Posts Tagged ‘corporate relocation’
Wednesday, January 11th, 2012
As Americans moving to London begin the search for London neighborhoods for themselves, or their family, there are several factors that should be considered, only one of which is location. Depending on the location of one’s employment and any schools children may attend choosing from the many ideal London neighborhoods changes. One neighborhood that is a favorite among all of the London neighborhoods and should be looked into is Islington.
Islington is located in the Northeast area of the greater city of London. In the earlier part of the last century it was considered a poor remnant of its once grand splendor. All that changed however in the 1990s as old Victorian homes (which fill Islington) became all the rage. At that time a major gentrification project overtook the neighborhood making it now one of the premiere London neighborhoods.
Like many areas of London Islington offers quirky and unique shops. Residents and tourists alike enjoy its impressive antique store selections and quaint cafes. There are many benefits to choosing Islington as a possible place to live after an international relocation.
1) Location, location, location – There are many Tube stations, train stations and bus stops in Islington making it accessible to just about anywhere in the city.
2) Highgate Wood – a 28 hectare green space popular with the locals. Especially if one is moving with a family living near a park is a bonus.
3) Arsenal Football Club – One of the most famous London football clubs will be in one’s backyard if they move to Islington. There is no better way to acclimate to a new city than to join in the local sports craze.
4) Art galleries galore – There are several art galleries and workshops located in Islington making this a hot neighborhood for art enthusiasts.
There are probably a hundred reasons for a person or family to consider Islington when narrowing down London neighborhoods. It is one of the few London neighborhoods well suited to both families and young couples or singles. With housing prices ranging from very low to very expensive there surely will be something in everyone’s price range. One can’t go wrong by considering Islington when searching London neighborhoods.
Tags: corporate relocation, Islington, London, London Neighborhoods, Moving to London
Posted in Americans Moving to London, Living in London, London Neighborhoods, London Neighborhoods, Relocation to London, Relocation to London With Family | No Comments »
Wednesday, January 11th, 2012
Many people moving to London from America decide to use public transportation instead of either bringing or buying a vehicle. This choice is highly recommended as it is actually quicker and easier to move about the city via the Tube or bus. For longer or more emergent trips a cab can easily be found. While many moving to London from America may be used to public transportation a large chunk of the US hardly relies on it at all. For them, a breakdown of London’s transportation system is described below.
Moving to London from America – the Tube
The Tube is the equivalent of the New York subway system or Chicago’s ‘L’ train. Tube stations are located throughout the city for convenience. There are several lines of the Tube so one will have to check rigorously at first to ensure they are on the right Tube train. It’s not a bad idea, at first, for those moving to London from America to keep a map of Tube stations and routes handy while exploring the city.
Moving to London from America – Buses
Buses are a major component of London public transportation. While they may not be as fast as the Tube they are an affordable option for those traveling a short distance. 2012 unveils a new bus prototype for London which is a redo of the iconic double-decker bus so many associate with the streets of London. The new bus will be a hybrid with all the conveniences a modern bus can offer. It will also be handicap-accessible.
Moving to London from America – Taxis and minicabs
There are two types of cabs in London for personal use. The first is the Black Cab with the ‘Taxi’ sign proudly displayed on top of the car. These are the only vehicles that can be hailed throughout the city. The other option is a minicab. To increase safety and reduce the number of illegal cabs on the road all minicabs must be ordered in advance. All taxis and minicabs should display their number and show customers their ID. Paying mind to safety is the number one rule when using a taxi or minicab.
For many families making the big move to London for corporate relocation letting go of a personal vehicle can be a scary thing to do. With some research before hand and not being afraid to ask for help or directions the transition can be made smoother. London relocation agents are available to help with all London transportation helping those moving to London from America experience the best of the city without the stress of learning the transportation.
Tags: corporate relocation, London, london relocation agents, moving to london from america, Public transport
Posted in Americans Moving to London, Living in London, London Transportation, Moving to London: Tips & Culture, Relocation to London | No Comments »
Wednesday, January 11th, 2012
For many Americans moving to London there is no choice in the matter – they simply must go due to a corporate relocation. They wonder, though, how to move to London when both the US and British economies are so weak. While it may be difficult it is not impossible. By arming oneself with the right knowledge the move to London can be done with as little financial output as possible. Once in London a family can actually live quite well while pinching pennies.
How to Move to London Inexpensively – Transportation
Most people are a little overwhelmed when they hear they are relocating to London because the city is known for being so expensive. While that may be true the cost of living is counted for in an international relocation and hopefully one’s company will compensate for the increase in costs. One good thing for most Americans wondering how to move to London with everything being so expensive is that a vehicle will not be needed. In most families everyone over the age of sixteen has a vehicle so that can be a significant savings right there.
How to Move to London Inexpensively – Food
London may be a major world city but there is plenty of fresh, local food. Buying from local vendors and farmers is a great way to save a lot of money. Americans rely too much on fast and convenience foods. In London, like much of Europe, families eat little fast food and cooking is an intricate part of the family experience. Not only will a family’s wallet feel better by cooking more and eating out less, the family’s waistlines will as well.
How to Move to London Inexpensively – Activities
The best advice for any family or individual wondering how to move to London without breaking the bank is to enjoy all the history, culture and outdoor activities the city has to offer. Being one of the largest cities in the world there is plenty to do. Parks are located everywhere and are a great way to enjoy a beautiful day without spending any money. There are also many museums and exhibits that cost nothing or very little.
Moving to London will cost some money but it does not have to bankrupt a family. Rather than worry oneself about how to move to London during a bad economy families should see the move as a personal challenge to save as much money as possible while still enjoying their new town.
Tags: corporate relocation, how to move to London, London, Moving to London
Posted in Moving to London: Tips & Culture | No Comments »
Sunday, January 8th, 2012
Shortly after confirming an international relocation families often buy a map of London neighborhoods to help prepare for the upcoming move. While that can never hurt it is best to truly understand what the map says and how to use it best once the plane lands and a family is left to fend for themselves in a new country. One of the most useful maps a family can get is a Tube map of London neighborhoods.
One of the first challenges facing families fresh to London from a corporate relocation is the lack of a personal vehicle. In America almost every family owns at least one car, often with every member of the family over sixteen owning their own car. In a city the size of London that is just not possible. Even if a family does have a car in London it will probably spend most of its time in a parking garage. That is why a good Tube map of London neighborhoods is a must-have.
Anyone moving to London having never relied on public transportation will have an adjustment period where map usage will be necessary. For the newcomer to the Tube (or any major system for that matter) the first glace at a Tube map of London neighborhoods will look like a colorful display of lines and they’ll probably think they will need an engineering degree to ever make sense of it all.
Do not despair new Londoners. Learning to make sense of a Tube map of London neighborhoods will come eventually and then become second nature. The first rule of thumb for those new to London transportation is to not be afraid to ask for help. Second, figure out far in advance what route one needs to get somewhere. Lastly, those just moving to London from America should not be afraid to wander out of their comfort zone and explore London via the Tube. They just must remember to bring their handy Tube map of London neighborhoods with them!
Tags: corporate relocation, international relocation, map of london neighborhoods, Moving to London, moving to london from america, tube map
Posted in Americans Moving to London, Living in London, London Neighborhoods, London Transportation, Relocation to London, Relocation to London With Family | No Comments »
Thursday, December 29th, 2011
There are many different reasons for Americans moving to London. Whether it is an unplanned corporate relocation or just a new start for a family the move is often anticipated and feared at the same time. Most often children feel the most stress during an international relocation because they feel they are powerless. They, also, are leaving their friends, homes, extended family and even schools. Little things they have spent their entire lives learning about their American culture are suddenly dismissed and they are asked to learn an entirely new set of cultural norms.
After moving to London parents often worry about their children’s adjustment both socially and emotionally. One option for easing the transition is to enroll them in an American school. The American School, located in the St. John’s Wood neighborhood in London, is a school devoted to teaching Americans using American curriculum.
Unfortunately, there is no definitive answer as to whether American children should go to The American School. Parents have to weigh several factors when making the decision, first of which is how long they plan on living in London. Some corporate relocations are short, just a year or less, while others may be upwards of five years or more. If the move is temporary and the child plans on returning to the states to finish their education attending The American School may be a good idea so that their educational path will not be disrupted.
Those Americans moving to London with no length of stay determined may opt to send their child to a local school instead so as to immerse them in the English culture. The English school system is very good and a child’s education will not suffer for having attended an English grade school. There are many benefits besides the quality of education at English schools. Children will be introduced to local traditions and culture. They will acclimate to their new environment quicker and they will get to experience England in its entirety.
There isn’t a right or wrong decision on where parents should send their students after moving to London. Every parent has to weigh their child’s personality, educational needs, and life facts (like ability to pay tuition and home location within London) before deciding on the best educational placement. Arming oneself with the most information possible is the best way to tackle the education dilemma after an international relocation.
Tags: American School, Americans moving to London, corporate relocation, Education, international relocation, London, Moving to London, relocation to london
Posted in Americans Moving to London, Americans Moving to London, Living in London, Relocation to London, Relocation to London With Family | No Comments »
Thursday, December 29th, 2011
Relocation to London - Be Prepared for the Bump in Sales Tax, Image by 401K via Flickr
Americans complain all the time about sales tax and how it takes its toll on the family budget. For Americans moving to London, however, will no longer complain of the 6% to 8% sales tax most US states use. In London, the current sales tax rate is 20%! This extra cost must be taken into consideration when creating a new budget after international relocation.
Sales tax is applied in much the same way in the United Kingdom as it is in the United States. Most goods purchased have a mandatory value added tax (VAT). The biggest difference between the two countries is the amount of sales tax. For most Americans moving to London the new sales tax they will pay will be three to four times more than they are used to. It is easy to forget to budget for sales tax when creating the new family budget, but if careful thought is given up front, budgeting for the new sales tax amount will quickly become second nature.
Much like the US, most food items are not taxed. Unlike the US, there are many other items not taxed (or zero-rated as they say) or taxed at 5% in an effort to help those individuals struggling financially. Some of these items domestic gas, children’s clothing, prescription drugs, books, and magazines. Very similar to US policy certain energy reducing building materials are taxed at a lower rate. Also, children’s car seats are taxed at a lower rate.
After relocation to London many individuals may be confused by all the new taxes. They can relax, though, because most are very similar to US tax policies, just with different language. For example, an excise duty is applied to fuel, alcohol, and tobacco. America has the same tax (often called sin tax). Other types of taxation are property duties and a slew of duties charged to businesses. London relocation agents can explain which duties and taxes will apply to one’s situation and even help with budgeting.
With the British economy struggling it was no surprise that the VAT was increased from 17.5% to 20.0% in early 2011. How long it will stay at the current rate is anyone’s guess. The United Kingdom is very much like the United States in that it is desperately trying to build revenue while not charging its people so much that inflation and unemployment runs rampant. Those moving to London due to corporate relocation must take into account the economical situation and play accordingly.
Tags: Americans moving to London, corporate relocation, international relocation, London, london relocation agents, Moving to London, relocation to london, Value added tax, VAT
Posted in Americans Moving to London, Americans Moving to London, Living in London, Relocation to London | No Comments »
Thursday, December 22nd, 2011
With London being such a large city, packed full of so much history and culture, it can quickly become overwhelming for Americans moving to London to organize a system to visit all the important attractions. I recommend those new to the city from corporate relocation to make a New Year’s resolution to see one iconic London attraction a month. By setting up the schedule now, at the end of the current year, one can make sure to take into account weather conditions, special events or features and any other important factors to consider when visiting attractions for which London is famous.
Some of the most famous attractions to consider when making one’s list are as follows:
1) Buckingham Palace: A trip to the palace might want to be saved for August or September as an extravagant diamond exhibit will be on display at that time. A visit to Buckingham Palace also includes the infamous ‘changing of the guards’ and worth the excursion alone.
2) The London Eye: An international relocation is not complete without a ride on the giant Ferris wheel that dominates the London skyline. Reservations are available online.
3) The Tower of London: No stay in London is complete without a trip to the Tower of London. With so much history packed into one building those moving to London should set aside an entire day to give the attraction justice.
4) Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre: All those new to London from corporate relocation with a love for Shakespeare’s plays need to visit this modern recreation of the Globe Theatre.
5) Jack the Ripper Tours: Many tours are available for London visitors and residents. The tours take guests along the same streets and alleys the infamous serial killer roamed. This is a great activity for history buffs.
6) Winston Churchill’s War Rooms: Perhaps one of the most influential men of the last century Winston Churchill’s War Rooms is a trip back in time. This activity is a wonderful answer to a gloomy winter weekend.
These are just a few ideas for activities one should participate in after moving to London. International relocation can be difficult and one often finds themselves alone in their flat overwhelmed with the possibilities of what to do. By making an organized list of popular London sites to visit and committing to them through a New Year’s Resolution, Americans moving to London can tackle all the must-see attractions, one month at a time.
Tags: Americans moving to London, Buckingham Palace, corporate relocation, Globe Theatre, international relocation, London, London Eye, Moving to London, relocation to london, Tower of London, Winston Churchill
Posted in Americans Moving to London, Living in London, London Recreation, Moving to London: London Sightseeing, Moving to London: Tips & Culture, Relocation to London | No Comments »
Thursday, December 22nd, 2011
After moving to London many young professionals are left confused about how to get into the social, singles scene. With London being such a large city getting out and making friends can easily become overwhelming. Sometimes just having a common denominator is all that it takes to make new friends after an international relocation.
That is precisely why I recommend participating in a pub crawl settling after a corporate relocation. Not only is a pub crawl a great way to meet other young professionals, it’s also a good way to learn one’s way around the city. With pub crawls ranging from guided to self-guided and covering a variety of topics and themes there is bound to be something for everyone.
I’m most impressed with The London Pub Crawl Company. They offer everything from free PDF downloads of pub crawls to very affordable downloads of pub crawls with interesting facts and history included to guided pub crawls. There crawls are located throughout the city and include themes like “Jack the Ripper”, “Notting Hill” and “Oxford Street”.
Even if those fresh to the city after an international relocation are forced to go it alone it will still get one out and about and allow them to discover pubs in their neighborhood. Participating in a pub crawl is also a great conversation starter while enjoying a pint in one of the listed pubs. London relocation agents all agree that the best way to get over homesickness for the States is to jump into a social scene and start meeting people.
Relocation jobs can be very demanding emotionally as well as physically and mentally. In order for one’s relocation to London to be successful and enjoyable one must acclimate to the city and there is no better way to do that than over a pint. Regardless of whether young professionals are seasoned travelers or in London for the first time, visiting pubs through the eyes of themed pub crawl is a creative way to meet people, find a nearby neighborhood pub, and hopefully kick-start a wonderfully enjoyable relocation to London.
Tags: corporate relocation, international relocation, London, london relocation agents, Moving to London, Pub crawl, relocation jobs, relocation to london
Posted in Americans Moving to London, Living in London, London Food & Beverage, London Recreation, Moving to London: Tips & Culture, Relocation to London | No Comments »
Wednesday, December 21st, 2011
Relocation to London – New Year’s Resolutions Part 1, Image via Wikipedia
Americans moving to London often find themselves overwhelmed especially during the holidays. In an effort to become accustomed to one’s new city and traditions combining New Year’s Resolutions and familiarizing oneself with the culture is a great idea. One of the more difficult obstacles to overcome after an international relocation is the food – or the differences to be more precise. The best way to overcome the new flavors and ingredients British food offers is to jump in and explore the waters. A good New Year’s Resolution for those new to London from a corporate relocation is to try a new quintessential British recipe each week.
That is fifty-two dishes to get through, one might say. Are there really that many British foods different from what most Americans moving to London are used to? Why, yes, there are. It is all too easy for new Londoners to revert back to old favorites from the States after corporate relocation. London relocation agents will recommend that new families experiment with the cuisine. With food easily shipped around the globe it would be a huge temptation for Americans to have their favorite foods shipped directly to their door rather than eat like the locals.
Thanks to the internet there are many wonderful sites featuring traditional British foods and recipes. Many cater to non-British crowds and explain things that most Brits take for granted. One of the hardest cooking challenges facing Americans is measurements. In London the metric system is used. With a little practice one will quickly catch on, however. By tackling new recipes new Londeners will be forced to explore London groceries and farmer’s markets furthering the exploration of their newly-adopted city.
Cooking one new dish a week may seem like a paltry goal, but as the seasons change and one’s confidence grows in the ways of British cooking most will be pleasantly surprised to see how much food has eased the transition between American and the UK. Moving to London is a big change for most families and even the best support from London relocation services can’t make one feel comfortable in their new city. By forcing oneself to go out and explore the town they will quickly come to feel as if they belong after international relocation.
Tags: Americans moving to London, British cuisine, corporate relocation, Food, international relocation, london relocation agents, London Relocation Services, relocation to london
Posted in Americans Moving to London, Living in London, London Food & Beverage, Moving to London: Tips & Culture, Relocation to London, Relocation to London With Family | No Comments »
Tuesday, December 20th, 2011
Americans moving to London often ask London relocation agents how they can fit in quicker and better. It can be a challenging and scary experience to be living in a big city, in a foreign country, especially if it is one’s first time abroad. While many millions of people living in London are foreigners, those moving to London will want to get accustomed to the ways of the city as fast as possible, so they don’t get mistaken for a tourist. Not only does it help the ego, 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 living in London. Londoners look like they know where they’re going and need to get there fast. Corporate relocation newbies shouldn’t worry about rubbing shoulders with people on the pavement or sidewalk; they’ll be shoving as well.
- It’s important to learn the names of the tube lines. Real Londoners know which line they’re getting on and nothing makes one stand out as a newcomer after a corporate relocation like telling everyone they used the Red Line to get to work.
- My mother always told me: “Don’t look strange men or dogs in the eye.” That holds true on London streets or on the Tube. Regulars read something, play Sudoku, do a cross word or keep their head down. If someone kills themselves by diving in front of one’s train and therefore making them delayed, expats should not show shock, but rather just mutter to themselves and click their tongue in irritation that they have been inconvenienced.
- To truly be seen as a Londoner never, ever stand still on an escalator. Those who are too tired to barge their way up the left side of the escalator should 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.
International relocation is an adventure that has to be experienced. Getting out of one’s London flat and becoming one with the city is the best way to accomplish that. I promise in a few weeks any American can be just as rude and rushed as the rest of us.
Tags: Americans moving to London, corporate relocation, international relocation, London, london relocation agents, Moving to London, relocation to london
Posted in Americans Moving to London, Living in London, London Transportation, Moving to London: Tips & Culture, Relocation to London | No Comments »
Monday, December 19th, 2011
Anyone living in London for a short while may be experiencing bouts of homesickness and loneliness. Those Americans moving to London with a partner or spouse might find that the transition is easy, but those single in the city may find it a challenge to adjust to living in London. The holidays can be especially hard when one finds themselves alone in a country thousands of miles from family and traditions.
Many people think they are homesick after an international relocation, but really they’re just adjusting to living in one of the most culturally diverse cities in the world. They should be prepared for the culture shock and use it as a gateway to a unique adventure. Many Americans moving to London think that living in London will be similar to living in the States, but it isn’t.
The first thing Americans have to get used to is the language barrier. Many believe that because England and America both use English as a common language communication will be a breeze. Unfortunately, the differences between the two dialects might have newly settles American expats reeling for a few months. Because of this language barrier many Americans newly arrived stay locked away inside their new homes.
Meeting people and asking questions is the best way to get over the fact that one is alone in the big city, especially during the holidays. Sage advice is for new Londoners not spend time comparing how things were done back home. By doing that, they’ll never integrate and make a real go of life in London.
For those who are a bit shy and find it hard to talk to strangers there are several good ways to meet people. The best advice is to start chatting to colleagues at relocation jobs. Joining in is the most important aspect of fitting in. If one is feeling homesick and lonely after a corporate relocation they should get out join a community activity. Sports teams, adult classes and community based groups are one of the best ways of meeting new people.
Moving in London can be scary. It’s bustling, big and very busy. By giving the international relocation some time to sink in Americans newly settled in London will soon discover that moving to London is the best decision they’ve ever made.
Tags: Americans moving to London, corporate relocation, international relocation, London, Moving to London, relocation to london
Posted in Americans Moving to London, Americans Moving to London, Living in London, London Language Barriers, Moving to London: Tips & Culture, Relocation to London | No Comments »
Monday, December 19th, 2011
After moving to London many families find themselves thoroughly lost during the holiday season. Thousands of miles away from their home they are thrown into a new culture and trying desperately to adapt. For those families with children finding holiday activities similar to those at home can make international relocation a little easier. Thankfully, relocation to London during the Christmas season is a good time to experience some of London’s most festive activities with most being very similar to events in the United States.
New Years Eve and New Years Day are big days in London and Americans moving to London are pleasantly surprised to find many of the same events popular in London as in their hometown. One of the most popular activities for London families over the New Year’s holiday is ice skating. There are many ice skating rinks around the city. Families of international relocation can search for one near their home via the internet or by contacting London relocation agents.
The highpoint of the London New Year for many families and Americans moving to London is the huge fireworks display over the Thames. There are several viewing areas available but they do have capacity limits and will close as those are met. The fireworks show will also be broadcast of BBC for those not wanting to brave the crowds. Public transportation is highly recommended for those coming. Americans new to the city from corporate relocation need to be aware that alcohol is allowed in official viewing areas. This may prevent some families with small children from attending.
New Year’s Day would not be complete without a parade and London does not let down in that regard. Many Americans moving to London are used to watching the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day parade either live or on TV every year as they are preparing their turkey. London’s New Year’s Parade is equally impressive. The parade stretches for over two miles of Piccadilly beginning at The Ritz and ending at Parliament Square. Included in the parade are floats, acrobats, balloons and bands.
These are just a few of the activities great for Americans moving to London and their families during the New Year’s holiday. There are many more exciting (and often free) events throughout the city. Those brave expats can do their own research into the events or go straight to an expert – their London relocation services agent.
Tags: Americans moving to London, Christmas and holiday season, corporate relocation, international relocation, London, london relocation agents, London Relocation Services, Moving to London, New Year, relocation to london
Posted in Americans Moving to London, Living in London, London Recreation, Moving to London: Tips & Culture, Relocation to London, Relocation to London With Family | No Comments »
Saturday, December 17th, 2011
Americans are usually pleasantly surprised to discover that although British summers are mild (much like the Northeast United States) the winters are not full of snow and ice. In fact English winters are very mild in comparison to much of the states’ and rarely does it snow. With temperatures mild all winter Americans moving to London can leave their parkas and snow pants at home.
The most common nuisance for Americans moving to London and not familiar with the British climate is the rain. In England it is perfectly normal for eleven to fifteen days out of the month to see rain. The months with the heaviest rainfall are November and August. So, while many fresh to London from the States may be expecting the first snow of the year in November, cloudy days full of intermittent showers will by more likely to occur.
While all that rain might be bothersome the winter temperatures in London are a nice treat for many Americans living in London due to a corporate relocation. The temperatures during the winter months rarely drop below the mid-thirties which is why there is so much rain instead of snow. British winter temperatures are very similar to much of the autumn weather found in the United States making surviving one’s first British winter after an international relocation a breeze for many American expats.
Preparing for a British winter takes just a little common sense and some flexibility. London relocation agents will advise most Americans moving to London to always carry an umbrella. Probably one of the most iconic British accessories there is a reason for their popularity. With November being one of the rainiest months during the year and ushering in the winter, keeping an umbrella with one at all times is probably the wisest decision.
Most Americans having gone through their first London winter after a corporate relocation admit it wasn’t as bad as they had expected. Though the amount of rain might be more than expected, the mild temperatures and lack of dangerous wintry weather more than makes up for the additional puddles for most Americans in London for international relocation.
Tags: Americans moving to London, Climate of the United Kingdom, corporate relocation, international relocation, London, london relocation agents, relocation to london
Posted in Living in London, Moving to London: Tips & Culture, Relocation to London, Relocation to London With Family | No Comments »
Friday, December 16th, 2011
Relocation to London means moving to one of the most vibrant, exciting and fascinating cities in the world. With international relocation it’s exciting to be moving to London! London is the cultural centre for Europe, a financial powerhouse, and all in all, a city that has a lot to offer to a lot of people.
That said, like any big city, it still has its drawbacks, an obvious one of which is crime. It stands to reason that any city that attracts people because of the wealth of things that it offers also runs the risk of attracting a few bad apples, and this is as much the case with London as it is with other cities around the world. The risk of falling victim to crime is increased should one be new to the city and not have an understanding of what precautions to take.
Relocation to London – Safety First
Here are a few tips for the safety conscious to bear in mind.
• Depending on how familiar one is in their relocation to London, it might be a good idea to ask advice from someone with experience living in London (London relocation agents, for example) on how to go about doing things safely. This can include what kind of places to avoid and anything else one is uncertain of.
• You’ll often see London’s policemen (the Bobbies) all over the city due to their characteristic uniforms. Those feeling unsafe or those who have been the victim of a crime should find the nearest policeman and ask for their assistance. They’ve been trained precisely for this and will be glad to help anyone however they can.
• Those new to London from international relocation and planning a night out on the town need to be sure of how they’ll be getting home. Being safe means planning for the unexpected.
• All Americans moving to London need to memorize the city’s emergency telephone numbers. 999 is the UK counterpart to the US’ 911. Family members never know when they might be in a position to need it.
Lastly, the very best thing one can do to be safe is to use common sense. If something doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t. Trust instincts. Moving to London is like moving to any new city and being safety-conscious will go a long way to making a corporate relocation stay a happy one.
Tags: Americans moving to London, corporate relocation, international relocation, London, london relocation agents, Moving to London, relocation to london
Posted in Americans Moving to London, Living in London, Moving to London: Tips & Culture, Relocation to London, Relocation to London With Family | No Comments »
Thursday, December 15th, 2011
There are several details of relocation to London that one will only be able complete once the plane has landed and they are on the ground. London relocation agents will be able to sort out quite a few of the details like opening a bank account and finding families the perfect flat. Not all things can be done by London relocation services; getting healthcare is something one has to do in person.
The National Health Service (NHS) in the UK requires that all new residents register in person at a General Practitioner (GP) to be eligible for all of the healthcare benefits while living in London. Once a GP is found in one’s neighborhood, they will have to make an appointment to see the doctor as well as register at the practice.
Once arriving at the doctors rooms Americans new to London from corporate relocation need to request a GMS1 form which should be completed with all one’s medical details. It is important to bring a passport and visa along to the doctor as one may be asked for some proof of identity by the GP. There is no waiting period for people to register with a GP. Those who are legally allowed to work and live in London are automatically eligible for healthcare.
Once the GMS1 form is completed the practice will forward the application to the Primary Care Trust that will issue a NHS card, number, and let inform all covered that they are on the system. It can take a couple of weeks, though, so those needing medical attention before that should use the free clinics, (they really are very good), or go to a local hospital.
There is one requirement of the system that may take some of time. All people wishing to join the NHS have to register at a doctor in person. Americans moving to London cannot register on behalf of their spouse or family when they arrive in the UK. This is why it is important to spend the first week after relocation to London sorting out the details before starting relocation jobs and getting too busy.
Anyone needing advice on how to register or where to find a GP can inquire with London relocation agents or visit the NHS website which has a comprehensive list of all areas in London and the addresses of all the GP’s.
Tags: Americans moving to London, corporate relocation, General practitioner, London, london relocation agents, London Relocation Services, National Health Service, relocation jobs, relocation to london
Posted in Living in London, Moving to London: Tips & Culture, Relocation to London, Relocation to London With Family | No Comments »
