Despite its glistening West End, impressive green spaces and reliable public transport, London is not for everyone.
The fast pace of life means the city can feel lonely and the competitive job market can be stressful.
It is also very expensive to live in the capital, with your chances of getting on the property ladder relying largely on family wealth and inheritance.
Leaving all this behind, one Brit who traded London for Vienna a decade ago has revealed why the Austrian city is amongst the most welcoming on the planet.
Austria’s capital has a reputation for being grumpy – a stereotype expat and travel writer Becki Enright claims is misguided.
This grouchy image stems from a phenomenon known as ‘Wiener Grant’ – a uniquely Viennese kind of grumpiness that is born of a blend of humour and irony.
‘It can be hard to grasp and come across as blunt if you don’t quite get it,’ Becki told The Express.
However, she added, ‘The general sense of friendliness comes from how clean, accessible, safe and culturally rich the city is.’
Pictured: St. Francis of Assisi Church, also known as the Mexico Church (Mexikokirche), located in Vienna, Austria
Mariahilfer Straße, one of the most popular shopping streets in Vienna, Austria, is pictured
It comes as Vienna has just been crowned the most welcoming city in Europe by CNTraveller, which surveyed the views of half a million readers.
The ranking praised the city’s down-to-earth local customs, chatty locals and green spaces.
Vienna is home to around 1,000 parks and almost half of the city is covered in flourishing green spaces, meaning the tranquil scene of loved ones sharing picnics is never too far away.
‘Every city has its highlights, so it’s hard to compare. But Vienna’s quality of life is a stand-out factor,’ Becki added.
‘Rents are typically cheaper, with an emphasis on being outdoors and enjoying nature that’s on your doorstep.
‘There’s great infrastructure and an affordable public transport system.
‘The cuisine is based on farm-fresh and locally harvested ingredients, supporting local producers.
‘The arts and music are a way of life; you are never short of cultural events to attend.’
Vienna is home to around 1,000 parks and almost half of the city is covered in flourishing green spaces. Pictured: Belvedere Palace and garden in Vienna
Wiener Christkindlmarkt (Vienna Christmas Market) located at the Rathausplatz in Vienna, Austria, is pictured
It comes as Christkindlmarkt am Rathausplatz, Vienna’s main Christmas Market, opened to visitors earlier this month.
The market is set in front of the City Hall and features more than 145 stalls selling food, decorations and gifts.
There is also a 3,000-square-meter ice rink with frozen paths through the park, an amusement park, a giant merry-go-round and a large Christmas tree with a nativity scene at its base.
It is one of the largest Christmas markets in Europe, drawing millions of visitors annually
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