London is a city steeped in history, culture, art, and diversity – it’s no wonder it’s such a popular travel destination. If you’ve just moved to the capital, congratulations! You’ve made one of the best decisions of your life.
Moving to a new city can be daunting, especially if it’s one as big and diverse as London. But don’t worry, London is a welcoming city, and it’s easy to settle in. Here are the top 4 things you should do right after you move to London to make the transition smoother.
Contents
Get a SIM card or a UK phone number
The first thing that you will need in London is a UK phone number. This is the best way to communicate with people, especially if you’re looking for a new job or a place to stay. You can either buy a new SIM card or sign up for a monthly plan with one of the UK’s major phone carriers. Having a UK phone number is vital for being contactable, and for making plans with friends and family.
Register with a GP and dentist
One of the essential issues that you need to take care of when you move to London is your healthcare. The NHS is the UK’s national healthcare service, and it provides high-quality healthcare to its residents. As soon as you arrive in the city, you should register with a GP (general practitioner) and a dentist. You can search for NHS services online, or by asking for recommendations from your friends and family.
Create a bank account
You can open a bank account in London, even if you’re not a UK citizen, and you don’t need a UK address to do so. This is a very important step as you’ll need a bank account for setting up direct debits, paying bills and receiving your salary, among other things. Most UK banks have branches all over the country, so you can go to any branch to open an account.
Once you’ve taken care of the essential tasks like banking, healthcare, and communication, it’s time to start enjoying London’s social scene. Joining a social group or club is an excellent way to meet new people, make friends, and be a part of the community. Many groups and clubs cater to different interests such as sports, music, art, food and cultural groups.
Conclusion:
Moving to a new city can be overwhelming, but London is a city that will make you feel at home. By getting a UK phone number, registering with a GP and a dentist, opening a bank account, and joining social groups, you will be setting yourself up for a smooth transition. Remember that London is a diverse and exciting city, so don’t be afraid to explore, try out new things, and make the most of your new home.