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Posts Tagged ‘London Neighborhoods’

London Community Spotlight: Pimlico Apartments

Monday April 1st, 2013

Those wishing to live in a quiet oasis within the glistening city of London should consider searching for Pimlico apartments. Pimlico is located in the City of Westminster and is filled with beautiful homes and tranquil parks, but lacking the hustle and bustle that you would expect from a big city.

The Thames River flows gently on Pimlico’s southern side and borders with Westminster on the east, Chelsea on the west, and Belgravia to the north. This hazy, lazy area blossoms with greenery, is quiet, and is therefore an attractive draw for business folks and executives looking for a retrieve from the hectic pace of other London areas.

Luxury Living at Affordable Prices

A large part of Pimlico’s appeal is that it’s like taking a step back in time when London was still a magical place that inspired such happy fantasies as Mary Poppins. Pimlico apartments also offer their tenants the same luxury as those living in Chelsea and Kensington, but without the high prices.

Although the prices of Pimlico apartments may deter most of those on a strict budget, there are still values to be found if you search well enough. The area has a large number of flats, some that are located in renovated Victorian homes. Our consultants can assist you with finding good deals on Pimlico apartments if this is where you want to relocate.

Activities in Pimlico

Keep in mind that Pimlico is a peaceful part of the city and, therefore, does not have the vibrant nightlife or bustling array of sites that are located in other areas. However, there are some fun things to do. Besides, if you want to leave Pimlico apartments to partake in more exciting activities, you can catch the Tube at Victoria Station or any number of buses running along Victoria.

If you’re looking for entertainment within Pimlico, try these options. The Apollo Victoria Theatre, Victoria Palace Theatre and the Royal Court Theatre all provide wonderful theatrical performances. Browse through Tate Gallery (one of the world’s leading art galleries) and SW1 Gallery to fill your desire for artistic beauty. Gaze upon the gorgeous architecture of such grand churches as St Gabriel’s Church, Westminster Cathedral, St Barnabas, and the Church of St Stephen with St John.

Best Restaurants in Pimlico

As with practically every area in the city, Pimlico offers some fine dining experiences. The most popular place to please your palate is About Thyme where European dishes are served and an eye-catching bar serves up cocktails, beer, and wines from around the world. Kazan is another restaurant with rave reviews. The atmosphere is stunningly romantic and a great place to take your love interest.

You will also enjoy visiting Goya for home-cooked delicacies and Uno which provides classical cuisine. Pimlico Tandoori offers both vegetarian and non-vegetarian foods and Cyprus Mangai is the place to go for Cypriot and Turkish tastes.

Pimlico Nightlife

When it’s time to leave Pimlico apartments for a night on the town, you will find some satisfying spots nearby without having to travel. If you want to dance, Pacha is the place where Pimlico’s clubbers go dance to beats dropped by top European DJs.

If you’re just looking to have drinks with friends, a number of pubs and taverns are located in the area. Slip into such establishments as Albert Tavern, The Orange Public House & Hotel, Duke of Wellington, Morpeth Arms, and others.

Talk to our consultants for help with locating flats in the Pimlico area.

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London Neighborhoods Guide: By the Thames River

Wednesday March 27th, 2013

If you are seriously considering a move to the beautiful city of London, you will first want to determine where you would like to live. There are many fine London neighborhoods to choose from that are located in various parts of this sprawling city.

We will post several blogs that will provide information on such locations entitled London neighborhoods guide so that you can make better selections of areas you want to live in when you discuss your relocation with one of our consultants.

Here are a dozen London neighborhoods located along the grand, yet soothing, Thames River.

Battersea – Once farmland, Battersea has transformed into a wonderful location for those wishing to live by the Thames. Due to its increasing popularity and green parks, developers are beginning to add even more newly constructed housing sites to the area.

Bermondsey – Beaming with trendy flats, stylish boutiques, raving restaurants, and booming bars, Bermondsey is one of the appealing London neighborhoods due to the grand views of the Tower Bridge. The Shard, Europe’s highest building, as well as the Fashion and Textile Museum and interesting antique shops are also located here.

Chelsea – Not only is Chelsea home to townhouses filled with smart dressed business men and women, but it is also home to the Chelsea Football Club. An international mix live in Chelsea neighborhoods with some of the best shopping in the city is located along King’s Road.

Fulham – Filled with plenty of green areas, Fulham offers a selection of adorable houses and flats. First-class restaurants, extravagant cars, grand markets and the Fulham Football Club are all a part of Fulham’s surrounding London neighborhoods.

Greenwich – This extraordinary neighborhood comes complete with a rich maritime history, gorgeous homes built in both Gorgian and Victorian styles, peaceful parks, tempting antique shops and markets, and more.

Hammersmith – This is one of friendlier London neighborhoods where residents and international guests alike toast at one of its many casual pubs. Hammersmith’s small town atmosphere makes it a lovely place to live and it is a major transportation hub so you can easily access other parts of the city.

Isle of Dogs – Located in the east side of the city, Isle of Dogs is a business haven hosting a mix of tall buildings, friendly pubs, and London neighborhoods filled with beautiful brick houses.

Lambeth – If you’re looking to live in a culturally rich area, Lambeth provides it amidst a laid back environment. Beautiful, inviting taverns, two bridges and stucco and brick homes are part of Lambeth’s charm.

Pimlico – This oasis in the heart of the city contains townhouses, cafes, taverns, churches, and gorgeous homes with well groomed gardens. This area is often overlooked due to its central location, but offers a fine place to live along the Thames River for those relocating to the city.

South Bank – The London Eye, National Theatre, and other attractions make South Bank an alluring place to live. It is also alive with art and artists who both gather and reside in the area.

Southwark – Another wonderful neighborhood that is culturally diverse is Southwark. Bridges, theaters (including Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre), museums, markets, restaurants, and pubs all make for a lively and exciting atmosphere.

Westminster – A deep sense of history is what you will find in Westminster. Home to Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey, Big Ben and the House of Parliament, Westminster provides those fortunate enough to live in its London neighborhoods beautiful panoramic views of some of the world’s grandest sights.

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Choosing Best London Neighborhoods to Live In

Monday August 13th, 2012

A successful UK relocation hinges on knowing the best neighborhoods to live in—“best,” however, is subjective and really means what is best for you in particular.

WHY YOU NEED TO KNOW YOUR LONDON NEIGHBORHOODS

The challenge of finding a place to live is the fact that there’s no MLS whereby local estate agencies share their individual listings on a comprehensive database. Flat-searching on your own means walking into multiple lettings agencies to fully exhaust a given area, so determining where to even begin makes knowing neighborhoods an imperative.

You can download London Relocation’s (“LR”) area guide for a more detailed overview of neighborhoods, but to follow is a short preview of the city’s broader regions.

A SNAPSHOT OF LONDON NEIGHBORHOODS

Central London

If you’ve visited here before, you are likely most acquainted with the major sites to behold in its historic center like Big Ben and Trafalgar Square. London’s city center houses predominantly governmental and corporate buildings, museums, and other tourist sites, but it does have a selection of personal residences. And if you’re looking for an edgier, more diverse, artsy, and somewhat less tourist-trodden locale, the east side of this area is a good find with an active day and night life.

The postcodes for central neighborhoods begin with either WC of EC for West-Central and East-Central, respectively. And though the modern-day city stretches rather far and wide, residents will refer to this central district specifically as “The City,” just as Americans would say “downtown.”

Neighborhoods in this area that LR services include: Bloomsbury, Kings Cross, Covent Garden, Russell Square, Chancery Lane, Barbican, Clerkenwell, Farringdon, Old Street, and Liverpool Street.

North London

The north postcodes are a popular choice for expats—they can also be more expensive than other neighborhoods yet central to many tube lines as well as trains and buses. Having plenty of open, green and leafy spaces, many of the northwest areas have a distinctly village feel to them and are great for families. Some spots of north/northeastern London, however, are more urban and commercial yet artsy and good for trendy nightlife and shopping.

The postcodes for northern neighborhoods begin with either N or NW for North and Northwest, respectively. Some that LR services specifically are: Angel, Islington, Shoreditch, Finsbury Park, Highbury, Highgate, Holloway Road, Camden Town, Marylebone, Primrose Hill, Chalk Farm, Belsize Park, Hampstead, Queen’s Park, West Hampstead, and St. John’s Wood.

West London

West London is the popular favorite among North American, Australian, and continental European expats. Filled with regal garden squares and posh shopping districts, it’s overall an economically upscale area, and its neighborhoods are close to Heathrow Airport, gentrified, and relatively family-friendly. They also have great nightlife, schools, and parks and are just minutes from the City. And going into the southwest, you enter into more residential, even family-friendlier neighborhoods that offer pretty walks along the River Thames and an abundance of green space.

Postcodes for west London neighborhoods begin with W and SW for West and Southwest, respectively. At the risk of confusing you, however, there’s a bit of a divide between the SW postcodes—some are more commonly associated with west London versus south, either because they geographically border the west postcodes north of the river, are along westbound transport lines, or otherwise simply offer a similar environment and lifestyle.

West London neighborhoods that LR covers include but are not limited to: Marylebone, Park Lane, Mayfair, Belgravia, Pimlico, Knightsbridge, Sloane Square, St. James, Soho, Tottenham Court Road, Bayswater, Chiswick, Ealing, Hammersmith, Kensington, Maida Vale, Holland Park, Notting Hill, Shepherd’s Bush, Earl’s Court, South Kensington, Fulham, Putney, and Wimbledon.

South London

South London is more urban than the leafy north and west where many of those moving from outside the UK do tend to congregate, yet growing familiarity with the city over time usually opens their minds to moving south or eastward where you get more bang for your buck. While not as conveniently linked with public transport and a little gritty in spots, south London is a lively area near the city center that has undergone great change in the past few years, offering some charming and dynamic areas with an interesting nightlife and growing appeal for young families.

Postcodes in this region start with either SW or SE depending on whether they’re Southwest or Southeast. I already listed some SW areas above that tend to get lumped with west London, but to follow are some additional southwest neighborhoods that fall south of the Thames, along with their eastern counterparts popular with LR clients: Clapham, Dulwich, Balham, Wandsworth, Greenwich, London Bridge, and Canada Water.

East London

Once considered the dodgy end of London, the East End has turned its bad reputation into a selling point. Now a thriving business and residential area, it still retains its colorful character as one of the most culturally diverse areas. East London is likewise a good value with lower property prices than in the north or west. Urban renewal along the river and massive money into the area has also meant that its demographics have changed as more and more locals and expats move there—as I just blogged about last week, hosting the 2012 Olympic Games has brought even more money and development to it. Mind, though, that there are certainly still pockets of low income that feel rough around the edges and unsafe, so it’s a matter of knowing which city blocks to sidestep.

East-end neighborhoods begin with E, and the ones LR commonly covers include: Shoreditch, Whitechapel, Spitalfields Market, Bethnal Green, Dalston, Hackney, Canary Wharf, and Stratford.

DECISIONS, DECISIONS

The overwhelming task of narrowing down best neighborhoods is why LR exists! Rest assured, your LR agent will step in as your own personal MLS, catering to your criteria and doing the major legwork for you. Together, you can brainstorm which of the many lovely neighborhoods are best suited to you and readily make one of them your home!

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Urban Oases for Apartments in London

Monday July 2nd, 2012

I blogged recently about neighborhoods where expats prefer to find apartments—usually because they’re reminiscent of neighborhoods back home. In my last post, I listed areas that remind Americans of Chicago or New York, but today I’d like to venture into the London neighborhoods that are harder to compare.

Apartments – North and West London

Among London Relocation’s clients moving to London with a family, an optimal neighborhood for searching apartments in London has been Hampstead. Once a village outside London proper, Hampstead is now part of north London and a big draw for those wanting the best of two worlds: easy access to central and plenty of amenities at-hand locally but less bustle and more peace, space, and nature. Hampstead is admittedly pricy where apartments are concerned, but, also known as “Pramstead,” it’s a safe and leafy residential locale that really does feel like it’s still its own village. And its proximity to 700+ acre Hamstead Heath makes for an ideal place to push a buggy or walk your dog. Despite the stellar view of London’s skyline from up high, once you step in the Heath, you couldn’t feel further from the city.

As another spot to find nice apartments, Belsize Park is Hampstead’s next-door neighbor that shares the above features well as a high street lined with adorable cafés, pubs, and boutiques. And though it doesn’t draw the same amount of attention (other than its famous, touristed Victorian cemetery) nor have as quaint a “downtown” atmosphere, Highgate is another nearby and gorgeously green and quiet neighborhood. These are places where actual houses are bought for settling in long term, not simply the usual high turnover found with rented apartments in London, which adds to the area’s overall homey and rooted sense.

And as I just wrote about last month, increasingly popular areas to find apartments in the west side are Fulham and Chiswick. To briefly recap, Fulham has both its urban and residential pockets that are bustling enough with nightlife to appeal to young professionals, and Chiswick is like a little fishing village in the city with charming gardens and convenient shopping and dining that draws young families. Other neighborhoods with nice apartments along the western bend in the Thames include Putney, Parsons Green, Twickenham, and Richmond, all of which feel more like family-friendly suburbs with their lower-key streets and proximity to the river and green space. Richmond and Twickenham in particular remind me a great deal of the Chicago suburb I lived in before moving —with a historic charm and natural setting that takes a couple hours’ drive outside Chicago to reach these days.

It just goes to show how London can offer the suburbs in the city, which can arguably give those searching for apartments the best of both worlds.

Apartments – South London

Yet whereas many new expats tend to limit their searches to the city’s west and north sides, an underrated region for apartments in London is located south of the Thames. The southern counterpart of “Pramstead” is “Nappy Valley,” the nickname originally given to Clapham/Wandsworth but now extending east into Dulwich. With relatively lower rents and a higher standard of living for many families who can afford more space here, south London likewise has pockets feeling more like suburbs than somewhere in decent reach of the city center.

Apartments south of the river can be a hodgepodge of old and (relatively) new—those seeking new construction will find a lot around Battersea and other historically industrial areas. And while four and five-storey Victorian terraced houses characterize much of central London north of the river, south London has street upon street of two or three-storey connected homes that (like the mews homes in the north and west behind the terraced houses) might enable you to afford something closer to a house than just apartments.

Apartments – Suburbs in the City

What I’m getting at is that if you’re making an international relocation that requires you seek apartments versus the suburban house you live in now, all is not lost. Certainly, you won’t find the same space and will probably forgo your car, but, where cities go, this is the leafiest, most residential-feeling one I know. Even the most centrally located neighborhoods boast big trees and garden squares that swallow city noise and leave you feeling further removed than you actually are. And the shorter buildings open up to the sky more than the high-rises and skyscrapers dominating US cities. For apartments to have this plus the benefit of transport links to anywhere and a concentration of amenities and recreation within walking distance is a major perk of living if you must live in a city anywhere.

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Moving to London from US? Chicago and NYC Neighborhood Equivalents

Saturday June 30th, 2012

If you’re moving from the US, when you don’t know London neighborhoods well, how will you know where to live? After moving from the US ourselves, my husband’s and my frame of reference worked in terms of Chicago and New York, so I thought I’d share what I consider to be some American equivalents of popular neighborhoods for those of you also moving from the US.

If you like Chicago’s ____, you’ll love London’s____

Shout-out to my Chi-town peeps! Even if you aren’t moving from the US city of Chicago itself, if you have any familiarity with it, this can still be your guide. Okay, so…

If you like Chicago’s Lincoln Park and Lakeview, you’ll love London’s South Kensington and Chelsea. A lot of neighbourhoods in the borough of Kensington and Chelsea, really, draw a similar demographic—young, urban professionals moving from the USand elsewhere who need something middle-of-the-road and affordable yet are willing to pay a little more for a little posh. Trendy shops, restaurants, and clubs abound, and pretty Victorian houses and leafy streets also give this area the somewhat more residential and polished aesthetic that LP Trixies (*hee*) are accustomed to and may still want when moving from the US. Another similarity is their easy access to the City, green space, and water (i.e., if London’s Kensington Gardens/Hyde Park could be Chicago’s Lincoln Park, the River Thames is Lake Michigan).

Falling within the Borough of Kensington & Chelsea, the neighborhood of Notting Hill is also similar to these Chicago locales, though it and its nearby Ladbroke Grove are also reminiscent of the Belmont Street area of north Lakeview, getting more into Boy’s Town and Wrigleyville with a relatively young, gentrified atmosphere yet artistic and maybe still a little sketchy in parts. Yet also like Roscoe Village (or further north around Irving Park) in a way, those moving to London from the US will also find some quiet, family-friendly residential streets.

Moving further along that side of the spectrum is north London’s trendy Islington and Angel area. This neighbourhood retains its relatively alternative, gritty urban feel yet has certainly become increasingly gentrified, particularly along the major restaurant/club/pub strip just outside Angel tube station. If you’re moving from the US Midwest, the closest Chicago comparison in my estimation is the likewise increasingly yuppified yet arty (and in some spots dodgy) Bucktown and Wicker Park.

And to swing in the totally opposite direction, for truly upscale posh, expats moving from the US who like Chicago’s affluent Gold Coast will love London’s ritzy Mayfair, Belgravia, and Knightsbridge neighborhoods.

If you like New York City’s ____, you’ll love London’s____

As many folks moving to London from the US come from the east coast, let’s review some NYC London neighbourhood equivalents as well. Regarding the areas mentioned above, for the same basic reasons already discussed, South Kensington, Chelsea, Notting Hill, and Ladbroke Grove (and other neighborhoods thereabouts) are arguably similar to Manhattan’s SoHo and Upper West Side. North London’s Islington/Angel area is akin to New York’s Greenwich and West Village, and NYC’s wealthy Upper East Side would equate to Mayfair, Belgravia, and Knightsbridge—perhaps Marylebone as well.

Going further, Manhattan’s Chelsea neighbourhood is somewhat similar to Marylebone if you’re moving from the US and seeking variety in boutiques, restaurants, and art galleries. Though whereas Marylebone is rather affluent, Clerkenwell and Farringdon are somewhat rougher around the edges yet still thriving with art, cuisine, and nightlife, so could make for equivalents to NYC’s Chelsea/West Village as well.

Venturing into the bustle of London’s Soho and Piccadilly Circus area recalls New York’s Midtown and Times Square—Oxford and Regent Streets are a shopping mecca akin to 5th and Madison Avenues (and Michigan Avenue in Chicago, for that matter). And as a desirable residential area dominated by educational and other renowned institutions, Manhattan’s Morningside Heights (home of Columbia University) bears a similarity to Greenwich (home of the Royal Naval College, Maritime Museum, and National Observatory).

Where other New York City boroughs go, Brooklyn is like London south of the Thames, not so cosmopolitan or convenient a commute yet where people go for more space for the money (a draw for young families). And like some New Yorkers will similarly cross the Hudson to Hoboken, New  Jersey to afford more for less, the fairly industrial east London has up-and-coming pockets that are drawing more upscale demographics to invest in housing there. Dodgy east London ’hoods like Hackney and Shoreditch, though—along with outskirt areas like Croyden or Wembley in the south and northwest—might be a little more like Queens or the Bronx. There admittedly isn’t a huge number of expats moving to London from the US that settle in those areas.

Comparing Big Apples to Oranges

Granted, it’s difference that makes an international relocation worthwhile, and in a lot of ways just can’t be compared to other cities. Nonetheless, there’s no shame in trying to seek out a little of what you already know, so hopefully the above comparisons help if you’re moving to from the US.

 

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Flats in London – New Kids on the London Blocks

Friday June 22nd, 2012

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It goes without saying that London is an enormous city. Hmm, if it goes without saying, why did I just say it? Well, perhaps it bears emphasizing when it comes to finding flats in neighborhoods that are suitable for you. It’s difficult to know where to begin when you’re moving from another country, which is why we’ve blogged a lot about different neighborhoods here and developed our downloadable Area Guide—perusing through these resources should hopefully give you a feel for where flats will meet your needs and budget.

Not surprisingly, expats tend to congregate in certain areas, and while trends can change as demographics migrate, in general, north and west London continue to be popular picks for finding flats in London.

Flats in London – The Typical Trends

For young professionals (singles and couples), the west London neighborhoods have continually been a big draw. Chelsea and South Kensington are expat and socialite meccas with their posh venues and shops and relative gentrification that keeps them looking relatively buffed and manicured. Rent is expensive where flats in London go, yet still more affordable for the middle class than their upper class neighbors in Knightsbridge, Mayfair, and Belgravia. An endearing quality about Notting Hill, in comparison, is that—though it no question boasts its own pastel-n-pretty affluence street after street—it still clings to its bohemian and arty spirit with some pockets that are a little rougher around the edges. Nonetheless, it’s undeniably gone from Indie to In-Demand and is these days arguably already moving toward In-the-Past.

That’s right—dare I say that perhaps the borough of Kensington & Chelsea is already becoming passé? It seems to be the case based on latest demand. But, regardless, having among the highest quality flats at a decent value, it’s safe to say these beautiful and fun west London neighborhoods will continue to be desirable places to live in London.

As for the north, the quiet and leafy residential areas of Hampstead, Belsize Park, and Primrose Hill give one the feeling of living in a village versus metropolis. The vast green spaces and darling cafes and boutiques have made these neighborhoods attractive to young families living in London or those seeking to escape city life while still having urban access—they come with a relatively higher price tag, however, which can be a barrier to entry and have expats looking elsewhere for flats in London.

London Relocation agents have found themselves increasingly showing flats to clients seeking a little more bang for their buck than the above areas can provide. Two neighborhoods in particular where several recent clients have been placed are Fulham and Chiswick. These haven’t typically been at the tip of the tongue of any recommender of flats. And they aren’t necessary inexpensive where flats in London go, per se, yet they offer more value and suit certain lifestyles.

Flats in London – The New Contenders: Fulham

Fulham is located west of the popular-n-posh Chelsea and attracts plenty yuppies of its own, locals and expats alike, because it’s also a nice area but more affordable than many other flats in west London. Fulham Broadway is surrounded by good restaurants, pubs, and shopping, and where entertainment is concerned, the Fulham Broadway tube station (which services the District line of the London Underground) is located beneath a large shopping centre housing a cinema, and just around the corner is the Chelsea Football Club. Some streets appear a little dodgier than others, which can give Fulham a rougher feel going toward Brompton, but residents like the color this adds in providing a refreshing alternative to the mainstream. And though fine grocery stores like Marks & Spencer’s and Waitrose can be found here, great deals and eclectic fun is to be had at the North End Road market.

If your search for flats has you dreaming of something quieter and greener away from all the football fans crowding the pubs (really, Fulham Broadway is choked with crowds on match days), the borough of Fulham also encompasses the neighborhoods of Putney and Parsons Green—their respective tube stations servicing the Wimbledon branch of the District Line are Putney Bridge and Parsons Green. These areas definitely open up into more green space and feel more like residential and family-friendly suburbs—a quaint and peaceful option for flats in London. Located along the River Thames here is the elite Hurlingham Club, which hosts the annual Polo in the Park event and has a membership waiting list of about fifteen years! Winding northwest along the river then brings you to Fulham Palace Gardens, Bishop’s Park, and—in case football (soccer) fans weren’t excited enough about Chelsea—Craven Cottage, home of the Fulham Football Club.

Flats in London – The New Contenders: Chiswick

Perhaps one of the less likely spots you’d think to search for flats would be a former fishing village that once provided a country respite from the city—Chiswick. Today, Chiswick has become higher trafficked with the addition of some big roads. Located literally around the bend (a really curvy one at that!) of the river from Fulham, Chiswick was once riverside farms and meadows and is now gentrified with a lot of shops, pubs, and restaurants—Fullers Brewery is located here, as is La Trompette, one of London’s finest Michelin-starred French restaurants. Chiswick has great appeal for young families moving to London; despite its growth in population and commerce, it still retains a village feel with large gardens and charming Arts-and-Crafts-era homes, all of which, added to its modern conveniences, makes Chiswick very family friendly.

It all goes to show that when it comes to finding ideal flats, you shouldn’t just go along with “what’s popular,” as what’s “in” seems to be making its way “out” in favor of massively underrated alternatives. Flats don’t come cheap in any neighborhood, really, but the trade-offs vary and will simply depend on what you prioritize.

 

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Moving to London Shopping Guide

Wednesday June 6th, 2012

Get a moving to London shopping guide when you’re planning your relocation as it could affect where you live. Many people moving to  London don’t factor in the issue of shops and shopping. It’s quite different when you are moving and you may not have a car when you arrive. If you don’t discuss your requirements with your London relocation agents before you arrive, you may end up having to take several forms of public transport to get to the shops each week.

Moving to London Shopping Guide and Transport

If you want to do your shopping in bulk, you may have to have a car to get out to the suburbs. The concept of a super store is not new to the UK, but for the most part they are not found in central London. Your moving to shopping guide will help you decide how close or far you want to live from the shops. Every neighborhood is different. There are however, some neighborhoods that have a range of shops that are within walking distance. You’ll have to factor in all of the aspects that suit your personal preference. Don’t be afraid to tell your relocation agents EXACTLY what you want, not matter how outlandish it sounds. This is a big city and there is a perfect home for you somewhere in the maze of cobbled streets and crowded highways.

Moving to London Neighborhoods

Some of the most popular neighborhoods are also the busiest. If you don’t mind the noise from the high street going on until all hours of the morning then you can look at areas that have a buzzing night life. If you’re looking for a quiet village-like atmosphere then you can find suburbs that cater to your needs. There is no wrong or right neighborhood. There is only your personal preference.

You can also specify if you’d like to live in a modern home or a home that has a more traditional look and feel. Bear in mind that many homes date back to the Victorian era and have been converted into apartments for the modern day city dweller. They are extremely small and often don’t have closets or the space for large appliances. You can though, after your relocation, find some of the modern urban development’s right in the heart of the city that are well appointed and have all of the mod-cons that you’re used to. Use your moving to London shopping guide to help guide your accommodation search; without a car it could be one of the most useful guides that you have when planning your move.

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Moving From America Made Easy

Monday May 28th, 2012

If you’re thinking about moving from America to London, you will realize that it isn’t just the offer of work that draws people from all over the globe to the city. While it is a great addiction to your resume, there is something special about living in a city that embraces the historic, the traditions and the present day with such fervor and flair.

Moving From America Guide

If you’re going to enjoy your time then you need to start out by making your move as easy as possible. The best way to ensure that you enjoy London from day one is to use one of the professional relocation agents that specialize in getting you set up, settled in and sightseeing in under three days. Moving from America doesn’t have to take months of apartment hunting and organization. While it might be nice to spend time scouring for your perfect apartment, the reality of the situation is that people don’t have the time to spend weeks searching the classifieds for a home.

Moving from American Neighborhoods

This is a curious city in that it has a number of different neighborhoods; hundreds of them in fact. Finding one that is going to suit your needs can be challenging if you have no knowledge of the city to start with. Transport is also a big issue affecting people who are moving here. Owning and driving a car is not recommended and figuring out the transport network of tubes, buses, trains and taxis will take up a large part of your time. Finding a home close to work or to the transport network can be organized by a professional relocation services company.

They will also be able to help you with the hassle of renting an apartment as a foreigner and opening a bank account. If you ask nicely, you’ll also find the best pubs in your area, though you may get different opinions! This is a diverse and interesting city, and getting help to get settled when moving from America will leave you more time to explore your new home and have some fun.

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Relocation To London Guide

Thursday May 17th, 2012

When you’re researching your relocation to London guide you’ll quickly realize that this is one of the most diverse cities in the world. England is home to millions of immigrants who have made England and the English way of their life their home. London is a city of travelers and while people do tend to stick together, at least when they arrive here, you’ll soon find that this cultural diversity is what makes London the fascinating city that it is.

Relocation To London Neighborhoods

It does not matter what area you choose to live in, you’ll be able to mix with people from countries all over the world and enjoy learning about different cultures and customs. There are over 300 languages spoken here, this is truly international city. The biggest group of immigrants to London has got to be people of Indian and Bangladeshi origin, followed by the Chinese and the Jamaicans. There are a number of smaller groups of people, and you’ll find a representative of just about every nation on earth. Australians, New Zealanders and South Africans make up a huge percentage of the population of young people living in London.

Relocation To London and Immigrants

The importance of the immigrant population has had a lot to do with the fortunes of the city and making it the city that it is today. You can find flea markets and restaurants as well as shops from different countries; you just need to step out of your new apartment and experience everything that London has to offer. Each neighborhood has something different, something unusual and something interesting to offer. From street festivals from Jamaica to authentic Indian restaurants in the east End, you won’t find anything in London that is traditionally London. Once you’ve visited Buckingham Palace and the Tower of London, it’s time to break out and see the city from the perspective of a Londoner.

Fact: After your relocation, you can call yourself a Londoner, no matter where you come from!

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Americans Moving To London

Friday May 11th, 2012

The first thing you have to remember when you’re planning your relocation to London is that you are moving to a foreign country. Even Americans moving to London find it oddly unsettling to be thrust into the heart of a very different way of life and an unfamiliar city. There are a number of excellent reasons to make use of one of the professional London relocation agents:

Accommodation Tips For Americans Moving to London

Or you may decide that you don’t want to live amid the hustle and bustle of the city, but would prefer something a little quieter. If you’ve never been to London before a professional London relocation services agent will be able to help you decide between a village atmosphere, modern suburbia, or old-school splendor. London has the widest variety of neighborhoods and suburbs and choosing the right one is important to a successful international relocation. Choosing a neighborhood and then a new home is going to be the most important part of your relocation, and if you don’t have a clue as to the differences between Hackney and Hampstead Heath, then you may want to get an expert to advise you.

Americans Moving To London Neighborhoods

The biggest part of finding the right home for Americans is to establish what you want from your neighborhood or community. There is a big difference if you’re moving as a professional ‘singleton’ (Thank you Bridget Jones!) or if you’re moving with your children. You might have to live in a specific neighborhood to be able to get your children into a particular school.

Transport is also going to pay a large part in where you eventually settle. Be sure to tell your relocation agents just how far you’re prepared to commute each day to get to work and back. Americans moving here will find it easy when they have people who know what they’re doing, and more importantly people who know the city. Its’ a massive city and you could do with a little bit of insider information when you are intending on making London your home for a few years.

 

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Moving to London Area Guide

Tuesday May 8th, 2012

Possibly the most important part of moving will be to get yourself  an area guide. Having a small guide to neighborhoods will help you choose your new home. Finding the right area to live is not merely about being close to work, or finding a home in the right area. If you are here for a couple of years then you do not want your moving to London to be characterised by having to move every few months because you do not like the area. A good moving to London area guide will help you gain some more insight into the different residential areas of the city. This city is quirky and each suburb has its own personality, pros, and cons.

Guide To Kensington

Once the stomping ground of the Sloane Rangers, which is not the name of a Gang, although some would consider these urban debutantes somewhat feral at times, this suburb has become one of the most sought after areas, and the price tag on most of the properties is testament to that. This area has some of the best museums and is known for its wide streets as well as the parks and public spaces that offer a Londoner the chance to get away from it all for a while. Interestingly enough, although this is one of the priciest suburbs it is also one of the most culturally diverse, having a large population of Europeans as well as Middle Eastern residents.

Guide To South Kensington

Having an area guide map will give you a good understanding of the different types of neighbourhood. South Kensington is the playground of the uber rich and ‘South Ken’ does not really mind how you got it. Living in South Kensington is like living in the very heart of London, which is why many of the people who work in ‘The City’, which is the financial hub of London choose to live in this area. Shopping is one of the truly stunning activities of this suburb and you will be hard pressed to decide where to go first: haute Couture to hot deals. Antiques to quaint objets. This area of London has it all.

The best thing you can do after you are armed with your moving to London area guide is to spend some time in areas that you like to get a feel for your new home.

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Moving To England For Canadians

Tuesday April 17th, 2012

Moving to England for Canadians can be tricky without the appropriate advice. Something that should be focused on when it comes to relocation will be the area you choose to move to. London is crammed with neighborhoods, each one with features that suit students, families and business people. It is very important to analyze a number of different destinations in the city beforehand because otherwise, you may move to a destination that is not only far away from your workplace, but that doesn’t suit your living circumstances. Bear in mind the following neighborhoods that are a good choice for specific people who want advice on moving to England for Canadians.

Neighborhoods For Students

Any students who want to find out about moving to England for Canadians will need to find a place of residence that is near the place they are studying. Transportation costs can be quite excessive otherwise, plus you may meet friends and be far away from them if you relocate to somewhere else in the city. Some recommended neighborhoods for students will be based in the West London area. Maida Hill, Kensington and Holland Park will be good places for students and if you are traveling alone, you will need to be extra meticulous in your search. Ask a relocation agent for advice on moving to England for Canadians, so that you can choose a neighborhood near your university.

Neighborhoods For Families

Many families travel here to live every year and moving to England for Canadians with large families will be a tricky time. You need to bear in mind your budget, your children’s school, your place of work, what environment you want, etc. Generally the safest neighborhoods in North London will be Southgate, Crouch End and Belsize Park. West London neighborhoods to think about will be Trafalgar Square and Piccadilly Circus, if you want to be in the heart of the action. Families seeking advice on moving to England for Canadians may also want to think about moving to Clapham, which is a very affordable choice.

Neighborhoods For Business People

A reason for moving to England for Canadians will normally be based on work commitments. Canada and London are very far apart on the map meaning that relocation is a big decision and when a job is involved, it is often a no-brainer.  This city is crammed with successful businesses and business people tend to reside in the heart of the city, near Greater London. Ask a relocation agent to show properties within your budget in Greater London when moving to England for Canadians.

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Living in London – What’s the Deal with Charing Cross?

Wednesday March 28th, 2012

When moving to the UK and during your stay living in London you will run across many references to Charing Cross, primarily in relation to distances.  Those expats not current on their British history may need a light refresher to understand the significance of Charing Cross and what it means to those living in London.  The first thing Americans must realize (as frustrating as it may be) is that Charing Cross no longer exists.

Charing Cross, the History

Way back in the thirteenth century King Edward I created the Eleanor Cross for his beloved wife.  The name Charing that eventually the cross became known as refers to a nearby bend in the Thames near the cross’s location.  Bend in old English was ‘cierring’.  Originally the cross was made of wood but during the fourteenth century it was replaced with a marble monument.  In 1645 the cross was replaced with a statue of King Charles I mounted on a horse. In 1865 a replacement cross was created to represent the medieval cross (pieces of the original can be found in the Museum of London) although it stands some 150 ft from the original location of the Charring Cross.

Charing Cross, the Location

In the mid-nineteenth century it was determined that Charring Cross would become the center of London. The actual location refers to the intersection of Strand, Whitehall and Cockspur streets and is just south of Trafalgar Square.  Once it was established as the center point of the city legislation determining city limits began using distance from Charing Cross within its pages.  Since that time people have referred to neighborhoods and sights in terms of their distance from Charing Cross.

Charing Cross, Transportation

Since Charing Cross is the center it is no surprise that a lot of transportation takes place in and around the immediate area.  There is the Charing Cross Railway Station as well as the London Underground Station at Charing Cross.  While here if you ever are lost on the Tube or rail you can always reorient yourself by traveling to Charing Cross.

Living here can be a confusing time for American expats with cockney phrases thrown about and British customs that seem absurd to the level-headed American, but Charing Cross references is one mystery you must not endure.  There are several interesting facts that will make your time while here much easier and we encourage anyone considering living in London to explore as much information about the city as possible.

 

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Finding London Flats in South Kensington

Friday March 23rd, 2012

Once the decision has been made to move and the neighborhood picked out the problem of finding a flat in South Kensington often arises.  With South Kensington one of the most popular places for expats to search for flats it is no surprise that prices are high and availability is low.  Rather than give up on South Ken, though, keep searching London flats for the reward will be living in one of the best neighborhoods.

South Kensington Culture

South Kensington is one of the more affluent neighborhoods full of young and established families of many different cultures.  There are quite a few native Londoners but also interspersed in the well-maintained homes are Americans, Aussies and Asians.  In fact, South Kensington is quite rich in cultural diversity.  The one thing that all of South Kensington has in common is safety.  If you are looking for a safe neighborhood to raise a family look no further than South Kensington.

South Kensington Points of Interest

This is the neighborhood to be in if easy access to museums is a top priority.  Located in South Kensington are the Science Museum, a free and interactive museum dedicated to exploration of all branches of science, The Natural History Museum, another free museum with the mission to advance knowledge of our natural world, the Victoria and Albert Museum, the self proclaimed “world’s greatest museum of art and design.”

South Kensington Luxury

Home to some of the most posh retailers, restaurants and entertainment venues South Kensington is the place to enjoy a day.  Designers like Chanel and Betsy Johnson have shops in South Kensington as well as Lamborghini.  With too many restaurants to count South Kensington is known for some of London’s top dining experiences.  No matter if you live in South Kensington or come simply for the retail therapy you won’t be disappointed. The prices for flats might be higher in South Kensington than in other parts of London but you get what you pay for.  If you have a family that values safe flats great shopping and dining and a beautiful environment to enjoy life, then South Kensington is the right London neighborhood for you.

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Living in London and Easter Eggs

Friday March 23rd, 2012

Everyone enjoys a good Easter egg hunt and this year Americans living in London can participate in a London-wide giant Easter egg hunt with the prize not a bar of chocolate but a Faberge egg valued at £100,000.  Whether you are in the big city alone this spring season or living in London with your family, taking part in the big egg hunt is a great way to meet new friends, learn the city streets and possibly take home a great grand prize.

Fun Egg Facts

The Big Egg Hunt was created by Elephant Family and Action for Children as a great fundraiser for two great causes.  The hunt included 200 eggs designed by artists, designers, architects and even jewelers.  Just getting a chance to view these creative works of art is worth traipsing across the city!

How the Hunt Works

There are twelve zone maps that participants of The Big Egg Hunt can download that will give clues to help find all 200 eggs.  Once located, there will be a word located on the egg that participants can then text to a given number.  Every text will enter the participant in the competition culminating in one winner of the £100,000 Faberge egg.  As if roaming around London in search of giant eggs weren’t enough fun the planners of The Big Egg Hunt are aiming to set a new Guinness World Record for most participants in an egg hunt.  You can only be counted if you text in your keyword.

Visit the Egg Shop

After (or during) locating all the eggs hidden across the city you can buy a wonderful souvenir to keep to always remember the egg hunt. Located in Selfridges on Oxford Street the Egg Shop has miniatures of all the eggs in the hunt as well as many unique and delightful gifts and souvenirs.  Maps are also available for those who forgot them.  All profits from the Egg Shop go to the charities.

We can’t think of any better way for you to learn the streets located in neighborhoods than to participate in The Big Egg Hunt.  Family members of all ages can participate.  Singles an join teams or create their own team.  This is an great way to learn London, be part of history (setting the world record) and have a great time enjoying the outdoors in springtime. You may not have ever though living in London and Easter eggs went together, but now you know they certainly do.

 

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