my undergraduate studies) and I utilized platforms like SpareRoom and Rightmove to locate economical house shares, scheduled online viewings, and ultimately found a lovely flat close to Putney Heath.
Activities to enjoy in London
Once you’ve established yourself, a world brimming with possibilities awaits – the challenge lies in deciding which activities to engage in and allocating time for each!
Imperial’s South Kensington Campus lies in the Albertopolis region, a hub for art, industry, and science. Close by are fantastic museums such as the Natural History Museum, Science Museum, and V&A Museum. These museums are wonderful to wander through, with some available late on Fridays. The V&A even organizes a V&A Late on the final Friday of each month, transforming into a vibrant gathering with drinks and music!
Apart from museums, I relish discovering East London neighborhoods like Canary Wharf, Hackney, and Isle of Dogs. This area is rich with historical and artistic surprises. My favorite location is Trinity Buoy Wharf, established on a former canning warehouse, now a home for a startup crafting structures from shipping containers. It celebrates creative manufacturing and houses art studios, including the original lighthouse lab where Michael Faraday conducted his experiments!
Dining out in London
London provides excellent deals if you know where to search, presenting numerous options for budget-friendly yet delicious food. Throughout my time here, I’ve put together a compilation of dining establishments with great offers spread across the city.
One notable spot is in South Kensington, a seafood restaurant named Wright Brothers featuring an Oyster Happy Hour where oysters cost just £1 each! It’s an amazing find, especially if you long for seafood from home and wish to treat yourself!
Tooting in South London is renowned for its food scene. Tooting Market and Tooting Broadway Market showcase a vast selection of cuisines. If you’re in search of dishes that remind you of home, I highly suggest visiting Tooting’s food markets!
Taking a getaway from the city
While the pulse of London is delightful, there are times when the Tube is too noisy, or the streets feel overwhelming. Luckily, London boasts excellent train and coach connections, making it easy to escape for a weekend.
My favorite destinations include Surrey and Kent. Canterbury is a charming medieval town in southern England, rich in history and friendly to students. In Surrey, the Royal Horticultural Society’s expansive botanical garden in Wisley offers a lovely outing, especially during summer.
In summary, London is a dynamic city teeming with opportunities and places to discover, so take pleasure in exploring all it has to offer during your time at Imperial!
For more insights into my experiences, read my Imperial story.