London

London is chic, royal, cutting-edge, ever-changing and always fascinating. World-class fashion and theatre, unrivalled music and clubbing, and a stunning, eclectic array of bars and restaurants are all wrapped up in a city built on historical grandeur. As Europe’s largest capital city, and one of the world’s most important business and financial centres, London contains the most diverse cultural set up seen in any other capital around the world. It also plays host to many cultural institutes, from the traditional to the avant garde. London certainly caters to every taste and is still one of the world’s most powerful cities.

Living in London
Once here, you'll notice a city of diversity. Not one area is the same and this is worth noting when it comes to choosing an area to live in. Ensure you do as much research on areas and pay them a visit to check out the local neighborhood. Cost of living differs on areas and their postcodes so try and get an idea of area prices online. 

Getting Around
 London now has a congestion charge to rid itself of heavy traffic and in turn the pollution that comes along with it. For this reason, you won’t see as many personal cars when in the centre - the outskirts yes, but more people travel by it's public transport.  From it's network of famous double decker red buses, hackney cabs (black cabs), light railway and train terminals to it's centrepiece - the London Underground, the oldest and largest metro system in the world, dating from 1863, London's public transport makes it easy to get to all places.   For up-to-date transportation information, visit www.tfl.gov.uk

The easiest and more interesting way of getting round is by cycling or foot. Grab yourself a map and head off. You'll be amazed at how close areas actually are.

What to See and Do
In all honesty, there are far too many things to see, do and visit. To get an idea of what not to miss, check out the weekly Time Out magazine, see http://www.londontown.com/  or ask around. If you've just moved here, your work colleagues will be happy to recommend and maybe even show you a few of the sights.

Entertainment
Again, far too many places! London is a hive for bars, clubs places to eat and places to go for an evening out.

Eating
With many restaurants catering for just about any pallete and ranging from a cost of £6 per head to £150 - you'll no doubt pick up a few favourites. One thing to stay away from though are the places located in tourist hot spots - always check out a few places before diving into one. Some of my favourites are:

• Pappagone on Stroud Green Road, N4 - food is excellent and you get lots of it! The vibe and staff are truly Italian. Great for groups!
• Hakkasan - Hanway Place, W1T - Pretty expensive but you're sure to love everything that passes your lips! mmmmm
• Desparado's - Upper Street, one of the best Mexican, Tex/Mex in London, cocktails are great and the staff are fantastic!

Bars
There are many bars all around London, you are best checking http://www.viewlondon.co.uk/drink.asp

Areas which are always good to check out - Angel, Hoxton and Shoreditch, Notting Hill, Camden, Soho, Covent Garden, Clapham and Brixton.

Clubs
Again - have a quick look on http://www.viewlondon.co.uk/drink.asp.You can also try http://www.viewlondon.co.uk/drink.asp for alternative nights out or www.accessallareas.org for more underground party and festival info.

Best thing you can do is simply get yourself out and about, museums, galleries, buildings, parks and gardens, even castles are all awaiting you. On top of all the cultural places you've got one of the best cities for shopping also!

There's plenty available on London, if you do want to move here, simply speak to your consultant, they'll be happy to point you in the right direction.