Sofi

Well in that case I guess I better get my HGV licence sorted out!

Jerseygirl

Sofi is it possible to make a trip over the pond to see Texas for yourself before you finally move? I for one would not consider moving anywhere I had not previously seen.

Sofi

I went over to Houston to visit last year and in general it was ok. Just big and hot and did I mention big...

Actually I think I'm sounding more negative that I mean to! To be honest I'm more excited about the whole thing than anything else and I'm adaptable. The main thing I was worried about was rotting away indoors alone *sob sob sob* but I think the volunteering idea is a stirling one and is something I was already considering. Also hubby-to-be has encouraged me to study etc just as a way of getting out of the house. So thats another option

Jerseygirl

Have you discussed what you will both do if you cannot settle? I only ask because there seems to be quite a few people who go to Oz and return to the UK without their husbands. Take a look in the Return to the UK forum...although it is mainly people who are returning from Oz...it will give you some idea of what people miss when they immigrate.

http://britishexpats.com/forum/forumdisplay.php?f=61

Elvira

Good suggestion - though it is still not clear whether they are actually planning to immigrate, and if so, on what time-scale, i.e. what are future husband's plans and where is he in this whole PR process.

Sofi could be volunteering and studying for many years to come...

Sofi

We have been engaged for almost 3 yrs so I have had plenty of time to get used to the idea. Returning to the UK without him is not really an option! Being in USA or UK is secondary to being with him. If I had to I would even manage to settle in Outer Mongolia with him! lol



USA is a forever and ever kind of plan for us. He has just this week started the Green Card process through his Immigration lawyer and Employer.

Tracym

Awwww you guys are sweet!

Remember, the U.S. is a very large country with varied cultures throughout - so if Houston isn't for you after a while, there are many many other choices. Oh yes.... and they aren't all so HOT!

scrubbedexpat097

Good for you sofi. You sound like a sensible and determined young lady.
Houston is no better nor no worse than most major cities all over the US. There are areas you need to avoid but you will soon learn. If you are looking to live around the Rice Uni area then you will be fine.

Studying at Rice, U of H or any of the Houston Community colleges sounds like a good idea to keep you occupied and a great way to make new friends. Both my kids got their degrees at U of H. If you want any info about volunteering let me know I am involved with 2 different groups right now and in the 20 years we have been here I have done a lot of volunteering in the Houston area.

Good luck with your move. PM me if I can be of any help.......

snowbunny

This is changing somewhat due to the cost of gas/petrol. The biggest gas guzzlers have fallen way out of favour though they still are around.

If you have the luxury of two cars, I'd buy something that would get you around the university area -- a Mini Cooper would do nicely.

Sofi

mini cooper is exactly the car i have my sights set on! now I just have to plant the idea in his head so he thinks it was his idea in the first place
But I wont be getting a car that quickly though. Lots of other expenses to take care of first

snowbunny

Tell him your choice is a Suburban/Tahoe/Expedition in order to "fit in". He'll freak out about the petrol costs. Then "compromise" on the Mini.

Jerseygirl

Shhh I've just got back from looking at new Expeditions...my husband did make a remark about the cost of filling a 33 gal tank...but I didn't listen.

Sofi

Hmmm I think I will use the compromise trick. It's a good one!!

JohnStang

manchester to houston is going to be rough. houston, is not the nicest area in america, depending on where you live in houston of course.

Sofi

I agree with Sugarmooma. It'll just be like any other big city. I'm pretty sure its not going to be all that bad to be honest.

Even Manchester has it 'bad' areas. Hulme anyone...?! And I'm sure I can be a whole load of 5ft 2in menace if I need to hehehe