How to Survive Living in London

So, about a month ago I moved to London for the first time, full time. I'd been going back and forth from my countryside home to the city to visit my partner over the course of many months, so when we decided to move in together, I thought, well, this won't be that much different from just visiting, surely?Oh how I was wrong.London is a whole different ballgame once you live here and so that's why I've compiled a list of tips to help any newcomer get started in this hectic place.

1. Get a railcard!

A railcard entitles you to 1/3 off of all tube and train travel, which means if you're here for three months, one third of that travel will have been free! Technically.

2. Make friends as soon as possible!

Despite the sheer volume of people in London, it can be one of the loneliest places on this earth. It's very easy to get lost in a crowd. So join clubs, go out. If you already know people here before you move, connect with them, get them to show you around. London will always be a much friendlier place if you have a good support network.

3. Don't be afraid to be a tourist!

Don't feel guilty or like you're not a real London-er if you want to spend your weekends traipsing round the museums and taking way too many pictures of Big Ben. It's a new place, new stuff. It's perfectly natural to want to explore.

4. Take whatever work you can get (within reason, of course).

If you're like me and you've come to London without much financial stability then take whatever work you can get. London is expensive, super expensive so don't turn down night shifts at some bar or cleaning work at the crack of dawn. At least if you've got money coming in you can slow down a bit on finding your dream job. There are plenty of money making opportunities in London, just make sure you keep it legal!

5. Enjoy yourself!

Don't become a miserable commuter! Enjoy yourself, you're in London; so many people would love to be in your shoes. This is a big adventure so seize it.

I hope this helps anyone reading. I know it can seem like the most daunting place in the world but honestly it's not so bad. London is a really magical place once you get past all the chicken shops.