There are plenty of advantages for Italians who decide to move to London, one of the preferred ‘meccas’ of the international community. Whether you are an expatriate seeking better living conditions and a better job, or a student interested in an educational experience abroad, London is the perfect place to be. It has a large community with 22,000 registered Italians, and plenty more unregistered, who live and work in London.
Since the first waves of immigrants in the early 19th Century landed on its shores, Italians have been active participants in the art, life, and culture of the city. The statistics speak for themselves: in 2013 alone, 13,000 Italians moved to the UK, which has now surpassed in rank Germany, Switzerland, and France as the most popular destination for emigrants.
7 Amazing Tips For Italians Moving To London
Work Opportunities
The opportunities for work, at least in the pre-Brexit era, are numerous and the city attracts many international students worldwide. For the latter, in particular, it presents a wonderful opportunity to study in a cosmopolitan and multi-cultural environment, thanks to the many traditional as well as online International universities that have branches worldwide.
In London, especially, it is possible to study in an Italian university such as Unicusano that also gives students from any country the opportunity to take online lessons. E-learning also gives you a wider access to resources and you can set your own schedule around the classes, while also working on multiple degrees simultaneously to build up your resume and skills.
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Italians in London
For the youth, so disillusioned with Italy’s failing economic infrastructures and rising unemployment level, London presents a much brighter future.
Here you can network with Italians who can be found everywhere in the city. Their large influence can be seen in the various places and neighbourhoods they frequent: Soho, Piccadilly Circus, Oxford Street, Hackney, Camden are only some of the many locations filled with bustling cafès, restaurants, bars, galleries, cultural centres, shops, cinemas, and Churches.
Home from Home
Check out favourite pizzerias like Franco Manca, Homeslice, PizzaMetroPizza, Pizza Pilgrims, and hop over to the Cinema Italia Film Club, the Italian Bookshop, St. Peter’s Italian Church, the Estorick Collection of Modern Art, or attend a PopUp Opera and religious festivals like La Festa Della Madonna Del Carmine for a taste of home.
Support Network
There you will meet other co-nationals that can give you useful advice and help you get settled in London. The Italian Cultural Institute and The ICC are also invaluable resources for expatriates or immigrants where you can find many contacts for networking, as well as study or career opportunities.
Learn the Language
While London is a multicultural city with many Italians, improving your English skills is key to thriving in both work and daily life. Many jobs, especially professional ones, will require a good command of English. You can join local language schools, take online courses, or even engage in language exchange meet-ups where you can practice English while helping others learn Italian.
Embrace Public Transport
London’s public transport system is extensive, but it can also be overwhelming at first. The London Underground (Tube), buses, and trains are the most efficient ways to get around the city. Getting an Oyster Card or using contactless payment is essential for reducing travel costs. Make sure to familiarise yourself with the different zones and fares, and always check for any potential delays or strikes before setting out.
Explore London’s Green Spaces
One of the most appealing aspects of London is its abundance of parks and green spaces. Whether you need a peaceful retreat or a place for outdoor activities, locations such as Hyde Park, Regent’s Park, and Hampstead Heath offer a tranquil escape from the bustling city. These parks are great for walking, picnicking, or even meeting up with friends and fellow Italians for social gatherings.
In conclusion, moving to London as an Italian offers countless opportunities, from expanding your career prospects to immersing yourself in a vibrant, multicultural environment. With a strong Italian community, familiar tastes of home, and endless networking possibilities, London is an exciting city that can feel like a second home. Embrace the experience, make the most of the resources available, and enjoy everything this dynamic city has to offer!
