So it looks like I have a new job opportunity going to work over in London, possibly moving to Paris after a few months. Anyone here lived in either? I've spent time in London twice this month and can see living there pretty easily. Just looking for any gotchas, advice, or things to be aware of.

 

You going to take your car over? Only thing I really know is the cost of fuel over there is about 2x the price as here.....

 

I'll be sad to see you go John!

My mom has lived in Both London and Paris, but it was many, many years ago. If there is anything specific that I can ask her for you, let me know. I'm sure since it was so long ago that we won't be of much help. I'm always happy to try though.

 

I'm from Paris, PM me if you have any questions.

 

Nope. I had actually already listed it with Roy since I was contemplating moving to a spyder. If I do take the job then I'll probably sell all but either the Mini or the Touareg.

 

Let me know if you want to get together before you go for a night shoot out at Alki.....

 

e-x-p-e-n-s-i-v-e!

 

Wow John! What a cool opportunity though. I would live in Paris in a heartbeat. Sad to see you go though, I've met you a couple of times but you're a good guy.

6speed field trip to Paris! Everybody bring their baguette money and their signed permission slips.

 

I've lived in London for about 4 years. "A man that is tired of London, is tired of life". One of the truly best cities in the world in which to live as a young man. Beyond "expensive", and truly pointless to own the liability/burden known as a "car". Average speed for a journey is around 9mph in London. Ridiculously over-populated with traffic cameras everywhere, and I mean *everywhere*. I've spent quite a bit of time in Paris too, and it has all of the same problems as London as far as traffic is concerned, just with drivers with less skill and more irritability. Venture onto L'etoille or peripherique if you dare.

To re-iterate, both cities are expensive. A 4000 sq-ft home in London with 2 garages can easily be $10M+. And that's not an extravagant home. Therefore, most people live further away and commute on the tube/train -- then you can get into a nice house for about $1M. But still not what would be considered "nice" by American standards. Figure on $3000/mon to rent something suitable for a single person or couple, or much more for a family home. Pricing really depends on how much you are willing to commute, and how much you're willing to sacrifice your personal safety. I mean, you can live in Brixton and save a bunch, but you'd better be able to look after yourself, and not keep valuables at home or in the car. Crime rate is also out of control, lots of assaults, and break-ins (*never* leave a cellphone/mp3-player visible in a car) and a "take a number" attitude of the police.

Can offer lots more info if you want to chat at the next E@RTC gtg...

 

What a wonderful opportunity! Go, have fun, enjoy the experience. We will miss you and look forward to hearing all about it on the forum!