Getting to Know Your New Surroundings

Now that your summer move is complete – and your Penske rental truck is unloaded – it’s time to get to know your new surroundings.

That means locating schools, parks, the best places to shop and getting to know the character of your new city or town.

The excitement of moving to a new area can quickly turn to stress if you are not sure how to navigate your new surroundings.

Here are a few tips to get started:

Seek out the visitor’s bureau or local chamber of commerce for maps, guides and information on local attractions. Google Maps is a great resource to get to know your new area. Just type in your address and you will get a bird’s eye view of your neighborhood.

Set aside some time to explore. Slip on a comfortable pair of shoes, grab your phone – in case you get lost – and go exploring. Start in your neighborhood and map out the closest convenience store, coffee shop or post office. It will come in handy later.

Are you looking to volunteer in your new community? Contact the United Way for information on your local chapter which can connect you with organizations seeking volunteers in your area. Volunteering is also a great way to get to know new people.

Social media is a great way to get to know your community. Do you have a favorite hobby or sport? A quick search of Facebook can lead you to neighbors in your area who have similar interests. You may find a new hobby or interest you never considered before.

Once you have a list of local attractions, take time to go visit them with your family before the first day of school or work. Remember to snap some pictures to share with family and friends. Sharing memories of your new surroundings with loved ones helps you stay connected and allows them to share in your adventure.

Do you have tips on how to acclimate to a new city or town? Share them in the comments section.

Are you planning a move to your next new hometown? Penske Truck Rental offers free unlimited miles on all one-way truck rentals, discounts for AAA members, college students and members of the military as well as packing supplies and 24/7 roadside assistance. Are you ready to make a reservation? Visit the Penske Truck Rental website for more information.

By Bernie Mixon