When those from other countries decide to make the move to the UK London seems to be the top of most people’s lists- and sure, it’s an amazing city! However, many of those new to London find that it is not quite the place they dreamed of. It is often described as too big, to crowded, and most importantly for those looking to earn a good living and make some savings- too expensive! For these reasons Manchester is a really nice city to move to if you are planning on making the move and setting up a new life for yourself in the UK. The Northern town is bustling, busy and in many ways similar to London- but with a lot more heart. The vibrant town is chock full of wonderful people, delicious food, and unmatchable culture, all for a fraction of the price of London. If you want a higher quality of life in the UK, and fancy a big city where you won’t feel totally lost, look no further than Manchester. Here is some advice on the move:
Finding a Place to Live
Before you really do anything, you have to make sure you are not going to be homeless for the duration of your life in Manchester. Most people find the search for a place to live slightly challenging. However, it does not have to be this way. For one, housing in Manchester is so much cheaper than any other major world cities, especially its rival London. You are sure to find a place for a lot less than you would anywhere else. You also do not need to worry too much about the commute as traffic is not nearly as bad as the capital and most do not take more than twenty minutes. You can find help online by searching for apartments before you make the move- and perhaps even posting a request for a room on an expat group where others who have been in your position may be able to help you out.
Finding a Job
For any new expat in a foreign city, finding a job might seem like the most daunting task- but also the most vital (after finding a roof over your head). Where do you even start? You don’t have any contacts to help you and you feel like you’re on your own. This is where the Internet comes into play one again. You can use job sites like Jobrapido to find jobs in England before you have even left your own country. This means you might be able to line up some interviews for when you arrive in your new home. This alleviates much of the stress associated with moving to a strange new place.
Education
Manchester is home to one of the best universities in the country. The University of Manchester is home to a beautiful campus and plenty of intelligent students to go with it. It is one of the best institutions in the world, with a huge international population. This is ideal for those coming to the country to study. There is a lot of opportunity for people at the University of Manchester. If you aren’t of university age but instead have concerns about your children’s education, there are plenty of options for them, both public and private. There are a lot of different paths you and your children can take, part of the beauty of being in one of Europe’s hub cities.
Health
Healthcare is a major concern for almost anyone moving to a different country. Fortunately, in the UK, there is the National Health Service, which offers free healthcare for all residents of the UK. Hopefully you won’t need to, but if something happens you will be in safe hands at one of Manchester’s many excellent hospitals. Depending on which country you are coming from you may be slightly disturbed by some of the waiting times now expected with some NHS services, but you won’t be paying, and the care will be of a high standard.
You really shouldn’t worry too much about the move; Manchester has everything covered for you. You should enjoy every minute of your move to this glorious city. Remember it’s always tough being new to a place, but give yourself some time to settle in, try to meet new people and go out and stay busy (not difficult up north in Manchester) and you’ll soon feel right at home.
In collaboration with Emily Jones.
