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Posts Tagged ‘Moving to London from US’

Moving to London Community Spotlight: Surrey

Thursday January 24th, 2013

urlLocated in England’s South East, Surrey is a wonderful county that offers close proximity to London while providing laid back living and abundant woodland. Surrey actually contains the highest percentage of wooded area in Great Britain at over 22 percent. Those moving to London from US will especially find the Surrey boroughs offer pleasant oases away from the hustle and bustle of condensed city activity.

There are 11 areas within Surrey where London rentals and London property for sale can be found. These are Guildford, Runnymede, Epsom and Ewell, Tandridge,  Woking, Elmbridge, Mole Valley, Spelthorne, Waverly, Reigate and Banstead, and Surrey Heath. The largest of these boroughs is Guildford with Woking coming in at second largest and Ewell being the third largest.

Surrey contains numerous areas which are gorgeous to behold and fun to enjoy with various walking paths and viewing points. Some of the most notable places to venture for a day’s relaxation are Frensham Ponds, Crooksbury Commons, Newlands Corner and Puttenham, Leith Hill, and Boxhill which is the oldest section of natural woodland still untouched within the UK.

Those relocating to London and settling in Surrey will find a vast amount of entertaining activities. You can wander through one of the many breathtaking gardens, meander along various waterways, or choose from a selection of historic houses to visit. There are also numerous museums to tour on cold or rainy days such as Brooklands Museum and the Rural Life Centre, both of which make excellent tours for young and old alike.

During better weather, you can venture from Surrey apartments and take hikes along various bridleways, country lanes and footpaths, strike out for a bit of cycling, play a game of golf, or enjoy a dip in one of many indoor or outdoor pools. Other activities include a serene boat ride with Guildford Boat House, exciting horse racing at Kempton Park, visitations to top area theatres, or family fun at either the Go Ape Tree Top Adventure Park or Guildford Spectrum.

Of course, endless days of frantic shopping and lazy dining can also be found in abundance throughout Surrey. High-end fashion shops, trendy boutiques, and festive malls can be found at such places as West Street, Dorking, Working Town Centre, Guildford Town Centre, and Tunsgate Square Shopping Centre.

Once you’ve “shopped until you drop”, you can take refuge in one of Surreys many restaurants offering delicious dishes from an assortment of cultural backgrounds, or duck into any one of a variety of pubs for a refreshing beer or cocktail.

If Surrey sounds like the place that you want to call your new home then contact a relocation consultant to help you with all your London relocation details. They will locate available Surrey apartments for you as well as assist with visas and other forms of necessary documentation, help with shipping and moving your belongings, find areas with required schools, worship centres, etc, have utilities and phones hooked up, and other helpful services. You are sure to enjoy the vast natural beauty and cosy comfort of Surrey!

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5 Essential Tips For Moving Into Your New Apartment

Wednesday October 24th, 2012

The best way to minimize stress in any situation is expecting as much of the unexpected as you can—and that certainly applies to finding and settling into London apartments. Some issues are universal, others are particular to where an international relocation takes you. So here are a few top tips on what to expect when renting London apartments in particular:

1. TAKING INVENTORY OF LONDON APARTMENTS

When the lease is signed and move-in date confirmed, your representing London estate agent or landlord will arrange for a third party to take inventory on the flat before you move anything into it. This will account for all furnishings and other contents that the landlord is providing with the property for your use as well as a report on the condition of these items and the unit itself. Any matters that need rectifying (broken fixtures, furniture replacement/removal, etc.) should be addressed at this or the lease-signing stage so that the inventory reflects with total accuracy the condition in which you’re taking on the property.

The inventory checker usually takes photographs of the interiors of London apartments as well, noting instances of damage, stains, and so forth so that you aren’t held accountable at the end of your lease term. Because the inventory not only protects the landlord but you as the tenant, it’s imperative you review this report and its photos in thorough detail and document in writing any discrepancies you come across—be it something that was overlooked or recorded in error. Make sure all parties involved are aware of these changes and request a copy of the inventory for your own records.

2. RENTER’S INSURANCE ON LONDON APARTMENTS

The items recorded in your London apartment’s official inventory will likely already be covered against flood, fire, and other accidents under your landlord’s insurance. It’s worthwhile, though, to confirm this is the case when you sign your lease.

The next consideration, then, is coverage for the personal contents you’ll be moving into the flat. Taking out content’s insurance requires a bit of research, but it’s certainly worthwhile. According to the Metropolitan Police, there were nearly 63,000 residential burglaries in London over the last year, just a 0.2% increase over the twelve months preceding. If you would like to see statistics for the particular borough in which you’re searching for London apartments, see the Crime Figures page at met.police.uk.

At any rate, there are a number of insurance companies in the UK offering contents protection for London apartment rentals. These include:

Direct Line
Aviva
Churchill

You can also compare insurance quotes at the following:

GoCompare.com
Confused.com
CompareTheMarket.com

While these sites usually have webforms you can fill out for a quote, you might be better off just calling a company directly, since they’ll ask the same questions all over again anyway—usually specific to the buildings in which the London apartments requiring coverage are located (e.g., roofing materials, building grade, what floor the flat is on, number of doors into the building and unit, whether there’s an alarm system, etc.)

3. MOVING INTO YOUR LONDON FLAT

Note that movers obviously must wait until they know a specific UK address to deliver your goods to before they’ll actually ship them. Bear in mind also that even when you’re ready to give them that address, they won’t necessarily be ready to ship to it—for overseas international movers typically wait for a cargo container to fill with your and others’ shipments before loading it onto the boat, so the timing of your delivery with your move-in might not align.

As for moving costs, changes in fuel prices from the time you contract a moving company to when they actually ship your goods could mean a change in their service fee. You’ll also want to contact your new London apartment’s applicable council to determine whether you’ll need to purchase a temporary parking permit for the moving truck—if they get ticketed, you could be liable for the fine.

Finally, just as with inventory, you’ll need to sign off on the quality of your mover’s delivery—i.e., confirm they caused no damage to the building, flat, or your possessions, and that all contents are accounted for. Be detail-oriented about this so you have recourse if something goes wrong.

4. PAYING COUNCIL TAX ON YOUR PROPERTY

One of the more unpleasant surprises of moving into London apartments is receiving the council tax bill. Landlords in the States don’t necessarily pass their property taxes onto their tenants, but in London, we’re directly responsible for this charge.

Council tax pays for community services like street cleaning, parks, schools, police, social housing, etc. and can vary from several hundred to a couple thousand GBP depending on which property valuation band your London apartment’s address falls into. You can pay it in a lump sum or request an installment plan, and full-time students can receive exemption. See Gov.uk and/or your London borough’s website (e.g., Kensington & Chelsea) for more information on council tax and student exemptions.

5. GETTING SAFELY PLUGGED IN AND SETTLED IN

Remember: UK voltage is 240V. US voltage is usually 120V. For any non-UK appliances you set up in London apartments, you must:

1) use an adaptor so that a two-pronged US or EU plug will fit a three-pronged UK outlet.

2) buy at least one transformer to plug appliances operating at less than 240V into, then plug the transformer into the wall.

Foreign TVs and computers usually support up to 240V so only need an adaptor. But for anything else, use a transformer to decrease the voltage entering your appliance. An adapter plug alone will NOT adapt for electricity! It’s useful to plug a power strip into your transformer so you can convert multiple appliances at once—but pay attention to how much wattage the transformer can support so you don’t overdo it.

Who knew London apartments could be so much rip-roarin’ fun, huh? ;)

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Moving to London in Time for the Olympic Games!

Wednesday July 4th, 2012

To all Americans moving to London this year, happy Fourth of July while you’re still on US soil! That goes to those of you Yankees who’ve already made your UK relocation as well. I’ve had to miss a few Independence Days since moving myself in 2008, but I’m actually home for this one—yeehaw! But man, is it HOT in Chicago right now…oof, I forget what a normal summer feels like given London’s seemingly eternal fall and spring.In any case, how funny that I should fly Stateside yesterday only for my dad to promptly hand me an article about the 2012 Olympics in the local paper. Never can escape that amazing city that always has the world buzzing about it. So if you’re moving in time for this momentous event, thought I’d share some related tidbits FYI.

Moving to London in Time for the Olympics – Join the Masses

If you’re moving this month or next while the Games are going on, here’s a little heads-up on what to expect. It’s estimated that 6.5 million visitors will infuse the already highly populated city, making many-a local resident wary of the impact on public transport. It helps that the recent Diamond Jubilee served as a sort of dry run for tackling congestion issues; it was rather a mess, with Westminster tube station ultimately closed down due to crowding. Moving will inevitably introduce you to the tube woes that already occur on a daily basis with signal failures and rush hour, so one can only imagine how even such a brilliant system as the London Underground will cope with the Olympics crowds. $10 billion (USD) has been invested into upgrading assorted stations and lines, however, so time will tell (before too long) how much that will help.

In view of that, if you’re moving without a car like most expats, you might want to consider shipping your bike or taking advantage of Barclays bike scheme, with public bikes parked all throughout the city that you can rent at Point A and drop off at Point B with ease (well, that’s the easy part, anyway; navigating the busy streets quite another, so try to find side routes that‘ll be less congested and tour you through locations you maybe wouldn‘t see otherwise).

Where lodging is concerned, working with London Relocation will secure you your own apartment straightaway, so hotel stays are kept at a minimum after moving to London or visiting prior to your relocation; as it is, hotels are anticipating 100% occupancy during the Olympics. Average rates are said to be $341 (USD) per night for hotels, but another option is taking on a short-term let rented out on a weekly basis and will include all the amenities of home if you‘re moving in advance of moving into your flat. No doubt landlords will be making spaces available to seize the opportunity.

Moving to London in Time for the Olympics – Enjoy the Atmosphere

Moving means getting to know it from a resident’s day-to-day perspective, but c’mon, you’ve got to play the tourist, too! After four years in the UK, I sure still do—that’s the fun of living there! As I’ve blogged about recently, city buildings and monuments have been spruced up for the occasion, and over 80 tube stations will be equipped with free WiFi. I observed just yesterday how Heathrow’s Terminal 5 has endeavored to streamline its flow of passengers to accommodate the larger crowds, and you’ll have 8,000 volunteers (London Ambassadors) scattered throughout the capital to field any questions—how’s that for a nice welcome after moving?!

The most dramatically altered landscape, however, has got to be east London, home of Olympic Park. A historically industrial and under-developed area, east London’s riverside has been landscaped and new residences and facilities erected to accommodate not only Olympics athletes and fans but future residents moving to London’s east side. A massive Westfield shopping mall now stands there, adding to all the new conveniences and refurbishments that will make this neighborhood a much more desirable place to live. Over a dozen transport links—including the new high-speed Javelin Shuttle traveling from St. Pancras—service the area, but if you don’t have event tickets and would like to wait to explore Olympic Park after everything’s over and hopefully less crowded (a perq when you’re moving to London and not just visiting), big screens in Trafalgar Square, Hyde Park, and Victoria Park will broadcast the games so you can still view them in a festive atmosphere in the company of others.

Moving to London in Time for the Olympics – Helpful Resources

A few last tips if you’re around for the Olympics after moving: In gauging your transport routes for the events or other related sites of interest, you can plan ahead at Transport for London’s tfl.gov.uk or getaheadofthegames.com. Visitors can use short-term Travelcards, but as a resident moving, you should purchase and top-up an Oyster Card—buy it in advance at the TFL site, visitbritainshop.com, or any tube station after moving to London. You can also stay apprised of events like the free broadcasts in the parks, the London 2012 Festival, and Olympic venues and maps at btlondonlive.com and London2012.com.

Whatever you do, feel the spirit of the Games and take advantage of all the special activity buzzing around the city if you’re moving to London this summer in time for it all!

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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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Moving To London Area Guide

Friday June 15th, 2012

Make sure that your moving to London area guide gives you a good overview of each suburb and the amenities as well as the major transport routes. You need three things when you’re planning your relocation:

  • To be a short walk from a major train or tube station to be able to get to work every day
  • To be close to the shops/doctors/vets etc for easy everyday convenience
  • To be close to schools if you have younger children

It may not be possible to arrange all three when you’re looking at your area guide alone which is why you need a professional guide and relocation agent to help.

Moving To London Area Guide Assessment

Your London relocation agent doesn’t just dash out to find you a property without taking a full profile and needs assessment. Before you even think of packing your bags and heading off to London you need to establish exactly what your requirements are. Do you need a home that is within walking distance of one of the international private schools? Do you have pets and want to be close to one of the many dog-friendly parks in the city? Do you want to be able to walk to work? These are all questions that only you can answer.

Moving To London Area Guide For Expats

Many Americans tend to stay in similar areas, as do the Australians and the South Africans. there is something to be said for finding a home in a neighborhood where you’re guaranteed to hear a friendly accent from home. There is also something to be said for striking out and exploring London on your own. You’ll be able to make friends wherever you are, so let your relocation agent advise you of a number of different areas and homes before you make up your mind.

Moving To London Area Guide – Expenses

Each area is quite distinct in terms of pricing. Arrange a meeting with your relocation agents and make sure that they understand exactly how much you have to spend. they will probably be able to give you a handy “Moving to London Area Guide” and advise you on costs of things like utilities, council taxes and transport costs that are specific to the area that you are looking at.

 

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Americans Moving To England

Thursday June 14th, 2012

If you’ve never lived abroad, many Americans moving to London, England are somewhat nervous of what they’re going to find. On the one hand, you’ve got films like “Notting Hill” showing idyllic scenes of quaint private gardens and leafy suburbs right in the heart of the city, and on the other hand, you’ve got films showing graphic violence and the problems of housing estates in certain areas of the city. Americans moving to London, England can find that planning their relocation is confusing if you don’t know where to start looking for apartments and schools; doctors and dentists; banks and bakeries. You start right here!

Americans Moving To London England and Logistics

The first step for Americans moving to England starts in the USA. Visas, banking and paperwork are going to be your key concerns. When you work with a professional relocation agent in London they will be able to advise you of the paperwork that you’ll need when you arrive and may even be able to help you with setting up and opening a bank account before you arrive. If you’re moving for work then your employer will be sorting out your visa application and work permit, but you need to sort out visas for your accompanying spouse or partner and your children. Your partner is not eligible to work in the UK just because you are.

Americans Moving To London, England and Tax

This is a big issue that should be sorted out BEFORE you leave the US. Sit down with an accountant (CPA) who specialises in tax for US citizens living abroad. You will have to pay tax in the UK and tax in the US if you do not plan your taxes carefully. Double taxation will take a sizeable bite our of your salary and remember that the IRS does not forget about you just because you’re living in London.

Americans Moving To London, England and Apartments

This is going to be the issue that needs the most input from a professional relocation agent. Many Americans moving to England are not sure of the scale and size of the city. You’ll need to know where you are working to be able to find an apartment on a specific transport route. if you have a family, then the subject of schools and education will also have an impact on where you live. If you’re moving pets to London, you’ll want to find accommodation that is pet-friendly and close to one of the dog parks.

Logistics, planning and a lot of help from a professional agent that specialises in Americans moving to London, England will help make the move as smooth as possible, leaving you free to explore your new home town.

 

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Moving To London From US

Monday June 11th, 2012

If you’re moving to London from the US after college you need to find out a little more about how to handle your finances after the big move. The same is true for young people moving from Australia and moving here from Ireland. After you are settled into your new apartment, you’ll be heading off to the ‘city’ to earn your crust. Moving and working in London will be quite different to what you are used to. One of the biggest differences is the way that you are taxed in the UK.

Taxation After Moving To London From US

Learning about tax when you’re moving to London can save you hundreds of pounds each year. It’s a good idea to have an understanding of the way taxes work as part of your relocation to London. How will your income be affected in a country other than your own?

Each tax year is from April 6 in any year to April 5 of the next year.  Income Tax is payable by both employed- and self-employed individuals who earn above a specific level.  In the United Kingdom, all of your benefits will be taxed. This includes State-, Company- and Personal Pensions, as well as benefits such as a Jobseeker’s Allowance, Weekly Bereavement Allowance, Carer’s Allowance and the Incapacity Benefit.  Interest on most savings, dividends, rental income of more than £4,250 a year (£2,215 if split jointly) and income received from a trust, etc. are tax deductable.

Local Taxes After Moving To London From US

In addition to paying Income Tax, you are also required to pay National Insurance Contributions (NICs). Tax is generally paid each time you are paid by your employer; this is known as pay-as-you-earn (PAYE). As a foreigner moving to London, you need to make sure that you have a good tax advisor to help you with your tax requirements in the UK as well as your existing tax requirements back home. Don’t be caught short by paying double tax!

The tax laws in the UK allow a great deal of leeway and a good tax advisor will help you get as much back in the form of tax credits and exemptions. All taxpayers are allowed a certain amount of tax-free income (a Personal Allowance).  There are also other forms of non-taxable income.  If you are a full-time student working only during the holiday periods and you expect to earn less than the Personal Allowance during the whole of the next tax year (until 5 April) and intend to continue studying until after 5 April of the following year, you may apply to receive your wages without tax being deducted.

Don’t get caught short after moving to London from the US; plan ahead and spend time enjoying the city rather than sweating over your tax return.

 

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Moving to London From America Advice

Friday June 8th, 2012

When you’re moving to London from America there is a lot of excitement, adventure and unfortunately, paperwork. There are a couple of admin issues that you should get done as soon as possible to ensure that you’re settled as fast as possible and can get out and enjoy your new city and your new home.

Moving to London from America Checklist

Just as soon as you have found your perfect new London rental you need to make sure that you contact the local council to register you at that address, not only will it help for future financial dealings, like opening bank accounts, but will also help you at the your local doctor and on the National Health Service in an emergency. You will have to pay council tax while after moving to London from America and they will need an address to send the bills to.

After Moving to London From America

Choosing a local doctor is quite important after moving from America. You’ll have to register as a local surgery to be provided with health care. Most doctors don’t take walk in patients, so getting registered means that you can see your doctor whenever you need to instead of going to a public health clinic.

Small items need to be sorted out when you’re moving from America. Getting your utilities turned on may seem a trivial aspect of your big move, but you need to prepare for it.  You don’t have to go with the first power services provider in your area. There are a number of excellent power utility companies that provide very competitive rates and services. There are nearly 20 companies providing electricity and gas across England. UK Power Networks and NPower are two electricity and gas providers.

You’ll have to get a TV license after moving from America, remember that your televisions license is registered to your address, not you as a person, so if you move home, you have to change your address details with the BBC licensing department. You can do all of the paperwork to apply for a television license as well as renew your license and change your flat address online at the BBC licensing website and they will post your license card to your new address.

You don’t have to feel overwhelmed when you’re moving to London from America; you can get professional and expert help from a UK based relocation company to take care of the details so you can enjoy the experience.

 

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Tips For Moving to London

Thursday June 7th, 2012

Some of the most important tips for moving to London are going to be about transport. You’ll need to make transport one of your planning factors when deciding where to move and where to rent an apartment. Living in London means you will not really need a car given the usually efficient public transportation system, the congestion on London roads and lack of parking. You can however apply for a foreign driving license should you decide to buy a car or in instances where you are required to drive a car for various reasons.

Tips For Moving to London From US

There are a number of differences in the drivers licence process between Great Britain and the US. Tips for moving to London need to include how to get your UK drivers licence and whether or not your US permit is valid. If you want or need to change your driving licence for a foreign driving licence, you can visit your nearest Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA for short) and complete the D1 application form. This form is also available at your nearest Post Office. There are many things about the U.K. to fall in love with, but one that probably will not charm you is the British pedancy for regulations. Tips for moving here include the fact that every aspect of your paperwork must be complete and correct to be processed. Your original documentation and a photograph that should be the same size as your identity card or passport must accompany the form. Once the form is completed, you will be required to send your completed application, the enclosed documentation and the required fee to the DVLA offices.

Tips For Moving to London and Driving

The other license of interest is the International Driving Permit (IDP). This type of license, which is normally issued to tourists, serves as proof that you hold a valid driver’s license in your own country. It provides a translation into almost a dozen languages, mainly so that police and other authorities in other countries can read your license in their own language. The permit is intended to overcome the difficulties drivers might have while travelling in other countries that may have widely varying licensing requirements. It also has the advantage that in more than 40 countries worldwide you cannot rent a car at all unless you have an IDP.

Top Tips For Moving to London and Your Drivers Licence

An IDP cannot be post-dated, extended, or renewed, and is valid for only one year from the date of issue. Each time a new IDP is required, the driver must repeat the entire application procedure. The IDP must be applied for in the country of origin and cannot be used there in place of a regular driver’s license. Be aware of scams doing rounds on the internet and in print media with people offering to arrange the license for exorbitant fees. It is advisable that reputable motoring establishments be approached when needing to obtain an IDP.

One of the best tips for moving to London is to be prepared. Before you go always research modes of transport in the city before you arrive. You will be using the public transport nearly every day, so be prepared, do a couple of practice runs and you’ll be ready when you start work.

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Moving to London – SING for the Queen!

Tuesday June 5th, 2012

Moving to London is all about preparing for a new cultural environment and embracing it. With the grand four-day Diamond Jubilee celebration underway and culminating today, let’s clear our throats, drink some warm honeyed water, and otherwise prep those vocal chords for belting out a proper British tune—because moving to London means learning the words to a new soundtrack of your life.

Moving to London – Rule Britannia!

“Rule Britannia!” is the ultimate British theme that you hear associated with the UK time and again. Trust me, you’d know it if you heard it (just pop in your European Vacation VHS, fast-forward to when the Griswolds arrive in London, and you’ll know exactly what I’m talkin’ about). It’s a patriotic hymn that was born in 1740 when Thomas Arne set James Thomson’s poem “Rule, Britannia” to music for a masque about Alfred the Great, performed in commemoration of George II’s accession and Princess Augusta’s birthday. The lyrics go on at length, but here’s the chorus to this anthem of British pride:

Rule, Britannia! Britannia, rule the waves!
Britons never, never, never shall be slaves.

A perfect tune to blast on your iPod as you’re moving to London from outside the UK and ready to rally your troops and conquer living in a new land!

Moving to London – God Save the Queen

If you’re an American moving to London, then you should know this next song, too…sort of. Let’s just say I first became aware of it in a pub in Bath, England; it was the day of a football (soccer) match that had drunken pub patrons singing jubilantly, and, my face contorting in confusion, I wondered, “Why are they singing ‘My Country ‘Tis of Thee’ in England??” It wasn’t until I could finally parcel out the words “God Save the Queen” that I realized, oooohhh…right. This is Great Britain’s national anthem (as well as across its Commonwealth in supplement to regional anthems), brought to us by Thomas Arne once again and first sung in 1745. The lyrics are adapted as necessary to “King” and “him” in accordance with the reigning monarch’s gender, and that’s not all the changes they’ve seen over the years. History and geography has added, subtracted, and otherwise modified lyrics since the original, but the “standard” version sung in the UK is typically limited to the first two verses below:

God save our gracious Queen,
Long live our noble Queen,
God save the Queen

Send her victorious,
Happy and glorious,
Long to reign over us:
God save the Queen.

And as you’ve probably deduced from my little anecdote above, yes, the tune is the same as the patriotic hymn “My Country ‘Tis of Thee” sung in the States. A nice—if not highly ironic—little familiarity of home for Americans moving to London and learning to straddle two nations. And you can bet these lyrics have carried on the winds a-plenty this Diamond Jubilee weekend. God save the Queen, indeed! Huzzah!

Moving to London – Sing

The pride and tradition of Britain’s past is certainly something that awes expats moving to London, but, let’s face it, we want to live in the now of the UK as well. Songs did not cease to be written after the 1740s, obviously, and neither is history reserved for the distant past. There is nothing like moving to London to make you realize how history is made every day—case in point: a monarch is celebrating 60 years on the throne this weekend (the second longest reign of a British sovereign). As part of the commemoration, Take That’s Gary Barlow was asked to write the official song of this year’s Jubilee. In his words, he was “shit scared” faced with this responsibility but undoubtedly honored. Says Gary (a little more eloquently this time):

“Meeting the Queen is…well, it’s not like meeting a normal person. She’s surrounded by this powerful aura, but it’s an aura that feels warm, good and nice. I’ve met some powerful people in my life and there’s often a darkness you get with power. Not with the Queen.”

Barlow worked with Andrew Lloyd Webber and over 200 singers and musicians from across the Commonwealth (oh, and Prince Harry on a tambourine) on this project, and thus the song “Sing” was born in 2012:

Some words they can’t be spoken only sung
So hear a thousand voices shouting love

There’s a place, there’s a time
In this life when you sing what you are feeling
Find your feet, stand your ground
Don’t you see
Right now the world is listening to what we say

Chorus:
Sing it louder, sing it clearer
Knowing everyone will hear you
Make some noise, find your voice tonight
Sing it stronger, sing together
Make this moment last forever
Old and young
Shouting love tonight

To sing we’ve had a lifetime to wait
And see a thousand faces celebrate

You brought hope, you brought light
Conquered fear, it wasn’t always easy
Stood your ground, kept your faith
Don’t you see
Right now the world is listening to what we say

[Chorus]

Some words they can’t be spoken only sung
To hear a thousand voices shouting love
And light and hope

Now sing [x4]

Come all and sing

[Chorus]

Hear a thousand voices shouting love.

Can you hear them? If you’re moving to London, you’re becoming a part of this proud nation, too, so join those voices and SING!!

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Americans Moving To London And Healthcare

Tuesday June 5th, 2012

Many Americans moving to London want to know about the state of healthcare in the UK. There are several details of your relocation to London that you will only be able complete once you’re on the ground. Your relocation agents will be able to sort out quite a few of the details like opening a bank account and finding you that perfect pad, but getting healthcare is something you have to do in person.

Americans Moving To London and the NHS

The NHS in the UK requires that you register in person at a GP to be eligible for all of the healthcare benefits. Once you have found a GP in your neighborhood, you will have to make an appointment to see the doctor as well as register at the practice.

When you get to the doctors rooms you need to ask for a GMS1 form which you will fill out with all of our details. Take your passport and visa along with you as you may be asked for some proof of identity by the GP. There is no waiting period for people to register with a GP. If you are legally allowed to work and live in London then you are automatically eligible for healthcare.

Americans Moving To London and Healthcare Logistics

Once you have filled in your GMS1 form, the practice will forward your application to the Primary Care Trust that will issue you with your NHS card and number and let you know that you are on the system. It can take a couple of weeks though, so if you need medical attention then use the free clinics, (they really are very good) or go to your local hospital.

There is one requirement of the system that may take some of your time. All people wishing to join the NHS have to register at a doctor in person. You cannot register on behalf of your spouse or family when you arrive in the UK. This is why it is important to spend the first week of your relocation to London sorting out the details before you start work and get too busy.

If you need any advice on how to register or where to find a GP, the NHS website has a comprehensive list of all the GP’s. Americans moving to London need not worry that they won;t receive medical care while living in the UK.

 

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Moving to London from New York

Sunday June 3rd, 2012

If you’re moving from New York you’ll probably know quite a bit about how important it is to have a good understanding of the different areas of the city. It can be tough as an American moving from New York to try and find a rental in the perfect neighborhood. Living here means that you have over 100 neighborhood’s and suburbs to choose from and your first step will be deciding on whether or not you’re going to live north or south of the River.

Moving from New York – American Neighborhoods

North London is certainly the more popular choice for Americans moving from New York. There are a number of suburbs that expats tend to favor. The problem is that they are also rather more expensive than usual, and prices tend to be inflated more than they should be. It might be wise if you’re on a budget to look at areas that are not traditionally inhabited by expats. Not only will you be paying substantially less, on your accommodation, but you’ll find that your annual council tax payment is cheaper in many neighborhoods to the south.

Moving From New York and Transport

One of the biggest pluses about living in North London after moving from New York is the transport network. If you have a look at the TfL tube map, you’ll see that there are far more tube stations north of the River Thames. If this is your first time here and you don’t know the city very well, then living in north London is a definite plus. There are many areas in South London that just don’t have any tube stations, and while this is going to change with the additions to the East London tube line that have finally opened. It can still be a challenge to have to catch a train and two buses to get to work.

Moving From New York  - Choose North London

North London has some of the most famous parks and open spaces for you to enjoy. Many of the Royal Parks are here and you’ll have a fair amount of open space to enjoy during the summer months. In terms of entertainment, it can be said the central London with the bright lights of “Theatreland” and the thousands of clubs and bars, does actually fall into the North London area. That said, this area is huge and if you’re looking for entertainment and excitement you’ll be able to find what you’re looking for no matter where you choose to live after moving from New York.

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Moving to London From USA

Friday June 1st, 2012

Exciting and the adventure of a lifetime, but stress free smooth moving to London from the USA can only be achieved with a lot of help and some organization at home. Part of the your move, and arguably one of the most important parts of moving to London from the USA will be the packing and storage before you leave your home town. Packing for an international move is a lot more complicated than a local one. You need to be fairly organized to make sure that when you’re unpacking in your new rental that you’re able to settle in as fast as possible.

Moving to London From The USA Tips

  • The Go-To Box: This is a box that contains essential items that you’ll need immediately after moving to London from the USA. A first aid kit, some snacks from home, toiletries and other items that you may want right away. I always like to include fresh, clean linen right at the top of my Go-To Box. The first thing that I do when settling into a new home is to make the bed! That way, even if you’re not finished unpacking at the end of a long day, you can slip into bed without having to hunt through your boxes to find clean sheets.
  • Pack Wise: Don’t overload your boxes for transport. It might be fine when the moving company is in charge of them, but when you have to carrythem up three flights of stairs to your new London apartment, you’ll appreciate the value of packing light. If you do have to pack really heavy items then pack them in smaller boxes to try and distribute the weight.
  • Use your linen and towels to wrap breakables: You’re packing two things at once that way. Use large containers such as pots to put smaller items in, it saves space and money when you’re paying by the box when moving to London from the USA. Remember to check if your electronic appliances will work when you are living in London. Getting conversions done is expensive and a waste of time. If it won’t work, leave it behind.
  • Label ALL of your boxes according to what room they need to go into. If you have time to list all of the contents, do it on a separate spread sheet and categorize your boxes by number as well.

After Moving to London From the USA

Don’t try to do everything in one day when you’re trying to get settled in after moving to London from the USA. Take frequent breaks and spend some time in your new neighborhood. You’ll be stuck into the daily grind of work and travel soon enough when you’re living in London.

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Americans Moving to London – Crown Envy

Thursday May 31st, 2012

Americans moving to London this summer, you won’t be double-checking to make sure you’ve arrived in the right place. With every street strung up with Union Jack and Queen Elizabeth II flags, Britain is officially in bloom. There’s no question that the Diamond Jubilee and 2012 Olympics combo this summer has officially stirred up the national pride and brought on an onslaught of tourists. And admit it—we Americans are salivating over every bit of it. Many Yankees are visiting the UK for the festivities, but Americans are entreching themselves directly in the cultural traditions of England. After a while, it becomes a part your life, too, a part of your pride.

Our Royal Fixation

But even beyond Americans moving to London, those in the States have displayed an absolute fascination with the Brits spurred on greatly by last year’s royal wedding. What a bunch of Anglophiles we’ve become in 236 years, haven’t we? ;) Am I the only one that finds that ironic??

We fought for independence, kicked and screamed against a monarchy to establish democracy. Yet we’ve tried so desperately to create royalty of our own out of politicians and celebrities. Um, yeah, they’re not quite the same. So we’ve turned our heads away from that tatty, tacky bunch back to Mother England. If there’s anyone that can do royalty right, it’s the British.

England’s X Factor

British royalty is really just symbolic these days. England has long since embraced democracy, too, yet a millenium of monarchy is a tough current to swim against. Americans moving to London like I did a few years ago will readily recognize how steadfast in tradition the British are, and why not? Their tradition is cool!! The palaces, the pageantry. The inspiration, the imperialism. The regal architecture and costume and fanfare that accompanies royal celebrations is a feast for the eyes that can’t help but dazzle Americans moving to London, just visiting, or even watching it on TV. Mind you, I don’t dream of undermining America’s own rich history and beauty here—I may live in the UK, but my heart is in the States. I’m a patriot through and through, but even I can’t help but embrace the je ne sais quoi of Britain’s charisma. It’s not that we want them to rule us again. We just think that they rule.

Join the Jubilation

Speaking of all this monarchy mania, the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee officially kicks off Saturday and lasts through Tuesday, 5 June. The locals seem very excited—loving any event that gives reason to celebrate Britain since they don’t really do holidays like Americans do, but also the fact that the Jubilee grants us all an extra bank holiday. I don’t know whether to dread or delight in the prospect of what folks will do with four days off in a row…sure, a lot will skip away on vacation, but those of us stickin’ around are in for festivities galore. I myself am terribly curious about the thousand ships set to sail down the Thames on Sunday! A thousand! This is what I’m talkin’ about, people—the Brits know how to celebrate in ultra style! So, in time for this, take a break from unpacking and get yourself out of that new apartment (compliments of your dear London Relocation agent!) and dive right in the middle of Britain’s brand of red, white, and blue.

 

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