Moving to London is exciting, but there is a lot to think about when it comes to relocating. From picking your destination and accommodation to learning how to navigate the transport, there are many worries and concerns. With the right information and planning though, moving and settling in London will feel like a dream come true.
Moving
When moving house, if you’re not doing it yourself, it’s really important to ensure any moving company you use is reputable, and fully insured. Sometimes when you move, you might need to consider downsizing, this doesn’t mean that you have to get rid of everything you own. There are plenty of storage companies out there and it doesn’t have to cost the earth, I’ve found Container storage Lincoln that is very reasonable.
Location
To help you get to grips with the city’s sheer size, it’s easier to think of London as a collection of small towns. You will want to select a location that ticks all your boxes, both for work and lifestyle, however, the best place to live in London for you will depend largely on your price range.
Lifestyle
The London lifestyle is hard to beat but it can take some adjusting, especially if you are moving from abroad or a small town. The Big Smoke has a culture and way of living that is entirely its own, all the way from commuting etiquette to the weather and sightseeing. Knowing how to behave on the tube is essential when using public transport so it’s best to get acquainted with the rules quickly.
You should also expect a higher cost of living when socialising in London. The average cost of a beer is £10 in the capital so always keep your eyes out for the best deals or devise a daily budget to help you keep up with the heftier price tags.
Housing
When preparing to move to London, understanding the current housing crisis and that competition in the market is fierce will help you find a home. It would help if you managed your expectations when it comes to accommodation, since the area you choose to live in will largely determine the type and price of the housing available.
Once you’ve worked out a budget and your ideal living situation, it’s time to start arranging house viewings. Familiarise yourself with all the related costs of accommodation, from deposits and advance rent to furnishings and licenses.
Transport
Despite the city’s large size, each area of it is easily accessible thanks to the well-developed public transport network. London is split into six zones to help commuters understand transport charges and ticketing for buses, trams, Dockland Light Railway and the tube. It’s easier to travel using these services compared to driving so it is worth investing in an Oyster Card.
While ease of transport is a big benefit of moving to London, there unfortunately happens to be a high number of road collisions. These can happen while using public transport. If you were involved in a road accident involving buses, coaches or a minibus that wasn’t your fault, you could make a compensation claim to cover the cost of your medical bills.
