Moving in London: What to Expect and How to Prepare
When you ask people about a city they admire, a city where opportunities thrive, a city that always has something up and coming to offer, moving to London surely makes it among the top picks for it. People move to London for work, university, opportunities, lifestyle change and sometimes in search of a better life or embracing something different from their home country. Famous for being expensive but also known for its vibrance and being a culmination of many different countries and beliefs, London is a beautiful contrast in every way. Something that is one of the most important considerations to make when shifting to London is how you’d shift, how would you plan the move and what you’d need to be on the right track.
Key Takeaways
- Visas and legal requirements
- Finding the right accommodation
- Neighbourhoods and where to live
- Cost of living
- Public transport and more
- Networking and social life
- The famous 'London weather'
Explained in detail
- Visas: Depending on the passport you hold, sorting visa requirements and estimating the time it takes to finish the process is one of the first few things to get out of your way. Check UK visa policies on the government website to know which one you're eligible for, set aside funds for it and to maintain your financial backing when applying. Speak to employers on work permits or job sponsorship if that is your case. Aligning the paperwork well in advance protects you from last minute anxiety and choas.
- Finding the right accomodation: People always wonder how to move to London and secure a flat/house-share early on so there is less hassle. It is well know that the real estate market in London is tricky especially if you look for a house in central London. Renting in London needs you to get in touch with the right brokers and respond quickly- you may miss out on a deal if you take too long to respond. Websites like Rightmove and SpareRoom help you double down on a few choices. Understand the rent prices, bill inclusions and council tax. Check for easy access to your workplace/university while ensuring safety and quick access to basic amenities. London tube stations and bus connectivity is very robust and every part is well-connected so this should be easy navigation for you.
- Neighbourhoods and where to live: The city is divided into zones and four directions. Know these areas well before picking one. You might want to check its connectivity with where you'd be travelling frequently using public transport. Affordable houses come with a balance between commute time and rent. Speak to your relatives and friends that may be living in the city and research online on the crime rates and probable areas your peers live in. This makes travelling easier if you have people to pitch in with, if you take a cab and alternatively safer if you're new to the city. Chelsea, Notting Hill and Mayfair are examples of good areas but come at a higher cost. Alternatively, Canary Wharf is a corporate hub. You'd have to pick areas depending on your needs and purpose of work/study.
- Cost of living: London can surely be expensive and your pocket might take a hit specially if you decide on moving to London with family. But, proper budgeting and estimating expenses once you settle in, is a good way to be realistic. Break down rent, groceries, bills, transport and entertainment by watching your expenses over a few months. Best ways to save is to replace cabs with public transport, skip that cab and walk those 15 minutes, shop from budget grocery stores and watch your outings and dining plans. Once you begin to live in the city, you'd know your most expensive avenues and you can plan on how to control that bucket eventually. While the biggest chunk of the pie is bound to be rent, dining out lavishly or travelling can shoot up costs quickly.
- Public transport: Oyster cards or contactless cards are your savior as they give you access to tubes and buses across London. The city is very well connected using these mediums. Cycling in the city is also a convenient option if you prefer it- makes you go green and also burn those extra callories and the croissants you're going to be eating. Understanding commute times using apps like 'CityMapper' and understanding zones will make it easier for you to map your way through the city. It is easy to grasp and all station have clear signs, making it accessible to everyone.
- Networking and social life: Social events, concerts and shows are a must do in London. The city has lots to offer and apps like Eventbrite, Bumble BFF, Meetup make it easier to track events around you. The pub culture is huge and it is a common notion to head out for after-work drinks in the evenings. The uber boat is a sight to watch as it sails throughand connects the city through water. Coworking spaces make it easier for people to find synergies among themselves. There is something for every form of entertainment you'd be interested in. From plays and movies, to sports and games, to art galleries and musical nights, the city has something to offer for everyone.
- The famous 'London weather': The trickiest bit about moving to England is ofcourse the weather. You speak to the people born here and you'd find they've still not made peace with the grey skies and gloomy days. But, when summer strikes and christmas lights come up, these yearly happenings make it worth the wait. The city puts up a glory like no other and goes all out during these times and embraces seasons gracefully. From christmas markets in December to kayaking in Thames during summer, the city embraces weather beautifully.
Save up to 40% OFF on longer storage
Summary
Moving to London is exciting but needs a well thought-out plan. It is a city that awaits many unique opportunities and experiences. Gear up for exploring a city where no two days are the same. To make your move hassle-free, sort your visa and documentation well in advance, book your tickets, research your accommodation and book reliable services to support you in every way possible. So, as you gear up for this shift, don’t forget to learn, adapt and embrace everyday because once this city to begins to feel like home, it’s hard to imagine it anywhere else.
Frequently Asked Questions
What visa do i need to move to London?
Your purpose of visit and the eligibility defines the visa you'd need. The most common types are a student visa or a skiller worker visa where you get sponsored to work in the UK. Always check the latest requirement on their official website before making a move.
How do I hunt for a house in London?
There are many third party apps that helps landlords find tenants like Rightmove or SpareRoom. Alternatively, real estate agents like Foxtons also enable to process and give you virtual tours if requested and help witht the documentation at every step.
What is the best way to travel within London?
The city is very well connected by its underground tube service and is the most cost-friendly and sustainable way to move around the city. Apps like 'Citymapper' or 'Google Maps' can be used to find the right way and the famous spots and tube stations are marked with clear directions to make it easier for people unfamiliar with the city.
