Shifting to a new neighbourhood can be a terrifying experience, even if the new place is in the same city. You don’t know any of your neighbours, you don’t know the roads, and you don’t even know where the nearest post office is!

Despite the great temptation to panic and run amok, there is still hope. Yup, you heard that right! There are ways you can get your routine back, and slowly become used to your new residential area. Here are some tips on how you can settle in faster:

Take a Walk



Nothing works better in getting to know a place as taking a leisurely stroll through it. If you have a pet, you can consider bringing it for a walk in the new neighbourhood before moving in. This not only gives you a chance to meet new people, but also to discover the location of important places like shops, shopping mall, clinics, bus stops and more.

Check online



Nowadays, with the availability of Google street view, it is completely possible for you to go on a virtual tour of the new place. This method is great if you are unable to visit your new neighbourhood as you live overseas or very far away.

Read Reviews



Plenty of blogs and websites are out there that will give you a low down of the nearest malls, tasty restaurants and amenities in an area. All you have to do is search online and read all the reviews to find out more about the various local attractions.

Visit the Community Centre



Many of the major towns and cities in Malaysia have a resource centre that is set up to help tourists. However, if you want to make your life easier, drop by and pick up various guides to local amenities. Take this opportunity to talk to local tour guides as they’re the ones who know the area best!

Organize a Short Holiday



Before moving to your new neighbourhood, why not take a few days off and stay at a local hotel or inn. That way, you’ll get a few days to familiarize yourselves with roads and locations. Who knows, you might even make a few new friends which will make you settling in experience smoother and more welcoming.

Changes in life don’t always have to be a bad thing, as long as we remain positive and the light side of things. Here’s hoping that your new neighbourhood will be another awesome chapter in your life!