Thursday, June 09, 2011

Expat Experiences: UK - Carmen Jones, London


Who are you?

A 30-something southern belle expat from the US. I've spent the last year adapting to all things British including Victorian plumbing, the value of wellies and a new found acceptance of full fat dairy products.


Where, when and why did you move abroad?


After deciding I needed to shake things up a bit in my life, I moved here in May 2009.


What challenges did you face during the move?


Realizing that things here simply don’t work like things do at home. Americans and British don’t speak the same language, far from it. We don’t celebrate the same holidays, eat the same food, drive on the same side of the road, have the same sense of humor, use the same words or express the same emotions.

Not to mention trying to understand the visa process and saying goodbye to friends and family.


How did you find somewhere to live?


Initially through an estate agent which was quite easy. However, I have learned that suitable rentals in central London are few and far in between. So if you find something you like and it has everything you are looking for (price, location, access to transport) then be prepared to take it immediately. Getting use to paying a lot more in rent for much less space was also definitely a challenge.

Read more about Carmen's life in the London www.expatfocus.com/expatriate-uk-experiences-london-carmen-jones

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