There are various wonderful places to live in Central London. The atmosphere here is charged with vibrant energy that seems to drive the city’s financial district and solidify its throng of international business operators, workers and clients that move fluently in and out of the Center.

In this portion of the London neighborhoods guide, we will focus on areas in West Central section of the city designated by WC postcodes.

Bloomsbury – This historic district is rife with past and present talent that has spawned written works, art, economical strategies, and more. Those moving to this area will enjoy such treats as the nearby British Museum and British Library as well as various other historical sites and gorgeous parks.

Charing Cross – This neighborhood is considered the exact center of the city and would suit those moving here who like to live close to the heartbeat of the city. Flats can be found on such well known streets as Cockspur, Strand, and Whitehall. Because it is a busy part of Central London, Charing Cross offers quick access to both the Tube and Charing Cross Railway Station.

Chinatown – As you might imagine, Chinatown consists of a mainly Chinese population with the majority of businesses being Chinese owned. However, this is an exciting area to nab a flat as you would be surrounded by an array of shops, cafes, groceries and even Chinese practitioners of medicine.

Covent Garden – One of the city’s most recognized entertainment and cultural areas, Covent Garden offers those living in its embrace a wealth of culturally refined activities. Just minutes away from beautiful homes and flats down elegant cobblestone streets are performances at the Royal Opera House as well as bustling markets, comfy cafes, and more.

Holborn – Situated in the borough of Camden, this legal district is home to a bustling array of lawyers darting back and forth to courtrooms and hearings. London neighborhoods in this area have housed such names as Zadie Smith and Charles Dickens.

Kings Cross – This glamorous section of the city’s center contains a cultural mix of residents, trendy shops and delicious restaurants. The area’s beautiful London neighborhoods are in high demand and are enjoyed by those who find housing here.

Strand – This is another one of the historic London neighborhoods that was built around an old Roman road that ran from old London to Chiswick. Various theaters such as the original Theatre in the Strand, Savoy, Adelphi, and Vaudeville offer residents continuous entertainment.

Come back for more posts from the London neighborhoods guide on select places to search for houses and flats to call home when you relocate to this magnificent city.

The Easter season is upon us and most people just go through the celebratory motions without really giving any thought to where the roots of the traditions stem from. If you will soon be relocating to London, or have already completed a recent relocation, you might find it both interesting and entertaining to know where some of the most common London Easter traditions have their beginnings.

Prior to Easter

Forty-seven days before Easter arrives, people begin celebrating at what is known as Shrove Tuesday in London. This Tuesday falls the day before Lent and is called Fat Tuesday in many other countries. Lent is a period of fasting up to Easter Sunday so everyone lives it up the day before (Shrove Tuesday) and consumes all the things that they will be giving up during that time.

Shrove Tuesday is also known as Pancake Day. Pancakes are made in homes and the tradition has spread to many restaurants and other public venues. The reason pancakes were chosen to represent Shrove Tuesday is because this gives families that fast during Lent a means to use up eggs, butter and sugar.

Lent stems from the 40 days that Jesus spent fasting in the wilderness and is also known as Ash Wednesday. It is called Ash Wednesday because churches traditionally place a cross on the foreheads of worshippers using ashes. The ashes represent repentance and placing a cross of ashes on the forehead is a sign to everyone else that the person has dedicated themselves to fasting like Jesus until Easter arrives.

Whether you participate in the Easter celebration of Lent or not, those relocating to London will enjoy the melodious choirs performing at Westminster Abbey, St Paul’s Cathedral, and other large worship centers located throughout the city during Holy Week before Easter Sunday.

During Easter

What most people don’t know is that Easter comes from the ancient name of the goddess Eostre. Mythology tells of Eostre turning a wounded bird into a hare in order for it to survive the cold weather that was approaching. However, the hare could still lay eggs which it would paint and leave as a spring offering to Eostre for her help.  This is where the Easter bunny and colored eggs come from.

Baking and eating hot cross buns is another tradition that those relocating to London can enjoy. As the story goes, the tradition of hot cross buns began in the 16^th century and they were supposed to have magical properties when baked on Good Friday. They were actually banned by the Queen for a period of time.

Easter Sunday is the official ending of the Lent fast and so heaps of food (usually roast), pastries and chocolates are consumed. If relocating to London before Easter Sunday, be sure to attend the London Harness Horse Parade that proceeds from Kings Cross to Hayward Heath. You will thoroughly enjoy the uniforms, antique horse-drawn vehicles, and other rarities presented in full blown show.

Those relocating to London with children will enjoy the Easter Skate Eggstravaganza which allows kids to dress up in Easter costumes for skating and treasure hunts. Cambridge and Oxford schools also hold their famous Boat Race each year on Easter.

If you require assistance relocating to London, contact London Relocation today!

London is a beautiful and alluring city that draws thousands of new people every year. However, rent can be expensive and above the means for many people, especially students. Those who plan to relocate to London and fit into this category have the option of sharing flats in London with others who are seeking people with whom to share expenses.

If this sounds like an attractive option for you then there are some things you should consider before agreeing to move into flats in London with flatmates. Keep in mind, it’s not easy living with other people and various items need to be shared and guidelines followed for a smooth living arrangement.

Following are some items to place at the top of your flatmate-hunting list.

Consider the Type of Dwelling

Before you even think about whether or not you are compatible with your flatmates, you should consider the type of dwelling they are inviting you to live in. Besides flats in London, there are also rentable townhouses and traditional houses.

Although landlords normally take care of broken plumbing, malfunctioning air conditioners and refrigerators, etc, townhouses and traditional houses can have different chores for which tenants are responsible. Find out if there are lawns to mow, gardens to maintain, snow to shovel, and other duties in which you may be asked to share.

Consider All the Expenses

There are various expenses associated with leasing flats in London besides rent. Yes, you want to find out what your portion of the rent will be, but you also want to ask about other expenses.

Find out if you have to pitch in on the deposit and how much will be your share of the electricity, telephone, gas, etc. You should also ask if such expenses as telephone, internet, Pay TV, etc are shared or are on a user-only basis. You might also want to ask how such community items such as toilet paper, light bulbs, laundry detergent, etc are going to be resupplied.

Consider How Chores Are Divided

Living in flats in London constitutes more than dwelling and sleeping. There are various chores which have to be completed. Flats get dirty and need to be cleaned, dishes need washed, toilets and bathtubs need scrubbed, and more.

You should check with your potential flatmates on how such chores are tackled. Is everyone responsible for their own tidying, or does each flatmate have particular days to complete chores?

Consider the House Rules

Again, it’s not easy living with one or more other people. Therefore, you should try to find out about the other people you will be living in flats in London with. If they are partiers and you want to dedicate your time to studying then those attributes could collide and cause problems.

One roundabout way to find out such things is to inquire about the house rules. Ask about how shared living space, computer, telephone times are divvied up, what the rules are for inviting friends over, how late does everyone stay up, etc. You should also establish the guidelines for serving your notice to vacate flats in London.

Brits are a fun loving bunch, always looking for a new way to add a little competitive spirit to just about any activity. If you’re relocating to London from the United States or other non-British culture, you will surely enjoy playing some of the following sports that are “simply British”. There should be plenty of opportunities for playing such sports located near available London flats and London apartments for rent.

Darts

In the UK, the pub is a happy place to hang out, drink a good ale (or 10) and socialize with mates. However, according to British style, you can’t just sit on a stool. No sir, you also have to create some sort of fun competition to go with your lager pastime.

Darts happen to be a popular way to temp competitors into buying more drinks (Brits are good dart throwers so beware!). It’s not only bull’s eye darts either. You can indulge in Cricket where you have to clear a set of numbers, or Shanghai in which you have to complete all numbers in 20 shots (of a dart, that is).

Eating Contests

Leave it to the Brits to make wolfing down good food a competitive sport. Of course, Americans have picked this one up too so those moving to London from the U.S. won’t have too much of a disadvantage.

The contest usually entails gobbling down one kind of food (ribs, pies, etc) in the fastest possible time. Some businesses have successfully used this “sport” as a good marketing tool. For example, the Red Dog Saloon challenges anyone to devour their Devastator Burger in less than 10 minutes to get it for free. Sound easy? Think again. The monster contains 200 grams of pulled pork, three all-meat patties, and six each of bacon strips and cheese slices.

Snooker

Mostly found in pubs nowadays, snooker used to be a gentleman’s game and is much like pool only horribly different. The game consists of 15 red balls and six colored balls. The objective is to first drop a red ball and then a colored ball. The other balls act to block or “snooker” shots. Oh yes, and the pockets are much narrower than a standard pool table. Enjoy!

Skittles

No, it’s not the colorful candy, but a game similar to bowling. Big difference is that instead of using a ball, Londoners use a cheese-shaped hardwood wedge to throw at the pins.

The objective is to knock down all nine pins in the least number of throws. Might sound kind of “cheesy”, but it’s a lot of fun. Go ahead, throw the cheese!

Petanque

Another bowling-like game is this French version called Petanque. Only instead of rolling balls, you throw them. And instead of throwing at pins, you pitch large metal balls at one small ball called a “jack”. Hmm not really like bowling at all.

This game can be played practically anywhere and two teams consist of between two to six competitors. If you find housing in London close to Hay’s Galleria or Parliament Hill, you can visit pitches there.

Contact London estate agents such as those at London Relocation Services to assist you with finding London rentals. And be sure to ask your relocation consultant where the best places are located nearby so you can partake in some of these fun British games!

London is an exciting town, mainly because it is the largest city in Europe and is rife with history and British charm. The city’s allure is multiplied immensely for students moving to London to attend one of the grand universities and choice schools.

However, such a move can also cause a great deal of anxiety and stress if you have never visited the UK capital before. The city can be quite confusing to navigate and if you don’t do at least some research before striking out for your student adventure, you will miss unlocking many of the city’s rich secrets.

To help you along, here are some important basics to know before making your move to London.

Getting Around

Although learning the transportation systems can be a bit confusing and intimidating at first, once you get the hang of them then moving around the city becomes loads easier. UK’s capital has very organized bus and underground rail systems that will zip you to and from your favorite places.

The London Underground, or Tube as it’s usually called, is best to use if you are going long distances. However, buses run service to stops more frequently and they are a great way to see the city, especially on the famous double-deckers. You should definitely avoid the Tube during rush hours.

You could also walk or bicycle your way around which are other favorite ways of travelling short distances when the weather permits. Bicycle rental stations are located across the city where you can obtain or leave a bike and walking maps can be purchased.

It is advisable that when you first arrive in the city you purchase an 18+ Student Oyster Card. This is used to pay for all modes of public transportation. This card has several valuable advantages. It provides discounts, allows you to bypass busy ticket counters, and prevents you from having to fumble through a pile of coins.

Where to Stay

Most students choose to stay on campus at provided intercollegiate halls. However, some schools don’t offer this option, or you just may want to increase your adventure by staying in London flats for rent.

This may not be a financially feasible option alone, but many students advertise for mates to stay with them in apartments or flats. By splitting the rent with flat-mates, you can live off campus and get to know the city more intimately.

Part-time Work

There are generally plenty of part-time jobs available for students relocating to London. They are more abundant around the holidays or during the summer. The most abundant and best part-time jobs for students are usually found in the sectors addressing hospitality, tourism, or catering.

Use a Consultant

Another way of reducing the stress of moving to London is to employ the assistance of a relocation consultant. Such a person will help you get everything set up before your arrival, such as providing proper visas and locating flat options, and also assist you with learning important details about transportation, famous landmarks, cultural differences, and much more.

The better you prepare for your London relocation, the easier it will be to adjust and relax so that you can enjoy your student adventure!

The borough of Islington is a desirable choice for those moving to London. It is conveniently located in the central portion of the city which means you have access to various businesses and shopping areas, loads of transportation options, fast access to practically any service required, and yet you can buy or rent Islington apartments or homes in neighborhoods graced by Victorian-style houses surrounded by trees, shrubs and flowers.

From Islington apartments, you can enjoy a variety of antique and furniture shops, clothing stores and cafes. Several fun theatres such as The King’s Head, Almeida, Little Angel, and Hen and Chickens provide year-round entertainment as do various museums. Arsenal Football fans will appreciate watching their favorite team take on rivals at their home field of Emirates Stadium which is also located in Islington.

Islington Park provides a relaxing oasis away from the bustle of the busy city. Throsby Creek winds its lazy way through the park which contains a beautiful walkway lined with thriving fig trees. Islington Park is a favorite getaway of those who enjoy cycling, jogging, and family outings. It also contains a fabulous leash-free area where dogs can get plenty of exercise.

A great selection of fine dining establishments will keep your palate happy. Turkish cuisine can be found at Antepliler and Gallipoli Again, fantastic French food is served up at Almeida and Morgan M, Byron’s provides tasty burgers and fries in true Yank-style, and various British tastes can be experienced at S&M Café or such gastropubs as Charles Lamb, The Drapers Arm, Public House, Duke of Cambridge, or the Compass.

You will also enjoy an exciting nightlife in Islington for those evenings away from the stresses of work where communing with friends is at the top of the list. Slip out of Islington apartments and head to nearby gathering spots to enjoy the European atmosphere of Colebrooks, the trendy Anam bar, the bright, spacious All Bar One gastrobar, and many more. Dancing can be found at the antique-packed surroundings of The Old Queen’s Head, the fun Embassy DJ Bar, the multi-leveled Chapel Bar with Turbosound, and the O2 Academy with live bands.

For those relocating to London to gain an education, or are involved in a corporate relocation and have children, Islington also offers numerous educational selections. Universities include London Metropolitan University and City University. Available colleges are Westminster Kingsway and City and Islington (Candi). There are almost 50 primary schools and a dozen secondary schools to choose from for younger children as well as three specialized schools in Islington.

One of the top priorities of London relocation is to find adequate housing. Normally, “adequate” includes numerous important factors such as affordability (right price), safety (good neighborhood), accessibility (transportation, shopping, and other nearby hubs), and convenience (close proximity to work, university, etc). If you can’t meet these basic housing requirements then you will spend more money on higher rent and transportation, or add higher risk to getting robbed or assaulted.

Where, Oh Where, Do I Live?

There are 33 boroughs that make up the capital. Some are geared more towards the upper end (Kensington & Chelsea) while others rank lower and contain dodgy areas that probably should be avoided (parts of Hackney). With so many districts covering so much territory, it can be somewhat overwhelming for a newcomer to locate and choose London apartments for rent.

First of all, you should keep in mind that rent prices in the city rank as some of the highest compared with other cities of the world. Of course, that makes finding less expensive London flats or apartments an even higher priority. Even if you are contemplating buying London property, you will find that house prices are also quite high in comparison to other major cities.

Picking Price and Property Type

What you pay in rent for housing in London depends on one major factor, location. Generally speaking, rent is higher in the Center and eastern section since these are the most developed and house the majority of corporate bases. However, the trend has been moving towards the West and Northwest sections, especially since the 2008 financial crisis which has caused a downturn in the once dominating financial sections.

There are two types of rental classifications: 1) Private rentals which consist of an individual landlord or company that owns apartments and rents them out to tenants or 2) Owner-occupied rentals which consist of apartments of London flats for rent by the owner who lives in the building or house. Newcomers can often get better deals on owner-occupied rentals since there is less overhead expense.

Another housing option is in housesharing or flatsharing. These are available when people who already rent apartments or flats want to acquire a roommate to help share expenses. This is usually a much cheaper means of obtaining housing for the newcomer since expenses are split between two or more people. This choice often allows you to live in much nicer areas that would be out of reach financially if you only rented by yourself.

Hire a Relocation Consultant

Due to the vast amount of uncertainties, it is advisable for newcomers to acquire the help of a company that specializes in London relocation assistance. Consultants of such companies know the areas, are privy to the going rental rates, and have the means to negotiate good deals.

Relocation consultants can also help newcomers with a variety of other tasks such as shipping items, obtaining the correct paperwork, providing information on transportation, culture, jobs market, etc. Consultants will provide everything necessary to ensure that those moving to London are set up in a new home and quickly integrated into their new society