London is one of the
most amazing cities in the world and you could spend years there and
still feel like you have more to do. The UK is full of picturesque villages,
country pubs, rolling hills and historical cities that were developed
long before Captain Cook set sail.
Disembarking from the plane in London is exciting but often daunting. The
more preparation you do
before embarking on your overseas experience, the less hassles you
will have on
arrival. Here are a few things to make your arrival a little easier:
 | Ensure your 'Right to Work'
documents are in order and you have proof of funds. |
| Have a few pounds in your
pocket when you get off the plane. |
| Ensure you can carry whatever
luggage you bring - and keep an eye on it at all times. |
| Have accommodation sorted - at
least for the first few nights. |
| Know how to get to your
accommodation from the airport. |
| Buy a London A-Z (street
directory) which can be bought in Aussie bookshops- essential
for getting around. |
| Always remember to keep an
open mind, things won't always go as planned - it's all part
of the experience. |
|
London is a vibrant, multicultural city
with a varied and exciting cosmopolitan culture, making it an
interesting place to live and visit. It
embraces the diverse cultures of its population. Whether it's
reflected in the food, colourful street markets, the music, theatre or
at one of the city's many festivals, in London you can mix with the
world.
After you arrive in London, get through customs and collect your
luggage, it's time to get to your accommodation and relax for a while.
If you are after something temporary, until you find your feet, a hostel
or backpacker's is what you're after. You'll meet many travellers and get plenty of
ideas of what to do. A good place to start looking for hostels is
Hostel London. If you are planning on staying in youth hostels, look into joining
YHA Australia for discount prices in all YHA hostels worldwide.
Finding long term accommodation can be
one of the main difficulties of moving to London. Word of mouth
is a good way to find a home, alternatively look at
The Gumtree.com or the London newspaper the Loot. Depending
on how particular you are, it may take hours or it may take weeks to
find somewhere you are comfortable living.
Once you have found a place to stay and are ready to venture outside
there are plenty of places to go. London is home to countless
historical and modern attractions, including the Tower of London, Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, the
London Eye and much more. To see more of what London has to
offer take a look at the
Visit London website which is full of things to see and do as well
as information on travelling to the UK.
Working in the UK is not just about London and there are plenty more
places to visit or work. It's easy to get out and about and due to the large number
of commuters and travellers within London, there are plenty of discounted national and international travel
options. Whatever your
budget, whatever your destination you can arrange it in London. For further information see our
other travel sections.
A great way of finding out about travel, tours and news from home
(Aussie, N.Z and South African) is from the free
TNT magazine written by travellers for travellers. It's available
every week from major tube and train stations and other locations
frequented by antipodeans.
2005 Sonographers Medical Australia