Originally Posted by sallysimmons (Post 11049469)

Britain definitely doesn't have the most expensive car parking in the world although I have no idea about the little bit of it that constitutes London. Perhaps that's true there - although New York would take some beating.

Having moved from New York to the Yorkshire countryside, I can definitely say parking is cheaper here :D

I think the OP's point about family and friends is so important. My former best friend and I see each other when we can, but he's always so busy that it's hard. He's made a whole life that doesn't include me. On the other hand, one of my neighbours is quickly becoming a brilliant new friend, and I have reconnected with an old school pal who is rapidly becoming my new 'bestie.' I think you just have to keep reaching out, but be prepared that sometimes it just won't work.

Re being easier to talk to British people ... what I love is how easy it is to joke around with everyone - even complete strangers. It's such a relief to be among people who understand irony again!

Originally Posted by sallysimmons (Post 11049469)

Britain definitely doesn't have the most expensive car parking in the world although I have no idea about the little bit of it that constitutes London. Perhaps that's true there - although New York would take some beating. ...

Originally Posted by holly_1948 (Post 11049829)

I was just going on what I read in Business Insider, 16Dec 2013. I have no first-hand knowledge. 50% more than New York at GBP42 or USD70 per day

Originally Posted by Sally Redux (Post 11049866)

What?! Presumably by 'London' they mean Oxford Street or somewhere like that :lol:

Originally Posted by robin1234 (Post 11051595)

It's hard to know if those numbers mean anything or are accurate. I only know two of those cities well, London and New York City. I can think of no conceivable reason why a person would need to drive into either city and park for a day, unless they were disabled, perhaps. So to me, that makes the parking fees completely meaningless.

Originally Posted by lola88 (Post 11044015)

Hey everyone! It's been just over 3 months since I headed back to England (lived in California for five years). The first week back I posted a very positive post on here - I was high on the big move and change of scene! While I'm still very happy to be back and don't regret moving at all, as with all things, perfect it aint!

Based on my experience so far, I have the following words of wisdom to share:

1) The Job Market Isn't That Bad

Don't be fooled by Daily Mail/tabloid fodder that claims there's no hope out there and you will never ever get a decent paying job. There's work out there for just about every skill level - just depends if you're picky or not. I came back with ZERO connections or British work experience (left country at 18) but still got two job offers within the first 6 weeks of being back, both offering fair wages. Jobs aren't growing on trees and it's still very tough, but compared to the dismal job market I experienced in the US, I actually think it's a bit better here.

2) You Could Easily Suffer From Depression

I was high as a kite the first two weeks back - then as if a switch went off in my brain I became very depressed. Being back suddenly became overwhelming once the excitement died down and I felt very isolated and like a foreigner in my own country! Once I started working and going out more I soon snapped out of it - but be prepared for this as there's a good chance you may feel depressed at least at first.

3) You Get Used to the Weather

The first few weeks I was back I felt physically ill with the cold - then I got used to it! I wear my Uggs every day, wear a scarf and take an umbrella always with me and I'm absolutely fine - the weather hasn't stopped me doing anything I've wanted to do so far.

4) Don't Expect Friends & Family to Make a Big Fuss

Some of you may be lucky enough to have friends and family ecstatic on your return - but not me or for many other expats I have talked to. My immediate family are extremely happy I am back - but my extended family have made little to no effort to reconnect (despite various efforts on my side) and many of my friends (that may I add have been begging me to come home for years!) aren't that bothered or when I've met them have seemed uncomfortable/intimidated by the fact that I've lived abroad and done something different.

5) British People Like to Moan

It's true, they really do! The phony positive attitude of many American people used to annoy me, but here it seems the other extreme! I'm working as a temp at a uni and the staff have it pretty good - fair to good wages, lots of time off, laid back work environment and beautiful location - but they don't half moan! From their commute, to the weather, to nothing good is ever on the tv - it's a sea of negativity!

6) The NHS isn't Perfect, but it's nice to have

The NHS isn't perfect and has problems but on the whole it's very nice to have. I don't have to worry now when I feel ill that a serious illness could bankrupt me! Or be constantly calculating how a trip to the GP will cost me!

So that's it for now, hope it's helpful to people that are back and people that are thinking of coming back! Like I said working as a temp on a four month contract, so will need to find something more permanent in the new year - but I have faith that I will!