10-04-2014, 08:40 AM
Bravo on taking the plunge -- that is a big bunch of changes all at once! When I was younger, I made a lot of big moves like that. Usually was very glad I did. It is hard to overstate the value of new adventures, new places, people, challenges, etc.
My number one tip is to constantly remind yourself that it takes a LOT longer to get comfortable in a new place than you'd ever imagine. The first few days and weeks are whirlwind of activity and it is fun and distracting, then can come a long period of disorientation and homesickness. It is so many little things that make a place feel familiar and comfortable -- like home. You need to learn your way around, which gas station you like, where your things are in the grocery store, etc. etc.
As to choosing which place, I'd say pick a place with lots of people and activity and things to do. It can be tough making new friends and building a community, so you want to make that part as easy as possible.
I don't know much about the places you listed. My in-laws live just north of Hartford. It is a nice enough small city, but not a lot of urban activity. I think downtown closes up after business hours. They are trying to rectify that with theaters and restaurants, but not sure how it is going. Like any city, there are some nice parts and a lot of run down parts. Same with the suburbs -- very hit and miss.
But maybe you're looking for a small town feel after living in San Fran? Or maybe you can choose someplace sort of central to your job and sign a short lease (6 months) and use the time to explore some of those areas you mentioned before deciding which one looks most promising?
My number one tip is to constantly remind yourself that it takes a LOT longer to get comfortable in a new place than you'd ever imagine. The first few days and weeks are whirlwind of activity and it is fun and distracting, then can come a long period of disorientation and homesickness. It is so many little things that make a place feel familiar and comfortable -- like home. You need to learn your way around, which gas station you like, where your things are in the grocery store, etc. etc.
As to choosing which place, I'd say pick a place with lots of people and activity and things to do. It can be tough making new friends and building a community, so you want to make that part as easy as possible.
I don't know much about the places you listed. My in-laws live just north of Hartford. It is a nice enough small city, but not a lot of urban activity. I think downtown closes up after business hours. They are trying to rectify that with theaters and restaurants, but not sure how it is going. Like any city, there are some nice parts and a lot of run down parts. Same with the suburbs -- very hit and miss.
But maybe you're looking for a small town feel after living in San Fran? Or maybe you can choose someplace sort of central to your job and sign a short lease (6 months) and use the time to explore some of those areas you mentioned before deciding which one looks most promising?