London or Manchester?

Hi there!

I will be travelling to the UK in May, and will be staying there for about a year. As I've never been, I was wondering if anyone had any advice with regards to where I should stay? I am torn between London and Manchester.

I have heard that there is a higher cost of living in London, but that it is easier to find work there, whereas Manchester may be less expensive, but it may also be a more difficult city in which to secure a job.

I am also curious about the cities themselves, and some of the differences in terms of weather, culture, architecture, etc.

Any information or advice would be greatly appreciated!

I don't personally think it's very difficult to find a job in Manchester. I think it's remarkably easy, actually.

As for which city is better to choose, I hesitate to recommend either way. In Manchester you'd certainly have a higher quality of life due to a lower cost-of-living. The weather is a bit grim, but better than I was led to believe before I came here. Contrary to popular belief, it doesn't rain all the time, though I find it a touch colder than I'm used to. There's much to keep you occupied here: lots of rock concerts, good pubs and clubs, lots of good eating. None of it can compare to the wealth of choice you have in London, but the upside is that you can actually afford to do some of it.

One downside is that there isn't quite as much choice for cheap airfares throughout Europe from Manchester. Most of the frequent cheap deals leave out of London. That being said, it hasn't really hindered me from getting great deals to Greece, Amsterdam, Munich and Budapest so far.

I hope you enjoy your time here, and I hope you're happy with whichever location you choose.

Thanks for all the great information, Susie! I really appreciate all of your help!

Cheers!

LOVE manchester..


Close to the Welsh mountains and sea, close to Chester, wonderfull shopping and all sorts.. love it!!