Moving to London? Here are 10 things you need to know.

London is a bustling and vibrant city that attracts people from all over the world for its rich culture, job opportunities, and diverse communities. However, moving to a new city can be an overwhelming and challenging experience, especially when it's in a foreign country. To help you make a smooth transition, we've put together a comprehensive guide on everything you need to know about relocating to London.

Housing:?

Finding a place to live in London can be a daunting task, especially if you're relocating from another country. It's recommended to start your housing search early and to consider factors such as location, budget, and size. Popular areas include Central, South, and West London, each offering its unique charm and character. Be prepared for high housing costs, as rental prices in the city can be quite expensive, varying greatly depending on the area.?

Believe it or not, serviced apartments are often more cost-effective than hotels. Sure, this is largely due to the lower nightly rate compared to a hotel equivalent but also as other expenses are cut down. By staying in a serviced apartment, unlike hotels, you are not forced to go out and spend money on every meal of the day or order average meals to your door. With all the amenities that a serviced apartment offers, you can do your usual food shop, and cook whatever you want, whenever you want.?

Transportation:

London is well-connected by public transportation, making it easy to get around the city. The Oyster Card is the most convenient way to pay for your journeys on the city's buses, trains, and the underground. If you're planning to travel frequently, consider purchasing a travelcard, which offers unlimited travel within certain zones. Walking, cycling, and taxi/ride-sharing services are also available options. London has recently invested lots of money into electric bikes and e-scooters, enabling environmentally friendly transportation options across the capital.?

Cost of living:

London is one of the most expensive cities in the world, with high costs for housing, food, transportation, and entertainment. It's essential to budget accordingly and research the average expenses in your area to ensure that you have enough funds to cover your living costs.

Language:

English is widely spoken in London, but it's always helpful to know some basic phrases. If you're relocating for work, consider learning some business-specific vocabulary or enrolling in a language course.

Culture:?

London is a culturally rich city, with a diverse history, arts scene, and events calendar. Take advantage of its museums, theaters, galleries, and festivals to immerse yourself in the city's culture. There's always something to do and see, and the city is a great place to learn, grow, and experience new things.

Healthcare:

Upon arrival, it's important to register with a local GP to access the National Health Service (NHS) or consider purchasing private health insurance. It's important to have a healthcare plan in place for unexpected illnesses or emergencies.

Work:

If you're relocating to London for work, make sure to research the job market and salaries in your field. Check visa requirements, and familiarize yourself with employment laws and benefits. London is a global hub for many industries, and there are plenty of job opportunities available, making it a great place to start or grow your career.

Here at TheSqua.re, we make relocating simple, thanks to our comprehensive network of over 360,000 serviced apartments across the globe. We can ensure a relaxing stay, as each serviced apartment listed on TheSqua.re platform has passed a rigorous vetting process. Once passed, the apartment receives TheSqua.re’s mark of approval. If the apartment fails to meet our exceptional standards, it will not be listed on our platform. Our strict vetting process positions us as one of the top relocation companies globally. Whether you or your employee is looking to be relocated to London, Paris, Hong Kong, Singapore, Dublin, Amsterdam, New York, San Francisco, or any of the other vibrant cities in the world, we have the bespoke serviced apartment that you need to experience a comfortable stay.?

Safety:

London is generally considered a safe city, but it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take normal safety precautions. Familiarize yourself with emergency procedures and know how to contact local authorities if you need help.

Weather:

London has a temperate maritime climate with cool summers and mild winters, with rainfall being common year-round. Pack accordingly, and be prepared for the changing weather.

Community:?

Building a community and support network is important for a smooth transition. Join local groups, attend events, and make an effort to meet new people. This can help you feel more connected to your new home and provide a sense of belonging.

Relocating to London can be a thrilling and exciting experience, but it's also important to be prepared and informed. Use this guide as a starting point, and don't be afraid to reach out for additional support and resources.?

We wish you the best of luck with your move, and remember, we’re here to help. We can offer a global reach, personalised account manager, pre-arrival guest call, meet and greet, airport pick-up, grocery pack, health benefits, transport connections, and so much more!?

Still keen to find out more?

Have a further read about London here: