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Moving to London can be exciting, but it can also be overwhelming. If you're planning to move to this bustling city, there are many things to consider. Here are some top tips to help you prepare for your move to London:
When you move to London, you'll need to find a place to live for the long term, and renting a flat or house is the most common option for expats. The rental market in London however, is very competitive, and the best flats “fly off the shelf” whitin 48 hours of being posted online. So from the moment a flat you like is made available, you will need to book a viewing, go see it and put in an offer - all within 1 or 2 days. That’s why it’s recommended to secure short term accommodation when arriving in London - because within a couple of days you might find your long term flat. Doing this from abroad is close to impossible. If you want to get ahead of the renting process from abroad, speak to an advisor at matutto.com.
London is a large city with many different neighborhoods. It's important to research the neighborhoods before you decide where you want to live. You should consider factors like transportation links and proximity to amenities like shops, restaurants, or good schools. Some popular neighborhoods for expats include Notting Hill, Shoreditch, and Camden, but make sure to check out the Neighbourhoods section to getter a better picture of London’s areas.
If you’re renting a room/flat in London, you will need a number of documents to rent. We won’t spell them all out here (you can read about this on the Housing section when you sign up to Matutto.com), but as things move quite fast, having all documentation required put together can be very helpful. Later on, as you’re trying to open a bank account for example, or get a SIM Card, you will a “proof of address” document as well - which is a crucial one to have.
Having a UK bank account is essential for managing your finances in London. You'll need to provide proof of address and identification to open a bank account, but once you have it, you won’t have to worry about banking fees on payments made within the country. You’ll also be given a contactless card, which meas you won’t need to get a Oyster card for transport, and lastly, you’ll be able to start building your credit score in the UK and access loans and other types of financing.
London’s Transport system is one of th best in the world, but is also known for being very expensive. A tube ride can cost you around £3, and a train ride over £4. But the best and most hidden gem of London transport? THE BUS!
Buses in London cost £1.75 per ride, whether you’re on it for 5 minutes or 1 hour. You can also start your journey on a bus, swap to another, and the price will remain at £1.75, as long as you swap within 90 minutes of the time you tap in. Lastly, the views via central London from the top deck are a thing of beauty.
If you’re moving to London, there’s a million things you might be asking yourself. How does healthcare work? What’s the best way to get around? What documents do I need to rent?
But worry no more! On Matutto.com you will have access to all these resources (and more!), in addition to Expat tips for moving to London, access to advice, and support for your move. So, what are you waiting for? Sign up today for free.