Arriving in a city, especially one as big as London, can be intimidating for a newcomer! However, there are some things you can do to make your transition that much easier. Below are our top tips for someone who is new to London and trying to navigate their new life.
1. Arrive in the summertime
London is at its best in the summer! We recommend making your move during June, July or August. Even though London is at its fullest during the warm season, it is also at its most vibrant and fun. This will be a great introduction to your new home, and you are pretty much guaranteed to fall in love with the city. The summer brings about endless events, adventures and new experiences for both newcomers and seasoned Londoners.
2. Accommodation is expensive
The most affordable way to live in London is to share a flat or house with roommates. This is not only a great way to save some money, but an easy way to make some friends in the big city. Single accommodation in London can be expensive, but with property management companies like London Shared, you can have the opportunity to live in some of the best areas of London, in beautifully furnished homes, with like-minded individuals.
3. Find a job ASAP
We won’t beat around the bush, finding a job in London can be tough. However, there are various things you can do to make it easier. Firstly, make sure you start looking before you leave home, this will help you understand what the market is like and the jobs available. Secondly, recruitment agencies are a very popular tool in London and can make the job hunt that much easier. Lastly, have your CV ready, up to date and completed with all the references you may need.
4. Learn how to get around
It is not the norm in London to have a car, this means that you will have to familiarise yourself with the various public transport options the city has to offer. In our experience, the London Tube is probably your best, most efficient way of travel. Lastly, do not underestimate walking – it may, in certain instances, be your most efficient and cheapest bet.
5. Be realistic
A big piece of advice from us is to go into the move with realistic expectations. Moving to a city like London is exciting and overwhelming, but it is important to keep in mind that it will not always be perfect. No matter how tough it gets, do not give up, because it will all be worth it in the end. Make friends, do fun things, eat and drink well and travel as much as possible.
6. Put yourself out there
London can seem like a lonely place, but believe us when we say that there are so many people in your position. The influx of young working professionals to the big city is huge, and they are all looking to make friends and enjoy their time in London as much as possible. We recommend joining a social sports team or going to a local pub and getting involved in whatever events they have. As scary as it can be, put yourself out there because you will eventually find your people.
7. Find some form of nature near to where you live
London is a beautiful city, but it can start feeling like a bit of a concrete jungle at times. That is why it is important to find a piece of nature near to where you live or work, whether it be the river or a park, familiarise yourself with it and go as much as possible. Being around greenery and fresh air is so important for us as humans, and it is particularly important when living in a city. Whether it be a picnic with your mates, an outdoor workout or a walk after work, spending a little time in nature will do you the world of good.
8. Try everything out
London is one of the busiest cities in the world. There is always something going on and a new experience to try. Whether it be drinking, eating, watching a show, going to a club, trying the newest workout craze or thrift shopping, London is full of new adventures. We can all start feeling like life is a little mundane once the excitement of moving to a big city has subsided, but it doesn’t have to, pick a fun new activity to try every weekend and keep your curiosity and love for the city alive.