michali

Sometimes I cannot believe we are back and certainly not for a year already and yet, in some ways, it seems we have been here forever! My husband is on a spousal visa but we do not have to do anything for another year, except keep official correspondence safe to prove we are together. Seeing as we will have been married for fifty years when we apply for an extension, I think we are pretty much together!

It has been a great year! We have been able to spend quality time with our children and grandchildren and other family members, which was our main reason for returning. Getting established with the Council, utilities, banking and the NHS was very easy and very efficient.

The weather has been extraordinarily kind to us with sunny days through the Winter. Of course there have been some gloomy days but we have been able to go out pretty much every day. I catch more colds than I ever did abroad but seeing as I spend a good time on public transportation due to my Freedom Pass, it is hardly surprising I pick up any bugs that are going around. We have both had to use the NHS and have been treated well.

We enjoy long walks around London, which I just love! Looking at the beautiful old buildings is such a pleasure. Looking at the modern ones, not so much!

Watching the flowers burst into life in spring and the bare branches suddenly become green and leafy again has been a joy. We take so much for granted.

I am so grateful for the opportunity to return. Who knows what the future will bring, but for now, I live in the moment as much as possible.

Perth

What a wonderful update! So glad you have settled in so well. We also plan on returning with a spouse visa as retirees using savings. Would you mind if I pm-ed you for a few pointers on the application? Understand if you'd rather not. Best wishes to you!

michali

Of course I would not mind at all! Anything I can do to make the process easier for you would make me happy!

Perth

Thank you! Send you a PM

NiHao

Michali,

Wonderful update, you sound very happy Thank you so much for taking the time to post I find it so helpful to be able to read about the experiences and thoughts of those who have already moved back.

So good to know that you are enjoying life in the UK.

rebeccajo

I so envy you, being in my favorite city in the world.

Enjoy it. I'm sure you deserve it.