UK Power Adaptors

The standard power plug and socket design used in the UK is the BS1363, which consists of two horizontal, rectangular pins at the bottom and a larger, vertical pin at the top. 

If your move to Oxford is an international one and you're planning on packing items such as your camera, mobile phone, laptop, hairdryer or electric shaver, don't forget to buy a couple of UK power adapters at the airport before you arrive. Depending on where you are traveling from, they can be much harder to find once you've entered the country and a lot more expensive!

The BS1363 design is also used in Ireland, Sri Lanka and Hong Kong, Kuwait, Bahrain, UAE, Qatar, Yemen, Oman, Cyprus, Malta, Gibraltar, Botswana, Ghana and Zimbabwe as well as several of the former British Caribbean colonies such as Belize, Dominica, St Lucia, St Vincent and Grenada.

Moving is stressful at the best of times, but relocating to a new country can take it to a whole new level. That said, there are lots of things you can do before you leave to alleviate these pressures and ensure that your move to Oxford is a smooth one. Check out The Oxford Freshers guide to Everything you need to know before you arrive, for lots of helpful tips.

The Oxford Fresher's Relocation Guide

   

The Oxford Fresher is now very 

pleased to provide a FREE downloadable 

sample of our Relocation Guide 

Download your copy here

.............................................

After flipping through its table of contents, 

learning more about the author and reading the first chapter, 

"Everything you need to know before you arrive," 

we're sure you'll soon be back for the full edition! 

Still not sure? Check out our Customer Reviews 
 

(The term 'fresher' is usually reserved for college students, but I use it broadly throughout this guide for anyone new to Oxford).

Getting the most out of your luggage

When arriving in a new country with nothing but a suitcase and the 
clothes on your back every centimetre and kilogram counts!  

 

Is it time to put your suitcase on a diet?

When was the last time you weighed your suitcase? Probably before your last big trip, right? 

How many of you have ever tried weighing it empty? After checking your airline's maximum weight allowances, you might be surprised to see just how many valuable kilograms you've lost before you've even begun.

 

Lightweight suitcases

If you don’t already own a suitcase, or can afford to buy a new one, I highly recommend shopping around for the lightest one you can find. Be sure to keep your airline's maximum baggage dimensions in mind and remember that as far as luggage is concerned, bigger is not always better. There’s no point having an enormous suitcase, if filling it will tip the scales. 

 

After doing a quick search online, the lightest check-in-size case I could find was the Samsonite Cubelite Upright 74cm (74 x 50 x 33), which weighs just 3.2kg. It's by no means the cheapest on the market, but just think of all the extra shoes you could pack!   

 

Antler Liquis International Cabin Case Colour: Graphite Size: 56 x 35 x 23 cm Weight: 2.0kg

  

Lightweight cabin cases 

If you’re planning on doing lots of travel when you arrive, I also recommend buying a small, lightweight cabin case. Not only are they perfect for mini breaks, they’ll allow you to get the absolute most out of your carry on allowance when you first arrive.

 

Before moving to Oxford, I purchased an Antler New Size Zero 2011 Super Lightweight Cabin Suitcase, which weighs 2.4kgs, but it has since been outdone by the Antler Liquis, (pictured above). Not only does the Liquis have the added benefit of having 4 wheels, it weighs just 2kg!  While the debate continues over which is better, 2 wheels or 4?  I think four-wheeled suitcases are far easier to pull through crowded airports and subways. Which do you prefer?

Oxford Blue Ice Cream

What are you up to this weekend? I'm SUPER excited because Johnny and I are flying home 

to help celebrate his Granny's 90th birthday and it looks as if you'll have something to celebrate in Oxford too... Have you seen the forecast? 27 and sunny means only one thing - a visit to one of G&D's Ice Cream Cafes is a must!

Known for their wide and imaginative range of ice cream flavours, G&D's has become something of an Oxford institution but you'll need no excuse to visit. There's always something new and exciting to try  - 'Black and Blue' (blackberry and blueberry), 'Golden Secret' (Crunchie Bar) and Hamlet (white chocolate & raspberry) all frequent the menu, but my favourites are 'Bananarama' and 'Oxford Blue' (blueberry). How about you? Which flavour do you like the best?

The first G&D's opened in Little Clarendon Street in the summer of 1992 and was named after its founders - George Stroup and Davis Roberts, who were both students of Oxford University.

All of G&D's ice cream continues to be made on site and is delivered to its new siblings on St Aldates and Cowley Road by bike. It doesn't get more Oxford than that!

Here's my favourite 'Oxford Blue' ice cream. Doesn't it look mouthwateringly delicious? Have a great weekend! xoxo

Have a great weekend!

What are you up to this weekend? I'm off to Bath with my girlfriends and I'm psyched about 

this weather! If you're in Oxford this weekend and looking for somewhere to soak up all the beautiful sunshine, check out The Isis Farmhouse -  It's one of my faves. Hope you have a good one, and stay cool!

Feel like a leisurely stroll or ride along the Thames this weekend? I hope so, because The Isis can only be reached by bike, boat or foot! It's worth the effort, I promise.

Hidden in the fields between Donnington Bridge and Iffley Lock, this characterful riverside pub is about as wholesome as it gets and boasts a huge riverfront garden, (great for the kids), a nice, simple menu, (around 4-5 dishes per day) and a super relaxed vibe. On the downside, there are no baby changing facilities and the service is a bit slow at times, but with a setting like this you won't be in a hurry to leave. 

Tip: Be sure to call or check the website before setting off as opening hours vary depending on the time of year and remember to take some CASH! (no cards accepted). Bonus: Vegetarian friendly. Highlight: The Isis' cream teas and homemade cakes.

The Isis Farmhouse, Haystacks Corner, The Towing Path, Iffley Lock, Oxford OX4 4EL

Food served: 12.30-2.30 & 6.30-8.30pm. Phone: 01865 243854 

Renting in Oxford: Securing a property before you arrive

Unfortunately for most international visitors, securing a property before arriving in Oxford 

is a rather risky business - Twelve months is a long sentence to pay if you've somehow gotten 

it wrong. But if you're up for the challenge and absolutely confident that you've done all your research, it is possible, (but by no means easy) to secure a property before you arrive. 

Things to keep in mind when viewing a property, online or otherwise:

·     You can’t smell a picture and only the best ones will be shown - ask to see more! 

·     Photographs are always taken at the brightest time of day. Natural sunlight is limited at 

      the best of times, so you want to ensure you get as much of it as you can! 

·     Ventilation is also important. Damp, dark bathrooms and living spaces become moldy very 

      quickly. Note: Some properties have bedrooms and/or living areas are below ground level.

·     If it's not possible for you to view the property in person, try to organise for a friend or 

      colleague to attend an inspection on your behalf and ask them to take lots of photos. 

·     Find out as much as you can about the local area – If you haven’t already downloaded 
      The Oxford Fresher's Guide to 'Searching for your new home' now is the time!
·     Remember that the advertisements will always focus on the properties strong points, so be 
      sure to consider what they are not telling you - Is the property behind a night club or train 
      line or in a dodgy part of town? (Google Maps is very useful). 
·     If you plan to rent a ‘furnished’ property, ensure you know exactly what you are getting.  
      Furniture, fixtures and fittings featured in the photographs will not necessarily be there 
      when you arrive. (A full inventory list should be provided by your real estate agent).

Photo: Permit holders only, by Clive Jones

·     Does the property have an allocated parking space? Is it eligible for a permit? 
      Tip: You'll find details on how to obtain a parking permit are included in The Oxford 
      Fresher's guide to 'Buying a Car & Driving in the UK'.

·     and last but not least, if you (or your friend or colleague) notice any faults during the

      inspection, ask if they can be fixed before you move in. Tip: Check the exhaust fan in the 

      bathroom!

      It’s important to note that customer service is not one of Britain’s strong suits - equal 
      measures of preparedness, patience and persistence are a must but in this case, 
      will not necessarily guarantee success.

 

Bicycle Makeover Complete!

I have been in LOVE with Pashley bikes ever since we arrived in the UK but unfortunately, our budget just didn't stretch far enough to buy one and with their collection of classic bikes ranging from £525 - £995, I'm sure I'm not alone. 

Pashley Cycles have been hand building British bicycles in Stratford-Upon-Avon since 1926, and have named their new special edition model the ‘Britannia’ to reflect their pride in British manufacturing. The vintage styled Britannia cycle is based on their popular Pashley Princess and features a hand built frame, traditional wicker basket and comes in a choice of red, white or blue. 

Get the look for less

Those of you who read my post on Cool Bike Accessories may remember me mentioning 
that I was planning to give my Raleigh bicycle a makeover. Johnny was busy studying over the weekend, so I thought I'd give it a go and I couldn't be more thrilled with the results!!! 

Here are the before and after photos: 

BEFORE: Boring old Raleigh Oakland Hybrid. (Image flipped for comparison).

AFTER: What do you think? The whole transformation was SUPER easy and cost less than £15!

Here's how I did it:
1. Start by give your bike a really thorough clean and leave it to dry
2. Next, remove all the stickers using a hairdryer. A little heat makes them really easy to peel off.
3. Remove the wheels and mud guards, or find a handy man who can! (Thanks Johnny). It's not as hard as it sounds, but if you need some help, check out this You Tube clip for instructions.
4. Place your bike upside down on a drop cloth and let the fun begin.
5. Don't forget to paint the mud and chain guard, for a classic 'Pashley' look.

Tip: Hammerite metal paint is fantastic as it only requires one coat and you can even paint straight over rust. The only thing I found a bit tricky is that it is quite thick and sticky. Work quickly and avoid going over any areas you've already painted for a nice smooth finish. Be careful not to over-apply or the paint will sag. If you have the space, use spray paint instead. It's much quicker and will give you a super smooth finish.

What you'll need:

 

1. 250ml Hammerite Smooth 'Wild Thyme' Metal Paint - £7.98

2. A 12mm Fine Finish Paint Brush - 2.98

3. 750ml White Spirit - £2.48 

4. A drop cloth

5. Disposable gloves (Pack of 8) - £0.98 

...and if you can stretch the budget, these accessories will really help polish off the look: 

6. Quick Release Wicker Basket - £19.99

7. Leather Handlebar Grips - £15.00

8. Leather-look FWE Trail Saddle - £24.99

9. and this oversized Pashley 8mm Bicycle Bell- £19.95! 

Feeling inspired? I'd love to see YOUR before and after photos. 

Share them with our readers here.

Oxford Guide: Grocery Shopping

Grocery shopping in a new country can be a daunting and time consuming experience, but it can also be lots of fun! There are lots of weird and wonderful new products to discover, a seemingly endless list of '3 for 2' and '2 for 1' deals and a few fancy new names as well. For example, did you know that if Cinderella had have been written in the UK, she would have ridden home in a 'squash'? A few other veggies separated by a common language include; 'mangetout,' 'aubergine' and 'courgette,' otherwise known as snow peas, eggplant and zucchinni, but none are quite as important as learning the difference between 'trousers' and 'pants!' 

As I've mentioned previously, I do most of our grocery shopping online, but I love the markets and use the local supermarket for everything in between. I don't have a favourite, I usually just use whichever is most convenient, but there are some major differences to be aware of. 

Here's a brief introduction to what Oxford has to offer:

Charles and Camilla check out at Belgravia's Waitrose. Photos by: The London Evening Standard

Waitrose $$$

As the only supermarket chain to hold a Royal Warrant, Waitrose supplies some seriously 'posh nosh.' Understandably, it also has a reputation for being one of the most expensive super- markets in the UK, (along with M&S), but I think it offers far better value for money than it is given credit for. That said, if you choose to do your weekly shop here, it will cost considerably more than at any of the other 'big 4' supermarkets (Asda, Morrison's, Sainsbury's or Tesco), 
but the quality and service you'll recieve are second to none...except maybe M&S.  
Location: Old High St, Headington.

Kate at the Menai Bridge Waitrose store in Anglesey, North Wales. Photos by: Lee Thompson & Chris Neill.

M&S Simply Food $$$

Marks & Spencer, (also affectionately know as 'Marks & Sparks), specialises in luxury food items and has the best selection of fresh, organic produce by far. All products are own-brand and come beautifully presented. Home-brand just sounds wrong in this case and the only real down side (apart from the price) is that most of M&S's produce comes with LOADS of packaging.

M&S also have a large selection of delicious ready-made meals. Please let me clarify by saying these are not words I ever dreamt I'd use in the same sentence, but they really are delicious! Keep an eye out for their 'Dine in for £10,' deals where you get everything you need for a two course meal plus wine for two. Locations: Banbury Rd, Summertown, Queen St, City Centre, (the food section is on the ground floor towards the back of the store) and at the Oxford Retail Park at the end of Cowley Rd.

Tesco / Tesco Express / Tesco Metro $$

I had no idea Tesco featured in Lily Allen's LDN (London Music Video) until my little brother came to visit last month. Every time we went past a store he'd start singing, "There was a little old lady, who was walking down the road, she was struggling with her bags from Tesco!" It was kinda cute. You can watch the clip below. (You may need to 'un-mute' the sound).

Known as the 'big bad giant', Tesco has put many of its smaller competitors out of business, but its customers enjoy excellent value for money and the convenience of extended trading hours. Some stores are even open 24 hours a day!

Sainsbury's $$

Although they own far fewer stores Sainsbury's is often compared to Tesco, but overall, I think that they provide far better customer service and a more pleasant shopping experience. They also offer a huge range of products to suit most budgets, from the Sainsbury's 'Basic' range, to 'Taste the Difference,' Sainsbury's answer to the up-market, restaurant quality foods provided by rivals like Waitrose and Marks & Spencer. Other ranges include; 'Organic', 'Freefrom' - for those who have wheat, gluten and dairy intolerances, a 'Kids' range and a 'Be Good to Yourself' range.

The co-operative $$

The co-op pride themselves in ethical trading and sourcing and ALL of their stores are powered by green energy. (A first for any UK retailer). Amongst their produce you'll find fairly traded bananas, wine, tea, coffee and chocolate. And if these weren't reason enough to visit, the co-op's 'Truly Irrisistable Chocolate Ice Cream' really is!

Aldi $

Short for "Albrecht Discount," Aldi is SUPER cheap and stocks mostly own-brand products. The check-out system is a bit bizarre, but it's fast and furious and the quality and service are great. Location: Botley Rd, Oxford. 

Expat shopping tips

·     In most cases, you'll be expected to pack your groceries yourself

·     Fruit and vegetables are weighed by the cashier at the cash register

·     Plastic bags are provided, but usually at a cost.

·     Always insist on receiving a receipt and check it before leaving the store.

·     If paying by credit or debit card, take extra care to ensure 'cash back' has not been added 
      to your bill. (Unless of course you requested it).

·     Many stores offer loyalty/ discount cards. If you plan to shop at the same store regularly, 
      it's definitely worth filling out the paperwork.

·     If you're longing for items from home, check out my post on expat survival food supplies.

·     Unfortunately, few grocery stores in Oxford supply parking. If a car is a must, check out my 
      post on Oxford's Superstores.

Delis, specialty stores and farmer's markets coming soon!

Cool bike accessories

Sadly, like almost everyone in Oxford, I own a burgundy, ladies, Raleigh hybrid. You know the one. Nice, basic, entry level bike with nothing too special about it. But as any fashionista will tell you, it's all about the accessories daaar-ling! So why let our bikes be the exception?

Honored by Architizer as one of the Ten Best Bike-related Design Innovations of 2011, this neat leather Frame Cinch secures just about anything (narrow) to the top tube of your bike.

Two leather Frame Cinches can also be used  to neatly secure your brolly.

Here's something we could all use in Oxford, a Drybike brolly holder!

I know most people usually use TomTom when they're driving, but am I the only one who gets lost whilst cycling? With this GoRide - Bike Mount for iPhone 3G/3GS I'll never be lost again. GoRide is also great for using iPhone bike apps like; iMapMyRide, EveryTrail, Trail Blazer, Cychosis, RunKeeper and MotionX-GPS to track your progress and map your ride.

If you like cycling and you like wine, you’re going to love this! Oopsmark's Bicycle Wine Rack attaches easily to any 1″ bike frame and holds the bottle securely with a hidden clamp.

Who says that bicycle bags have to look like… bicycle bags? This Frame Bag by Retrovelo is super stylish and provides two compartments, perfect for A4 notebooks or your laptop.

This Walnut Barrel Bag is also super cute and perfect for carrying smaller items like keys, sunglasses, and phones. 

Need a good coffee to start your day? The LugCup coffee holder has got you covered.

Now you're really going to think I'm an alcoholic but this Bicycle Can Cage can be used for other things than a beer you know! And last but not least, don't miss the Spoke Lites I posted late last year. 

These are just a few of my favorites, but there are lots more out there. What do you think? Have you found any beauties of your own? I'd love to hear any other fun ways you've personalised your bike. 

Speaking of which, I've decided to let you all in on a little secret. I'm going to give my bike a makeover. I'll post the before and after photos soon, but in the mean time, wish me luck!

Update: My bicycle makeover is now complete. Take a peek.