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Archive for the ‘Americans Moving to London’ Category

Relocation to London’s Suburban Southwest

Monday September 10th, 2012

Many of those making a relocation to London first look at the city’s central neighborhoods for apartments—especially those north of the Thames—but you might want to consider the more suburban-feeling areas south of the river as well. While there are very family-friendly neighbourhoods in the southeast, too, today I’ll focus on the west because I just enjoyed an utterly splendid Sunday there!

MAKING A “SUBURBAN” RELOCATION TO LONDON

I put “suburban” in quotations as even those areas that are their own little towns outside the city’s central zones have amazingly close proximity to the iconic London we all know and love. A native of Chicago who made my own relocation four years ago, I would have had to travel much further outside that city to reach the tranquil and green spaces that London enjoys in such abundance.

Yesterday, my husband and I set off early in the morning to go cycling. I hadn’t brought my own bike when we first moved here because I didn’t know what storage options to anticipate (a wise decision, as much as I miss my Trek—our flat could have never accommodated two bikes, and they’re too easily stolen locked up outside), so I rented a Barclays bike for the first time. [FYI, the Barclays Cycle Hire Scheme is a fantastic initiative implemented here just in time for your relocation; with docking stations for these “Boris bikes” located all over London’s central zones, you can rent one for commuting to/from work or just for leisure, like I did. They unfortunately aren’t available in districts further out, such as where we ultimately ended up riding to, but are nonetheless handy for getting around central London if you’re willing to brave the traffic!]

Anyway, Boris Bike-n-me went our merry way south into Fulham and Parsons Green and then across the Putney Bridge into—you guessed it—Putney and further on to Richmond Park. Richmond Park is a massive 2,400-acre park that’s home to over 600 deer and sees plenty of cyclists in the early morning. Just adjacent are the riverside towns of Twickenham and Richmond, and as my husband and I walked our bikes along Richmond’s riverwalk and stopped there for some coffee, we watched the crew boats and row boats glide past and marvelled not only at how much it reminded us of the far, far-west Chicago suburb I used to live in, but also that this English equivalent was still within the bounds of Greater London. Putney, too, is a green and leafy area with parks and recreational grounds that leave you pinching yourself that you’re only a 20-30 minute tube ride from Big Ben or Buckingham Palace.

And after our peaceful journey through wooded nature trails taking us past Kew Gardens and Mortlake, we found ourselves crossing Hammersmith Bridge. But before we were ready to return to civilization as we normally know it, we took a pleasant diversion along the riverfront there and enjoyed a pint in the last original alleyway of the old Hammersmith village. Standing on the outdoor terrace of the Dove pub, we watched the sailboats tack and jibe along the Thames, again feeling more like we were standing in a small fishing town in Devon or Cornwall than in London (even though the traffic and bustle of Hammersmith’s major business and shopping center lay just beyond). Finally, cycling back through Fulham, we rode through a cute little park filled with young families, then past Fulham FC’s home in Craven Cottage, a small-scale football stadium of the 19th century that evoked a high school field more than a professional football club, which just added to the suburban and family-friendly feel of this entire southwest region.

A RELOCATION TO LONDON FOR NON-CITY TYPES

If you’re having to make a relocation for a job opportunity but not wanting to live in an urban environment (nor too far from your office), rest assured a large amount of London doesn’t feel like a city. Even central neighbourhoods enjoy tree-lined streets, green garden squares, and large parks interspersed amongst charming Victorian terraces and mews homes—in other words, it’s not all skyscrapers, high-rise apartment buildings, and graffiti-coated concrete. The British greatly value a balanced lifestyle of work and play, the aesthetics of period and modern architecture, and sipping a pint or cuppa within cozy interiors or briskly walking in Wellies through the fresh air of the green outdoors.

For one of the most cosmopolitan cities in the world, London also embraces its rural roots and remaining natural environs, rendering a relocation to London the happiest of mediums you could enjoy.

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Moving to London From America Advice

Friday June 8th, 2012

When you’re moving to London from America there is a lot of excitement, adventure and unfortunately, paperwork. There are a couple of admin issues that you should get done as soon as possible to ensure that you’re settled as fast as possible and can get out and enjoy your new city and your new home.

Moving to London from America Checklist

Just as soon as you have found your perfect new London rental you need to make sure that you contact the local council to register you at that address, not only will it help for future financial dealings, like opening bank accounts, but will also help you at the your local doctor and on the National Health Service in an emergency. You will have to pay council tax while after moving to London from America and they will need an address to send the bills to.

After Moving to London From America

Choosing a local doctor is quite important after moving from America. You’ll have to register as a local surgery to be provided with health care. Most doctors don’t take walk in patients, so getting registered means that you can see your doctor whenever you need to instead of going to a public health clinic.

Small items need to be sorted out when you’re moving from America. Getting your utilities turned on may seem a trivial aspect of your big move, but you need to prepare for it.  You don’t have to go with the first power services provider in your area. There are a number of excellent power utility companies that provide very competitive rates and services. There are nearly 20 companies providing electricity and gas across England. UK Power Networks and NPower are two electricity and gas providers.

You’ll have to get a TV license after moving from America, remember that your televisions license is registered to your address, not you as a person, so if you move home, you have to change your address details with the BBC licensing department. You can do all of the paperwork to apply for a television license as well as renew your license and change your flat address online at the BBC licensing website and they will post your license card to your new address.

You don’t have to feel overwhelmed when you’re moving to London from America; you can get professional and expert help from a UK based relocation company to take care of the details so you can enjoy the experience.

 

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Moving To London For Work

Friday May 25th, 2012

When you’re moving for work you want to get as much of the detail sorted before you have to impress your new boss at your new job. You’ve just been given the chance of a life time: To live and work here; one of the greatest cities in the world. If you’re moving for work, you may be excited, terrified, and stressed all at once! Not only will you have to deal with the stress and challenge of starting a new position, but you’ll have to do it in a new country.

Moving for Work Tips

If you want to focus on your new job and new business style you need to make sure that you organize accommodation as soon as possible on arrival. Getting settled into your new flat will go a long way to making sure that you feel settled in your first day at your new job. The easiest way of finding suitable accommodation is to use one of the professional relocation services that help professionals find a home as soon as they arrive. If you’re on the ladder to success as a professional moving for work, then you want to be able to give your full attention to your new job. Not waste time walking the streets looking for a home.

Moving For Work Advice

You may find that the style of doing business is rather different than it is back home in the United States or Canada. One of the biggest differences noted by people, who have made the leap across the pond for work, is the habit and tradition of popping out for a pint at the pub during lunch! In America this is considered and offense that can result in dismissal, but it is quite common here, and many managers use some drinking down the pub as a team building exercise and a perfectly acceptable way to brainstorm!

In terms of dressing for work, the major ‘city’ (financial district) players dress quite conservatively, in suits and ties, and there is a sense of formality and prestige in dressing ‘sharp’ for work every day.

If you’re a busy professional, you don’t have time to sweat the small stuff. You need to get it all done as soon as you arrive. London relocation agents specialize in professional services for professional people and you have a full resource available to you to make sure that moving to London for work is easy, stress free and most important of all, fun.

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Moving To London UK From The US

Monday May 14th, 2012

When you’re moving to London UK from the US it can be a challenging and sometimes lonely experience. An expat, or expatriate, is someone who lives in a country that is not their country of origin. If you are moving to London UK from the US, then you are moving to a city that is unmatched in beauty and excitement. Even in the darkest hours of winter, and it gets dark in the middle of the afternoon in London, this city glows in pomp and ceremony. It is a city that offers much to the expat in the way of career development and a lifestyle that cannot be found anywhere else in the world. If  you have recently moved into your new rental apartment then you need to start getting out and exploring the city and immersing yourself in the local culture, so you feel a little more in tune with the way that Londoner’s behave.

Moving From the US Facts

The great thing about moving to London UK from the US is that it is a city of travelers, so you are bound to find people of different cultures, who are experiencing everything that you are going through. London is home to well over a million South African’s and Australians, as well as American’s and people from the Caribbean. England itself, as well as the city of London, is home to many thousands of people of Asian descent who have made this small island their home. All of this makes London into a cultural melting pot. It will thrill you, and enchant you. A city that is on the very cutting edge of technology and finance, all set against a historical perspective, that makes the English and England so interesting and fascinating.

Moving From The US Tips

Filled with world class tourist attractions, history, art, magnificent theatre tradition and a plethora of outstanding and often awe inspiring architecture. While London is considered one of the most expensive cities in the world to live in, there are many free galleries and attractions that you can visit, not least of which are the many parks that are found throughout the city where one can spend many an hour just taking in the lush surroundings.

Many expats moving from the US find the long winters harsh and inclement, but there is so much to do even in winter that you’ll find yourself spending more time out of your new apartment than in it. Once you have mastered the transport system, you’ll be able to get around easily. Rush hour into the city is an experience that you’ll just have to get used to; this is a city that lives and breathes high finance and technology and it is as fast paced as any other big city in the world.

Moving From The US By Yourself

If it is your first time here then you might want to head off to some of the traditional expat haunts that will make you feel a little bit of home in a foreign city. Familiar people, accents and lifestyle: The South African’s have their ‘Springbok Bar’ and ‘Zulus’, the Aussies have ‘Temple Walkabout’ and ‘Redback Tavern’ and if you are an American then you might be tempted to head off to one of the meets at the Expat American Meet Up Group or the ‘American Expats Group’. Just don’t be tempted to make this sport of thing into your entire social network. Get out and meet a range of people after moving to London UK from the US and you’ll soon have an expanded circle of friends that will last a lifetime.

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Americans Moving to London in 2012

Saturday April 28th, 2012

The best advice for Americans moving to London is to get settled into your new London apartment and then get out of it! The best way to experience London and to start exploring your new city is to take part in the many tours that London has to offer tourists. This is a large city and it might be wise to spend some time seeing the city from the different perspectives that tourist tours have to offer. It will give you an overview of life in London, plus you’ll be able to entertain all of your friends and relatives who’ll be coming to visit you once you have relocated to London.

Americans Moving to London Tours

The River Thames snakes its way through London and is as much a part of life today as it was centuries ago. The city grew up around the river and it has played a large part in making this one of the biggest cities in Europe. For a truly unique perspective then you should take a day trip with one of the many excellent River Tour companies that operate along the River Thames. There is history along every stretch and bend of this river and it’s a great way for Americans moving to London to get their bearings.

The best way to see the river and the sights is by using one of the hop-on, hop-off travel tickets offered by the river tour companies. Day trips to Hampton Court Palace are a wonderful way to enjoy London and the verdant countryside around Kew. The number of different tour operators means that you can arrange for any type of cruise you like, from exciting amphibious adventures on the Duck boats, to sunset champagne cruises as you pass under stately Tower Bridge; there is a ‘water-way’ for every taste and pocket. Many of the top attractions  are within walking distance of the river.

Americans Moving to London Attractions

Whip out your trainers and head off on foot. It’s free, and a fabulous way to see the city.  You get to beat the traffic while taking in the city sights.  It is becoming more pedestrian friendly and getting around on foot can save you masses of time. Many attractions are closer than you think. Covent Garden and Leicester Square stations are only 5 minutes walk apart and yet it can take an hour to get between the two by tube. Delve deep into the history with a guided walking tour of the historical attractions.

A royal procession is part of the free tour of Royal London offered by Sandemans New London Tours; you can also try the Grim Reapers of London Tour and be horrified by the tales of Jack the Ripper. For lovers of Shakespeare, the Shakespeare City Walk is the best way to learn more about the life of the Bard.

Ever wondered where in Notting Hill Julia Roberts fell in love with Hugh Grant? Indulge in a bit of celeb watching with a Celebrity Planet Walking Tour, they even have Harry Potter, and Beatles tours for you to indulge in so you can snap a photo of you and your friends crossing Abbey Road just like the famous album cover by the Beatles.

Anyone new here need to be able to get out and enjoy the city, so give yourself a couple of weeks to play tourist, before settling in to your new job.

 

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Moving To London UK From The US To Study

Tuesday April 17th, 2012

London is crammed with world-renowned universities making it the perfect place to study if you are moving to London UK from the US. Students can think about kick-starting their career in science, boosting their skills in mathematics, brushing up on their English or alternatively, gaining recognition for their talents in cooking. No matter what your specialty may be or what your reason for moving to London UK from the US, you should take on board some tips to make your time studying in the city stress-free.

Choose A University

After moving to London UK from the US you will need to determine what university you will study in. Of course, you must be accepted in a university beforehand and because this can be time-consuming, it is worth applying for your position prior to relocation. Some popular places to study and meet new friends include King’s College London, Imperial College London, City University, London School of Economics, London Metropolitan University, University of Westminster and University of the Arts London. Each of these places of study will be suitable for different people and depending on what you are getting an education in, some courses will suit you more than others. Various institutions and courses are available when moving to London UK from the US.

Meet New People

You should have no problem meeting new people when moving to London UK from the US, due to the city  having more than 900,000 students. Despite this, it can be difficult to bond with individuals if you are not a very confident person. Many bars are ideal for socializing, due to the fact that students enjoy indulging on nights out after a hard week of studying. Some popular bars for young people in the city will be 333 Mother, Amersham Arms, Carnivale, The Buffalo Bar, Hermit’s Cave, The Junction and R Bar. These establishments are situated in all parts of the city so depending on what place you relocate to when moving to London UK from the US, you should consider visiting a bar once or twice a week to meet friends.

Find An Apartment

Hiring a relocation agent when moving to from the US is a good idea to ensure that you settle in as quickly as possible. You can find a place to stay in North, West, South or East London. Take into account your budget, how much you want to spend on transportation, where your university will be, etc. A relocation agent can take your needs into account when you are moving to from the US, to find an apartment in as little as a day.

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Americans Moving To London Checklist

Wednesday April 11th, 2012

Thousands of Americans moving to London will require some kind of checklist, so that it is easier to plan for the big day. Whether you are planning to relocate in eight weeks, four weeks, one week or less, you will need to begin organizing yourself. Things can get pretty hectic once you arrive in your new place of residence. From getting a new job to arranging childcare or education for your children, you will need to use your time well. For Americans moving to London to effectively preserve some time before heading off to the United Kingdom, a number of things should be concentrated on with a checklist.

Sort Out Paperwork

Not only will you need to get their passport ready for traveling, there will be an abundance of other paperwork that needs filling out too. A visa will be a necessary document because if you are to move to another country permanently, you will have to gain permission to do so. Contact your nearest visa office and plan this. In addition to this, you should gather any vital permits that you might need. Flight details must be collected also, due to the fact that time can be wasted if these documents are not on hand the day before you move. Family documentation, birth certificates and marriage certificates are some other kinds of paperwork that Americans moving to London should take into account.

Sell Unwanted Items

A valuable tip that Americans moving to London should add to their checklist will be to de-clutter prior to moving. It is worth doing this in advance of your relocation because as time nears, you will find yourself taking on other duties. Taking too much overseas will cost more in travel expenses and may not even fit in your new apartment, flat or house. By selling items you can make some money and use this to afford certain things such as the cost Americans moving to London will pay for a moving company.

Call Moving Company

A crucial thing that Americans moving to London will have to do will be to call a reliable moving company. Without a moving company you will spend extortionate amounts on fuel as a result of numerous trips. A large lorry will be able to hold all your items and transfer them with ease to the airport. This will not only prevent you from straining yourself while lifting, but it ensures that the items are not at risk of being damaged. Americans moving to London would fare well to organize this at least 12 weeks before the date of relocation.

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Get Fit While Living in London, Part 2

Friday February 17th, 2012

Yesterday we discussed some fun activities that can help anyone get healthy while they are living in London.  Although both Zumba and belly dancing are open to both men and women, they are primarily female activities.  Today we will look at some options that may appeal more to the men noticing a few extra pounds or a soft appearance.  Obviously, the best way for anyone to get into a good healthy lifestyle is to walk more.  London is a city of walkers and there are plenty of opportunities abounding.  Whether one walks the extra distance to go to a farther Tube station on the way to work or explores the many parks within the city, walking is a fast and fun way to melt the pounds and sharpen the exterior image.

Gym Membership – Just like in the States there are plenty of gyms to join while living in London.  In fact, the gyms will look pretty much identical to those back home in the United States.  There are many international gyms that are familiar to those moving from the US like Gold’s Gym as well as many local gyms.  Inside one will find cardiac equipment like treadmills and bikes, free weights, and machines.

Boxing Gyms – Boxing is a very popular hobby in the UK and boxing gyms are everywhere.  One doesn’t have to be great, or even good, to begin boxing.  Some health experts claim that boxing training burns the most calories and builds the most muscles all over the body of all exercising regimes.  Men and women are welcome at boxing clubs though some are aimed at a specific crowd.

Rowing – With the Thames River winding itself through London rowing has become a very popular sport and pastime.  There are several rowing clubs that meet throughout the city and many welcome beginners of all ages.  Traditionally, rowing crews practice in the very early morning hours which is something to consider if one is a night owl.

As anyone can see there are a thousand possibilities for getting fit while living here. Although obesity rates are rising in the UK Londoners are still typically a healthy lot.  Many Americans really feel out of shape after moving here and wish to get healthy.  By joining a club, taking a class or lessons, one can pick up a new hobby to keep busy, meet new friends and begin working on a new and healthier self while living in London.

 

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The Benefits of a Pre-Move Visit when Moving to London from America

Monday January 16th, 2012

It may be tempting for those moving to London from Americato try and cram everything humanly possible into a pre-move trip to the city but we recommend to focus on the most important issues and then try and enjoy the mini-vacation.  There will be plenty of time for crazed running around after moving to London from America.  The pre-move trip should be reserved for finding a home and getting acquainted with the town.  One should consider it like a first date of sorts.

Moving to London from America – Securing Housing

Many families preparing for their move try and come in person to the city when the time comes to secure housing.   Relocation agents are wonderful at what they do but nothing compares to actually seeing properties firsthand.  Those fortunate enough to make the trip before the move should be prepared to see a lot of properties.  Also they need to be prepared to make a decision on the spot.

Moving to London from America – Education

The pre-move trip is the time to tour schools.  Since education is a huge concern of most moving from America this decision will need to take top priority, second only to housing.  There are many wonderful schools both state and private in the London area.  The list of possible candidates can be whittled away at home with a resulting short list to be visited during the pre-move trip.

Moving to London from America – Relax

One of the benefits of travelling before the big move is that families will be able to look at their future hometown through a new set of eyes.  Once the move is in swing there will be little time for sightseeing and wandering of streets.  Allowing one’s entire family to enjoy a few days in London exploring Hyde Park, Piccadilly Circus or just wandering the streets of Chelsea will start the move off right.

No matter what time of year a family is moving from America a pre-move visit is appropriate.  With so much to do after the move is under way sorting out what can be sorted out before the boxes are shipped is a good choice.  Of course housing and education decisions can be made in the States but to really guarantee the best choices are made – especially for families having never been to London – a pre-move trip is warranted before moving from America.

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An American Moving to London – Explore Your New Country

Sunday January 15th, 2012

One of the many benefits to being an American moving to London is the new experiences awaiting you.  Unlike your local neighbors absolutely every experience is new.  In an effort to take full advantage of your time in England day trips and weekend trips should be planned as often as possible.  Perhaps at no other time in your life will you have as many exciting opportunities as your stint being an American moving here.

An American Moving to London – The Day Trip

As an American you will need much more help when planning short trips.  One popular day trip (or even overnight trip) expats frequently enjoy is walking tours of the English countryside.  Although London is one of the world’s largest cities once you leave the bustling city the countryside of Jane Austen novels greet you.  With rolling hills, lazy fields full of all kinds of farm animals and cozy homesteads dotting the landscape you could not ask for a better place to enjoy a day’s hike.

An American Moving to London – Where to Wander

There are several wonderful parts of England to wander around exploring.  Chiltern, an area northwest of London is one of the most beautiful areas of the country and is quite organized in their mapping services. Visitors to Chiltern can choose between many free maps as well as group outings with field guides.  Often, trips are themed such as fall colors or plant identification.  Unlike in the states an American moving to London is allowed free access to private property when walking making day hikes that more exciting.

Of course common courtesy and common sense is expected if you’re walking on private land.  Visitors should close gates they open and remember that farm animals are not pets.  Cows and bulls have been known to attack strangers so caution should be used.  Farm houses and their inhabitants should be left alone.  Cell phones should be kept on a person at all times and appropriate clothing should be worn, weather dictating.  Out of all the activities an American moving here can experience day hikes through the countryside is perhaps one of the most memorable.

 

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After moving to London…Throw a Party!

Saturday January 14th, 2012

 

Moving to London from America can be a difficult task.  Leaving behind one’s family and friends, not to mention entire culture, can take its toll.  After the international relocation is complete, the boxes unpacked and day to day monotony of life has begun many moving to London from America find homesickness has settled deep within their souls.  To alleviate these pains there are several remedies.  One remedy that seems to help in more ways than one is to host an American party.

First, the British are just as taken with American culture as Americans are with the Brits.  After moving to London with America one will be asked all kinds of silly questions regarding riots in the streets, eating fast food every day and running around pregnant and barefoot if one comes from the South.  After answering the silly questions one should seize the opportunity to make some new friends and invite the curious over to their new flat for a Superbowl party, 4th of July cook-out or Labor Day grill-out depending on the season.  Although grilling is not nearly as popular in London as it is in America the old charcoal grills can be found.

Most Londoners would be delighted to experience an authentic American party.  If one wants to go all out after moving they can prepare traditional American party foods like pizza, hot wings, pigs-in-a-blanket, nacho dip and brownies.  Match that with some American beer and who wouldn’t enjoy?  Thanks to technology music and television shows can be downloaded from anywhere in the world providing the perfect entertainment for an American party.

While throwing a party might seem like the last thing one wants to do after moving and settling into a homesickness funk it may be just what the doctor ordered.  By sharing one’s favorite cultural traditional from back home one is sure to feel better.  Friends will be made, good times had and memories made.  Relocation agents everywhere recommend to all moving here to get out as soon as possible and meet the people and places of London.  Throwing a party is just one great way to do that after moving.

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Moving to from America – Enjoying the Wintertime

Friday January 6th, 2012

Going through an international relocation during the winter months can be hard on a family but not all is lost after moving from America during the cold, dreary days London are famous for.  Rather than stay holed up in a new flat or working extra hours at work newcomers should explore London’s famous parks and landmarks.  If all else fails the cold days and night of January can be spent sipping coffee or a bitter while reading a new book.

Moving from America – a Day in the Park

Londoners are used to the cold and rain therefore it doesn’t keep them from enjoyed their parks.  Even on the dreariest days one can find Hyde Park or Kensington Gardens bursting with life as visitors feed ducks or squirrels, wander down paths or sip tea or coffee at quaint cafes located nearby.

Moving  from America – Find a Good Book

Home of the English language the United Kingdom is overflowing with bookstores.  London is proud of its literary heritage and in a city where Kindles have not yet taken over one can easily find a cozy bookstore to spend a cold and drizzly afternoon.  Once the perfect book has been located a trip to the neighborhood café or pub is in order to enjoy it.

Moving from America – Find a Neighborhood Pub and Friends

They say that a pub is an Englishman’s second home.  After moving to London from America it is easy to see why.  So many days and nights are cold, wet and foggy.  Often enjoying a pint at the neighborhood pub with a few mates is the only way to dispel the melancholy.  Although not born a Brit anyone can find their own home away from home if they keep their minds open and a smile on their face.

These are just a few ideas on how to spend a winter’s day after moving to London from America.  Regardless of how one ultimately decides to spend their time the point is to get out and about.  London relocation agents cannot stress enough to those moving to London from America how important getting out of a new flat is.

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Consider Running in the London Marathon after Moving to London England

Friday January 6th, 2012

 After moving to London England many Americans not only want to participate in cultural events but also want to slim their waistlines to blend in with the notoriously fashionably thin British crowds.  There is absolutely nothing wrong with getting health and the weeks and months for Americans after moving to England is the perfect time to reach that goal.   First of all most people realize quickly after moving to England that the British walk much more in their daily lives than the majority of Americans.  With the average local family not owning a vehicle and relying, instead, on public transportation walking long distances becomes second nature in no time at all.  Just by abandoning the car most will quickly shed some unwanted pounds and build muscle shortly after moving to England. Another fun way to get into better shape after the holidays and a stressful international relocation is to run in the 2012 Virgin London Marathon.

This annual event started in 1981 after dedicated runners experienced the New York Marathon firsthand.  They were so inspired by the camaraderie and spectator encouragement of the world famous marathon that they set about to create one equal in stature to London.  In 1981 there were fewer than 7,000 runners but the event was a success nonetheless.  Over the past three decades the event has grown and in 2010 over 36,000 runners from around the world ran in the marathon. After moving to London England setting a reasonable goal is a good way to get settled into a new way of living.  Like many other marathons there are training teams for the Virgin London Marathon that train either year round or a few months before the event.  Joining one of the groups will not only help prepare a newcomer to marathons but also introduce one to new people in a new town – a welcome gift after moving to London England!  Whether one wants to lose ten pounds or thirty, wishes to increase their running stamina or just wants to get healthier all the way around they are in the perfect location after moving to England.

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Attack New Year’s Resolutions to Lose Weight When Moving to London From America

Tuesday January 3rd, 2012

With the number one New Year’s resolution in the United States being to lose weight it is no surprise that many moving to London from America have resigned to do just that as we begin the January.  Whether one has already moved to London or in the final stages of preparation there are many wonderful groups to help keep one on track with their goal.

For years and years the UK’s fine citizens were generally in better shape than their pudgy American cousins.  Over the last decade, however, Brits have beefed up making obesity numbers increase.  Those moving to London from American should not be shocked to see many ads flooding the air waves and print aimed at losing weight.

Just like in the States individuals moving from America will be bombarded by hundreds of get-skinny-quick pills, programs and diets.  Also, just like in the States, the only way to successfully lose weight, get healthy, and keep it off is to make a lifestyle change.  To facilitate that change there are several wonderful groups in the London area for anyone moving from America to join.

A good place to start the weight loss journey is on MeetUp.com.  This website is home to many groups arranged by category for those in the London area.  There is a good selection of weight loss themed groups that focus on a fit and healthy lifestyle rather than a wonder drug.  Part of becoming healthy is getting active and there is no shortage of MeetUp groups for that.

Studies have shown that having a community’s support will help anyone lose weight and change their lifestyle.  Especially for those moving from America finding a community can be a challenge. By joining a group that meets online and in person that weight can finally come off and friendships can be made to help ease the transition of moving from America.

 

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Happy New Year from London Relocation!

Sunday January 1st, 2012

If you haven’t made your international relocation to London yet, perhaps you were able to catch its SPECTACULAR New Year’s fireworks display. The city really outdid itself in ushering in 2012, as the entire ten-minutes-long show ran like an ongoing finale, and this was the first year the fireworks were set to music. They exploded from everywhere—Big Ben, the London Eye, and along the river—right after a giant countdown projected onto the side of the Shell Centre on London’s south bank. The masses gathered in and around Westminster for the show, and, while I didn’t envy their commute home in such crowds, it’s awesome that London runs the Tube trains all night for such occasion.

We unfortunately didn’t have a direct view of the display from our apartment, but we could see its throbbing glow silhouetting the buildings at the end of our square and imagined that’s what the Blitz may have looked like from our same window decades ago. BBC HD on the telly makes for a fine substitute as well: we watched BBC’s live footage and listened to the actual pops and bangs illuminating the sky outside.

If you’re moving in 2012, cheers to you and your new year of possibilities! Much luck and joy to you as you make your international relocation, and, to add a little pomp and circumstance to the occasion, check out the BBC video of the New Year’s fireworks below. (To further reflect on the old year and what’s coming up in the new year, see also my previous post, “Relocation to London – 2011 in Review“)

HAPPY NEW YEAR FROM THE LONDON RELOCATION AGENCY!!!

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