An Expat Talks about Living in Portishead, UK

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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.

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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.

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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.

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Comments about this Report

guest

Jan 13, 2011 16:21

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

ppereira

Aug 27, 2012 12:10

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