Want to Truly Love Your New City? Start With These 14 Things!

Packing up and starting life in a new city is not a challenge that everyone is willing to take on. If you've taken the leap or are at least planning on it, we commend you! When getting situated in your new digs, it's easy to focus all your efforts on the more menial (but important) aspects of your new adventure — like changing your mailing address, navigating your new job, and buying parking permits. I'm kind of bored just thinking about it. You shouldn't forget all the wonderful little things that make moving away worthwhile and thrilling and that give you a sense of truly being at home in your surroundings. We've rounded up 14 ways for you to get settled and happy in your new city; keep reading to see all our tips!

01
Visit All the Eateries With Cult-Like Followings
Instagram | naughtybellys

Visit All the Eateries With Cult-Like Followings

Become a connoisseur of your city's best eats! You'll be excited to go out and grab a bite every night, and you'll impress family and friends when they come out to visit you.

02
Find a New Go-To Coffee Shop
Instagram | coffeebarsf

Find a New Go-To Coffee Shop

That morning cup of coffee is so crucial to any daily routine. If you want to feel comfortable and settled into your new digs, finding the perfect cappuccino to enhance your everyday ritual is a good way to start.

03
Make an Effort to See All the City's Iconic Monuments
Instagram | joannaloren

Make an Effort to See All the City's Iconic Monuments

Go out to the places that other people travel to from across the world. Being able to revel in your city's marvels will lend a newfound sense of belonging and pride to your exciting new area.

04
Hit Up Different Gyms and Studios Until You Find a Fit
Instagram | yogacollectivenyc

Hit Up Different Gyms and Studios Until You Find a Fit

Research the gyms and exercise classes around your new place, then try out a few until you find one that truly motivates you. If you were never one for routine fitness before you moved, being in a new place with a new schedule is incredibly conducive to getting into healthy habits.

05
Skype Your Friends in a Cool Public Space
Instagram | soothingsista

Skype Your Friends in a Cool Public Space

Show your friends from home that you're loving your new urban dwelling. They'll be excited for you, and you'll be glad to catch up with what's going on while you're away.

06
Scope Out a Hair Salon You Can Trust and Stick To
Instagram | _glamorbeauty

Scope Out a Hair Salon You Can Trust and Stick To

Finding a good hairstylist is a big feat, but once you do find a permanent place, it's one less thing you have to worry about.

08
Wake Up and Observe an Early Morning
Instagram | remybrand

Wake Up and Observe an Early Morning

Get up bright and early, wander through your city, and get a feel for the area before the hustle and bustle begins. You'll get a different perspective of the streets you call home and may notice cool things you hadn't noticed before in the midst of the chaos.

09
Spend a Night Barhopping
Instagram | foodietails

Spend a Night Barhopping

Going out on the town will give you a really good feel for the culture, the people, and the energy of your city. Finding your fit in the nightlife could help you to meet new people whose interests align with your own.

10
Find a New Favorite Place
Instagram | emrysroberts

Find a New Favorite Place

Scope out a new comfort spot you can head to after a bad day, be it a spot on the beach or a nice park bench.

11
Discover the Hole-in-the-Wall Mysteries
Instagram | readingsaves

Discover the Hole-in-the-Wall Mysteries

Make it a point to get out and try small restaurants you've never heard of or to find antique book stores or thrift shops. You'll feel much more in tune with your city after getting a feel for the lesser-known best-kept secrets.

12
Join a Book Club or Other Social Club
Instagram | parttimeparisienne

Join a Book Club or Other Social Club

This is a great way to find your niche and get involved with your passions.

13
Navigate Your Neighborhood
Instagram | kodakthedog

Navigate Your Neighborhood

Get to know every nook and cranny of where you're dwelling and become an expert on the area so you're never left feeling lost or out of touch with your surroundings. This will also ensure that you're safer and more aware when you're out and about by yourself.

14
Conquer the Transporation
Instagram | tube_london

Conquer the Transporation

Spend a day (or two) attempting to become an expert on all things public transportation — every route and every trick of getting from one place to the next. You'll be glad to get this out of the way!