There is something exciting about moving to a city in an unfamiliar country. Before you do though, have you thought about researching the place that might become your temporary home for the next few years?
Aberdeen is a great city with plenty of opportunities and a vibrant culture, but it can also be a little overwhelming when you first arrive.
It’s important to conduct research to be sure that you know what to expect, from the cost of living to the job market, local customs, and the best way to fit into the local community.
Please find below a few pointers that may help you prepare for your move.
Research
Completing in-depth research cannot be overemphasized when moving to a new area or city. As international students and new employees, it is important to carry out due diligence about the area you are moving to, from cultures to weather, local cuisines and much more. Using Google or similar search engines should assist in this task.
About Aberdeen
Aberdeen is situated in the northeast of Scotland and this region is fondly referred to as ‘The Oil Capital of Europe’.
It is the third largest city in Scotland after Glasgow and Edinburgh and is also known as the ‘Granite City’ – it is believed that it is built extensively from silver-grey granite extracted from Rubislaw Quarry which is situated in the west of the city.
Aberdeen is home to two Universities and Marischal College, the world’s second-largest granite building.
The city’s atmosphere is one of familiarity and ease, with many different types of people and cultures. There is variety in all aspects of life in Aberdeen including food, workplaces and leisure activities, the city can provide an exclusive lifestyle.
Aberdonians speak with a strong accent and sometimes it might be difficult to understand.
It is always advisable to ask questions when you have not understood what has been said.
Doric
While English is the main language spoken in Scotland, the nation has a wide range of accents and dialects.
In Aberdeen, Aberdeenshire, and other northeast regions of Scotland, Doric is the traditional dialect. A few simple phrases below:
| Doric | English |
| Fit like? | Hello, how are you? |
| Nae bad, fit like yersel | Not bad, how are you? |
| Far hiv ye bin? | Where have you been? |
| Loons and quines | Boys and girls |
| Bonnie | Beautiful |
| Dinna fash yersel | Don’t trouble yourself |
| Canna | cannot |
| Fit, wye nae? | Why not? |
| Fitya dee’in? | What are you doing? |
| Aye | Yes |
| Wee | Small |
Weather
A region as far north as Aberdeen gets very cold. It is situated on the coast and the North Sea winds can be very strong. When you prepare for your new home, keep in mind that the winter months can start early and finish late.
There is a lot of rain throughout the year (this is why it is so green!), and winters are cold with high winds and snow that can reduce the temperature even further due to the ‘chill factor’.
Appropriate clothing is certainly worth considering, even when inside as the utility bills will otherwise be very high.
Accommodation
Again, please remember that research is key.
It is important to know the options available in terms of accommodation whether you plan to rent or buy a property.
As an international student, you may decide to rent a room in a house of multiple occupation (HMO) with several other students or rent a flat with a colleague.
Either way, it is important to remember that you must adhere to the terms of your lease agreement which should always be read thoroughly prior to signing.
If your family are going to be joining you during your stay, the appropriate living requirements should be considered – for example, it is not considered appropriate for more than 2 people to live in a one-bedroom property. Please click the above link for more information.
The rules and regulations regarding residential property rentals in Scotland are very strict, much stricter than in neighbouring England and it would be wise to make sure you understand the consequences fully prior to committing to an agreement.
There are many houses with character in Aberdeen including rural cottages on the outskirts of the city or granite tenements within the city centre (renowned for sparkling like silver in sun + moonlight) which date back to the 18th and 19th centuries.
For more information or advice on how we at Pebble Mountain Properties can potentially help, please contact us via one of the methods below.
info@pebblemountainproperties.co.uk
+44(0)1224 061159