Relocation advice: how to settle down into a new area

When it comes to relocating, we’ve got you covered on the logistical side. We can put together all the furniture you need to set up a new home, even down to towels and bed linen. We pride ourselves on making your house a home from the moment you walk in the door.

But moving is about much more than logistics, especially if you are completely relocating. When you arrive in a new place, you may feel homesick or experience ‘culture shock’. This is all to be expected, but why not seize the opportunity for discovery and the joy of creating a new life for yourself? The gift of a new beginning has been bestowed upon you, so we have some advice for you to help you unwrap it.

First things first, get your utilities set up, your phone, your internet and sort insurance. If you have kids, get them enrolled in the local school. You may have been able to do this in advance but if it is a school where places are in demand then you won’t be able to do this until after you have moved as you need to prove your address. Call the education department at the local council and they will be able to talk you through the process.

Get the lay of the land in terms of the local shops – where is your nearest newsagent for the times when you need a pint of milk. How about supermarkets for the bigger shops?

Now you need to venture out to see what’s around you and get connected to your local neighbourhood. Push yourself slightly out of your comfort zone to try new things and meet new people and you will soon reap the rewards.

Get involved in the local community. Use both the internet and local newspapers and magazines to find out what is going on in the area. Look for opportunities to volunteer – this is a great way to meet people. Find a local charity or community group that resonates with you and contact them to see if they need any help.

Head down to the local library, you will find the librarians a wonderful source of information about the area. You will also be able to find books to learn about the history of the area, it will be interesting and help you to feel connected.

Join a local class doing something you’re interested in to meet like-minded people. There will be a plethora of options open to you; salsa dancing, learning a language, drawing, sewing, singing, sports… You can either pick up on something you were doing where you used to live, or you can see it as an opportunity to try something completely new and see where that takes you!

Find all the services and professionals you need; doctor, vet, dentist, hairdresser etc. Once you have connected with some people in the area you will be able to ask advice on the best options. You can also look online as many will have reviews.

Explore! Buy a map and walk around. Hop on the local bus, this is a great way to see a new area.

Taste your way around your new neighbourhood! Try out the local restaurants. If you’re relocating from abroad it may be the chance to try some completely new culinary delights! And don’t forget the pubs – you’re never far away from a pub in England, try out the ones in your area and find your ‘local’ where you feel welcomed and at home. And discover the local cafes too – these can be a great hub to connect to what’s going on in the area.

Make plans – look at everything that’s going on in the area and book events to look forward to; theatre, concerts, supper clubs, art exhibitions, festivals… there will be plenty around for you to try out. In the UK we love a festival – you’ll find lots of food, drink and music festivals in your area.

Go easy on yourself. Moving to a completely new area or even country is a stressful process, you are dealing with a lot of emotions. We aim to make the process as easy as possible by creating a home ready for you to move into, but make sure you are looking after yourself emotionally throughout the process. Take time out, have a bath or a walk and collect your feelings. And if you’re moving with your family, check in with them as well, support each other. Give yourself time.

Remember your house is your haven, there are lots of things you can do to turn your space into your home. We have lots of tips on this here.

Most importantly enjoy the discovery of this new area, you’ll find you’ll soon be feeling at home.

Finally take some very good advice from Eleanor Rooselvelt: “The purpose of life is to live it, to taste it, to experience to the utmost, to reach out eagerly and without fear for newer and richer experience.”

Happy adventures!