London

Consisting of the City of London and 32 boroughs, London, England is the largest metropolitan area in the United Kingdom. From St. Paul's Cathedral to Westminster Abbey, London is filled with historical landmarks that display the city's deeply rooted history and culture. In addition to its rich culture, London is one of the world's most economically powerful cities. With an estimated population of 7.83 million, London is also the most populated city in the United Kingdom.

Whether visiting or relocating to any part of London, England, it is important to remember just because the city resembles major American cities like New York, there are cultural differences between the two countries. While residents in both countries speak English, there is certainly a noticeable difference between American English and British English. For example, if you are looking for an elevator in London, you are looking for what Londoners call a lift. If you tell a Londoner that you like the pants they are wearing, they may become insulted, because in London the word pants refers to what Americans call underwear. In London, the word trousers refers to what American call pants. Language differences such as these are important to remember when in London.

Despite London's reputation of being a rainy city, in reality it does not actually rain every day in the city. However, the weather can change quickly, so while a day can start off sunny, it may end cloudy and rainy. Like the United States, there are four weather seasons in London. During the summer, the average temperature is about 78 degrees Fahrenheit in London, while in winter the average temperature is about 38 degrees Fahrenheit.

The London Eye (source)

While London may have memorable double-decker buses and distinct looking taxis, these two methods of transportation are not always the most common way to get around the city. London's subway system, The Underground, opened in 1863 and was the world's first system of its kind. The Underground, also known as the Tube, carries more than one billion passengers a year. With 11 lines and about 270 stations, the Tube is the easiest way to travel all around the city.

Although the current state of the economy has influenced the job market in London, the city has the highest average pay for full-time workers compared to any city in the United Kingdom. Unfortunately, those under the age of 25 make up about one million of England's unemployed population. The unemployment rate for individuals in London ages 16-24 is currently 22%, the highest rate of any city in the United Kingdom.