An Expat Talks about How to Meet People in Portishead, UK, Report 9890

An Expat Talks about Living in Portishead, UK

What is the name of the city or town that you are reporting on?

Portishead

How long have you lived there?

10 months

What activities, clubs and organizations would you recommend to newcomers to help them meet others?

I joined the local catholic church and tennis club. I find it harder to meet others this way, however have some friends from work that we hang out with. I would recommend gyms, clubs, etc.

Expats living in UK interested in expat health insurance should take a minute to get a quote from our trusted expat health insurance partner, CIGNA. Get a Quote

Expats living in UK interested in expat health insurance should take a minute to get a quote from our trusted expat health insurance partner, CIGNA.

In terms of religious, racial, economic and cultural diversity, are the people of this city or town diverse? Are they accepting of differences? Describe.

I think that the Somerset region of UK has a lot of work on racial diversity to do. I have experienced negative racial comments and presumed judgements about the US from a lot of people (ie: colleagues, nurses at the NHS, and my son's school). I think it would be helpful to teach diversity to the young people like they did at my high school in Illinois. There are parts of Bristol that are very diverse and culturally aware, however leaving Bristol it is mostly white british culture and unaccepting of too many differences.

What are the main industries in this city? What types of career opportunities commonly exist? How do most people find new jobs?

Farming, council jobs (government-where I work), retail and working class. Finding jobs is hard in this area, a lot of people and families are on benefits from government.

In general, what are peoples' priorities in this city? For example, do lives revolve around work, family, socializing, sports, etc.?

Work is not as important here as it is in the US. People treasure time with their families and friends. Socializing and sports are very important, and the occasional night at the pub with your mates.

Moving to UK?

Sirelo offers you a simple and hassle free solution to plan your move to UK. You'll get up to 5 FREE quotes from trusted international movers. Takes 1 minute! No obligation. Save up to 40%. Only qualified and professional movers. Get your quotes now!

If a friend of yours was thinking of moving to this city or town from far away, what other advice would you give them.

Be prepared to be minority, and be a strong individual. I could see that London is easier as is very diverse.

More about UK

Healthcare in the UK

Expats in the U.K. are able to utilize the public health care system, which is managed by the NHS. Many expats want to have private health insurance to help reduce wait times and several other reasons. Read for more details on how to navigate the system.

Moving to London

Expats describe London as a love it or hate it city. With it's high cost of living and rainy weather, it's not for everyone. But, those who move to London and love it will tell you that the city's tremendous diversity, vibrant nightlife, incredible restaurants and varied neighborhoods.

10 Tips for Living in the United Kingdom

Expats in the United Kingdom live in one of the most sought after destinations in the world. Its four countries - England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland - offer expats a broad range of expatriate experiences.

5 Tips for Living in St Albans, England

Expats living in St Albans live in a suburb with a very easy commute to London. Almost all of the areas within St Albans are desirable. In addition to a lot of options for enjoying the great outdoors, there's plenty of shopping, dining, and pubs.

5 Tips for Living in Hassocks, England

Expats living in Hassocks live in a suburb with a relatively easy commute to London. It's proximity to the South Downs and Brighton make Hassocks a small town worth considering a London suburb.

Expats living in Hassocks live in a suburb with a relatively easy commute to London. It's proximity to the South Downs and Brighton make Hassocks a small town worth considering a London suburb....

Write a Comment about this Expat Report

Comments about this Report

Hello, I moved to Portishead in July 2009 from Canada but I was born in Guatemala, Central America. I am starting a group in the Folk Hall for this exactly!!!! if you can come you are more than welcome next wend 19/01/2011 http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=101416496601536 Patty

I lived in Portishead for almost 2 yrears and as an immigrant I found that some people were very friendly and others not.. I think it might be related to education. But it is mainly a white population and very traditional... If you are immigrating to England learn their traditions and humor them... not a lot of people embrace new cultures or languajes... PS from Guatemala, America Central