If you’re used to life in a small town, moving to a large city for the first time can be an exciting and intimidating prospect. Big cities are bustling places full of opportunities for career growth, personal development, socializing, and having fun. On the other hand, they can also be overwhelming when you’re still settling in. That’s why it’s a good idea to prepare yourself for the change in advance so that you can adjust to your new lifestyle as quickly as possible after you move. Here are some top tips to help you out.
Get to know the public transportation system
In rural areas, it’s common to drive to most places, however in big cities such as London, New York, or Tokyo; it’s a different story. Here it’s actually often more convenient to use public transportation to get around, or even simply walk and cycle. Of course, the subway and bus networks can seem impenetrable to newcomers, so take some time to get to know the options in your new city before you move. That way, you can hit the ground running when you arrive.
Arrange accommodation
Having somewhere to live is probably the most important factor when relocating. We all know that accommodation in big cities can be expensive, so be open to the idea of sharing with flatmates. Just be sure to arrange everything through a reputable agency or website such as Room Club to avoid any problems or nasty surprises. It’s also wise to research the different areas of the city in advance, so you know where the nice (and not so nice) places to live are.
Budget sensibly
The cost of living is high in big cities; there’s no denying it. Setting yourself a budget will ensure that you don’t get too carried away with all the exciting possibilities when you arrive and spend all your money in the first week! Don’t forget that there are also plenty of cheap and free things to do and see in every big city too, so living on a budget doesn’t mean having no fun.
Be prepared for crowds
People who are new to city life are often surprised at just how busy they can be and how much smaller your personal space becomes. This is especially true on rush-hour transport and at popular sightseeing spots. It can be unnerving at first, but you’re sure to adjust quickly. Plus, as a city native, you’ll soon discover all the lesser-known hangouts where you can escape the crowds!
Make the most of the opportunity
Living in a big city means being surrounded by culture, innovation, and all manner of exciting experiences just waiting to be discovered. Be open to trying new hobbies, going to new places, meeting new people, eating new food, and generally getting out of your comfort zone. Don’t worry if you feel overwhelmed at first, because you’ll soon adjust to the fast pace of city life. Before you know it, you’ll have made plenty of friends to explore your new home with!
