Posts Tagged ‘London Relocation Services’
Monday, December 19th, 2011
Author: Colleen
If you’re making an international relocation to London, I’m making your London move more festive with my second annual London Relocation Twelve Days of Christmas! Carrying on from yesterday, the next line in the original is: “On the sixth day of Christmas, my true love gave to me six geese a-laying.”
Please join me in now singing our London Christmas carol:
When they become a nuisance, their goose is really cooked - London Relocation Services - Image via Wikipedia
“On the sixth day of Christmas, London gave to me…
SHOT GEESE FILETING…”
I know, that sounds really morbid, doesn’t it…but it’s a reality in the UK where the flocks of Canadian geese have become a nuisance—wreaking havoc among crops and soiling public places with their abundant and toxic excrement. These little buggers were first introduced to England in 1665 by King Charles II as an exotic and ornamental new species (gee, thanks, Champ), and, in London, you can readily spot them in pond locations like St. James’s Park and Hyde Park, congregating among the many other species of waterfowl. Hunting is one mode of pest control, but at present I believe it’s still illegal to actually sell Canadian goose meat in markets, stores, and restaurants. This could change soon, though, if it hasn’t already (top chefs are highly recommending it), but you can still shoot and cook up your own if you like—hunting them is legal between September and February and at other times of year IF they’re legitimately destructive to one’s crops in the countryside. Aim for the head. And read this Daily Mail article if interested in more info on this phenomenon and cuisine ideas for servin’ ‘em up: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/femail/article-2022964/Canada-geese-overrun-parks-Top-chefs-answer-turn-dinner.html. Perhaps one of the more random facts I could share with you about an international relocation to London. 
Now, to continue our caroling:
“…five Olympic rings!
More calling plans,
pretty fresh hens,
sea turtle tanks,
and a cartridge to hunt in country.”
Tags: christmas in london, international relocation, london apartments, London Relocation, london relocation agents, london relocation companies, London Relocation Services, Moving to London, office relocation London, relocation company, relocation in london, Relocation service, rent london, twelve days of christmas
Posted in Moving to London: Tips & Culture | 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 »
Sunday, December 18th, 2011
Author: Colleen
I interrupt my regularly scheduled Weekend Warrior Sunday to continue our London Relocation version of “The Twelve Days of Christmas” in the hopes it makes your London move more festive. The next line in the original is: “On the fifth day of Christmas, my true love gave to me five golden rings.”
Please join me in now singing our London Christmas carol:
London 2012 Olympic Games - London Relocation Services - Image via Wikipedia
“On the fifth day of Christmas, London gave to me…
FIVE OLYMPIC RINGS!!!”
I know, I know…if you followed last year’s London Relocation Twelve Days of Christmas, you know that I already used this one. But c’mon—it’s the Olympics! In London! Just a few months from now!! And it’s really too perfect given the five-ring symbolism and the gold (medals) to be awarded, so there you have it. There have also been so many strides made over the course of the last year to make these games really happen. London’s east side has been transformed with the new Olympic Park, bringing new commerce and London apartments to the area that will have a lasting impact on this city’s landscape. It’s a whole new neighborhood in which to live in London in a historically underdeveloped area, so that’s exciting.
While many of the events like Athletics will be held in that part of town within nine different venues, the whole city will be involved in the 2012 Games as certain events are parceled out throughout town. If you’re moving to London in advance of the Olympics, have a wander around to visit these privileged sites before the crowds descend. Actually, on my flight home for Christmas, I read an article about it in BA Highlife magazine—in May, September, and the following August in 2013, there will be a London Stadia Trekathon covering twenty-six miles of Olympic sites that you could surely do on your own if motivated! Check it out here: http://www.bahighlife.com/UK/High-Life-tests-the-London-Stadia-Trekathon.html
If you’re making your relocation to London in the next few months, you’ll be in for a crazy experience of the city while it’s the center of global attention, but how exciting to be a part of it!
Now, to continue our caroling:
“…more calling plans,
pretty fresh hens,
sea turtle tanks,
and a cartridge to hunt in country.”
Tags: christmas in london, international relocation, london apartments, London Relocation, london relocation agents, london relocation companies, London Relocation Services, Moving to London, office relocation London, relocation company, relocation in london, Relocation service, rent london, twelve days of christmas
Posted in International Relocation | 5 Comments »
Sunday, December 18th, 2011
Relocation to London – The Importance of Visiting London Before the Move, Image via Wikipedia
For those moving to London and in the market for a house it would be in their best interest to fly out to London for as long as possible before the move and physically look for a home best suited to their family’s needs. Scouting for homes over the internet certainly helps to see what’s available as well as possibly helping to narrow down one’s list, but it can’t compare to seeing and touching a potential home. A home may look good in pictures, but only by seeing, touching and smelling it can guarantee it’s the right one.
Giving a future home a pre-move visit can also serve another function. It’s also an opportunity to experience the layout and determine what needs to be done before international relocation. It, also, might shed light on issues one hadn’t considered when first thinking about moving. Of particular importance to those with a family is coming over for an early visit and taking the chance to ask for firsthand advice on what schools are available for your kids and touring those.
A pre-move visit is doubly important for anyone who has never been through an international relocation, knows nothing about London and moving to London and needs to become familiar with transportation options and the city layout. By finding a home in person those moving to London can work closely with London relocation agents to discover where the nearest places (to one’s new home) are for offering everything a family may need from general grocery items to doctors and a library.
True, these things might seem trivial when sitting in one’s cozy home in the States, but after moving to London one will wish they had investigated prior to the international relocation. With so much to do after the plane touches down Americans moving to London should do everything in their power to visit their new city before the big move to ensure a smooth international relocation.
International relocation and London relocation services can be a seemingly complicated affair, akin to a military undertaking. In that respect, families will want to have planned for every eventuality and an earlier visit before moving to London can only help in that planning.
Tags: Americans moving to London, international relocation, London, london relocation agents, London Relocation Services, Moving to London, relocation to london
Posted in Americans Moving to London, Moving to London: Tips & Culture, Relocation to London, Relocation to London With Family, Rent in London: London Apartment Tips | No Comments »
Saturday, December 17th, 2011
Author: Colleen
Continuing on with our London Relocation version of “The Twelve Days of Christmas” to make your international relocation festive, the next line in the original is: “On the fourth day of Christmas, my true love gave to me four calling birds.”
Expat phone home - London Relocation Services - Image via Wikipedia
Please join me in now singing our London Christmas carol:
“On the fourth day of Christmas, London gave to me…
MORE CALLING PLANS…”
When you settle into your new London apartment rental, your London Relocation agent will refer you to various service providers for setting up your utilities. As a preview for phone services, here’s a smattering of calling options. Internet calling services like Skype, for one, are very inexpensive for calling home long-distance. Mobile phones in the UK are also a lot more flexible in their offerings than cell phone plans in the States that lock you in for eternity—service contracts can be at least six months shorter than their U.S. counterparts, and phones aren’t locked to one provider, so interchangeable SIM cards allow you to switch services without paying for a new phone, too. Four major mobile phone operators in the UK are Vodafone, T-Mobile, O2, and Orange, and Carphone Warehouse is a good place to make comparisons and purchase phones and services (online and in-store). Finally, though many expats only temporarily relocating to London might bypass a landline phone, if you prefer one, five major landline phone operators in the UK are Virgin, BT, TalkTalk, Vonage, and Primus. The major UK TV subscription services like Sky, Virgin Media, and British Telecom (BT) offer cable, internet, and phone bundles for savings, and online resources like HomePhoneChoices and uSwitch are available for making comparisons. It’s one more thing to think about for a relocation to London, but something your London Relocation agent can certainly assist with!
And now, to continue caroling:
“…pretty fresh hens,
sea turtle tanks,
and a cartridge to hunt in country.”
Tags: christmas in london, international relocation, london apartments, London Relocation, london relocation agents, london relocation companies, London Relocation Services, Moving to London, office relocation London, relocation company, relocation in london, Relocation service, rent london, twelve days of christmas
Posted in Moving to London: Tips & Culture, Relocating to UK: Visas, Banking, & Other Logisitical Issues | 3 Comments »
Friday, December 16th, 2011
Author: Colleen
Continuing on with our London Relocation version of “The Twelve Days of Christmas” to make your international relocation to London festive, the next line in the original is: “On the third day of Christmas, my true love gave to me three French hens.”
Please join me in now singing our London Christmas carol:
“On the third day of Christmas, London gave to me…
PRETTY FRESH HENS…”
The UK Hen Do - London Relocation Services
I don’t mean poultry, although there are often feathers involved. I’m referring to the human species of female that dolls up in crazy and/or slutty fancy dress and steps out with her bride-to-be pal and their pack of flashy kindred spirits. You probably know this best as a “bachelorette party,” but here in Britain, it’s called a “hen do.” The male bachelor party equivalent is the “stag do.” Whichever “do” you’re doin’, you can expect to do it big. They’re pretty entertaining to encounter, although I haven’t yet seen the hens outdo the stags where outrageous humiliation of the guest-of-honor is concerned. I’ve heard of a London stag do that entailed shaving half the groom’s body (half his head and one eyebrow included) and sending him passed out on a train up north to Scotland. Or slipping Viagra in the groom’s pint and having him wrestle women in bikinis in a baby pool of KY jelly. And they always entail a costume….be it a Mexican wrestler, ballerina, race car driver (“The Stag” versus “The Stig” from Top Gear), whatever, as long as it’s conducive to mooning later on (if you watch the TV documentaries Booze Britain or Boozed up Brits Abroad, you’ll know exactly what I’m talking about). I’d say the ladies approach it all a bit more civilized, but the Kaiser Chiefs “Angry Mob” video implies otherwise: www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Z5kEqRFPwo.
If you’re looking for hen party ideas after your move to London, there are plenty of websites like www.henheaven.co.uk, www.gohen.com, www.hennites.co.uk, or www.thestagandhencompany.co.uk. On second thought, maybe you should just play it safe stay nestled inside your new London apartment. 
And now, to continue caroling:
“…sea turtle tanks,
and a cartridge to hunt in country.”
Tags: christmas in london, international relocation, london apartments, London Relocation, london relocation agents, london relocation companies, London Relocation Services, Moving to London, office relocation London, relocation company, relocation in london, Relocation service, rent london, twelve days of christmas
Posted in London Language Barriers, Moving to London: Tips & Culture | 1 Comment »
Friday, December 16th, 2011
One of the first things Americans moving to London need to do after unpacking is find a neighborhood pub where they can go for a pint and an evening out. They could even go so far as to ask their London relocation services company to recommend a few pubs in the area that they have moved. Pub life, and being part of the pub life, is all a part of moving to London and immersing oneself in the culture, quirks and charms of this fascinating city.
Most people have a pint during their lunch hour, and then again after work with colleagues, and then again with mates close to home. Ostensibly, one can carry on drinking and visiting pubs from 11 am until shutting time. It’s great fun, and by learning how to pace oneself stumbling out of the pub at closing time and rolling home wont’ happen.
Is a pint a beer?
Generally speaking, yes, except that beer in England is usually called bitter. This is the most popular alcoholic drink in the United Kingdom and is served in pint glasses. The biggest difference in beer that those moving to London is the temperature at which it is served. Beer, or bitter, in England is served just below room temperature which is completely opposite to the ice cold beer served in the states. Ale is served at room temperature in England and is a beer that has not been carbonated and is made from barley and hops.
The other big difference is the amount of alcohol found in each pint. There is a reason that beer is not served in pitchers over here. Beware! Americans moving to London will not be able to consume as much as they did back home, and if they try the landlord will be rolling them out of the pub!
Pub life is very much a part of English culture, tradition and history. While those new to the country because of international relocation don’t want to be spending every night down the pub, they will find that visiting a local pub is one of the best ways of meeting people and making friends as part of relocation to London.
Tags: Americans moving to London, Beer, international relocation, London, London Relocation Services, Moving to London, relocation to london
Posted in Living in London, London Food & Beverage, London Recreation, Moving to London: Tips & Culture, Relocation to London | No Comments »
Friday, December 16th, 2011
A family’s relocation to London will only be complete once they have found a flat or apartment to rent for the duration of their stay. Regardless of the length of stay when moving to London Americans should plan their move with the help of a professional London relocation services company. It’s the only way to get it done efficiently, quickly and with the least amount of stress.
Finding an apartment can be stressful in London and for those who don’t know the city, and are a foreigner, the international relocation adventure will quickly turn into a nightmare. The rental industry in London is highly competitive, so those going it alone are going to have to be prepared to move fast on any rentals that become available. Many properties in London are owned by individuals and advertised privately or through an estate agent. It is important to find an estate agent who is prepared to deal with an international relocation before starting the process.
Having an estate agent on one’s side who is experienced in the process of relocation to London could be the difference between a smooth transition and a bumpy road ahead. It might seem a bit more expensive to use London relocation agents but families who are still looking for a suitable flat three months after an arrival will wish that they’d hired a professional from the start.
Renters in London need to be prepared to pay a deposit and the first month’s rent upon signing the lease. It is important that Americans moving to London make sure they have the funds immediately available because there will be a crowd close on their heels waiting to snap up their newly found perfect pad if there is a delay.
Smart families preparing for an international relocation begin looking at prices of London flats before they arrive. To avoid embarrassing miscommunication, those moving to London need to be aware that most London flats are advertised with a weekly rate and not monthly. To determine how much the rent will be per month multiply the weekly rent by 52 and divide it by 12 to get a final figure.
Dealing with estate agents in a foreign country can be a challenge, even if everyone speaks the same language. It’s always wise to take advice from people like London relocation agents who have lots of experience working with Americans and understand all the needs included in a relocation to London.
Tags: Americans moving to London, Apartment, international relocation, London, london relocation agents, London Relocation Services, Moving to London, relocation to london, Renting
Posted in International Relocation, Living in London, Moving to London: Tips & Culture, Relocation to London, Relocation to London With Family, Rent in London: London Apartment Tips | No Comments »
Thursday, December 15th, 2011
Author: Colleen
Continuing on with our London Relocation version of “The Twelve Days of Christmas” to make your London move festive, the next line in the original is: “On the second day of Christmas, my true love gave to me two turtle doves.”
London sea turtles - London Relocation Services - Image by Getty Images via @daylife
Please join me in now singing our London Christmas carol:
“On the second day of Christmas, London gave to me…
SEA TURTLE TANKS…”
If you’re relocating to London with a family, the SEA LIFE London Aquarium is a must-”sea” for certain! Located across the river from Westminster and right next door to the famous London Eye, London’s aquarium featured in a scene between Julia Roberts and Clive Owen in the film Closer and with good reason—it is visually stunning with its massive tanks that span an entire wall. Sea turtles mellow out there along with twelve species of sharks and five hundred species of fish and other marine life; it’s one of Europe’s largest collections, in fact. If you’re making your international relocation in time for the holidays and moving to London with kids in particular, take them to see Father Fishmas in his icy grotto. Afterwards, you can stroll further down the South Bank to visit its Christmas market and carousel.
And now, to continue caroling:
“…and a cartridge to hunt in country.”
Tags: christmas in london, international relocation, london apartments, London Relocation, london relocation agents, london relocation companies, London Relocation Services, Moving to London, office relocation London, relocation company, relocation in london, Relocation service, rent london, twelve days of christmas
Posted in Moving to London: London Sightseeing, Moving to London: Tips & Culture | 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 »
Wednesday, December 14th, 2011
Author: Colleen
If you’re relocating to London in time for the holidays, there’s no end of merriment available here to keep your spirits bright. As for me, I’m jingling all the way home from London to Chicago today for the holidays! This is my fourth time doing so since moving to London in 2008.
As you search for your London apartment with your London Relocation agent and work to get settled in, these upcoming days will no doubt be busy for all of us, so I thought I’d keep things in the holiday spirit by “singing” a Christmas carol to you—because it’s back for a second year, baby! London Relocation‘s very own “The Twelve Days of Christmas“! Let me preface by explaining that, yes, I know the original song represents the days between Christmas and the Epiphany on 6 January. For our purposes here, though, it’ll serve more as an expat countdown, from now until Christmas Day.
To review the original verse: “On the first day of Christmas, my true love gave to me a partridge in a pear tree.”
Image by Getty Images via @daylife
And now for mine *ahem*:
“On the first day of Christmas, London gave to me…
a CARTRIDGE to hunt in country…”
* * *
As in gun cartridge. (Festive isn’t it?) It isn’t a custom relegated to royalty or the past—the traditional images that British hunting evoke of foxes and hounds are certainly still going strong today. It’s true, however, that fox hunting has become controversial in the UK, and killing foxes with dogs is illegal as of a few years ago. Hunters are still allowed, though, to exercise their hounds and use them for tracking scents and flushing foxes out of hiding places. Fox hunting in particular is part of the Boxing Day tradition, which is coming up the day after Christmas. Apparently in Britain, “hunting” typically refers to this type of hunting with hounds for fox, hare, or stag, whereas those using guns are called “shooters” or “guns,” not hunters. Hunting for game or fowl here serves many purposes, be it pest control, providing food, or good ol’ camaraderie. You might picture old gentlemen of the Gosford Park variety heading out into the rolling hills beyond their grand estates, but it’s something quite a few younger folks and those of modest means partake in as an excuse for getting up with the dawn and taking in some fresh air, bonding, and definitely day-drinking. It’s no stereotype to do so in your tweeds, Wellies, and Barbour jacket, and if it’s a formal shoot, a collar and tie are essential. To shoot in Britain, it’s advised that you join the British Association for Shooting and Conservation. And if you’re not feeling partial to hunting animals, per se, but are keen to wield a shotgun, try clay-pigeon shooting! (I discussed my experience doing so last year in my post, “Plot, Sikhs, & Two Smoking Barrels“). It’s all in the spirit of British tradition and getting outside your London apartment rental for some rural adventure.
Tags: christmas in london, international relocation, london apartments, London Relocation, london relocation agents, london relocation companies, London Relocation Services, Moving to London, office relocation London, relocation company, relocation in london, Relocation service, rent london, twelve days of christmas
Posted in Moving to London: Tips & Culture | 1 Comment »
Wednesday, December 14th, 2011
Americans moving to London often ask London relocation agents what Boxing Day is all about considering the US does not observe the holiday. Whereas the origin of the day is a little murky the day has been a British traditional holiday since the mid nineteenth century. Boxing Day, December 26th, is also the Feast of St. Stephen which many consider to be the origin of the holiday although today it is considered a secular holiday.
One theory is that the name of the holiday originated from the practice of collecting items for the needy in boxes beginning during the Middle Ages. Even further back in history was the practice of churches collecting goods in metal boxes during the Feast of St. Stephen. In 1871 England officially added Boxing Day as a Bank Holiday (official nationally celebrated holiday).
Today, Boxing Day is a day for shopping. Americans in London due to corporate relocation compare it to the US’s black Friday, the day after Thanksgiving. December 26th, the day after Christmas is when most British retailers hope to draw extraordinary crowds with giant savings. With the day being a Bank Holiday most people are not working and have the ability to shop.
Americans moving to London during the holiday season often feel overwhelmed. Since most London relocation services recommend bringing only essential items from the states there is much to buy once a family is settled. Boxing Day is a perfect day for American families to venture out into London’s shops to grab great steals on all kinds of products.
Much like in the states most retailers have begun offering Boxing Day specials for an entire week rather than just on Boxing Day in an effort to reduce the crowds at retailers across the country. Crowds got to be such a problem that many were injured or killed vying for the perfect item at a perfect price. Cyber Boxing Day has also risen in popularity over the past several years. Cyber Boxing Day is the British equivalent of Cyber Monday in the states and many British stores have amped up their advertising to draw higher sales via the internet and online shopping further reducing overcrowding in stores.
Even though it can be intimidating to navigate a crowd on Boxing Day, Americans who find themselves living in London due to international relocation should embrace their new culture and join the ranks in shops and stores across the city.
Tags: Americans moving to London, bank holiday, boxing day, corporate relocation, international relocation, london relocation agents, London Relocation Services, Relocation to England
Posted in Living in London, London Recreation, Relocation to London, Shopping in London Places | No Comments »
Tuesday, December 13th, 2011
Author: Colleen
2011 was a year of global media attention for London - London Relocation Services - Image via Wikipedia
If you haven’t yet confirmed when you’re moving to London, you missed quite an eventful year here. 2011 was certainly a year that channeled global attention toward the UK. We had the Royal Wedding, of course, in spring, when Prince William and Kate Middleton exchanged their vows and ushered in a modern era for Britain’s royalty. It wasn’t all festive pomp and circumstance, however. July saw Murdoch take a cream pie to the face while on trial for News of the World‘s flagrant abuse of privacy, and soon after was the passing of London’s own Amy Winehouse, giving silence to an incredibly talented and unique voice. In the wake of last year’s student protests over tuition, London’s streets experienced yet more controversy and violence as looters rioted in August. And, following “Occupy Wall Street”‘s lead, protesters have been camping out in front of St. Paul’s Cathedral since autumn. Prime Minister David Cameron also shocked the world (and his own coalition partner) when he used his veto to block a revised EU treaty as the euro stares down potential demise.
It’s no question it’s been a rocky year for the entire world, but I promise you the experience of living in London hasn’t felt all gloom and doom if you’re planning an international relocation in 2012. Morale is still good here overall, and with the city’s constant events and thriving shops and venues, you’d never know there was a global recession going on. “Keep Calm and Carry On” was Britain’s motto during WWII; a country that has seen much devastation in its history knows how to keep perspective and chin-up through thick and thin. And the New Year holds much promise as London prepares to re-enter the world’s center stage as host to the 2012 Summer Olympic Games! June will also see the major celebration of the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee recognizing her 60 years of reign. Where will YOU be when London yet again consumes the media? Hopefully on your way here or already settled into your London apartment—contact a London Relocation agent to start your bright new year TODAY!
Tags: Amy Winehouse, international relocation, Kate Middleton, london apartments, London Relocation, london relocation agents, london relocation companies, London Relocation Services, Moving to London, office relocation London, relocation company, relocation in london, Relocation service, rent london
Posted in Relocation to London | 1 Comment »
Tuesday, December 13th, 2011
Americans moving to London can’t help but have a preconceived notion that it’s always the rainy season in all of England. As qualified London relocation agents will inform Americans moving to London this is nothing more than a stereotype. London’s climate can be compared to that of .the Northeast United States, and unlike it’s portrayed in many films (made by foreigners) it’s not always dark and rainy. Those who have already finished their relocation to London should already have figured as much.
This is not to say that one should not be prepared. Americans moving to London may want some particulars as to what to do to prepare themselves for the eventual rain which will fall in all seasons.
There is only one thing to remember when moving to London, and rest assured it may become the single most important item in a wardrobe and home. Once commuting about London begins one will notice that most people do carry an umbrella. A mistake would be for one to get a monster umbrella. While it may do a fabulous job of keeping a person dry, fellow riders on the Tube won’t appreciate it much, and most people quickly find they are too cumbersome to carry. Americans moving to London soon realize they do far more walking in London than ever in the states and traveling light is the key.
One should be aware that an umbrella in London is most often referred to as a “brolly”. Considering one will need to access their oyster card, whatever items they need for the day, and keys to the great place the London relocation services found, having an umbrella that is light to carry and preferably one with a Velcro closure instead of a snap is the best choice.
While not as important in the summer months as in the winter, it’s a good idea for Americans moving to London to invest in some slip over rubber shoe covers or galoshes type of footwear. Considering the infrastructure was laid out for the city hundreds of years ago, water collecting in walkways is a common occurrence.
Tags: Americans moving to London, London, london relocation agents, London Relocation Services, Moving to London, Umbrella
Posted in Americans Moving to London, Living in London, Moving to London: Tips & Culture, Relocation to London | No Comments »
Tuesday, December 13th, 2011
Christmas can be difficult time for Americans moving to London, especially when friends and family back home in the states are expecting traditional British gifts sent to them. There are, of course, just as many department stores and retail outlets for families to visit to complete their holiday shopping as the states offer, but, honestly, the fare will probably be about the same. For those wanting to step off the beaten path, discover traditional British crafts and trinkets, and support local artisans and crafts people, a day visiting the Duckie Christmas Market is a perfect place to begin.
Located inside the Barbican the Duckie Christmas Market is a showcase for local holiday gifts. Families are invited to shop at the market from December 10 through December 30 for gifts for everyone on the list. Available to purchase are one-of-a-kind artisan handmade gifts, artwork, crafts, retro toys and home items, homemade pastries and desserts, and even jewelry. There is truly no better way for a family new to London from corporate relocation to explore local art and crafts and find traditional British handmade gifts to send back to the states.
The Barbican is Europe’s largest performing arts center and is home to the London Symphony Orchestra. As a multi-arts arena the Barbican is a one-stop-shop for Americans moving to London in search of some cultural immersion. While visiting the Duckie Christmas Market, those new to London through international relocation should peruse the Barbican and discover all the wonderful shows and venues offered throughout this holiday season.
London relocation agents will be glad to help their clients find the Barbican as well as give advice as to what one should expect to pay for locally made items. London relocation services often recommend that families new to the city get out as much as possible and learn about the UK’s holiday traditions and experience as many events as possible. This helps to ease the homesickness sure to plague many American families during their first Christmas abroad. Corporate relocation can be difficult during the holidays but a little retail therapy may just be the cure!
Tags: Americans moving to London, Barbican Centre, Christmas, corporate relocation, international relocation, London, london relocation agents, London Relocation Services, relocation to london
Posted in Americans Moving to London, Living in London, Moving to London: London Sightseeing, Relocation to London, Shopping in London Places | No Comments »
