It can be difficult to feel settled in a new city that you are unfamiliar with. You may feel like a stranger in your own neighborhood. Feeling more at home in a new city takes some effort and planning on your part, but it can make you feel much more comfortable in your new surroundings. BMS Moving & Storage has talked to some our clients that have made a transition to a new location. They have shared with us the best methods to feel right at home in a new city.
1. Attend Community Events
When you are settled and unpacked, look around at what events your community, town, or city is putting on. Often they will have a calendar that will have a list of upcoming events listed. Invite your new neighbors to attend. It can be a perfect opportunity to get to know the people in your neighborhood while making new friends.
2. Drive Around
The act of creating a mental map can help you feel more relaxed and familiar with your surroundings. Drive around your new city and take note of what is around you. While many people have GPS on their phones, it can be helpful to know where main buildings are located like the hospital, post office, and police station.
3. Throw a Housewarming Party
If you don’t see many events happening in the near future, throw your own! Invite your neighbors over for a housewarming party. Don’t forget to have a sign-in book to gather their contact information. Not only will this help you remember their names, but also it is also handy when you need to contact them for small favors like a cup of sugar or watching your cat for the weekend.
4. Volunteer
One of the most rewarding ways to feel at home in a new city is to volunteer at a local non-profit agency. Whether it is working at the food pantry or soup kitchen, volunteering a bit of your time can help you feel more at home while assisting people in need. It is a win/win for everyone involved! Look up volunteer opportunities in your city through your city’s community page or search online for organizations in your local area.
5. Visit Local Businesses
When you are looking to get to know people in the community, start visiting local businesses. Trying out a family-owned café or having your car serviced by the local mechanic are all ways that you can begin to establish a routine and gain knowledge about where to go in your new city. If you are opening a business in your new city, attend a few small business-networking groups in the area. Many city websites have a useful business listing that you can use as a resource.
If you are moving to a new city and need assistance with packing, moving, or storage, contact the experts at BMS Moving & Storage. Call (877) 594-1187 today for your free moving estimate.
