Authored by Emilio (Spain), MSc Applied Mathematics
Making the decision to transition from a serene island in Spain to the largest city in Europe was intimidating. Nevertheless, the recent 18 months spent in London have been the most rewarding and thrilling period of my life.
London is an energetic, diverse, and historical metropolis featuring a multitude of restaurants, events, and attractions – every outing is a new adventure! However, adapting to life in a foreign land can prove to be tough. Here are some insights I gathered as an international scholar in London, alongside a few suggestions for your initial days after settling in.
Relocating to London as a postgraduate scholar
The initial step in relocating to London is identifying an ideal place to call your own. I utilized Instagram, TikTok, and various online forums to investigate different neighborhoods in London. I discovered the vibrant nightlife of Camden Town, Hackney’s up-and-coming atmosphere, and Putney’s tranquil, green residential environment.
Having visited London prior to commencing my Master’s, I toured these neighborhoods personally before selecting Putney. My flatmates (whom I met during undergraduate studies) and I utilized accommodation platforms such as SpareRoom and Rightmove to find budget-friendly house shares, organized virtual viewings with landlords, and eventually located a pleasant flat near Putney Heath.
Activities to enjoy in London
Once you’ve settled, a plethora of opportunities and events awaits – the trick in London is figuring out which activities to engage in and how to fit them all into your schedule!
Imperial’s South Kensington Campus is situated in the Albertopolis district, an area that venerates art, industry, and science. Close by, you’ll encounter fantastic museums like the Natural History Museum, the Science Museum, and the V&A Museum. These venues are wonderful for exploration, with some remaining open late on Fridays. On the last Friday of every month, the V&A hosts a V&A Late, turning the museum into a lively celebration complete with drinks and live performances!
Beyond museums, I take pleasure in discovering East London neighborhoods such as Canary Wharf, Hackney, and Isle of Dogs. This region is steeped in history and cultural projects, making it an intriguing place to stroll. My favorite location is Trinity Buoy Wharf – established on an old canning warehouse, it now hosts a startup that constructs temporary structures from shipping containers. The site embraces creative manufacturing and includes numerous art studios, as well as the original lighthouse laboratory where Michael Faraday conducted his work!
Dining out in London
London presents excellent deals if you know where to look, with plenty of options for affordable yet delightful meals. Throughout my time in London, I’ve curated a list of dining locations offering deals across the city, making eating out more economical.
One notable spot is in South Kensington, where Wright Brothers hosts an Oyster Happy Hour, with oysters priced at just £1 each! It’s an incredible offer, particularly if you’re longing for seafood from back home.
Tooting in South London is also renowned for its culinary scene. Tooting Market and Tooting Broadway Market are expansive indoor street food markets showcasing a diverse array of cuisines. If you’re in search of food that evokes memories of home, I highly suggest checking out Tooting’s culinary markets!
Taking a breather from the urban hustle
While the city’s rhythm is part of its appeal, sometimes the Tube can become overwhelming, or the streets too congested. Luckily, London is well-serviced by trains and coaches, making it convenient to escape for a weekend getaway.
My preferred destinations are Surrey and Kent. Canterbury is a stunning medieval town in southern England, rich in history and accommodating for students. In Surrey, the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) boasts an extensive botanical garden in Wisley, perfect for a relaxing summer outing.
In summary, London is a dynamic city brimming with possibilities and locations to explore, so take your time to uncover everything it has to offer during your stay at Imperial!
For more insights into my journey, read my Imperial story.