Authored by Emilio (Spain), MSc Applied Mathematics
Transitioning from a rural island in Spain to the biggest city in Europe was intimidating. Nevertheless, the last 18 months in London have been the most rewarding and thrilling of my life.
London is a dynamic, multicultural, historic metropolis with an extensive selection of eateries, events, and attractions—venturing through it is always an adventure! However, adapting to life in a foreign country can be tough. Here are a few insights I gained while relocating to London as an international student, along with advice on what to do once you’re settled.
Relocating to London as a postgraduate student
The initial step in relocating to London is securing the right place to call your own. Utilizing Instagram, TikTok, and online communities, I researched various neighborhoods in London that appeared enjoyable for living. Camden Town is famous for its nightlife, Hackney is an up-and-coming area in east London, and Putney offers a peaceful, green residential environment.
I was lucky enough to visit London prior to starting my Master’s, which allowed me to explore these neighborhoods firsthand before making a decision on where to reside. I opted for Putney, and my flatmates (whom I met during my undergraduate studies) and I utilized platforms like SpareRoom and Rightmove to discover budget-friendly house shares, arranged virtual viewings with landlords, and ultimately secured a lovely flat near Putney Heath.
Activities to enjoy in London
Once you’ve settled in and personalized your new home, a world of possibilities awaits. The challenge in London lies in selecting which activities to engage in and finding the time for all of them!
Imperial’s South Kensington Campus is situated in the Albertopolis district, an area that honors art, manufacturing, and science. Close by are fantastic museums such as the Natural History Museum, the Science Museum, and the V&A Museum. These museums are wonderful to discover, and some have extended hours on Fridays. On the last Friday of each month, the V&A hosts a V&A Late, a public gathering with drinks and live performances!
In addition to museum visits, I take pleasure in exploring East London neighborhoods like Canary Wharf, Hackney, and Isle of Dogs. This region is rich in historical and artistic landmarks, making it a delightful place to stroll around. My favorite location is Trinity Buoy Wharf, built on an old canning warehouse that is now home to a startup creating temporary structures from shipping containers. The venue embraces creative manufacturing and features several art studios, including the original lighthouse lab where Michael Faraday conducted his work!
Dining out in London
London has plenty of bargains if you know where to search, with various choices for affordable yet scrumptious food. During my time in London, I have compiled a list of eateries offering deals around the city, making dining out more budget-friendly.
One notable spot is in South Kensington, where Wright Brothers hosts an Oyster Happy Hour, with oysters priced at just £1 each! It’s a fantastic deal, particularly if you long for the taste of seafood from home.
Tooting in South London is equally recognized for its culinary scene. Tooting Market and Tooting Broadway Market are expansive indoor street food markets providing a wide array of cuisines. If you’re craving food that brings back memories of home, I highly suggest checking out Tooting’s food markets!
Taking a break from urban life
While the pace of London adds to its allure, there are moments when the Tube becomes excessively noisy, or the streets too crowded. Fortunately, London is centrally located in a great network of trains and coaches, making it simple to escape the city for a weekend getaway.
My favorite destinations are Surrey and Kent. Canterbury is a picturesque medieval town in southern England, rich in history and student-friendly venues. In Surrey, the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) features a vast botanical garden in Wisley, ideal for a summer outing.
Overall, London is a lively city brimming with opportunities and places to discover, so take your time to explore all it has to offer during your time at Imperial!
To learn more about my experiences, read my Imperial story.