Glasgow, Scotland

"Some of our fondest memories are from the time we lived in Glasgow. Flights from the east coast of the States are plentiful with nonstop more expensive but cheaper flights to Edinburgh(then a 45 min train) or to Manchester or Liverpool with a short in-country flight to Glasgow. It was easy to travel to mainland Europe with two Glasgow airports. The city is grittier than Edinburgh but also more interesting in my opinion. The Kelvingrove Museum is a mash up of natural history and art and outdoor sculpture. The nearby park has trails that will lead you up for a wonderful view of the city, through to the University of Glasgow campus, or the Great Western Rd with shops, restaurants and the Botanical Gardens. I love the park near the River Clyde with the People's Palace and Winter Gardens.The enormous greenhouse-like Winter Gardens are a great place to spend time with a book and tea in the colder months. Americans will feel at ease in Glasgow with familiar shops like Gap, Urban Outfitters, and of course, Starbucks. And, find a tea room for breakfast lunch, or snack and get scones with clotted cream and jam. Please. The ones in Glasgow are casual and welcoming, not the least bit pretentious. A 25-minute drive north of the city and you are at Loch Lomond. From there the country stretches out with immense mystic beauty and history. Please rent a car once a month and drive to a different small town or island. Just driving past crumbling castles and fields of the greenest green, there is so much to experience. And you must get a photo of a highland cow aka "Heeland Coo"," explained one expat living in Glasgow.

"Expats and digital nomads living in Glasgow, often like the city's friendly and welcoming atmosphere, as the locals are known for their warmth and humor. They also appreciate the vibrant arts and music scene, with numerous galleries, theaters, and live music venues to explore. The city's rich history and stunning architecture, such as the medieval Glasgow Cathedral and the Victorian-era City Chambers, are also a draw for many. Glasgow offers a relatively low cost of living compared to other major UK cities like London and Edinburgh, making it an attractive option for expats and digital nomads on a budget. The city has a well-connected public transport system, including buses, trains, and a subway, making it easy to get around. Additionally, Glasgow's location provides easy access to the beautiful Scottish countryside, including Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park, which are perfect for weekend getaways. However, there are some aspects of living in Glasgow that expats and digital nomads may dislike. The weather can be a significant drawback, as the city is known for its frequent rain and generally cloudy, cool climate. This can make it challenging to enjoy outdoor activities and may affect some people's mood and overall well-being. Another potential downside is the local accent, known as the Glaswegian dialect, which can be difficult for newcomers to understand initially. This may make it challenging for expats and digital nomads to communicate with locals and fully integrate into the community. Lastly, while Glasgow has a relatively low crime rate compared to other UK cities, some areas have higher crime rates and social issues, such as poverty and drug abuse. Expats and digital nomads should research neighborhoods carefully before choosing where to live to ensure they find a safe and comfortable environment," said one in Glasgow.

"These Glaswegians are the loveliest people we've met on our travels throughout Europe. We enjoy the pub atmosphere, especially the smaller ones. There are larger music and dance clubs that can get a bit dodgy late at night due to alcohol consumption. The music scene towards the West End and University is tops," said one member in Glasgow.

"Expats, retirees, and digital nomads living in Glasgow, typically enjoy a vibrant and diverse social life. They often engage in various cultural events, such as attending art galleries, museums, and music venues. They may also participate in local clubs and organizations to meet new people and make friends with locals and fellow expats. Many expats and digital nomads find co-working spaces and cafes to be great places to network and socialize with like-minded individuals. Additionally, they often explore the city's thriving food and drink scene, visiting pubs, restaurants, and cafes to experience the local cuisine and socialize with others. Outdoor enthusiasts can also take advantage of Glasgow's parks and nearby countryside for recreational activities and group outings. Overall, the welcoming atmosphere and diverse range of activities available in Glasgow make it an attractive destination for expats, retirees, and digital nomads to build a fulfilling social life," remarked one expat in Glasgow.

"We easily found American and UK friends through work, local rowing club and joining a book club," explained one expat living in Glasgow.

"The social scene in Glasgow, is vibrant, diverse, and welcoming, with a wide range of options for people of all ages and interests. The city is known for its friendly locals, lively pubs, and thriving music scene, with numerous venues hosting live performances from local and international artists. Glasgow also boasts a rich arts and culture scene, with numerous galleries, museums, and theaters offering a variety of exhibitions and performances. Nightlife in Glasgow is bustling, with a wide range of bars, clubs, and late-night venues catering to different tastes and preferences. From traditional Scottish pubs to trendy cocktail bars and lively nightclubs, there is something for everyone. The city also has a thriving LGBTQ+ scene, with several dedicated bars and clubs offering a safe and inclusive space for the community. Glasgow is home to a diverse food scene, with a wide range of restaurants, cafes, and street food vendors offering cuisines from around the world. The city is particularly known for its thriving vegan and vegetarian food scene, with numerous dedicated eateries and an annual vegan festival. The city also offers plenty of opportunities for socializing through various clubs, societies, and meetup groups. These cater to a wide range of interests, from sports and outdoor activities to arts, crafts, and language exchanges. Glasgow's many parks and green spaces provide a perfect setting for picnics, outdoor sports, and social gatherings, while its proximity to the beautiful Scottish countryside offers ample opportunities for hiking, cycling, and other outdoor pursuits. Overall, the social scene in Glasgow is lively, diverse, and inclusive, offering a wide range of options for people to connect, socialize, and enjoy the city's rich culture and entertainment offerings," said one expat in living in Glasgow, Scotland.

"There are letting agencies however, we found our flat through Gumtree which is like Craig's list," explained one expat in Glasgow.

"Expats in Glasgow advise that it is important to research the area you are looking to live in before committing to a property. It is also important to consider the cost of living in the area, as well as the availability of public transport and amenities. Additionally, it is recommended to use a reputable estate agent when looking for a property, as they can provide valuable advice and assistance. Finally, it is important to be aware of the local laws and regulations regarding renting and buying property in Scotland," said one expat in Glasgow.

"As an RN in the USA, I know that an ER visit is timely and expensive. My only A&E visit in Glasgow was short(45 minutes on a Friday evening from walk-in to walk out) and complete( I was worked up by a nurse, lab tests run immediately, Dr assessed my condition and sent me home with a full 7 days supply of medication). No insurance cards to show, no pre-authorization, no prescription to fill or trying to find a late night pharmacy, just complete and efficient care," explained one expat living in Glasgow.

"Medical services in Glasgow, are comprehensive and accessible, with a strong focus on providing quality healthcare to residents and visitors. The city is home to several well-equipped hospitals, including the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital, which is one of the largest acute hospitals in the UK. Additionally, Glasgow has numerous general practitioner (GP) practices, dental clinics, and pharmacies that cater to the healthcare needs of the local population. The National Health Service (NHS) in Scotland provides free healthcare services to residents, including emergency care, primary care, and specialist treatments. Residents can register with a local GP practice to access primary care services, while emergency care is available at hospital Accident and Emergency (A&E) departments. Glasgow also has a strong focus on mental health services, with various organizations and support groups available to help individuals experiencing mental health issues. The city is home to several universities and research institutions, which contribute to advancements in medical research and innovation. For those who prefer private healthcare, there are several private hospitals and clinics in Glasgow that offer a range of medical services, often with shorter waiting times and more personalized care. However, these services typically come at a higher cost compared to the NHS. Overall, medical services in Glasgow are of high quality and easily accessible, ensuring that residents and visitors have access to the healthcare they need," said one in Glasgow.

"Healthcare and health insurance in Glasgow, are generally not considered expensive, as the country operates under the National Health Service (NHS). The NHS provides free healthcare services to all residents, including those in Glasgow. This covers a wide range of services, such as general practitioner visits, hospital treatments, and emergency care. However, some individuals may choose to purchase private health insurance for additional coverage or faster access to certain treatments. The cost of private health insurance can vary depending on the provider and the level of coverage chosen, but it is typically considered more affordable compared to other countries with private healthcare systems," said one member in Glasgow.

"The cost of living in Glasgow is generally considered to be quite reasonable. The rental price for a nice 1 bedroom apartment in Glasgow, Scotland is typically around $1,000 USD per month, while a nice 2 bedroom apartment is usually around $1,400 USD per month. Eating dinner at a moderately priced restaurant in Glasgow, Scotland typically costs around $20 USD per person," said one expat in living in Glasgow, Scotland.

"In order to visit or live in Glasgow, one must obtain a visa or residency permit. The process of applying for a visa involves submitting an application form, providing supporting documents, and paying the applicable fee. The visa application must be submitted to the British Embassy or Consulate in the applicant's home country. The visa application must be approved before the applicant can travel to Glasgow. The process of applying for residency in Glasgow involves submitting an application form, providing supporting documents, and paying the applicable fee. The application must be submitted to the UK Visas and Immigration office. The application must be approved before the applicant can live in Glasgow. The applicant may also need to provide proof of employment or other evidence of their ability to support themselves financially," said one in Glasgow.

"Glasgow is an attractive destination for expats due to its vibrant culture, diverse population, and excellent quality of life. The city is known for its friendly locals, great nightlife, and abundance of green spaces. Glasgow also offers a wide range of job opportunities, with a strong economy and a competitive job market. Additionally, the cost of living in Glasgow is relatively low compared to other cities in the UK, making it an attractive option for expats looking to save money. Finally, Glasgow is well-connected to the rest of the UK and Europe, making it easy to travel to other cities and countries," explained one expat living in Glasgow.