If you’re hoping to incorporate the sun and sand into your daily routine, moving to Tampa is one of the best choices you can make. Tampa Bay is located on the Western Coast of the Florida Peninsula and provides nationally recognized local entertainment, like Busch Gardens and the Raymond James Stadium. It’s also in close enough proximity to the Kennedy Space Center and Disney World to make those attractions easy day trips. Whether you’re considering a move to Tampa for work, retirement, or just need a change of scenery, this city has a lot to offer.
Just like any move, it can be difficult to get settled, especially if you’re not familiar with the area. It can be even more challenging if you’re really starting fresh and don’t know anyone in the area. Your transition doesn’t have to be uncomfortable. Here are a few tips that will help you get settled after your move to Tampa.
Have a trial period before fully committing to a neighborhood.
Even if you’re committed to moving to Tampa, it can be difficult at first to discern which neighborhood you’d like to make your permanent residence if you haven’t spent a lot of time exploring. You may be able to find blogs that highlight the differences between Carrollwood and Hyde Park, but until you have the first-hand experience, who’s to say what the best spot in the city is for you? Before you make such a big commitment, consider utilizing some of the great month to month furnished apartments in Tampa.
By renting out a place short term, you’ll be able to make an educated decision about whether you like that particular neighborhood. Does it have easy access to where you work? Is it close to your favorite hobbies? Can you see yourself staying long term? Since you’ll be living in a fully furnished apartment, you can try a new neighborhood every month until you find the right fit. Once you’re ready to commit, you can sign a year-long lease, and move your own furniture from storage.
Use dating apps to meet the locals.
If you’re single, one of the best ways to meet new people is through dating apps. Downtown Tampa has some great nightlife to offer, like CW’s Gin Joint and Cru Cellars. You won’t want to experience it alone, so find a date, and hit the town. You might not make a love connection with the people you meet, but maybe you’ll find a friend to hang out with on the weekends.
No matter where you’re dating, it’s important that you do your due diligence and look your date up before you agree to meet them. Unfortunately, not everyone is as they seem. How to know if you’re being catfished isn’t common knowledge. There are few red flags you can look for to keep yourself safe. For example, if someone refuses to video chat you before a meeting, there’s a possibility they’re using a fake picture. Even if you feel like you have a personal connection with your potential date, if the information they’re telling you doesn’t match what you see on social media, they may be a con artist who isn’t using his or her real name. Stay safe and smart, so you can have a great time when you go out.
Find your new favorite place.
Everyone has their favorite spot that they like to hang out at. Familiarity with a public place can make you feel more at home. Get out of your apartment, and visit some of the local spots that Tampa has to offer. Take a trip to Ben T. Davis Beach, and catch some rays. Find a seat at Buddy Brew Coffee, and chat with the baristas. You’ll start to feel right at home when someone remembers your latte order.
