how to navigate your way around a new city
Have you just moved to a new city for university, work, or just for a change? It’s really exciting for this new change, but it can also be nerve-racking of the though of moving somewhere completely new.
You’ve unpacked your suitcase, put all of your stuff from organised boxes away in there place and you can finally relax. However, your journey has just begun! Now you have to find the best supermarkets, bar, and the nearest gym, which might be a bit stressful. Here’s a few helpful ways to navigate your new city.
Gather Your Bearings
You might not know your way around the city that well when you first move, which is normal. Start by figuring out where the essentials are going to be.
If you are moving for University, find out how far away your university campus is from your accommodation. The same rule applies for where you work. Time how long it takes to get there by walking.
However, if you are driving to work or university, look at maps to find the route that best matches you. Similarly, if you are planning on taking any public transport such as a bus or train, take a note of there schedules and incorporate it into your own.
Another priority is your favourite place to shop. Find the various options for your weekly shop, and again find the one which is your favourite. Although if you are loyal to your supermarket, plan your route to get there. Do you have to take a bus?
Finally, look out for your favourite takeaway spots in the city. And don’t forget to change your address on Uber eats/Just Eat
Explore Everywhere And Anywhere You Can
This new city is your new home so explore, explore, and explore some more! If your new city is rather large, split up the areas and discover the beauty of each area. Learn about the area and what they have such as restaurants, bars, and parks.
If you really want to become a tourist in your new city, you could take tour trips around the area and learn from experts about the best places around.
If you’re feeling adventurous, some cities have ways of getting around such as Liverpool’s VOI scooters, or London’s Lime Bicycles, which you can pay to use for however long you’d like. Although make sure you have a helmet just in case!
The benefits of exploring your new city allows you to understand the areas better, making getting around a lot easier. You are also able to find places that you love which you might not find online, making it truly your own discovery.
Remember to have fun, but most importantly stay safe whenever you are travelling somewhere new. Don’t just ask locals where to go, but where not to!
Here’s a few tips on exploring your city!
Experience The Nightlife
You are missing out on half the fun by not exploring the city by night, as it’s the time where it comes to life.
The night time enables you to see the city in a fresh perspective. If you are lost as to what to do at night you can:
- Go to local bars and restaurants.
- Go to music event like gigs and concerts.
- Comedy show nights (sometimes even for free)
- Late night buskers in the street.
- Late night movies and bowling.
Join Groups And Clubs
It can be socially awkward moving to a new city, especially if you do not know anyone.
Although don’t let that stop you from enjoying yourself. No matter what you are into; Football, Rugby, Painting, Sewing, Reading, there is going to be a club you can join. Furthermore, you are able to meet people who have the same hobbies and interest as you, paving the way for a new friendship.
If you are looking to find a new hobby, click here to discover the best new hobbies of 2024
A good place to start if you are into fitness is the gym. Often gyms offer classes and inductions for members, which helps you physically, and mentally expand your interests and friendships.
Learn The History
Another great opportunity in your new city is to learn it’s history, and find out what makes your new place so special.
Check out local museums, for a visual idea of what happened in the past, looking at the riches of the city. You can also visit the landmarks that are well-known, and how they came to be so profound in the city.
Alternatively, you can search up online and research your new home in a more direct and easier approach. However it is not just the history you should learn, take a minute to identify the culture and how it is different to where you have been before. Learn the common slang terms, the football teams they support, and the local events that happen every year.
If you’re lost on where to start, read this article about how to research your town!
