An Expat Talks about Living in Leven, Scotland

What is the name of the city or town that you are reporting on?

Leven

How long have you lived there?

18 months

What activities, clubs and organizations would you recommend to newcomers to help them meet others?

If you are prepared to travel into the larger cities you may find some clubs or activies. There is not much going on in either Leven or Kirkcaldy, other than some sports clubs. There are lots of communtiy centers and pubs but it really depends on the locals and how you will be accepted. If you don't mind driving 40 minutes to an hour or more to some of the larger cities like St Andrews, Dundee or Edinburgh you will find them more open and accomadating. However, one must remember it gets dark here very early most of the year (like 4pm) and is raining most of the time. (not ideal travling conditions)

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In terms of religious, racial, economic and cultural diversity, are the people of this city or town diverse? Are they accepting of differences? Describe.

While there seems to be a large population of people from the Middle East, I found most of the Scots are not very welcoming. Many live in small villages where their families have lived for generations and they do not want outsiders moving in.

What are the main industries in this city? What types of career opportunities commonly exist? How do most people find new jobs?

You will have to work hard to find a job, here. There seems to be a large number of out of work people. If you have a higher skill you will have more success.

In general, what are peoples' priorities in this city? For example, do lives revolve around work, family, socializing, sports, etc.?

Work and the pub! Family life is low on the scale and it's quite hard to find a variety of family fun.

If a friend of yours was thinking of moving to this city or town from far away, what other advice would you give them.

Be sure to move into the city proper. Life in the smaller villages may sound charming but is vastly different. You will be considered an outsider as well as your children. Bullying is a BIG problem in the school systems here and not always handled appropriately.