Living in England: the ultimate expat guide

Geography

The United Kingdom is located in Western Europe and is bordered by the Northern sea and the Atlantic Ocean. Its land mass covers some 243, 610 km². The capital city of the United Kingdom is London while the largest cities are Glasgow, Manchester, Birmingham, Cardiff, Liverpool, Edinburgh, and Leeds.

Demography and language

With a population of 63 million, the United Kingdom is one of the most densely populated European countries. The demographic growth is owed to the immigration rate.

The official languages in the United Kingdom are English and Welsh. Both languages are taught at school, especially in Wales. Other languages like Celtic Scottish and Celtic Irish are also spoken by the UK residents.

You will also come across many dialects, slangs, and accents in the UK, Yorkshire being one of the most famous regional dialects. The language was spoken by Viking invaders. The diversity of accent can is also obvious in various cities as follows:
Scouse (Liverpool)
Gordie (Newcastle)
Yorkshire/Lancashire
Cockney (London)
The Valley (Wales)
Manc Accent (Manchester)
Northern Irish, etc.

The British economy

As of 2018, the United Kingdom had a Nominal Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of USD 2.62 trillion. Presently, the United Kingdom is the third most powerful economy in Europe, and the fifth largest economy worldwide. The booming economy is driven by the services sector, the manufacturing industry, agriculture, civil and military aviation, pharmaceutical and chemical industry, financial services, construction, and the creative industry. Tourism, science, and technology also make a significant contribution to the national economy.

The United Kingdom is part of the World Trade Organization, European Union (till now), the Group of Eight, Commonwealth, and the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD).

Politics in the United Kingdom

The United Kingdom is a parliamentary monarchy. Queen Elizabeth II currently holds the royal power while the Prime minister holds the executive power - people vote him and but he is officially appointed by the Queen. Since 2016, the UK prime minister is Theresa May. The cabinet comprises 22 ministers. The UK is regulated by common, constitutional, conventions, and customs laws.

All four countries in the UK are still run altogether by the Queen, and Prime minister. The government seat is found in London. The elected council is in charge of regional matters and they also appoint a representative for the UK parliament. All proceedings and legislations are handled by the UK parliament which is found in London.

The landscape and climate

One of the favourite features of the UK climate is its rolling green countryside, scenic rivers, mountains, and stunning hills. Looking beyond the apparent reality, you will find several urban labyrinths and architectural designs that have lived up to 400 years. There are also many modern houses, beautiful beaches, etc.

The climate of the United Kingdom generally depends on where you reside. For those living in southern England, the weather is mild, and sunnier during summer. In northern England or Ireland, it is usually rainy with a relatively lower temperature.

Scotland is famous for its cold and humid climate and those living on the coasts enjoy a windy and oceanic climate. Some parts of the UK have warmer microclimates; these include south-west England, the Isle of Scilly, and Wales.

The UK is considered the cradle of the industrial revolution. Almost all cities and towns have a particular identity as you can get a sight of several warehouses and factories. The post-industrial slump undergone by the UK during the 20th century left several industrial buildings in the UK looking empty.

But since awakening from the slumber, history changed for the better. Today, innovations contribute significantly to the growing economy while the empty-looking buildings have been renovated into modern industrial buildings, art galleries, trendy social areas, etc.