I'm considering a move from London to Berlin:?

Question

I'm a Graphic Designer considering a move to Berlin.

I'd ideally like to move for a year, and some how keep my flat in London (rented), just wondering if anyone has any miracle solutions, or suggestions?

Or if you've moved to Berlin, if you have any recommendations about moving there?

Any advice helpful and appreciated!

Answer 1

Check for some British Expat sites, there are a lot of Brits working in Germany and I'm sure you'll get some help there.

London to Berlin won't be too much of a culture shock. The cities are very similar, an older centre in the east and a busy west end.

Just be careful in some parts of town. Live either right in the middle or way out like Spandau or somewhere, just like you would in London. S-Bahn and U-Bahn are fantastic so you won't have any trouble getting around. People are very VERY friendly in general. Friendliest strangers I have ever met on all my travels.

Answer 2

Renting your London flat is a pretty good idea. Do you think you should put some sort of clause in there in case you need to move back right away? Berlin is a great artsy place- both sides. Have a lot of fun.

Answer 3

Are you always pumping for love?

Answer 4

Advertise in Germany to see if anyone wants a one year accomodation exchange with a fixed term.

Answer 5

What a great idea... London is also nice place. So as a Graphic Designer you can find something in Berlin.

Why are you not putting some add in a German Newspaper, perhaps there is somebody want to live in London for one year, than will be easy just switch the places. Many people do that. You can search the papers from Berlin also on line.

example www.berlinerzeitung.de ....

Answer 6

Although I totally think you should go for it, I think you should be prepared for the downside of moving to another country.

Not knowing the language will limit you, so I would start taking classes.  You can learn it "on the streets" there, but just be careful about being lazy and sticking with English.  Most Germans speak some English and love to practice, so if you let them always speak to you in English and vice versa, you will never learn German.

I'm not sure if you've checked out the unemployment situation in Berlin?  It is pretty scary.  Unless you have money to live off of for at least 6 months, I would not go until you are sure you have a job.  I knew people there who were unemployed for years.  And again, knowing the language will help you find a job more quickly.

Berlin is relatively inexpensive for a European city, so that is definitely a plus.  

Be prepared for lots of ups and downs, homesickness and adjustment to the new culture.  But I think if you go with an open mind and the idea that you can always go back to London if it doesn't work out, you'll be fine.

Answer 7

berlin is a good city to work in.

you can very easily rent your place in london through a good agent.

Answer 8

I can't work miracles, but I lived and worked in Berlin for seven years. I was employed at Deutsche Telekom and later on at Universal Music; they both have their office buildings in Berlin, and as a graphic designer, those two would be the first companies I'd turn to. I actually don't see a reason why you should keep a rented flat in London; is it difficult to find a new one there in case you move back? If I can help you further, please contact me after Jan 6th. Maybe I'll have some good advice about Berlin flats by then. It won't provide you with a job, but as a starter, it should be fine.