{"id":345750,"date":"2026-04-05T08:38:04","date_gmt":"2026-04-05T08:38:04","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/youjustlive.com\/?p=345750"},"modified":"2026-04-05T08:38:04","modified_gmt":"2026-04-05T08:38:04","slug":"lessons-gained-from-residing-in-london-as-an-imperial-scholar-12","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/youjustlive.com\/?p=345750","title":{"rendered":"Lessons Gained from Residing in London as an Imperial Scholar"},"content":{"rendered":"

Authored by Emilio (Spain), MSc Applied Mathematics<\/em><\/p>\n

Choosing to relocate from a rural Spanish island to the largest city in Europe was intimidating. Nonetheless, the last 18 months in London have been the most rewarding and thrilling of my life.<\/p>\n

London is a dynamic, diverse, historic metropolis with an extensive array of restaurants, events, and attractions \u2013 navigating it is always an adventure! However, adapting to life in a new country can pose challenges. Here are some insights I gained as an international student in London, along with advice on what to do once you\u2019ve settled in.<\/p>\n

Relocating to London as a postgraduate student<\/strong><\/h3>\n

The initial step in relocating to London is finding the appropriate place to call home. Utilizing Instagram, TikTok, and online communities, I investigated different London neighborhoods that might offer enjoyable living experiences. I found that Camden Town has a vibrant nightlife, Hackney is a developing area in east London, and Putney is a serene, green residential neighborhood.<\/p>\n

Having visited London prior to starting my Master\u2019s, I was able to discover these areas firsthand before selecting where to move. I opted for Putney, and with my flatmates (whom I met during my undergraduate studies), we used accommodation platforms like SpareRoom and Rightmove to locate affordable house shares, arranged online viewings with landlords, and ultimately secured a lovely flat close to Putney Heath.<\/p>\n

Activities in London<\/strong><\/h3>\n

Once you\u2019ve settled, a realm of possibilities and events lies ahead \u2013 the challenge in London is deciding which activities to engage in and allocating time for them all!<\/p>\n

Imperial\u2019s South Kensington Campus is situated in the Albertopolis region, a district that celebrates art, manufacturing, and science. Close by are amazing museums such as the Natural History Museum, the Science Museum, and the V&A Museum. These museums are fantastic to explore, and some remain open late on Fridays. On the final Friday of each month, the V&A hosts a V&A Late, transforming the museum into a mini rave with drinks and live performances!<\/p>\n

In addition to visiting museums, I take pleasure in discovering East London areas like Canary Wharf, Hackney, and Isle of Dogs. This region boasts numerous historical and artistic projects, creating a splendid area to meander and uncover. My favorite location is Trinity Buoy Wharf \u2013 constructed on a former canning warehouse, it’s now home to a startup that creates temporary structures using shipping containers. The complex celebrates innovative manufacturing and features several art studios, including the original lighthouse lab where Michael Faraday conducted his work!<\/p>\n

Dining out in London<\/strong><\/h3>\n

London presents fantastic deals if you know where to seek, with numerous options for inexpensive yet excellent meals. During my stay in London, I’ve compiled a list of dining spots featuring various deals throughout the city, making eating out more budget-friendly.<\/p>\n

One notable location is in South Kensington, where a seafood restaurant named Wright Brothers offers an Oyster Happy Hour, with oysters priced at just \u00a31 each! This is an excellent deal, especially if you\u2019re longing for the taste of home seafood and wish to indulge in oysters to your heart’s (and wallet’s) content!<\/p>\n

Tooting in South London is also recognized for its culinary scene. Tooting Market and Tooting Broadway Market are large indoor street food markets offering a wide array of cuisines. If you’re in search of food that evokes memories of home, I highly recommend exploring the Tooting food markets!<\/p>\n

Escaping the city<\/strong><\/h3>\n

While the city’s energy is part of London\u2019s allure, there are times when the Tube becomes too noisy, the streets too congested, and the crowds overwhelming. Fortunately, London is centrally located within a great network of trains and coaches, facilitating easy escapes from the city for a weekend getaway.<\/p>\n

My preferred destinations are Surrey and Kent. Canterbury is a stunning medieval town in southern England, rich in history and offering student-friendly venues. In Surrey, the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) boasts a grand botanical garden in Wisley, making it a delightful day trip, especially during the summer.<\/p>\n

All in all, London is a lively city brimming with opportunities and places to discover, so take your time to explore everything the city has to offer during your time at Imperial!<\/p>\n

For more insights into my experiences, <\/em><\/strong>check out my Imperial story. <\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n