Posts Tagged ‘canadians moving to london’
Monday May 16th, 2011
Living In London – A Travel Card Or An Oyster Card?- Image via Wikipedia
If you’re an American moving to London, then you’ll have to get used to fact that you’ll be using public transport while you’re living in London. Having a car in London is almost out of the question; not only is it exorbitantly expensive, it is also completely unnecessary. The Tube, which is the name for the London Underground (subway system) carry most of London wherever they need to go. Combined with an excellent train system and hundreds of buses, you’ll never be stuck without transport in London.
You might have heard about a Travelcard and an Oyster Card, and are wondering about the difference between the two. Most people living in London use the Oyster Card system. An Oyster Card will always be cheaper than a Travelcard in the long run but a Travelcard can be combined with some fantastic special offers if you’re new to London and want to explore the city before settling into your new London rental.
A Travelcard is a temporary card and you do not have to pay a deposit for the card. When you’re Travelcard expires you can just throw it away and get a new one. There are a number of special offers and you can take advantage of the 2 for 1 admission to the some of the biggest London tourist attractions. If you’re travelling for 5 or more days in London then a 7 day Travelcard is better value for money than the same fares on an Oyster Card. However in the usual British tradition of making things confusing, a 7-day Travelcard comes loaded onto an Oyster Card!
An Oyster Card is a pay-as-you go card for all forms of London transport, and it is a permanent card that you can use as and when you need it. If you’re living in London and going to be a regular commuter then you can load your pre-paid Oyster card with cash amounts or with Travelcards to take advantage of the cheaper fares.
Tags: american expats in london, Americans moving to London, americans moving to london uk, canadians moving to london, canadians moving to london uk, flats to let in london, fun facts about london england, learning about london england, living in London, London, London Living, london move, london moving, London Neighborhoods, London Relocation, London Underground, Moving to London, moving to London England, moving to london england from canada, Oyster card, relocating to London, Transport for London, Travelcard
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Sunday May 15th, 2011
Living In London – People and Personalities - Image via Wikipedia
Living in London means that you’re surrounded by the history of a country that shaped the very face of this magnificent city. While our Saturday series ‘Weekend Away’, takes a slightly more humorous approach to the events in history that have had an impact on London and England, our Sunday Series, ‘People and Personalities’ looks at the people that have played an important part in making the United Kingdom what it is today. We’ll be taking a trip through history to examine the lives of extraordinary people who each made a contribution to Great Britain.
Isambard Kingdom Brunel (1806 – 1859)
Brunel is considered one of the world’s greatest engineers and innovators. He, along with a handful of engineers and scientists are responsible for the entire Industrial revolution. He was the most prodigious engineer of his time and encouraged his colleagues and associates to strive for perfection, innovation and growth. Many of his inventions, structures and feats of engineering have existed until today and his contribution to Great Britain will be remembered in every train that trundles the length of England, and every ship that has set sail across the ocean.
Isambard Kingdom Brunel was born in 1806. He was the son of a French engineer, Sir Marc Brunel who had settled in England during the French Revolution. Contrary to many of the young engineers of the time, Brunel was given an extensive education, both in France and in England. He joined his father’s engineering firm on his return to England and immediately started working with his father on the design and planning of the first Thames Tunnel.
Brunel’s reputation continues until today for the work he did for the Great Western Railway. He was appointed as the head of engineering for the company in 1833 and he started work on the bridges, tunnels and viaducts which cross the length and breadth of Great Britain. His first feat of engineering for Great Western railway was the railway line that linked London to Bristol. It did not just involve laying down some track across the land. The line includes the Maidenhead Bridge, the Box Tunnel and the viaducts at Chippenham. Brunel was the first engineer to use a broad gauge line instead of the familiar single gauge railway line.
His design for the bridge that was to span the River Wye on the line from Swindon to South Wales included a suspension, tubular and truss bridge, which was to become the blueprint for the massive bridge over the Tamar River. Brunel was the designer and engineer of over 1200 miles of railway line which included laying of track in Italy and Ireland.
His work and genius was not only confined to railways. His bridge over the Avon Gorge: the Clifton Suspension Bridge was completed after his death as a memorial to one of the greatest pioneers and engineers of all time. Today the bridge still carries traffic across the gorge and is used by millions of vehicles every year. Brunel is the designer of Paddington Station in London as well as number of other stations on the Great western railway Line.
Perhaps though it is Brunel’s contribution to modern transport on the high seas that he will be most remembered for, in terms of opening up the Empire and establishing Great Britain as one of the most powerful nations in the world. His work for the Great Western Steamship Company was to increase the transport of goods and people across the Atlantic Ocean. Many people dismissed Brunel’s designs for the massive steam ships because they were felt to be uneconomic and not commercially viable. Brunel’s research led him to believe that a larger steam ship would actually use less fuel than a smaller one. So convinced he was of his theory and design that he offered his talents for free to the company.
The Great Western was the longest ship in the world when it was built and made its maiden voyage across the Atlantic in 1838, taking 15 days and arriving with a third of its fuel load of coal still untouched. Brunel’s theory was correct and the world started to take notice. Nothing would stop him in his search for faster, bigger ships that would be able to make their way around the world on steam alone. The Great Britain introduced the use of propellers to ensure speed, and The Great Eastern was the most ambitious ship that Brunel ever designed. Brunel designed docks and shipyards as well as other engineering innovations that led to the greatest economic revolution in the world.
Unfortunately Brunel suffered a stroke in 1859 just before the Great Eastern was to make her first crossing of the Atlantic Ocean. He died at home ten days later.
Tags: american expats in london, Americans moving to London, americans moving to london uk, Atlantic Ocean, canadians moving to london, Clifton Suspension Bridge, fun facts about london england, Great Britain, Great Western Railway, Great Western Steamship Company, learning about london england, living in London, London Living, london move, london moving, London Neighborhoods, London Relocation, Moving to London, relocating to London, things to know about london
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Friday May 13th, 2011
Living In London – American Moving To London? How To Blend In.- Image via Wikipedia
When you’ve been living in London for a couple of months, you’ll wonder what all of the fuss was about. It can be a challenging and scary experience to be living in a big city, in a foreign country, especially if it is your first time abroad. Going to Hawaii for your holidays or Vancouver for your vacation does not count as ‘overseas’! While many millions of people living in London are foreigners, you’ll want to get accustomed to the ways of the city as fast as possible, so you don’t stand out like a tourist. Not only will you feel better, but it is safer in a big city to blend in a little.
This little guide is completely tongue in cheek, but you may find some pearls of wisdom amid the swine!
- Always walk with purpose while you’re living in London. Look like you know where you’re going and need to get there fast. Don’t worry about rubbing shoulders with people on the pavement or sidewalk; they’ll be shoving as well.
- Learn the names of the tube lines. Don’t refer to them by their color. Real Londoners know which line they’re getting on and nothing makes you stand out like telling everyone you use the Red Line to get to work.
- Don’t make eye contact with strangers on the tube. Read something, play Sudoku, do a cross word or keep your head down. If someone kills themselves by diving in front of your train and you’re delayed, don’t be shocked, just mutter to yourself and click your tongue in irritation that YOU have been inconvenienced.
- Never, ever stand still on an escalator. If you are too tired to barge your way up the left side of the escalator, then move to the right. Real Londoners are ALWAYS in a hurry, even when they’re not, sometimes they even pretend to be in a hurry, just to fit in.
Living in London is an adventure that has to be experienced. So get out of your London flat and become one with the city. I promise you; in a few weeks you’ll be just as rude and rushed as the rest of us.
Tags: american expats in london, Americans moving to London, americans moving to london uk, Building, canadians moving to london, canadians moving to london uk, England, fun facts about london england, Islington, living in London, London, London Living, london move, london moving, London Neighborhoods, London Relocation, London Underground, Moving to London, moving to london from america, Moving to London from US, relocating to London, relocating to london england, things to know about london, tips on living in london, Travel and Tourism
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Friday May 13th, 2011
Living In London – The Long Walk Home- Image via Wikipedia
While you’re living in London you’ll have to rely mainly on the public transport system to get around. Having a car in London is not only expensive, but it is a nightmare to find parking, traffic is gridlocked much of the time and you’ll be paying for something that you rarely use. The public transport system: Tubes, trains and buses, is efficient and will get you where you need to go quickly and cheaply…Except when it doesn’t.
If you’re an American moving to London, then you will have to be prepared for the worst, in terms of transport. The weather does sometimes have an effect on the time of tubes and trains, and there are occasionally strikes or public threats that can close down some of the transport network for a period of time. You don’t want to be stranded at work with no way to get home on a winter’s night with sleet and snow swirling around you like you’re on an expedition to the poles.
To avoid any problems, many young people have decided to live closer to the city, so that they are never bothered by a lack of public transport. Walking in London is not only a necessity, but it’s a great way to explore the city. One of the first items that you purchase when you are moving to London should be a pair of sturdy walking shoes. You don’t need hiking boots, but a pair of good trainers will make a huge difference when you have to walk home to your London flat in freezing weather.
Some of the areas close to central London are extremely pricey in terms of residential accommodation. If you’re looking for somewhere within walking distance of the city centre, then you should look at places like Islington, which is about 2 miles from the city centre and is a trendy, and yet reasonably priced neighborhood. Bethnal Green and Stepney are neighborhoods in east London, and are perfectly located if you work in the financial district or close to Canary Wharf and the Docklands developments.
When you’re moving to London you need to look further afield and yet possibly closer to home that you may have considered. If you’re living far out of London and are stuck for a ride home in bad weather, it’ll be a long walk so be prepared.
Tags: american expats in london, Americans moving to London, americans moving to london uk, canadians moving to london, canadians moving to london uk, living in London, London Living, london move, london moving, London Neighborhoods, London Relocation, Moving to London, moving to london england from canada, Moving to London from US, relocating to London, things to know about london, tips on living in london
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Thursday May 12th, 2011
Living In London – The London ‘Underground’ – The Hidden Treasure of London Part V- Image via Wikipedia
Odds and Ends
As an American moving to London, you’ll want to get to know your city from the inside out. There is no point in living in London if you’re going to stick to the safe and known tourist attractions. You need to step out of your new London rental and explore the city of foot, drinking in the marvelous and the magnificent as well as the parts that are not included on the tourist maps. London is a city of firsts and spending some time in the city exploring these monuments to world history, will give you a better idea of the impact that this city has had on the world.
Croydon Airport
The first airport in the world was built at Croydon in 1020. The first flights were to Europe and then on to the different parts of the British Empire. As early as 1928 the airport was revamped to include a terminal and an airport hotel. The word airport only came into existence at around this time and it specifically refers to a place where you have to pass through customs control.
The Croydon Airport Society is one of the largest groups of aviation enthusiasts and pilots in Europe. Dedicated to preserving the history of the world’s first airport the Croydon Airport Visitor centre is housed in the first terminal ever built for international air travel. It is open to the public on the first Sunday of every month from 11am – 4 pm.
Gas and Light Company
For years, the world was lit by gas lamps, and in London today there are still over a thousand gas lamps. The Westminster Gas Light and Coke Company was started in 1812 and the site still exists today with a commemorative plaque in Great Peter Street. This company was the first in the world to supply gas directly to the streets and homes in the city.
Living in London is not about exploring the city from a distance. London is best experienced as an intrinsic part of life. These little gems of history will make your time in London and enriching and rewarding one.
Tags: Airports, american expats in london, Americans moving to London, americans moving to london uk, Aviation, British Empire, canadians moving to london, Croydon, England, fun facts about london england, living in London, London, london facts, London Living, london move, london moving, London Neighborhoods, London Relocation, Moving to London, moving to london from america, Moving to London from US, relocating to London, River Thames, United States
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Thursday May 12th, 2011
Living In London – The London ‘Underground’ – The Hidden Treasure of London Part IV-Image via Flickr
Tranquility and Calm
Despite its reputation as a massive city, living in London is going to give you an opportunity to live in one of the greenest cities in the world. There are dozens of parks and open spaces. Of course you’ll want to visit the grand parks of central London: Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens and Regents Park. There are however a number of smaller parks and gardens that are known only to Londoners. A respite from a weary working day or a great place to spend an afternoon in spring time. Some of the real treasures of London are not on the tourist maps.
Culpepper Community Garden
Right in the heart of a busy shopping and business area, Culpepper community Garden is a delightful oasis of tranquility and calm amid the bustle of modern London. The garden is located in Islington and is considered a city park as well as an environmental centre. The garden is focused on the community and is entirely organic. There is a large section of vegetable plots that are maintained by community gardeners and volunteers. These small gardens, including two raised gardens for the disabled are for the local community to enjoy the magic of growing and cultivating a garden. Community groups, school children and people who do not have gardens in the neighborhood, all come to lovingly tend the gardens all year round.
Different habitats and ecological environments have been cultivated to ensure the diversity of the area, and there is an abundance of birds, butterflies and frogs that make up the wildlife in the garden. Culpepper Community Garden hosts a number of functions throughout the year and annual membership of the garden is a paltry £10. You can be as involved as you want to be. From cultivating your own plot, to using the garden as a welcome sport away from the madding crowds in Hyde Park. This garden is truly for the community.
You’ll find that after you’ve been living in London for a while, you are struck by the sense of community that Londoners have for their neighborhoods and their city. You’re one of us now, so join in!
Tags: american expats in london, Americans moving to London, americans moving to london uk, canadians moving to london, communitygarden, fun facts about london england, Garden, Hyde Park, Hyde Park London, Islington, Kensington Gardens, learning about london england, living in London, London, London flats, London Living, london move, london moving, London Neighborhoods, London Relocation, Moving to London, moving to London England, Regent's Park, relocating to London, rent london apartments, things to know about london, tips on living in london
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Wednesday May 11th, 2011
Living In London – The London ‘Underground’ – The Hidden Treasure of London Part III - Image via Wikipedia
Alternative Architecture
When you’re living in London, one of the defining characteristics of this fascinating city is the architecture and the buildings. History has had a way of imprinting itself in the city, and even after years of development and urban renewal, you can still find some magnificent and alternative buildings that are well worth a visit while you’re out and about in London.
Some of the buildings are mere monuments to the history of the city, while others have been pressed into use for different functions. They all have a history and more importantly, a story to tell…
The Old Turkish Baths
The introduction of Turkish baths to England came at the height of the Victorian era. The Turkish bath is quite distinguishable from other types of baths by the use of dry hot air instead of steam or sauna. The popularity of Turkish baths was unsurpassed during the reign of Queen Vitoria, when it was considered an absolutely acceptable way of passing an hour or two in the company of like minded people. From over 600 Turkish baths down to a mere handful today, the building is a fine example of the architecture of the time as well as the splendor of a bygone era.
Built in about 1895, the ornate building was one of the most popular Turkish baths in London. Its ornate façade gives you a hint as to the type of buildings that were popular during this time. Today the ‘Old Turkish Baths – Ciro’s Pizza Pomodoro’ is a popular restaurant in the heart of the financial district in London. Is it a restaurant or a historical site? It seems out of place amid the glass skyscrapers and lunchtime suits that amble past, but as a historical attraction it is a fascinating place to visit and a quirky place to enjoy a pizza treat. Located on Bishopsgate Churchyard, the closet tube station is Liverpool Street
If you’re looking to experience a Turkish bath while you’re living in London, and it is a rejuvenating and interesting experience, then there are only a couple still in operation. York Hall has single sex and mixed session for the baths, and the Ironmonger Row Baths in Islington offer a remarkably quirky way to spend an afternoon.
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Wednesday May 11th, 2011
Living In London – The London ‘Underground’ – The Hidden Treasure of London- Image via Wikipedia
Author: Belinda
Alternative Architecture
Living in London means that you are living amid some of the oldest and the newest buildings in the city. London has been burned down twice in its history and was bombed during both world wars. The city has always rebuilt and moved forward, continually developing and changing in response to the changing times, and yet right in the heart of London are some of the oddest, quirkiest examples of building that have survived for centuries.
The Watch House
Definitely odd and with a rather dark history, The Watch House was built during the 17th century overlooking the graveyard of St Sepulchre’s. It was an attempt to stop the massive amount of grave robberies which were being conducted all over the city. The reason for the grave robberies was to supply the hospitals with bodies for medical study and research. The only source for the teaching hospitals to this point had been the bodies of executed criminals, but someone, I bet it was a desperate med student, came up with the idea of stealing bodies from the graves and selling them to hospitals. The Watch House is located on Giltspur Street and is a great example of an original building with an interesting history.
Tower Subway
Unnoticed by visitors to the Tower of London, this brick building is at the entrance to the second tunnel that was built under the River Thames. The tunnel was used to carry pedestrian traffic under the Thames. Over 20 000 people per week used the tunnel until the opening of Tower Bridge in 1894. Today it is only used to carry television and power cables under the river, but at the time it was a remarkable feat of engineering and manpower, taking only ten months to dig. The original tunnel took nearly 15 years to dig and is used as one of the main tube lines today. Found on Tower Hill, this small monument is a remnant of the great tradition of innovation and engineering in England.
Many of these buildings do not house museums, or shops, but are worthwhile visiting if you want to learn more about the forgotten side of history when you are living in London.
Tags: american expats in london, Americans moving to London, americans moving to london uk, Buckingham Palace, canadians moving to london, canadians moving to london uk, England, fun facts about london england, Giltspur Street, living in London, London, london apartment, London Living, london move, london moving, London Neighborhoods, London Relocation, Moving to London, moving to London England, relocating to London, River Thames, things to know about london, tips on living in london, Tower Bridge, Tower Hill, Tower of London
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Wednesday May 11th, 2011
Living In London – The London ‘Underground’ – The Hidden Treasure of London- Image via Wikipedia
Once you’re living in London, you’ll want to get out of your new London apartment and start exploring the city as a native, not a newbie. When you’ve done all of the big tourist attractions you have to start exploring the hidden facets of fascination that this city has to offer. London has a history that reaches back over 2000 years and the history is plainly written on the cityscape if you know where to look.
This series of articles looks at the hidden side of London; the ‘underground’ not only being a reference to the transport system. If you’re looking for interesting things to do, see and experience then the secret side of London is available to you because you’re now a Londoner. That makes you part of the club and knowing where to go as a Londoner is one of the best parts of living in London.
Each neighborhood in London is a secret treasure trove interesting sites, restaurants, theatres and other quirky attractions. While London is a thoroughly modern city, its history has played an important part in shaping and guiding the city through the ages. From the mighty River Thames that is much a part of London history as any other building or museum, to the parks and architecture that give London its iconic postcard status.
You don’t have to stick to the tourist tracks; much of London’s treasure is in the hidden statues and historical landmarks that are not marked on the maps. The same goes for shops, restaurants and the best eateries in London. It’s not a secret club, but you do have to be living in London to experience the best parts of the city. If you’re an American moving to London, you need to explore your new city like a Londoner to take advantage of what she has to offer. Don’t stick to expat enclaves, get out there and discover the heart of the hidden treasure of London.
Tags: american expats in london, Americans moving to London, americans moving to london uk, canadians moving to london, canadians moving to london uk, England, flats to let in london, fun facts about london england, living in London, London flats, London Living, london move, london moving, London Neighborhoods, London Relocation, Moving to London, moving to London advice, relocating to London, things to know about london
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Tuesday May 10th, 2011
With the worldwide move to healthier eating and organic food, if you’re an American moving to London, you may be asking if there is a good range of whole food stores and shops that only sell organic food.
While there are several fully vegetarian restaurants in central London, you’re more likely to find organic food restaurants being more popular. Many of the supermarkets and grocery stores in London offer a range of organic and health foods but if you’re looking for places that stock a full range of only organic food then you’ll have to find smaller shops that cater to this market.
Most of the organic food specialists are found in central and west London so you might have to search around that sells goodies from home and other foods that are grown organically. Many of the bigger stores operate a web site with shopping and delivery across London so you don’t even have to venture out of your new London rental to get the healthiest, freshest foods and groceries available.
If you’re looking for a day out, then you can head to some of the markets that offer fresh organically grown food from farms across England. The Islington farmers Market is found in north London and offers a full selection of farm fresh organic veggies and whole foods and is open on Sundays from 10am until 2pm. If you’re looking for a daily market then Spitalfields organic food Market is open every day with many shops offering whole food and health food goodies. The market itself is only open on Sundays.
If you’re looking for a range of markets while you’re living in London then check out the official London Farmers Market website for special offers and events.
Tags: american expats in london, american moving to london, Americans moving to London, americans moving to london uk, canadians moving to london, farmers market, Food, fun facts about london england, Grocery store, Health, living in London, London, London Living, london move, london moving, London Neighborhoods, London Relocation, London Relocation Services, Moving to London, moving to London advice, moving to London England, moving to london england from canada, moving to london from america, Organic, Organic food, relocating to London, relocating to london england, things to know about london
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Monday May 9th, 2011
Living In London – London Neighborhoods – West London- Image via Wikipedia
Many an American moving to London looks at the suburb of Mayfair as the first choice in residential accommodation. West London, being central London in effect, is the closest to many of the top tourist attractions and many of the suburbs have a famous history as well as famous inhabitants.
West London – Mayfair
Although Mayfair falls into the area called West London, it is actually the most central London suburb in the city. It is certainly one of the most expensive areas of the city, but if you have cash to splash then W1 is the premium address in London. A studio London apartment in the suburb of Mayfair will set you back £1000 -£ 4000 per month. Homes can costs you up to £10 000 per month.
Council Information: Mayfair falls under the Council Borough of Westminster with annual taxes ranging from £500 – £1400.
Transport: Although there are no overland trains in W1, the London Underground has several stations including Piccadilly Circus, Oxford Circus, Regents Park and Bond Street. W1 has the most amounts of buses and night buses in the city of London.
Shopping: Not just one branch of the popular grocery stores in W1, this area of London has two or more of the top grocery stores in England. Tesco Express, Tesco Metro as well as Sainsbury’s and Marks and Spencer’s are but a few of the top shopping destinations in this area. It is also within walking distance of some of the up market high street shopping experiences in the world. Bond Street, Oxford Street; this is a place where the rich and famous drop their dosh on designer labels, jewels and priceless art and antiques.
Doctors: When you are registering for a GP in Mayfair you’ll have a number of surgeries to choose from. Mayfair is the home of doctors with the famous Harley Street being right in the middle of this suburb. The Mayfair Medical centre can be found on Weighhouse Street in Mayfair. If you’re looking for private specialists, than this is the area of London that you’ll find them.
Other Amenities: There are over 40 primary schools and number of excellent state secondary schools in the area, with dozens of amenities including some of the biggest parks in London. Hyde Park, Regents Park and Green Park make up a border of green spaces and open land for the city of London. You’re within walking distance of many of the London hotspots when you’re living in London W1.
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Monday May 9th, 2011
Living In London – River Rambles - Image via Flickr
If you’re living in London and looking for something a little different to do on a day out, then why not try a barge tour on the Grand Union Canal or the Regent’s canal. Little Venice and Maida Vale are found just west of the city centre and offer a tranquil residential area intersected by canals and waterways that offer great cruising and a perfect day out.
Part of the charm of living in London is being able to find a range of activities right in the heart of the city. The waterways and canals of this area were once busy transport routes to to the rest of England, but today offer a boaters paradise. The banks of the canals are dotted with country pubs and fabulous restaurants and eateries and you can hop on and off the barges that make their way up the meandering rivers.
If you have family and friends visiting you while you are living in London, then a day trip on one of the river barges is a real treat. The barges are beautifully decorated and painted in bright colors reminiscent of a bygone era when the rivers played such an important part in the development of the city.
The best time to visit the Grand Union Canal is in the spring months. In summer this area is quite crowded and you’ll have to book in advance to make sure you get a reservation at a restaurant or on one of the barge tours. In spring though, you can enjoy a perfect day out with plenty of sunshine and without the crowds; the area is undergoing massive development in the Paddington Arm which will be on the scales of the urban renewal projects of the docklands, so if you really want to enjoy and oasis of tranquility, mark this down on your list of things to do while living in London.
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Friday May 6th, 2011
Living In London – London Neighborhoods – North London- Image via Flickr
If you’re moving to London and don’t want to be right in the city, then some of the suburbs on the edge of London offer great prices on London apartments for rent and a more small town feel; again you will find here many Canadians and numerous Americans moving to London in this area.
North London – Southgate
Southgate is quite a distance from central London and can be considered to be a small town itself. The town centre has everything you need in terms of services and amenities plus you are close enough to the city if you want to have a night out and far enough from the city not to feel as if you’re living in a shoebox. Prices for a London apartment in Southgate range from £700 per week for a small apartment to £1200 for a three bedroom London flat.
Council Information: Southgate falls under the Council Borough of Enfield with annual taxes ranging from £1000 – £3000.
Transport: despite being a way out of central London, Southgate has its own tube station on the Piccadilly Line of the London Underground. You can ostensibly be in the city centre in just over half an hour depending on the time of day. There are buses into London and to the surrounding towns.
Shopping: Shopping in Southgate is like having a whole town centre right on your doorstep. There is a large Asda in Southgate, as well as other major grocery retailers like Tesco and Marks and Spencer’s. The nicest part of living in London in Southgate is the small town atmosphere that is somewhat distant from the bustle of London life. Southgate town centre is home to a number of excellent restaurants and bars.
Doctors: The Oakwood Medical Centre is close to Trent Park and there are a number of surgeries in the east Barnet and Whetstone neighborhood. Check with the NHS Direct website when you want to register with a local GP on arrival in Southgate.
Other Amenities: The Borough of Enfield has several fine schools and a number of other amenities and services. You can find cricket, rugby and football facilities in the town and Southgate even boasts its own amateur Symphony Orchestra! There are a number of parks and green areas in Enfield and Southgate and with Groveland’s Park and Trent Park offering perfect picnic spots and outdoor activities, making living in London always fun with many activities to enjoy.
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Friday May 6th, 2011
Living In London – London Neighborhoods – North London- Image via Wikipedia
We’re up to north again and this area is the choice of many Americans moving to London. North London is a massive area with dozens of postcodes and suburbs. Mostly residential, many people who work in the city have chosen to live in North London for schools, amenities and the feeling of being slightly out of the city, even if you’re right in the thick of things.
North London – Hampstead
Hampstead is one of the greenest suburbs in London. It is also a suburb that has a village atmosphere and quaint shops and streets surrounding the magnificent green area of Hampstead Heath. This atmosphere comes at a price though. A London flat in this neighborhood can cost you anywhere from £1000 -£ 4000 per week. Houses are even more expensive.
Council Information: Hampstead falls under the Council Borough of Camden with annual taxes ranging from £900 – £2700.
Transport: Hampstead Station falls under Transport Zone 2 and is located on the Northern Line of the London Underground. The Hampstead Heath Station serves the overland trains and there are several buses from Hampstead into London, including the N5 night bus right to Trafalgar Square.
Shopping: Hampstead offers a number of excellent grocery stores that offer home delivery like Tesco Express and Waitrose but the real treat of living in Hampstead are the smaller shops that line the streets of this residential neighborhood. Specialty grocery stores and health shops, as well as boutiques and excellent restaurants can be found in this area. Hampstead is one of the suburbs in London where being seen out and about is more about celeb spotting than anything else!
Doctors: there are a number of excellent local GP’s in the area as well as the Royal Free Hospital which has an A&E as well as being an excellent maternity hospital. If you’re looking for a pharmacy in the area then you can find Boots on Hampstead high Street which is one of the biggest chains of pharmacies in the country.
Other Amenities: There are a number of excellent schools in the area from kindergartens to post graduate colleges. The borough of Camden has a large number of independent schools and international schools.
Tags: american expats in london, Americans moving to London, americans moving to london uk, canadians moving to london, Hampstead, Hampstead Heath, living in London, London, london facts, London Living, london move, london moving, London Neighborhoods, London Relocation, move to London, Moving to London, moving to London advice, moving to london england from canada, north london, Northern Line, packing to move to London, relocating to London, Royal Free Hospital, tips on living in london, Trafalgar Square, Waitrose
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Friday May 6th, 2011
Living In London – Suburban Splendor- Image via Wikipedia
If you’re an American moving to London then you may not want to live right in the city centre. One of the best things about living in London is that you can find residential areas that are close to the city, and still manage to retain a market town feel to them. You don’t have to trek all the way into the city when you want to play either. The ‘burbs and neighborhoods of London are well known for their vibrant night life and plenty of activities and attractions during the day.
The northernmost neighborhood of London is Enfield which includes the suburb of Southgate which is fast becoming one of the premier choices for a Canadian or American moving to London. The area of Enfield has a young, upwardly mobile demographic and the property prices make it one of the most reasonable places to find a London rental. Enfield has excellent amenities, and in fact is so forward thinking that it lays claim to the honor of being the site where the world’s first ATM was installed! There are literally hundreds of shops and stores in the town centre as well as excellent restaurants, pubs and clubs.
If you’re looking for places that have more open spaces and green parks to enjoy when you’re moving to London then you can’t go wrong with choosing suburbs that are on the perimeter of the city. A town like Enfield feels like it is hours away from the rush and smog of the city center and yet you’re only 30 minutes tube ride away from Piccadilly Circus in the heart of London.
Pymmes Park is a great place to visit if you have young children or fancy a picnic in the park as spring launches into a glorious English summer. Over 50 acres of pristine parkland with a basketball court, tennis courts, five football fields, and a children’s playground. You can amble round the lake, marvel at the English walled garden and enjoy the superb facilities of the park for free every day of the year.
Living in London, or a little way out in a neighborhood of London combines the best of city living and the highlights of London with the small village atmosphere of the countryside.
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