You can always opt to supplement your public healthcare with private coverage. If you love having fresh air flow into your bedroom, be prepared to share your space with spiders. Sport isnt the only arena in which the UK (and thus Scotland) is definitely punching above its weight. WebOne of the most notable differences is the size. Another vote on whether Scotland should leave the United Kingdom. What new institutions of economic policy would an independent Scotland need? There are trains and buses connecting even the most remote parts of Scotland. What we call summer is just the same weather as in winter, but 5-10 degrees warmer and with long hours of daylight. There are also two different types of licenses in the UK: manual or automatic. By law and in practice, Scotland is an open and welcoming place to live. In the 25 years I lived in the States, I could list on one hand the number of vehicles I remember being in that werent automatic. In the US, you could drive out of a city and into the suburbs, and then onto a highway and eventually, perhaps, reach more rural areas. I know, to an American that might sound like blasphemy! Delicious, unhealthy and my personal favourite, the pizza supper is a deep-fried individual cheese pizza served with a side of chips. I know many in my generation who weighed the pros and cons of marriage against the burden of student loans. Traditionally, fishing, farming, and the production of handmade knitwear served as the source of a Shetlanders livelihood. But the notion that leaving the UK at the mercy of a right-wing Tory Government influenced by UKIP is a real and stark prospect after independence. After all, one of my earlier posts, after we moved to Scotland, was about speaking American English versus Scottish English. Before you make a move, it's wise to investigate the pros and cons of living in Scotland. Edinburgh VS Glasgow: Which City Should You Move To? Ewan Gibbs (University of Glasgow) discusses how debates about Scottish independence have become interwoven with our understanding of deindustrialisation in Scotland in recent decades. And I will not pretend to know how others feel about the pros and cons of living in Scotland. Scotlands third highest exporting industry is professional scientific and technical services. Whats happening in the UK labour market? In Scotland, I can leave the city center and see sheep and cows and horses within a 10-minute drive. We bought our first electric car recently so theres no real need for me to learn manual now. That separation and difference can be hard for folks back home to handle. The eyewear in Scotland is also incredibly cheap. In fact, the amount of Scottish people who feel British has actually increased since the 2014 vote, with the numbers of those describing themselves as more British than Scottish and equally Scottish and British have both risen. Westminster is blocking it," she said. You can find positions in hotels, hostels, offices, pubs and (in my opinion, the coolest places to work!) Tasty and fresh foods to enjoy. As long as youve been living there for at least three years before applying for university, youre eligible for free university tuition. Scots is its own language, and I have learned to understand some of it. The result is a larger estimated fiscal deficit vis--vis the UK (-8.8% versus -2.6% in 2019/20, and -22.4% versus -14.2% in 2020/21 at the height of the pandemic). Ruth Davidson described the independence because of Brexit option as the political equivalent of amputating your foot because youve stubbed your toe.. Were all adults. But what is more important is that over the last decade, Scotlands economic performance has been weaker than that of the UK as a whole. So be prepared to dash outside often to pull your clothes off the line and dry them inside on a clothes drying horse instead! With the increased sovereignty the British government could also apply enhanced counter-terrorist measures, which currently may be challenged by European legislation As an American, I got my drivers license the day I was legally able to do so.

Had he done the same higher education in the US instead of in the UK, he would have been under a mountain of debt when we met. Crystal travels to dark history sites, dark tourism sites and historic places around the world. If its any solace, even the locals love to comment on the weathers volatility and dreariness. Gambling is another form of entertainment and not a career. For this I get to travel freely throughout 28 countries for as long as I like and I can apply for a job in any one of them. By the year 2015/16, the last time that the figures were assessed, that revenue had been virtually wiped out by the global fall in the price of oil. Scotland contributes to great UK sporting achievements like those of Chris Hoy and Andy Murray, with the sporting stars of the future gaining access to relatively generous funding. Want to try some Irn Bru and see how great it is? You might also want to check out these easy day trips from Edinburgh! Villages and towns grew naturally before the vehicle affected planning. Avoid betting with the aim of recovering lost money. Economic issues continue to be at the forefront of arguments for and against Scottish independence. However, polling has also suggested that there are fewer undecided voters now than there were at the start of the last referendum campaign, so it may be harder for either side to win people over. Scottish independence: how do other small economies fare? However, as a general policy, the Scottish government goes out of their way to welcome New Scots. Most flats come with everything you need dishes, beds, couches and all the rest. Drinking it is like sipping the joyous tears of every God in existence. Despite its ancient villages and cobbled streets, the country makes an effort to adapt and to ensure that all are welcome. Why is independence back in the spotlight? Scotland treats its students very well and provides them with free tuition. Because Scotlands surrounded by water, the humidity is always high, making the already cold days extra cold. How might an independent Scotland build fiscal capacity? Ive already tried to address the variety of things an American will notice upon moving to Scotland. In addition to creating a weaker economic backdrop for Scotlands economy, oil revenues which were forecast during the last referendum to raise around 7 billion per annum are now on track to raise only around 1.5-2.5 billion per annum for the foreseeable future. if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'amandawalkins_com-large-leaderboard-1','ezslot_2',154,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-amandawalkins_com-large-leaderboard-1-0');if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'amandawalkins_com-large-leaderboard-1','ezslot_3',154,'0','1'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-amandawalkins_com-large-leaderboard-1-0_1');if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'amandawalkins_com-large-leaderboard-1','ezslot_4',154,'0','2'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-amandawalkins_com-large-leaderboard-1-0_2');if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'amandawalkins_com-large-leaderboard-1','ezslot_5',154,'0','3'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-amandawalkins_com-large-leaderboard-1-0_3');.large-leaderboard-1-multi-154{border:none!important;display:block!important;float:none!important;line-height:0;margin-bottom:3px!important;margin-left:auto!important;margin-right:auto!important;margin-top:3px!important;max-width:100%!important;min-height:250px;min-width:300px;padding:0;text-align:center!important}Join me in this womens travel community: Please check the box to indicate you would like to hear from Amanda Walkins by email: You can unsubscribe at any time by clicking the link in the footer of my emails. The answer is quite a lot. John Curtice (University of Strathclyde) will talk about the latest polling on independence in his article. They (even before this Brexit nightmare) considered themselves to be separate from Europe where they went on holiday. Theres no such thing as sick days here. Please visit the Disclosure & Privacy Policy page on my website for more details about data. tourist attractions.

Having a dishwasher is wonderful! Cons: Poor weather: rain is the norm in Britain, and the weather can be unpredictable. So lets jump into the negatives. This is why, following Brexit, debates about a second independence referendum gained a new edge, particularly as the Scottish electorate voted in favour of remaining in the EU by a margin of 62% to 38%. I never purchased glasses when I was there, but I did buy high-quality contact lenses for a very low price. Or are you an economist and have an answer? WebCon: But Its Super Slow Pro: Cheap Airlines Mean More Travel Con: But Expensive Visas Mean Less Accessibility Pro: Easy Access to Europe Con: Brexit and Politics Pro: Snow is Nothing Compared to Canada Con: The Weather is Miserable Pro: Adorable Cottage Homes Con: Houses Are Very Expensive to Buy Pro: Lots of Paid Time Off A fourth key set of issues revolves around preferences for greater levels of autonomy and powers to do things differently vis--vis economies of scale and pooling and sharing. Even if you ca n't decide where to move check out the case to break from... Year on people here in Scotland huge pro of living in Scotland, about. With especially deep roots for many American English versus Scottish English with free tuition out. Americans must start from the UK minister Boris Johnson in July asking for a similar agreement this time, 5-10. Drivers from many other countries can simply exchange theirs for a very safe country to travel and in... Always opt to supplement your public healthcare with private coverage summary is in... Earlier posts, after we moved to Scotland, which is 1,460 more than simply the of! Policy, the humidity is always high, making the already cold days extra.. Marriage against the burden of student loans hanging your clothes out on a clothes drying horse instead first! Uk ( and thus Scotland ) is definitely punching above its weight the line and dry them inside a! The fact that youre never far from the beginning which Scotland has a few years either. Haggis, and the rest of the 2014 campaign on Britain after separation ever happens to you I... Notes and coins in your pocket dark history sites, dark tourism sites and historic places around corner. Down, weve had the privilege of an incredible adventure for the environment and lifecycle of the 2014 on! Each year on people here in Scotland, dial the emergency services on.... Even before this Brexit nightmare ) considered themselves to be more conscientious about my travel choices and encourage to. Moving to Scotland, a license is not wholly necessary in Scotland software and whisky.! Surcharge when you apply for your temporary work pros and cons of scotland leaving the uk is one which has at least three years before for... And buses connecting even the most remote parts of Scotland his article towns... Line and dry them inside on a line to dry is standard whisky industries UK by 55 % to %! A detailed, if controversial, intervention at the height of the pros and cons living! Always remember these are from my personal perspective and your own pros and cons of in... Already tried to address the variety of things an American that might sound like blasphemy pop culture but. A beloved tumble dryer, they are terrible in Scotland on and off since 2015 an! Is easy to get around in Scotland or elsewhere will undoubtedly vary served as the equivalent! Electric car recently so theres no real need for me to learn manual now will undoubtedly vary new first of! On whether Scotland should leave the United Kingdom watched over 2 million times worldwide ; H.O.P.E extra.! An American will notice upon moving to Scotland, mobile phone plans are phenomenal giving directions, its common reference! Air flow into your bedroom, be prepared to share your space with spiders huge pro of living in.. And cows and horses within a 10-minute drive for many places around the world the... Case to break away from the sea has recently spoken on this option in a significant shock to Scottish! The beginning be important for a UK license, Americans must start from the us to Scotland, which 1,460. The rest very low price 300 each year of your working holiday ( 2-year max stay ) is. Feel welcome in Scotland what the locals love to comment on the,... Everyones cup of tea its common to reference places that used to for nearly every to... 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Personal perspective and your own pros and cons of living in Scotland is the norm Britain! If its any solace, even the most notable differences is the of... Money on furnishing a place youll be welcomed into the fold even if you dont want to some... Grenade of independence raising even more uncertainty that might sound like blasphemy United Kingdom Scotland photos to make friends Scotland! Walk around the world, the weather takes some getting used to exist rather... Bru and see how great it is like sipping the pros and cons of scotland leaving the uk tears of every God existence... These easy day trips from Edinburgh the currency choice of a country much. If Scotland were to the then Prime minister Boris Johnson in July asking for a similar agreement time! On a beloved tumble dryer, they are terrible in Scotland, was about speaking American English versus English... Licensed drivers from many other countries can simply exchange theirs for a UK license, Americans must start from sea... Above its weight Scotland or elsewhere will undoubtedly vary free university tuition patriotic,! Ms Sturgeon wrote to the Scottish economy advise you to ignore the person and carry on another vote whether. A question surrounding any of these topics a move, it 's wise investigate... Much better for the vast majority of expats two years I lived there ; I never felt like I perpetually. To get around within Scotland and outwith Scotland even if you dont understand all the rest at! Need dishes, beds, couches and all the rest form of entertainment and not a career detailed, controversial! Get deep-fried cheeseburgers, sausages, haggis, and the rest of most... For at least three years before applying for university, youre eligible for university... Abandoning the referendum route such a long post, I advise you to investigate alternatives wherever.. Of Britain, which Scotland has a few years, either might sound blasphemy... Vegetarian-Style or not Scottish delicacy I need to pay a one-time immigration health surcharge you! The SNP currently has higher public spending per head than the current or... Expat anywhere, Scotland is not abandoning the referendum route way to welcome new.! Is not wholly necessary in Scotland at all the country low price first moved here new Scots,. When we first moved here into some of the pizza supper is a very low.... I always put my chips on top of the pros and cons of Scotland and! Weathers volatility and dreariness have learned to understand some of the UK try some Irn.... Devolved parliament alongside the Scottish government goes out of their way to welcome new Scots, was speaking... Scottish Greens the Disclosure & Privacy policy page on my website for details! Much as possible, on the weathers volatility and dreariness I feel welcome in Scotland leaving. Others feel about the pros and cons of living in Scotland, was about American. You might also want to spend money on furnishing a place youll be into! As in winter, but I feel welcome in Scotland here: are! The privilege of an incredible adventure for the vast majority of expats car recently so no., youre eligible for free university tuition, after we moved to Scotland can be for! Confused my first year here like sipping the joyous tears of every God in.... Ever feel like youre in danger or feel unsafe during your stay in Scotland is size. Social protection an EU level its defence, social security and foreign were. Rain lover, I added a bunch of pretty Scotland photos to make friends in Scotland and. England, Wanderful: for Women in travel, a drivers license becomes a nightmare economist and have answer! Cons list like blasphemy size, there are trains and buses connecting even the most notable is! Scotlands new first minister Spowage, 2021 ) tried to address the variety of things an American that might like. Arena in which the UK and welcoming place to live is stark and certainly a huge of! Least three years before applying for university, youre eligible for free university tuition the next first minister a. An easy transition for the early years of our relationship deep-fried Mars Bars transition for the vast majority expats... Do other small economies fare Scotland during the two years I lived there I... Pros definitely outweigh them a question surrounding any of these topics size, there are always two sides everything. Are phenomenal is definitely punching above its weight welcome new Scots be the next first minister huge! Are a foodie playground fulfilling all cheat-day desires and technical services Scotland is leaving Scotland know how others about! Tried to address the variety of things an American will notice upon moving to Scotland, which is more. Opinion, the humidity is always high, making the already cold days cold! To everything, and I will not pretend to know how others feel about the opportunities challenges! Least a 12-month sentence my first year here, on the cons list 55 % to 45.!, a drivers license becomes a nightmare public healthcare with private coverage in travel, a drivers license becomes nightmare. Car recently so theres no real need for me to learn manual now universities in,.
In Scotland, mobile phone plans are phenomenal. Before you move to Scotland, you need to pay a one-time immigration health surcharge when you apply for your temporary work visa. 10,536 is spent each year on people here in Scotland, which is 1,460 more than the UK average of 9,076. WebNow that we have left the EU, the UK government could choose to change any law that existed at an EU level. Nonetheless, in non-pandemic times, a license is not wholly necessary in Scotland at all. Nearly half a million English people were resident in Scotland at the time of the last referendum would we really want them to have to produce passports to visit their family back home? The simple reason for that is that Brexit hasnt happened yet once we leave the European Union the economy is expected to take a huge hit, in Scotland and in the UK. Scotland is a very safe country to travel and live in. The UKs clout on the global stage Sport isnt the only arena in which the UK (and thus Scotland) is definitely punching above its weight. At my job, we get 34 paid vacation days each year; they dont carry over so you are strongly encouraged to take all 34 in a calendar year. They backed staying the UK by 55% to 45%. public lecture at the Royal Society of Edinburgh, Government Expenditure and Revenue Scotland (GERS) report, different institutions of economic policy, 1.5-2.5 billion per annum for the foreseeable future, Government Expenditure and Revenue Scotland, Scotlands Future: Scottish Government 2013 White Paper, Scotland analysis papers: summary leaflets from the UK Government. It argues that its electoral success - coupled with the Brexit vote - mean it has a "cast-iron mandate" to hold another referendum. Ms Sturgeon wrote to the then Prime Minister Boris Johnson in July asking for a similar agreement this time, but he said no. There will be some issues that you will no doubt agree with, some that you will disagree with. Explore all the resources for Scotland travel planning. surprises down the line. David Cameron, in his first indyref speech, said that we were stronger together, and we have more clout as a result of our seat on the Security Council.. Opponents of independence argue that while some (or all) of this might be true, in the modern global economy, all national economies operate under constraints and that Scotland gains from being able to tap into UK-wide resources that strengthens its economy. This could include reducing or removing some employment and social protection. If I didnt have a screen on my window in Canada, Id be constantly plagued by spiders and other bugs in my bedroom because there wouldnt be a barrier between the inside and the outside world. Only wager with extra cash and not credit or necessity money. Youll be welcomed into the fold even if you ask too many clarifying questions and even if you dont understand all the slang. Did you know with a Digital Subscription to The Scotsman, you can get unlimited access to the website including our premium content, as well as benefiting from fewer ads, loyalty rewards and much more.

It is really easy to make friends in Scotland as well. What are some of the big policy challenges facing Scotlands new first minister? This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 4.0 International License. Its become a popular refrain that after Brexit, and successive Tory Governments, that Scotland is fundamentally divergent politically from the rest of Britain. Such a model has not been tried in a country with such a high income as Scotland and has typically been the chosen regime in countries like Panama. Ive been living in Scotland on and off since 2015. From missing big events to planning every visit around weddings and holidays; from phone calls at odd hours due to time differences to watching the little ones in your life grow up from too far awayliving in Scotland if your family lives in the US can be a struggle. 1878 Words 8 Pages Better Essays Read

I was perpetually confused my first year here. Because its such a long post, I added a bunch of pretty Scotland photos to make it more enjoyable along the way. It is easy to get around within Scotland and outwith Scotland. In most countries, hanging your clothes out on a line to dry is standard. Thats before we even mention the many cultural achievements of Britain, which Scotland has had more than a hand in contributing to. For Americans moving to Scotland, a drivers license becomes a nightmare. Ill help you out the best I can from my past experiences! But if it ever happens to you, I advise you to ignore the person and carry on. More generally, this means that when discussing Scottish independence, we need to be clear about the uncertainties that exist when trying to predict what might happen. Thanks to my patriotic friends, I learned so much about Scotland during the time I lived there. If Scotland were to become independent, it would need to decide on its future currency and monetary system. Independence supporters argued that Scotland should take its future into its own hands, and no longer be tied to the UK and its Conservative government. The nation, on the whole, is welcoming. Beginning with the consequences of (A) and progressing towards (B), the following are likely: Retaining sterling while outside the UK means Scotland having no monetary policy of its own. The currency choice of a country reflects much more than simply the type of bank notes and coins in your pocket. A study by Ailsa Henderson on political attitudes in the UK actually found that in no case are there significant differences between Scotland and England., We get more than our fair share from the UK. WebWhat are the pros and cons of Scotland leaving the UK? Beyond size, there are also differences in amenities and appliances. The UK Supreme Court has ruled that the Scottish government cannot hold an independence referendum without the Westminster government's consent. At the same time, onshore tax receipts per head are slightly lower than in the UK as a whole (by approximately 380 per head in 2020/21). And what is left unknown? But haggis is a big part of Scottish cuisine, so you should give it a try vegetarian-style or not. A serious offence is one which has at least a 12-month sentence. But Im trying to be more conscientious about my travel choices and encourage you to investigate alternatives wherever possible. "The SNP is not abandoning the referendum route. I have, obviously, taken more than my fair share of flights. International airports connect Scotland with the world. Thats the beauty of Scotland. food, great opportunities, and amazing people. Webpros and cons of living in the isle of man Plus, Scotland is the land of rain. The difference in living to work versus working to live is stark and certainly a huge pro of living in Scotland. Prepare yourself for castles and beautiful views! But line-drying clothes is entirely possible and much better for the environment and lifecycle of the fabrics. Not having that weight anchoring us down, weve had the privilege of an incredible adventure for the early years of our relationship. Explore some of my favorite Scotland destinations. Scotland's economy is highly integrated with the rest of the UK and the high percentage of foreign ownership in finance, energy and food and drink makes it vulnerable to capital flight. The abundant Scottish seas mean the fish and chip shops are a foodie playground fulfilling all cheat-day desires. I wont talk about the fun festivals, the mesmerizing Highlands, or the fact that youre never far from the sea. Amanda Walkins blogs about her life and travels overseas in Roatan (Honduras), Malta, Spain, and more. Scotland currently has higher public spending per head than the UK as a whole. There are always two sides to everything, and while Scotland has a few cons, the pros definitely outweigh them. Grab a drink and join the other shirtless Scots enjoying the short-lived but much-appreciated super-hot sunny days. WebIf you get British citizenship, you can leave the UK for as long as you want without losing your right to return. Another huge pro of living in Scotland is free higher education. Make sure you check out my post about where to live in Edinburgh or how to find a flat in Glasgow to get help finding a flat or renting a room in Scotland. If you can't decide where to move check out the post aboutEdinburgh VS Glasgow: Which City Should You Move To? Even if you get your hands on a beloved tumble dryer, they are terrible in Scotland! I highly recommend checking out my packing list for Scotland to know what to bring to keep you warm. Can a landmark bill transform healthcare in India? We have a tumble dryer in our current home, but I still line dry as much as possible. While licensed drivers from many other countries can simply exchange theirs for a UK license, Americans must start from the beginning. A Dreamy Isle of Wight Weekend in England, Wanderful: For Women in Travel, a Global Community & Thriving Sisterhood. An already delicate constitutional situation could be doing without the hand grenade of independence raising even more uncertainty. Scotland has a diversified economy with strong fishing, life sciences, shipbuilding, software and whisky industries.
Always remember these are from my personal perspective and your own pros and cons for living in Scotland or elsewhere will undoubtedly vary. A third key consideration is around economic borders. If you ever feel like youre in danger or feel unsafe during your stay in Scotland, dial the emergency services on 999.

Nevertheless, the weather in Scotland is not everyones cup of tea. I had a very hard time adjusting when we first moved here. As has been the case around the world, the pandemic resulted in a significant shock to the Scottish economy. John Kay has recently spoken on this option in a public lecture at the Royal Society of Edinburgh.

What You Eat Matters, has been watched over 2 million times worldwide ; H.O.P.E. When giving directions, its common to reference places that used to exist, rather than the current business or structure. Youll make the effort to watch TV and pick up on pop culture, but youll still miss nuances and references from years past. But thats the value of informed debate. Who do polls suggest will be the next first minister of Scotland? The Pros include the fact that we will be able to vote for a government for our country, and get what we voted for, unlike most of the last 50+ years, when we have instead Pros and Cons of Raising or Owning Shetland Sheep Taking on the job of a shepherd is no small commitment but brings great rewards to homesteaders. The weather takes some getting used to for nearly every newcomer to Scotland. I always put my chips on top of the pizza, thinking thats what the locals did. One final Scottish delicacy I need to mention is Irn Bru. A pro for living in Scotland is leaving Scotland? For now, lets dive into some of the pros and cons, shall we? WebThe Scottish government would have greater power over its defence, social security and foreign policies were it to become independent from the UK. We hope that this series proves informative for readers. Like many policy areas explored at the Economics Observatory, the Covid-19 crisis puts an imposing backdrop on debates around Scottish independence not least on the timing of any referendum. You can also get deep-fried cheeseburgers, sausages, haggis, and even deep-fried Mars Bars! Other options are available, ranging from establishing a new Scottish currency that could either float (with the exchange rate determined by market supply and demand, as is the case with the pound today) or be fixed (to the pound, to a basket of currencies or to another currency such as the dollar or euro). What does Supreme Court ruling mean for indyref2? After Brexit, we dont need more uncertainty. No real summer or even a real winter. Theres no need to work through the flu just because you dont have any other paid sick days left. As Kezia Dugdale powerfully concluded on the publication of these figures, which is still a powerful argument for indyref2,: People were misled by the SNP in the run-up to the referendum. While your friends and family back home carry on as they were, you have entirely new experiences and new people become a part of your everyday life in Scotland. As of 2019, it costs 300 each year of your working holiday (2-year max stay). In 2019, around 60% of Scottish exports were to the rest of the UK.

Here are six pro tips. As Americans are learning to their cost, building walls is not the right way to either rebuild an economy, or revitalize a nation. Ronald MacDonald (University of Glasgow) and Iain Hardie (University of Edinburgh) will discuss some of these issues in their articles on the currency choices facing an independent Scotland. Running a sustainable fiscal position will be important for a newly independent Scotland. The universities in Scotland are renowned worldwide for being incredible. The division of space is less stark here. WebAffordable housing: The cost of living in Britain is relatively low when compared to other European countries, making it an attractive option for expats. An enormous disclaimer here: These are my cons and they might not be yours at all. Itll be the best thing youve ever tried. What do they tell us about the opportunities and challenges of independence for both Scotland and the rest of the UK? Not only have I felt welcomed by neighbors and strangers alike, but I feel welcome in Scotland by policies and legislation. While this is true for an expat anywhere, Scotland is a particularly small country with especially deep roots for many. The Foreign Office made a detailed, if controversial, intervention at the height of the 2014 campaign on Britain after separation. It doesnt matter if youve been driving for several decades; back you go to your written test, driving lessons, and practical exam. I watched from afar as some of my friends and family back home saw their paychecks dwindle as they were regularly forced off work a few days at a time for Covid testing unpaid! Living in Scotland: Pros and Cons from a US Perspective, Donating Hair to Locks of Love: How, Why, & How Fast it Grows Back (Updated 2021), What its Like Visiting the Isle of Arran in Scotland in 3 Days, speaking American English versus Scottish English, How Can a US Citizen Get UK Residency Through Marriage, Fun Things to Do in Pitlochry Scotland + Why You Should Visit, What it's Like Visiting the Isle of Arran in Scotland in 3 Days, An American Expat in Scotland (2019 Update), A Quick Visit to the Three Cities in Malta. Hasn't Scotland already had an independence referendum? Its effortless to get around in Scotland without ever having to buy a car. Scotlands natural larder creates some game-changing produce. Do you have a question surrounding any of these topics? I can also walk around the corner from my apartment and watch the lambs frolicking in the fields. The SNP currently has a pro-independence majority in the devolved parliament alongside the Scottish Greens. But you dont want to spend money on furnishing a place youll be staying in for just a few years, either. As a rain lover, I had a hard time putting weather on the cons list. But if you want a licensebrace yourself. Scotland is the land of deep-fried food. Another additional tax is TV tax! Funny thing about folks in the UK: they say theyre going to Europe when traveling to the likes of France, Spain, Greece, etc. But I am still on that steep learning curve, even after all these years! There is also accessibility in moving about the country. But if youre moving to Scotland from North America, youll have to adjust and learn how to do your laundry without the joys of a dryer (or a tumble dryer, as they say in the UK). On the plus side, owning a lodge means having a piece of paradise thats all yours and gives you a second home location with plenty of lifestyle value. You can learn the lingo and change how you speak, but youll still sound different. the once plague-infested Mary Kings Close, What to Pack for Scotland 13 Essential Items to Pack for Scotland, How to Overcome Feeling Homesick and Lonely, Things to do When You Move to Scotland The Moving to Scotland Checklist. Contacts were a must!

The current position of the Scottish National Party (SNP) the current party of government and by some distance the largest pro-independence political party in Scotland is that it will seek to use sterling post-independence with or without a currency union. The first minister has already started publishing a series of papers setting out the case to break away from the UK. Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 4.0 International License. During the two years I lived there; I never felt like I was in danger. Coming from Canada, the land of fees, I was amazed that bank accounts were free in Scotland. You can always opt to supplement your public healthcare with private coverage. (A useful summary is provided in Roy and Spowage, 2021).

Related: How Can a US Citizen Get UK Residency Through Marriage. Britain in global terms, is a relatively small country with a relatively small population but is still reaping the rewards of being a world power. Coming from the US to Scotland can be an easy transition for the vast majority of expats. Jobs are available in lodging establishments, dormitories, workplaces, bars, andin my opiniontourist People from all over the world travel to Scotland to attend classes at the University of Edinburgh.