Authored by Emilio (Spain), MSc Applied Mathematics
Making the decision to leave the serene countryside of a rural Spanish island for the bustling streets of Europe’s largest city was quite overwhelming. Nevertheless, the last 18 months in London have turned out to be the most rewarding and enjoyable period of my life.
London is an energetic, diverse, historic, and bustling metropolis brimming with a multitude of eateries, events, and attractions – every exploration feels like a new adventure! However, transitioning to life in a different country can pose its challenges. Here are some insights I’ve gathered as an international student relocating to London, along with tips and advice for when you’ve settled down.
Relocating to London as a postgraduate student
The initial step in relocating to London is finding the ideal place to call home. I utilized Instagram, TikTok, and online forums to explore different neighborhoods in London that appeared enjoyable to live in. I found that Camden Town boasts a lively nightlife scene, Hackney is a burgeoning area in east London, and Putney provides a peaceful, green residential environment.
I was lucky enough to visit London prior to commencing my Master’s program, affording me the opportunity to tour these neighborhoods firsthand before making a final decision on where to reside. After settling on Putney, my flatmates (whom I had met during my undergraduate studies) and I leveraged housing search platforms such as SpareRoom and Rightmove to seek affordable shared accommodations, arranged online viewings with landlords, and ultimately secured a lovely flat near Putney Heath.
Activities to enjoy in London
Once you’ve unpacked and personalized your new space, a plethora of possibilities and events beckons – the real challenge in London lies in choosing which experiences to engage in and carving out time for them all!
Imperial’s South Kensington Campus is situated in the Albertopolis area, a neighborhood that celebrates art, production, and scientific discovery. Close by are marvelous museums such as the Natural History Museum, the Science Museum, and the V&A Museum. These institutions are fantastic to explore, with some even staying open late on Fridays. The last Friday of each month, the V&A organizes a V&A Late, a celebratory gathering where the museum morphs into a vibrant party featuring drinks and live music!
In addition to visiting museums, I relish exploring East London neighborhoods such as Canary Wharf, Hackney, and Isle of Dogs. This area is rich with historical treasures and creative projects, making it a wonderful place to roam and discover. My favorite location is Trinity Buoy Wharf – established on an old canning warehouse, it now houses a Series B startup that constructs temporary structures using shipping containers. The complex promotes creative production and contains numerous art studios, along with the original lighthouse lab where the English chemist and physicist Michael Faraday conducted his work!
Dining out in London
London offers numerous deals if you know where to search, with a wide array of options for affordable yet delicious cuisine. During my stay in London, I’ve compiled a list of dining locations featuring a variety of specials throughout the city, making eating out more budget-friendly.
One such location is in South Kensington, where an excellent seafood establishment named Wright Brothers has an Oyster Happy Hour, allowing you to enjoy oysters for just £1 each! It’s a fantastic offer, especially if you long for the taste of home seafood and wish to treat yourself to oysters without spending a fortune!
Tooting in South London is also recognized for its food culture. Tooting Market and Tooting Broadway Market are expansive indoor street food markets showcasing a diverse range of cuisines. If you’re in search of food that evokes memories of home, I highly recommend diving into the Tooting food markets!
Taking a respite from the city
While the city’s rhythm contributes to London’s allure, there are times when the Tube becomes excessively loud, the streets feel overwhelming, and crowds seem to engulf you. Luckily, London is centrally located within a robust network of trains and coaches, making it simple to escape the city for a quick getaway.
My favorite destinations are Surrey and Kent. Canterbury is a charming medieval town in southern England teeming with history and student-friendly spots. In Surrey, the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) boasts an extensive botanical garden in Wisley, which makes for a delightful day trip, particularly during the summer.
Overall, London is a dynamic city brimming with opportunities and places to explore, so take your time to uncover everything it has to offer during your stay at Imperial!
For more details about my journey, <a href="https://www.imperial.ac.uk/Stories/my-imperial-story-emilio/" target="_blank" rel=