Posts Tagged ‘South Kensington’
Thursday, September 15th, 2011
Living in London: Hyde Park Has So Much to Offer - Image via Wikipedia
As expensive as living in London can be, particularly for the Americans moving to London who seek popular expat areas to live like South Kensington we’ve been highlighting as of late, there are great things to do free while living in London. Hyde Park is just one of the many of Her’ Majesty’s Parks that offers everything you could want in a park that spans 350+ acres. Right in the heart of the city there is food and recreation of all types at the park.
No doubt that London relocation agents will drive you near Hyde Park if you’re an American moving to London and looking at London flats. It’s rather expansive and offers many activities from sports to boating, from ice cream vendors to three course meals. Worth seeing, and close to the hearts of many is the Diana Memorial Fountain. The fountain runs in a circular shape and is made completely of granite. It is said to symbolize her life as well as her openness towards others. You can even sit on the edge and dangle your feet in weather permitting. It also has three bridges that enable you to go to the center of the fountain. I’ve been and it is very serene and moving.
The boating is another fun thing that I’ve taken advantage of in Hyde Park. Living in London you wouldn’t expect that you could go paddle boating (they call it pedal boating which is probably more accurate). The Serpentine allows for row boats and pedal boats and they seat up to six, though we only went out with two. It’s a relaxing summertime day, but you must get a ride on the only solar powered boat around on the lake. The Solarshuttle holds up to 40 and it is a silent ride gliding along the lake, it’s very different to be moving in a boat that has no motor.
Yes Hyde Park is just one of the many free things to do on a London summers afternoon or evening. For you Americans moving to London, particularly if you’re interested in living in the Kensington area, Hyde Park is one stop you want to make, while living in London.
Tags: Americans moving to London, England, living in London, London, london relocation agents, Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea, South Kensington
Posted in Living in London | No Comments »
Tuesday, September 13th, 2011
L'Entanger- Living in London: The French Influence in South Kensington
Chef owner Jerome Tauvron has trained with some of the top French chefs in all of France and has been head chef at many exclusive restaurants (his profile is worth reading), and this is his flagship place as an owner. With full creative license to put anything fresh on the menu, Jerome combines his love for fresh herbs and bold spices in wonderful combinations and pairings for some really fabulous food. The word is truly out about L’Etranger as its booked each night of the week fully, so you definitely want to call ahead for a table a few days in advance, trust me, it’s worth it!
Chef Tauvron shows his passion not only with the unique menu, but with an extremely impressive wine list. The surprising thing about the wine list was it was very affordable and offered excellent pairing options. The commitment and passion is also applied to the front of the house as the service is spectacular. And extremely knowledgeable staff that really recommend just the right combinations and menu items to make your meal perfect. Yes the only thing not French was the service I’m happy to say. However don’t overlook the Japanese influence.
Head Chef , Sang Keun Oh has brought the level of value up with his offerings, and may I suggest the caramelized Black Cod with Miso, to die for! The sushi was also very fresh and well prepared, each plate was styled and the food looked as good as it tasted. Once you have finished your relocation to London, you must check this restaurant find out for yourself.
Tags: Americans moving to London, living in London, London, Relocation service, relocation to london, Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea, South Kensington
Posted in Americans Moving to London | No Comments »
Thursday, September 8th, 2011
Relocation to London’s South Kensington Borough: Corporate Relocation - Image via Wikipedia
As a London relocation services company we see a lot of people who are beginning a relocation to London due to a job in London. High paid professionals make up a lot of the South Kensington area residences and it’s where many Americans moving to London choose to live. Even though they are living in London it’s nice to have familiar people and be in an area that is populated by other people familiar with your culture and less reserved in nature. Americans are certainly more outwardly gregarious in gestures and speech patterns than those of a London lineage. The English are just more reserved than most Americans, so being located in one area does have this cultural slant that is just more welcoming.
For those relocating to London are facilitating a corporate relocation from a professional standpoint , and they generally stand to gain financially both in the short and long term. As the cost of living in London is somewhat prohibitive, relocation services paid by ones employer is sometimes an option. While the pay floor will be set higher in an upscale location and international headquarters such as a London office provides, the career benefits to be gained for adding such a work period in this location are also an asset in future employments and experience factors.
Rarely can a top level executive, or a high level sales position get the opportunity to raise their income by 50-100% under the same company or business entity. It is extremely unlikely that an employer will increase one’s salary or commission pay to that kind of extreme. However, large ceilings restricting income earned can be broken in such high percentages should one find a new employer. Industry professionals in advertising, technology, and education can all find many high level opportunities for advancement and employment while living in London.
So perhaps a relocation to London is the perfect solution to making oneself more valuable in their chosen profession while gaining real world international business experience in a global hub such as London .
Tags: Americans moving to London, corporate relocation, job in London, living in London, London, London relocation services company, relocation services, relocation to london, South Kensington
Posted in Relocation to London | No Comments »
Thursday, September 8th, 2011
London events for September 2011 include the ongoing BBC Proms, which wrap up this week - Relocation UK - Image via Wikipedia
Author: Colleen
If you’ve been planning an international relocation to London for 2011, can you believe it’s September already??!! Me neither. Well, if you’ve indeed already made the London move by this summer, then all hassle of finding and settling into a London apartment is hopefully behind you now (well, not at all a “hassle” if you wisely used London Relocation’s services and were hand-held through every step by one of our relocation agents). In that event, here are some goings-on around the city of London this fine month that you can finally step out and enjoy!
This Saturday, 10 September, alone has a handful of events:
BBC Proms in the Park – The BBC Proms have been going on ever since 15 July over at South Kensington’s Royal Albert Hall. The final performance this Saturday will be broadcast on giant screens in the nearby Hyde Park to accommodate a larger viewing public. (for more info – www.bbc.co.uk/proms)
The Mayor’s Thames Festival – In celebration of London and the River Thames, the Mayor is hosting this annual festival, the largest of its kind in the city. It includes everything from arts, music, dancing, food, fireworks, and other entertainment, a good time for singles and families alike joining to pay homage to London’s history, present, and future. (for more info – www.thamesfestival.org)
Gail’s Garden Party – If the little foodie in you is craving good eats in one of the loveliest London neighborhoods, this Hampstead food festival is in the spirit of bringing the community together and supporting local high street butchers, fishmongers, green grocers, and cheesemongers. A time for coming together and interacting, with music and facepainting to boot! (for more info – www.gailsbread.co.uk)
To follow later in the month…
Wednesday, 21 September – Sunday, 25 September:
The Chelsea Antiques Fair – A boutique-style fair of 36 vendors held in the Chelsea neighborhood‘s Old Town Hall. With high-quality items and knowledgeable experts, this is Britain’s oldest antiques fair. Wine will be served after 6pm during Wednesday’s open house. (for more info – www.penman-fairs.co.uk)
Thursday, 22 September - Sunday, 25 September:
London Fashion Weekend – A fabulous designer shopping event on the heels of London’s prestigious Fashion Week, open to consumers at the same exhibition and catwalk site in London’s Somerset House. Be in-the-know of the latest London fashions! (for more info - www.londonfashionweekend.co.uk)
Finally, The Honeypot Charity has a slew of events coming up this year, the September ones being:
Clapham Common Series (running) – Sunday, 18 September
Honeypot and Savills Bike Ride – Sunday, 25 September
Run to the Beat powered by Nike+ – Sunday, 25 September
Charity Fashion Show - Thursday, 29 September
The Honeypot Charity is about bringing joy and fun to kids who’ve had to prematurely assume adult responsibilities. So, any way that you can support them—be it this month or the whole year round!—is truly giving the gift of childhood. (for more info – www.honeypot.org.uk)
Whatever you’re up to this month, make it a fun one! Sure, the weather is cooling down and feeling very autumnal, but don’t let that demotivate you—we’ll be putting up with it for months to come, so beat the grey-sky blues now. And if you haven’t made your relocation to London yet, contact our London Relocation agents so they can make that London move a swift one and get you closer to enjoying what the city constantly has going on. 
Tags: BBC, Fashion Week, international relocation, london events september 2011, london relocation agents, london relocation companies, London Relocation Services, Moving to London, office relocation London, relocation company, relocation in london, relocation jobs London, relocation to london, relocation uk, River Thames, Royal Albert Hall, september events in london, Somerset House, South Kensington, The Honeypot Charity, The Proms
Posted in Living in London, London Recreation, Moving to London: Tips & Culture, Relocation to London | No Comments »
Wednesday, September 7th, 2011
Living in London: South Kensington and The Wedge Card for Discounts Locally
The Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea are combined as they are close in proximity. For all the Americans moving to London, as this is a highly settled area for Expatriates from America, you will want to become acquainted with the area. Finding ways to stay living in London while taking advantage of discounts is important in keeping down expense. London relocation agents will tell you, rents in South Kensington tend to be on the high side as it’s such a desirable area. Saving where you can on everyday items and local shops is a good bet while living in London.
There is actually a discount card that is good throughout London and South Kensington and the Chelsea area is no exception. The card is called the “wedge card” and its members (London shops, and merchants) extend special discounts to those that present the wedge card. You’ll get to see the common black and yellow stickers on the front door or inside any storefront window. While it may seem a little inconvenient to pull out your card at all the places that have offers, it will pay for itself if you do in a very short timeframe. The card is 10 GBP and is good for a year, two trips to a pub and your discounts will cover the cost of the card for the year. If you register your card with the wedge website than you are also eligible for other special offers in the area, via email.
In the Kensington High Street area and Earl’s Court, the map makes it look as if almost every local business is in on the Wedge discounts. From Moxton’s Fish Market to the honorable mention spot of yesterday, the Americans moving to London’s favorite spot, Janet’s Bar. Your relocation to London can find you right in the heart of your community which is the founding reason for the Wedge card, to keep locals shopping in their local area and to give merchants the chance to network within their respective neighborhoods; really a good deal for the users of the cards. Many places just offer a straight 5-10% discount, others have specialty deals. You can check out the participating merchants in the South Kensington area even prior to your relocation to London, just visit this link South Kensington area (opens another page). Make sure you scroll through the five pages of establishments on the left side of the screen that shows the merchants who are separated by categories. The categories are:
- Entertainment and Leisure
- Food and Drink
- Home and Lifestyle
- Services and B2B
- Community Associations
- Online Only
These offerings are pages and pages of merchants so it’s really worth a little research to find the shops in the South Kensington neighborhood and familiarize yourself with what discounts each merchant has to offer. The Kensington and Chelsea areas were one of the latest neighborhoods to be added. So now there are more resources for your searching before or after your relocation to London, to learn about living in London, and the South Kensington neighborhood. Want to know more? Call or email your London relocation services company for a complete listing of London apartments for rent in the area.
Tags: Americans moving to London, England, Expatriate, Kensington High Street, living in London, London, london relocation agents, London relocation service company, Relocation service, Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea, South Kensington
Posted in Shopping in London Places | No Comments »
Thursday, September 1st, 2011
Relocation to London: What Should I NOT Bring From My Country? - Image via Wikipedia
So in keeping with the new series of what you should bring when you are ready for your relocation to London, I thought it might be just as helpful to know what you should NOT bring with you if you are an American moving to London. Namely and this is a big one for a lot of people; all your furnishings. Now very much unlike what it is here in London, Brits don’t have the attachment to their beds that say American’s do. You won’t be finding any large four poster canopy beds taking up all the room in your London apartment. And recall that in London most apartments don’t have closets, so there will be a wardrobe to contend for square footage in your London flat bedroom, that is at least one wardrobe. But there will be something else to compete for floor space, a commode. You’re thinking “what??? A Commode in the bedroom??” While we here are thinking, “yeah and?”. That’s because a “commode” here in England is commonly known in America as a “dresser”. We’ll have to add that to one of Colleen’s lists
But speaking of Colleen’s post, a couple months ago she mentioned a spot in Chelsea I’m checking out this weekend, Lots Auctions. Now because of the cost being so great with trying to move an entire household of furniture across the ocean most Americans moving to London don’t try to bring it all with them. So spots like Lots Auction houses are around the city and fill a perfect need, (like my need for a new couch). The nicest thing I find about LotsAuction.co.uk is that everything that’s for sale in that week’s auction on Sunday (holidays be damned, they auction every Sunday) is viewable online after 6 on Thursdays. Nearly 400+ items a week, with a constant complete turn over of their inventory each week you never know what you’ll find there. Why do I bring it up now on the relocation blog? Well because if you are an American moving to London and have already been sticker shocked into reality that you have to leave your beloved bed behind, isn’t it helpful to be able to shop online now and see what it will cost you to replace it all?
Now one of the nice things about using a London relocation agent is that you can also tell them that you want to only look at places that are furnished already. Though it is not the best of ideas to limit yourself in any way when looking for a London flat, you do have the option of telling your London relocation agent that you must be a stickler on this one item. Even if your planning on letting a furnished place you will still want to visit the website of Lots Auction house, who doesn’t need just that one thing to add to what they have already? Their auctions are on Sundays, and the showrooms are open in the evenings on Wednesdays, and during the days until the sale. Sunday’s at 1:00 begins the auctions on household furnishings such as beds, sofas, mirrors, both new contemporary designs as well as antiques. But the auction that starts at 4:00 is all the art work, and collectibles and higher priced collections and individual pieces. So used and new it’s a good price range mix. I looked today and saw the average prices on couches were 200-300 GBPs.
The entire point is that the site can be a good guide when planning your relocation to London. And as an American moving to London, unfortunately your bed will more than likely have to stay home 
Tags: american moving to london, England, London, london apartment, london flat, london relocation agent, Relocation service, relocation to london, South Kensington
Posted in Americans Moving to London | No Comments »
Wednesday, August 31st, 2011
Royal Albert Hall at Night from Hyde Park -London Neighborhoods for Your Relocation to London- South Kensing
So long as were visiting South Kensington on your relocation to London we may as well cover the most sought after building in the area, Prince Albert hall. Truly an amazing building it’s been in continuous use since it opened in 1871. Prince Albert’s vision is how it’s described; it really is an amazing place. For this month of September there are plenty of BBC Proms happening. The ceiling provides for amazing acoustics and it is a spectacular place to hear an orchestra. This Saturday for instance is a Rachmaninov production.
Just down the street directly across from the tube station is the Pelham. Now The Pelham is a five star hotel that is dedicated to outstanding and impeccable service and luxury. At The Pelham everything from the fluffy slippers and robes to the finest linens on the beds, decorated “English with a twist”, it’s first class all the way. Up to date and extremely fine are the furnishings and the ambience still carries a distinction of elegance from an earlier time. To treat yourself to your first holiday after your relocation to London is a fabulous idea! Rooms are about GBP 200 a night and up from there, not a place you’d move in, but definitely worth treating yourself to for a weekend.
The drawing room at The Pelham is exclusive to guests alone and boasts a spectacular English fireplace. Just listen to this:
“Step into The Pelham, and you will become part of the exclusive yet relaxed atmosphere offering you unparalleled service throughout your stay.”
“The wood panelled Drawing room and Library both have open fireplaces and deep designer sofas. Reserved exclusively for guests they offer 24 hour service, ensuring you are always well looked after, whatever the hour.”
Hmm, unparalleled eh? Whatever the hour you say? I’m a woman that can appreciate service, myself and my counterparts Americans moving to London, trust me ladies, living in London has it’s perks! Did I mention that Harrods is there in South Kensington too? Not to mention the exclusive boutiques, it’s a shopper’s paradise.
So really we’ve only covered two stops woth making (three, Harrods if your a shopper) and there’s still so much more that South Kensignton station brings within a short 5 minute walk. So when you’ve read this idea I hope you take it to heart, who doesn’t deserve a weekend of Unparreled service after all your hard work planning. With everything that your London relocation agents have been sending you on your relocation to London, surely this idea should be incorporated into your living in London plan somewhere?
Tags: Americans moving to London, England, living in London, London, london relocation agents, Relocation service, relocation to london, South Kensington
Posted in London Neighborhoods | No Comments »
Wednesday, August 31st, 2011
Brompton Road, Outside the Tube Station - Americans Moving to London Find Thier London Apartment in South Kensington Area
Many Americans moving to London will arrive to work with their London relocation services agent to find that they gravitate toward the familiar, while still wanting to take in all that is new to them while living in London. London relocation agents end up showing Americans many London apartments in the “Royal borough of Kensington and Chelsea”. Perhaps their enchanted when they go down to the Victoria and Albert Museum and Thurloe Square area, or the lovely garden squares when exiting the tube station. Whatever the appeal is in particular it’s hard not to find something that will appeal to you in South Kensington. Certainly equally as affluent are the neighboring areas, Chelsea is a large draw for Americans moving to London. Knightsbridge and Kensington proper are all extremely nice areas to settle in while living in London too.
Staying with South Kensington, no one should miss all the prestigious educational institutions and the museums are terrific too. Here’s a run-down of just some of what South Kensington has to offer:
Schools and Universities:
- Imperial College London
- Royal College of Art
- Royal College of Music
- Lyce`e Francais Charles de Gaulle
- French Institute (French Cinema)
Museums:
- Natural History Museum
- Science Museum
- Victoria and Albert Museum
Other Notables:
- Baden-Powell House
- Royal Geographical Society
If all this sounds right up your alley then you’ll be settled in with plenty of Americans living in London, and your alley then you’ll be settled in with plenty of Americans living in London, and your London relocation agent can help you find the London apartment for you in SW7 postcode. Tube stations are the South Kensington and Gloucester Road stations. There are many book stores and cafés around the area and the French influence is seen on a number of them.
Other expat populations have chosen to settle in the South Kensington area from nations such as France, Italy, Spain, and a Middle Eastern influence as well. Though many sections of London are relocations and expatriates from other countries, it gives it an exotic yet friendly appeal. Call or email us here to get a listing of London apartments in the South Kensington area, your London relocation agent is always willing to get you any information you need as an American moving to London.
Tags: England, London, Relocation service, Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea, South Kensington, Thurloe Square
Posted in Americans Moving to London, London Neighborhoods | 2 Comments »
Tuesday, June 21st, 2011
Moving to London offers a range of lifestyles, from the prudent to the extravagant. Image via Wikipedia
Author: Colleen
When my husband and I planned for moving to London, we’d have never anticipated that we could live in walking distance from where once upon a time lived two princesses before they were princesses. Where we would walk down the road and drop our jaws at the Aston Martins and Bentleys just parked casually along the curbs. Where a reality TV show about young socialites would be filmed. Where a major music awards show would be broadcast a few minutes away and we could attend. Where if we walked a bit further we’d arrive at a palace that housed even more princesses that became Queens.
We’re middle class folks, nothing special where income is concerned, but such is the juxtaposition of classes in London that makes it such an interesting city of new experiences. Everyone of all walks of life are intermingled here (recall the ease of spotting stars that I wrote about last week: “Relocation to London – The Secret to Celebrity-Spotting in London“); one need only walk a block or two for the dynamic to shift. And it isn’t all about being posh; for as much polish as London has, it has grit, and the diversity across the economic spectrum adds a lot of flavor to your every day once you, too, have made the London move.
In any case, if you are looking to feel a bit posh as you emerge from your London apartment and get about town, it’s as simple as taking yourself for a walk in the nice locales of London’s west side neighborhoods like Mayfair, Soho, Marylebone, Notting Hill, Knightsbridge, Sloane Square, Chelsea, and South Kensington. Bop into the shops on Regent Street and around Knightsbridge and Sloane Square. If you can’t afford a meal at some places, you can still treat yourself to an inexpensive coffee, tea, or cocktail at any number of opulent dining options—five-star hotels that you’d perhaps never stay at like The Dorchester or Claridges can be fun for afternoon tea or cocktails at their bars, Harrods has a surreal food court, and there’s never a shortage of trendy cafes and restaurants that attract the socialites in these areas.
Not being able to afford a certain postcode doesn’t mean you’re forbidden to share in the glamour; sure, maybe you can’t get on the list of some super exclusive clubs or get to sit to tea with the Queen, but otherwise London’s venues are open to the public, remember. An international relocation to London makes you a resident here, so the city is yours for the taking, and London relocation agents like London Relocation Ltd. can situate you as closely within the posh places as possible while staying within your budget.
Tags: international relocation, Knightsbridge, london neighborhoods where to live, london relocation agents, london relocation companies, London Relocation Services, Mayfair, Moving to London, Notting Hill, office relocation London, Regent Street, relocation agents, relocation companies, relocation company, relocation in london, relocation jobs, relocation jobs London, Relocation service, relocation service london, relocation services, relocation uk, Sloane Square, South Kensington, west london relocation
Posted in Living in London, London Neighborhoods, Moving to London: Tips & Culture | 1 Comment »
Thursday, April 14th, 2011
Author: Colleen
A London move is an automatic education, and, supplementing that, I’m about to share with you what is probably one of the more random facts you could learn about London as we continue with our A to Z Blogging Challenge:
“L” is for LAVATORY / LOO!
“Oh no she di-in’t,” you might be saying, but oh yes, I just went there. The London Relocation blog is speaking with its potty-mouth today.
Nah, it’s really nothing gross, I promise. Actually, you’ll be quite surprised how posh this topic can be, as today I’m specifically referring to London’s historical public lavatories. To start, many tourists are surprised when they travel through Europe and are expected to pay a few cents/pence to use a public toilet. There are public loos in London that are free; nonetheless, back in the day it seems you really got what you paid for! From my trusty book, London’s Strangest Tales:
One of the great tragedies of the past fifty years is the gradual disappearance of London’s magnificent public lavatories. Built into the fabric of the environment by nineteenth-century urban planners who were concerned (unlike modern developers) that their buildings should be decorative as well as functional, public lavatories tended to be built at major street junctions and below ground.
[...] Lavatory builders created splendid subterranean palaces of gleaming copper pipework, hugely decorative tiles and basins, and lavatories with delicate flower decoration. Heavy mahogany doors were used for each lavatory cubicle and the overall impression was always one of spacious loftiness, for these were palaces [of] ease and bodily contentment.
And here I was just speaking about palaces and “throne rooms” in my post yesterday. Fit for a king, indeed! Over time, however, these Victorian facilities (which cost a penny per use) were increasingly taken out of commission under the assumption that people could instead use the restrooms at cafés or restaurants, which had become more numerous.
But oddly, though many of the old public loos were closed and their entrances sealed over, many still exist complete with all their magnificent pipework below ground, buried like Egyptian tombs and awaiting some enthusiastic future lavatorial archaeologist.
One of the last lavatories to go was the splendid example in Covent Garden just outside the church in the piazza. Here in its dying days in the 1980s you could spend a penny and listen to opera, for the lavatory attendant was a keen opera buff who also decorated the walls with reproductions of some of the National Gallery’s most famous pictures. Tourists and Londoners flocked to this eccentric destination, and rightly so, until it was closed by unimaginative local officials.
The luxury of the London loo.
Seems a shame, doesn’t it? Well, if you’re curious to see some of the fine fittings that once adorned a public lavatory situated in the middle of High Holborn, apparently they’re on display at the Victoria & Albert Museum in South Kensington. And some of these historic loos have been converted into modern venues that you can still visit! I forget where it was, but I’d walked past one that was an underground spa, and I’ve also seen The Public Life club in Clerkenwell. And it seems the west England town of Malvern, Worcestershire has even transformed a men’s lavatory into the world’s smallest theatre! The Theatre of Small Convenience accommodates an audience of twelve.
But when it comes down to it, if you gotta go, you gotta go. So as for public toilets still in operation throughout London, consult resources like About.com’s “Best Free London Public Toilets,” the City of London website, or the public toilets guide at LastRounds.co.uk. There’s even an app called, “Toilet Map.” I would also be remiss not to mention I’ve managed to stumble on a blog entitled London Lavatory Legends if you’re interested in more trivia and toilet humor.
When you’re moving to London, locating the loo is about as important as locating your London apartment…which at the very least should be equipped with one of its own. Keep your standards at least that high.
Tags: High Holborn, london apartments for rent, london relocation agent, London Relocation Services, Moving to London, Moving to London from US, Public toilet, relocating to london england, rent london apartments, South Kensington, Travel and Tourism, Travel Guides, uk relocation
Posted in London, England History, Moving to London: Tips & Culture | 2 Comments »
Monday, March 14th, 2011
Author: Colleen
If you’re researching your move to London, I don’t know if you realize what an impressive food culture you’re venturing into. The Brits generally get a bad rap for their food, but once you’re properly living in London and veering off the well-worn tourist path, you’ll discover its diverse, quality global offerings as well as delight in its traditional fare (see “Move to London and Eat Yer Humble Pie,” in homage of the British meat pie, for example). 
One particularly lovely discovery I’ve made since relocating to London is a restaurant called Bumpkin. With two locations at present in west London (Notting Hill and South Kensington), Bumpkin serves up fresh, seasonal British foods that offer the cozy comfort of traditional country dishes with a cosmopolitan twist that reinvents each menu item with exciting flavor combinations. You can find the classic meat and potato fare along with superbly spiced fish, risotto, salads, etc. And it’s open all day, so whether you want brunch or dinner, creamy cappuccino or a fine wine, a light bite or a substantial dish to tuck into, Bumpkin and its casual chic ambiance is one that pleases a range of different tastes. That’s precisely why I like to take out-of-town visitors there; there’s something for everyone, and the staff is always very friendly and attentive.
Just another venue to add to your list as you anticipate your London move and will be keen to get out and explore new restaurant options after all is settled with your new London apartment!
Tags: americans moving to london england, British cuisine, bumpkin restaurant london, canadians moving to london uk, dining out in london, flats to let in london, london apartment, london move, london relocation agency, london relocation agent, London Relocation Services, london restaurants, places to eat in notting hill, relocating to london england, rent london apartments, South Kensington, west london apartments
Posted in London Food & Beverage, Moving to London: Tips & Culture | No Comments »
Friday, March 11th, 2011
Living in London – Not Notting Hill-Image via Wikipedia
London has had an influx of American nationals being shipped over for professional reasons, this accounts for the large population of Americans moving to London. As a result there are some areas in an around London that are overrun by US expatriates i.e. South Kensington, Notting Hill and Chelsea, all offer London rentals, London flats, and London apartments. There are other neighbourhoods in London that have been overlooked and have proved to be low-cost and above-board. These would include Marble Arch with housing prices estimated to be 25 percent less than those in other commonly situated expatriate populations, the same of which can be true for London rentals in those areas. Edgeware Road is located in Marble Arch and two blocks south of that road is an assortment of flower shops, wine merchants and cafes. It might be considered by some to be a boisterous main road but it essentially gives the area a unique buzz which is further complemented by an abundance of remarkable Middle Eastern restaurants to what might otherwise be an average charming neighbourhood.
In central London, West of Marble Arch is another residential London rental neighbourhood known as Bayswater. Bayswater boasts enchanting surroundings with its collection of awe-inspiring picturesque squares which are almost completely unchanged from the time of their original construction. It is located in an ideal spot where you are able to explore the most famous London market, Portobello Road as well as areas offering shopping, restaurants and colourful Victorian architecture i.e. Westbourne Grove Road and Notting Hill. Bayswater also features several appealing white-faced Victoria townhouses which serve as B & Bs and hotels intermixed with London flats. Notwithstanding its villagey pockets, Bayswater may not be the upmarket Notting Hill but it will acquaint you with Britain’s loveable distinctive features where the bona fide Londoners live, eat and drink.
Now that you have decided you are moving to London get ready to be part of the cultural exchanges and connections, as there are a number of interesting places to visit and things to do, all within easy striking distance of central London and not all of them overrun by tourists. So let your adventurous new life moving to London begin!
“When a man is tired of London, he is tired of life; for there is in London all that life can afford.” —Samuel Johnson, 1777.
Tags: Bayswater, Edgware Road, London, Marble Arch, Notting Hill, Portobello Road, South Kensington, Westbourne Grove
Posted in Living in London, London Neighborhoods, Rent in London: London Apartment Tips | 4 Comments »
Thursday, February 24th, 2011
Living in London – Waiting For The Night- Image via Wikipedia
Author: Belinda
Living in London means that you have some of the world’s greatest entertainment on your doorstep. In fact, you may have celebrities living just next door if you live in the right area. London is the home of The Royal Opera House, The Beatles, Elton John, Colin Firth, Helen Mirren, Adele, and of course, a number of very famous Americans who have chosen to settle in London. You need to get out of your London flat and join the millions of people who are out on the town every night. There are varieties of nightclubs, restaurants, theatres where you can enjoy an evening and night out on the town.
A new fad has caught the London nightlife mostly in restaurants where you can now enjoy a dinner and a cabaret at the same place. One of the most popular is The Supperclub in West London. Start with a decadent cocktail– in the Bar Rouge – to a dinner in the huge Salle Neige where diners recline on white beds and performers take to the stage. After dinner, furniture is cleared and the restaurant becomes a nightclub.
Circus is in a glamorous setting and offers pole dancing and burlesque cabaret, which is tremendously popular in London right now and it sometimes, includes participation from the audience. You can have your meal while watching the performances.
The Brompton Club in South Kensington is another traditional but comfortable club for a night out. A range of old classics and contemporary music is played throughout the night. Another restaurant, Proud Cabaret a similar sort of evening serving specifically British food and cabaret. The bonus being a big band, swing dancers and satire girls to entertain the diners.
A night out on the London town would not be complete without a nightcap before heading home to your London flat. Two of the most popular after hour’s venues are No 11, which is a private members club and hotel and the Almada Bar & Club, which boasts a New York vibe.
The classic combination of dinner and cabaret has always been on the London cultural scene and it is bigger than ever before. It’s a great way to entertain visiting friends and family and enjoy living in London after the sun goes down.
Tags: Americans moving to London, flats to let in london, london apartment, london move, london relocation agent, London relocation specialist, london relocationservices, relocating to london uk from canada, rent london apartments, Royal Opera House, South Kensington
Posted in Living in London, London Food & Beverage, London Recreation, Moving to London: Tips & Culture | No Comments »
Tuesday, January 25th, 2011
Living In London – “I’m An Englishman In New York”- Image via Wikipedia
Author: Belinda
The words of the Sting song ring true for everyone who is living in a foreign city. Living in London can be challenging for people who are used to doing things differently. You might have found the perfect London apartment for rent, but getting used to the way of life in London might take a bit of time. Most expats and in particular, American expats find that there are a number of subtle (and some not-so- subtle) differences between the two countries and cultures.
The first thing you need to remember is that it IS a different culture. Despite speaking the same basic language, the English way of life is very different to life in the United States or Canada. It is vital that you start learning the language, the different names for items and the nuances of language that will give you a better understanding of British English. It won’t take you long before you’ll be taking out the ‘rubbish bin’ instead of the ‘trash can’ and developing an English accent.
Getting used to living in London is all about accepting the fact that you are living in one of the biggest cities in the world. There are people who are rude, and people who are extremely friendly. You can have a day when you are jostled and bumped on the tube or a day when everyone seems to smile at you and help you get to where you need to be. For the most part Londoners are open minded and friendly, and since there are hundreds of thousands of expats living and working in the city, you won’t stick out like a sore thumb!
Stick To Pounds
Once you have completed your move to England, you will have to stop converting everything to dollars to see what you are paying. You’ll have a heart attack every time you go to the shops, since it will be twice as expensive if you convert back to your home currency. Living in London is expensive anyway, but you’ll be paid quite a bit more than the rest of the country, so enjoy it and look out for great deals at shops and supermarkets (grocery stores) to save you money on your budget.
Space Saver
Get used to the fact that things are smaller in London. Not only is space at a [premium in this city, but household appliances are generally much smaller than in the States]. If you are renting an apartment in London, or even a house in one of the suburbs, and you want to ship your household appliances from another country, you might find that you have to take a door off to get them in. Most companies have the ability to move things in through the top floor windows in London, so you night have to get them in that way.
There are so many little pointers that will make moving to London easier and less hassle. Just keep absorbing information, and getting out there to meet people and experience life in London to the full.
Tags: Americans moving to London, Canada, England, fun facts about london england, London, London Borough of Newham, london facts, london move, Moving to London, moving to London advice, moving to London England, South Kensington, United States
Posted in Living in London, Moving to London: Tips & Culture | 1 Comment »
Thursday, January 6th, 2011
Living in London – City Area Guide-- Image via Wikipedia
Author: Belinda
If you are new to London, then finding the right area to live is not merely about being close to work, or finding a home in the right area. If you are here for a couple of years then you do not want your move to London to be characterised by having to move every few months because you do not like the area. If you are considering relocating to London in the near future then you might want to gain some more insight into the different residential areas of the city. London is quirky and each suburb has its own personality, pros, and cons.
South Kensington
Once the stomping ground of the Sloane Rangers, which is not the name of a Gang, although some would consider these urban debutante somewhat feral at times, this suburb has become one of the most sought after areas in London, and the price tag on most of the properties is testament to that. This area has some of the best museums in London and is known for its wide streets as well as the parks and public spaces that offer a Londoner the chance to get away from it all for a while. Interestingly enough, although this is one of the priciest suburbs in London it is also one of the most culturally diverse, having a large population of Europeans as well as Middle Eastern residents. This is the playground of the uber rich and ‘South Ken’ does not really mind how you got it. Living in South Kensington is like living in the very heart of London, which is why many of the people who work in ‘The City’, which is the financial hub of London choose to live in this area. Shopping is one of the truly stunning activities of this suburb and you will be hard pressed to decide where to go first: haute Couture to hot deals. Antiques to quaint objets. This area of London has it all.
Houses and homes do not come cheap in this area, but it is one of the nicest suburbs you’ll ever find to raise a family in and it is close to a number of excellent public schools, don’t forget that a public school in England is actually a ‘private school’ and the fees can be expensive. If you are looking to rent a family home in this suburb then you can expect to pay at least £ 4000 per month, and if you are looking for something that is upmarket then you can pay over £15 000 per month for a really pos place. One of the big pros about choosing to live in South Ken’ is the proximity to the transport system. Three underground lines, as well as over ten bus routes serve the South Kensington Station.
Tags: Americans moving to London, americans moving to london uk, canadians moving to london, England, London, london move, moving to London England, South Kensington
Posted in Living in London, London Neighborhoods, Moving to London: London Sightseeing | No Comments »
