British Expatriate Network

Hi all,

Hope to get some info on living / working in the UK. I'm here in the US and my job might move me to the UK within about 6 months.

I'm excited but have some questions after doing some research on my own.

1. Do most people living in London have a car or is the 'tube' the way to go everywhere?

2. I've been researching homes, flats, etc and most are leasehold but some are freehold - is freehold just like buying a home here - yours forever?

3. What is a good map website where I can get driving directions from & to places in London?

4. How much in taxes does the UK take from your paycheck?

Any info is greatly appreciated.

Thanks!

Al in SoCal

Hi there! Welcome to Britnet.

London. Never lived there, not an expert, but...
1) You probably don't need a car if you're living in the centre.
2) Yes, Freehold mens it's yours, leasehold means it reverts to someone else after so many years.
3) The best thing to do is buy a London A-Z. It's a book form of local streetmaps. Add a road atlas of the UK and you're set. Otherwise I think Mapquest works in the UK? But really, UK streets and traffic are not set up for computer navigation. Ask a local and be prepared to be directed by pubs and other such landmarks. It works, trust me.
4) Tax Rates

A bit late, I've only just joined this forum BUT........ as a Londoner
1. If you're living in London don't get a car! You don't need it for a start. You can go anywhere on public transport. You have to pay a £10 congestion charge to drive in central London. Parking is very limited and expensive. Cars add to the terrible pollution. The Mayor is actively trying to reduce the amount of traffic in London for health/environmental reasons.
2,3 and 4, I agree with monster.
Can I also add London property prices are the among the most expensive in the world, so if you're only there for a limited time renting may be better.