Moving to the UK: My Diary

Entry 1: The Decision

I still remember the exact moment I decided I was really doing it—moving to the UK wasn’t just a dream anymore, it was happening. The thought of living in a place with so much history, a world-class healthcare system, and a multicultural vibe felt right.

But beyond the romance of cobblestone streets and tea breaks, I had my reasons:

• Career opportunities in healthcare
• The chance to travel across Europe with ease
• A personal challenge to grow in ways I couldn’t back home

I wrote down my “why” in my notebook that night. I knew I’d need it later, when the paperwork and packing started to feel overwhelming.

Preparing for the Leap

The weeks before the move were a blur of lists and late-night research.

• Visa options: I spent hours on the UK government immigration page, trying to make sense of the requirements.
• Housing: securing a flat felt like a race, especially with London’s rental demand.
• Banking: opening a UK account was harder than I thought—proof of address became my nemesis.
• NHS: I learned about the healthcare surcharge and made sure I was covered.

I scribbled reminders to myself: “ Figure out Oyster cards. Where do people buy groceries?”

Entry 3: First Weeks in the UK

Those first days were thrilling and exhausting. Everything was new—the bus routes, the shop hours, even the way people queued.

I bought bedding, kitchen basics, and of course, an umbrella (lesson learned quickly). Walking around my neighbourhood helped me feel less like a stranger. Registering with a GP and getting a UK SIM card were small victories that made life smoother.

At night, homesickness crept in. I reminded myself: “This is normal. It will pass.”

Everyday Life

Slowly, routines formed. Tea breaks became part of my day. I learned to dress in layers because the weather never made up its mind. Pubs turned into social hubs where conversations flowed easily.

And queues—oh, the queues. People here treat them like sacred rituals. I found myself smiling at how quickly I adapted to that rhythm.

Career Growth

As a nurse, I was nervous about fitting in professionally. But the UK surprised me with its supportive environment.

I updated my CV to match the UK style, joined local professional groups, and leaned on LinkedIn for networking. The annual leave system felt generous compared to what I was used to. For the first time, I felt like work–life balance wasn’t just a buzzword.

The Emotional Side

Loneliness hit harder than I expected. I missed familiar food, family traditions, and the comfort of home.

What helped:

• Finding expat communities who understood the struggle
• Cooking my favourite dishes from back home
• Keeping regular calls with loved ones

Bit by bit, my flat started to feel less like a temporary stop and more like home.

Notes to My Future Self

Before anyone else makes the leap, here’s what I’d tell them (and remind myself):

• Double-check visa requirements
• Make copies of every important document
• Set up international banking early
• Pack comfort items—they matter more than you think
• Learn the quirks of UK culture (like tipping and bank holidays)

FAQ Scribbles in My Journal

• Is moving to the UK expensive? Yes and no. London drains your wallet, but northern cities are kinder.
• Can you move without a job? Technically yes, but visas usually require an offer.

Discover More Experiences

• Under Pressure: Managing Stress and Mental Health in the OR

Other sources

• UK Government Immigration Page → for visa options.
• NHS Healthcare Information → for registering with a GP and healthcare surcharge details.

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If you’ve enjoyed following my honest journey of moving to the UK — from visa paperwork to tea breaks and everything in between — I’d love for you to join me for more stories, tips, and reflections.