Digital Nomad Life in Stonehaven, Scotland

"Finding a place to live in Stonehaven involves several steps. First, you need to determine your budget. This will help you narrow down your options and make your search more efficient. Next, you should decide what type of accommodation you're looking for. Stonehaven offers a variety of options, including apartments, houses, and even cottages. Once you have a clear idea of what you're looking for, you can start your search. There are several online platforms that list properties for rent or sale in Stonehaven, such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and OnTheMarket. These websites allow you to filter your search based on your preferences, such as the number of bedrooms, the type of property, and the price range. In addition to online searches, you might also want to consider hiring a local real estate agent. They can provide valuable insight into the local market and help you find properties that may not be listed online. When you find a property you're interested in, arrange a viewing. This will give you a chance to see the property in person and ask any questions you might have. Finally, once you've found a place you like, you'll need to submit an application or make an offer. This process can vary depending on whether you're renting or buying, so it's important to do your research and understand what's involved. Remember, finding a place to live can take time, so be patient and don't rush the process. It's important to find a place that meets your needs and makes you feel at home," remarked one member in Stonehaven.

"Expats in Stonehaven, appreciate the friendly and welcoming nature of the locals, who are always ready to lend a helping hand or share a story. They also love the rich history and tradition that is evident in the town's architecture, festivals, and local customs. The Scottish cuisine, particularly the seafood, is another aspect that expats enjoy. The slower pace of life in Stonehaven is also appreciated, allowing expats to relax and enjoy the beautiful coastal scenery. The strong sense of community in Stonehaven is another aspect that expats value, with numerous community events and gatherings that make it easy to feel a part of the local culture," said one person in Stonehaven.

"Expats in Stonehaven may find the local dialect, Doric, challenging to understand as it is quite different from standard English. The weather can also be a challenge, as it can be quite cold and rainy, especially in the winter months. The pace of life in Stonehaven is slower than in larger cities, which some expats may find difficult to adjust to. The local cuisine, which includes traditional Scottish dishes like haggis and black pudding, may also be a challenge for some expats. Additionally, some expats may find it challenging to integrate into the close-knit community, as locals tend to have deep-rooted connections and traditions," said one expat who made the move to Stonehaven.

"If you are planning to stay in Stonehaven for an extended period, the type of visa or residency document you need will depend on your purpose of stay and your nationality. If you are a citizen of a country outside the European Economic Area (EEA) and Switzerland, you will generally need a visa to stay in the UK for longer than 6 months. The type of visa you need will depend on your circumstances, such as whether you are coming to work, study, or join family members. If you are coming to work, you might need a Skilled Worker visa, a Health and Care Worker visa, or another type of work visa. If you are coming to study, you might need a Student visa. If you are joining family members in the UK, you might need a Family visa. If you are a citizen of an EEA country or Switzerland, you may not need a visa to stay in the UK. However, since Brexit, you will need to apply to the EU Settlement Scheme to continue living in the UK after 30 June 2021. In all cases, it's important to check the latest information on the UK government's official website or consult with an immigration expert, as the rules can change," said one person in Stonehaven.

"When visiting Stonehaven, it's important to respect the local customs and traditions to avoid any cultural faux pas. Firstly, avoid referring to Scotland as England or assuming that they are the same. Scots are proud of their unique heritage and culture, and they don't appreciate being lumped together with their neighbors to the south. Secondly, don't mock or imitate the Scottish accent or use stereotypical phrases from pop culture. This can come off as disrespectful and offensive. Thirdly, avoid discussing sensitive topics like religion and politics, especially the issue of Scottish independence, unless you are well-informed and the conversation naturally goes there. Fourthly, don't disrespect the local customs and traditions. For instance, Hogmanay (New Year's Eve) is a big deal in Scotland, and it's important to respect the traditions associated with it. Lastly, don't forget to say please and thank you. Politeness is highly valued in Scottish culture, and it's considered rude not to express gratitude when someone has been helpful or kind," explained one person living in Stonehaven, Scotland.