Gratz for making it to the United Kingdom! You are now a part of the lively fabric that makes this city one of the most interesting and diverse in the world, regardless of whether you have just landed at Heathrow, Gatwick, or any of the city’s busy airports.
Upon landing at london airport, navigating this unfamiliar environment as a newcomer might be daunting, so let’s get started with some helpful travel tips and guidance to help you get settled and find your place in the city.
By the time you are reading this post, either you have already landed or you are planning to. Nevertheless, it is never too late to learn a few tricks.
I will be running you through my experience and how it could have been better.
First Impressions: Panick mode at Visa Check
Certainly, my first thoughts were to revise the answers to the most expected questions I was about to receive.
Not that I am a terrorist or I am planning to be dodgy, this is a usual scenario with everyone as the language starts muddling as you approach the gate.
I kept my calm and answered the questions straightforward. Notably, they are very helpful and extra sweet when they hear NHS.
Coming out after landing at London Airport
With the luggage almost my weight, I wandered a little around the airport for a fag. But what now? Luckily, I had my brother who already lives here.
He had already informed me that the cabs should not cost more than 80GBP from LHR airport to Basingstoke. But when I queried those fancy looking black cabs, the price were roughly 150GBP.
Called my brother again, and he came to pick me up straight (1 hour drive though).
What could I have done better? Buying a sim within the london airport is definitely a must-do first step. Without it, you cannot book uber (no network on your sim, WiFi coverage is limited).
Next, downloading the Uber App is recommended. There’s one more catch, make sure you have a card which has international transactions on, otherwise, you are a fish out of the water.
Cash comes handy, but you cannot book Uber with cash only in the UK.
Avoid buses as you will just panick without a roadmap.
Tube is for daredevils. If you have massive luggage, stick to cabs. Do not stroll far from airport, and keep away from that car park for sure.
If you have apple phone, wallet comes in handy significantly, especially at stores at buses.
Best tip? Try asking your friends for private cab contacts. They are your best yet economical bet.
It took me freaking 2 months to adjust to the UK, and another 1 year to adjust to the weather (still adjusting though). It feels calm, serene and peaceful unlike the home country.
Air is pure, tap water is for everything, and thank you and sorry become your daily words. Though, you might feel lonely for a while like I did too. Not knowing what to do at evening is another issue.
Walk around, venture through different streets and explore local stores, this boosts your confidence that you can do it. P.S- Try the below at your own risk:
Me? For me, I had my brother, sister-in-law and nephew. Besides, I met my wife as a friend in the UK itself. That story is perhaps for another time. But have some company of someone, it will ease the things out in ways you will contemplate later on.
Wrapping Up
Regardless of your origins or experiences, UK is a place that welcomes newcomers and values diversity.
Whether you’re here for a job, exams, or simply to discover, you’ll soon find yourself feeling right at home.
Soak it all in, build relationships, and savor the experience—you’re starting a fresh chapter in one of the most thrilling cities on the planet.
Once again, welcome to London! Your journey is getting started, landing at london airport is just the beginning!
Here is me coming second time and permanently to meet my wife 3 months immediately after marriage 😭😭😭:
