The coronavirus pandemic might have put life on hold for a few months. But things are slowly returning to normal. Establishments are adjusting to physical distancing and other health and safety measures, with the re-opening of London’s National Gallery leading the way.
Now that the situation is relatively normal and geographic mobility is safer, you might want to set your moving plans to motion. Before you pack your bags and move to London permanently, however, create a short-term strategy to determine whether the city’s lifestyle is right for you.
Find the Right Type of Accommodation
Think twice before buying property. If you’re moving to London because of work, there’s a possibility that you might move somewhere else in a few years. And if you’re staying in the city simply because you think the lifestyle fits yours, well, there’s still a lot of factors for you to discover before moving permanently.
Consider renting a room for a few months or during your first couple of years. This way, if you find a better opportunity or if you decide that the lifestyle isn’t for you, it’s not too difficult to make your next move.
Find affordable accommodation that’s near your workplace. Or if you don’t mind taking long walks or spending a little longer on the Tube and in buses, at least make sure your new place is easily accessible. It’s easier to transition to your new life when your new house or apartment is in the city centre.
Observe the Local Culture
When you observe the people who pass you by on the streets and in parks, you’ll notice that everyone seems to be in a hurry. Londoners indeed tend to rush. But they’re polite. Coronavirus precautionary measures aside, they won’t push you aside in their haste. They’re more likely to walk around you.
And if you find yourself in a situation where you have to meet Londoners, you’ll realise that these people have a great sense of humour. Neither are they strict or arrogant.
If you’re the type to explore in your free time, you might enjoy the city’s diverse food and beverage scene. In addition to good old pubs, you’ll find restaurants serving every possible cuisine you can think of. While international travel isn’t safe yet, you at least have the best international cuisines within the city.
Explore Your Surroundings
When tourists think of London, Big Ben and Buckingham Palace are almost always the first things that come to their mind. But when you’re a London resident, you get to see beyond the tourist filter and see the city for what it is. So go out on your free days and explore what the city has to offer.
You have more time to explore Leicester Square, Oxford Street, and other hotspots without the typical tourist rush. And despite being one of the busiest cities in Europe, it’s full of parks and green spaces where you can relax. If these places match your vibe, London Town might just be perfect for you.
London welcomes everyone who wants to move to the city. If you think the lifestyle is right for you, test out the waters. Use this guide to discover the local culture and decide whether you want it permanently.
