There is a growing proportion of Bermudians now studying, working, visiting and retiring in Britain.

Some estimates have the number between 3,000 and 4,000 persons.

That would equate to roughly 7 per cent of our population.

For those who have made the transition from the sub-tropics to the near-Arctic, they have, through trial and error, learnt some realities of living in the land of Charles Dickens.

Today we will discuss a few critical items that anyone moving to Britain will need to know.

Name and birthdate, mate

Top of the list will be that our British Overseas Territories passports have minimal currency in the United Kingdom.

Essentially, to get into school, gain employment and/or rent an apartment, one will need to have a British passport.

Another factor that needs to be addressed would be that one can use their Bermuda driver's licence for only up to one year.

After that, they must undergo theoretical and practical tests to gain their licence in Britain.

Short of that, they may find themselves on the short end of a conversation with the motor police.

Popsicles

This past week, Bermudians were complaining of being cold, as temperatures dipped just below 60F. Those living north of Western Europe long to see such temperatures during the winter months.

The sun disappears by 4pm and, during November, the temperatures are about 40F to 45F. Therefore, wearing between three and four layers of clothing is the norm.

Sounds like doom and gloom?

Well, here is some good news for you.

Tickets, please

The mass transportation system moves millions of persons around the British Isles via the Underground, overland trains and buses.

All for reasonable prices and reliable times. All of which can be found on mobile apps.

As a prime example, for a few pounds, one can move from any point to another in Central London.

For those needing more extended travel, £60 can get you from London to Manchester.

The interconnectivity means that one has no need to have private transportation.

Another patch of good news is that the cost of groceries is roughly 33 per cent of what they will cost in many islands.

With the money saved, one can now purchase tickets to go to any English Premier League game.

Especially those lively North West derbies.

• Christopher Famous is the government MP for Devonshire East (Constituency 11). You can reach him on WhatsApp at 599-0901 or e-mail at carib_pro@yahoo.com