Beeing Bee

Moving to a new city is an incredible and very exciting journey. Today you’ll learn the steps to properly vet your desired new city. Steps 1 through 6 should be completed online BEFORE your first visit. 

Step One: Look at a map. I recommend google maps for its accessibility and ease of use. Look at your prospective city, notice its geographical location. Are there bodies of water nearby? Mountainous terrain? Are there things you like to do in that area? Nightlife, Attractions, Medical Centers and Hospitals, Restaurants, etc. Look at the distance from the closest airport to their “Downtown” or centralized hub. Check for grocery stores, shopping centers, and libraries. Utilize the transit button to see how long these travels would take you on public transportation. 

Step Two: Understand the Natural Hazards and Previous Disasters in that area. Are you moving to a flood zone, hurricane, tornado,tsunami  or earthquake destination?  What kind of insurance rates are you going to pay for this area? Do you need an emergency evacuation plan in place? Do you have the right vehicle and equipment for this location? 

Step Three: Learn about the common animals and plant species in that location. Are these species commonly found in or around residences? Do they pose a threat to my pets, children or plants? How have other residents coexisted with them ? 

Step Four: Inquire about common vaccines or diseases. Has this region had any recent outbreaks? Are there mandatory vaccinations I need to endure?  What is the #1 cause of death in this region? How preventable is it? 

Step Five: Utilize Property Searching Apps such as Apartments.com, Zillow, homes.com, Facebook Marketplace, airbnb, etc. Determine the cost of living. 

Step Six: Research available employment opportunities in your field.  I’ve had luck with Indeed, LinkedIn, Handshake, and Google Searches. 

Step Seven: Book your first in-person vetting trip. You should utilize Airbnb rather than a hotel so you can get a true feel of the community. Most hotels are located in tourist areas. Book an airbnb or two in neighborhoods you’d like to live in. You can use YouTube to watch videos on the best or safest neighborhoods in that city. Reminder, some of the best gems may be hidden and require in-person revelations. Your transportation method should be tracked especially if you plan to visit your old city for friends or family gatherings. 

Step Eight: Buy a day or multi-day city transit pass. This allows for accessibility in transit. The best way to get to know your new city is to use public transportation. You will begin to learn common routes. You will have the opportunity to see how reliable their city transit system is. 

Step Nine:Apply for jobs you see in person: By applying for jobs on your first visit you increase your chances of becoming employed. Some cities have longer wait times for employment, so the sooner you get started the better. Additionally, you will have live experience vetting a new position. How is the establishment? Is it located in an area you like? Would you feel safe in this environment? How does the company culture feel?

Step Ten: Attend a few interviews. This is a continuation of the previous steps. If you apply for jobs before you arrive, and apply to jobs when you are there, you just might land a few in-person interviews. However, do not fret if you don’t land any interviews at this time. There’s still hope for a successful and planned move.  

Step Eleven: Visit Schools, Universities, and Religious Centers. Feelings of belonging are essential in everyone’s life. These are a few institutions that could provide you with a sense of belonging when you move to a new town. Additionally, education and religion give many people a sense of purpose and drive. How wonderful would it be to know you have a safe community waiting for your arrival ! How motivating would it be to know you are on your way to holistic enrichment. 

Step Twelve: Spend time with locals. Check out the local library for free community events. Go to a grocery store, Cafe, Farmers Market or Flea Market. These are excellent places to see and meet local businesses and community members. Take some time and have a small picnic at a park.  Utilize apps like Meetup and Eventbrite and attend free fitness clubs. You need to see if you enjoy the local people. Are they friendly? Does this city offer programs and events you’re interested in? 

Final Step: Review. Make a pros and cons list and reflect on your experiences. Would you be happy in this new city? Our happiness and overall well being is a crucial part of our existence. You may even consult with trusted people in your life. But remember this is your life and only you have the ability to direct it. 

I hope you learned a bit from me, 

Beeing Bee