Welcome to San Jose.

San Jose offers plenty of sunshine and hard work. Right in the heart of Silicon Valley, the business and technological vitality of the city and its surrounding area offer a contrast to the laid-back attitude of Californians. High-stress jobs and low-stress lifestyles are the norm. Be prepared for an ultra-modern city, a culture wired in to business networking. There is no shortage of non-native Californians – some of the brightest talents from all over the globe will be in your office or living as your neighbor. Get used to city living as you may never have known it – your friends will be spread right through the valley, and within a short drive you can be amid some of the most amazing natural scenery on the continent.

Getting There
From A to Z: airports, visas, permits, tickets and shippers. Need to hire a car? We’ll tell you the requirements. A hotel? We know the best. And what about that culture shock? We’ll let you know what to expect.

Living There
The best neighborhoods, buying or renting a home and price guides. Doctors, dentists, osteopaths: where to get that painful back treated. How to hook up, find a plumber, a cleaner, a laundry. Need a cell phone, we’ll tell you where to get one. Start here.

Raising Kids There
All the critical stuff: first-rate schools and childcare recommendations. How safe are the streets and parks? And where can you bring the kids on those long hot days – Vasona Park? A Planetarium? How far from Disney World? And where do you dress in clothes that don’t cost the world but look a treat?

Playing There
Okay, you’ve finished work, so now what? Whatever your interests – sightseeing, keeping fit, cinema, music, art, restaurants, nightclubs, beaches, spas, weekend trips – we’ll help you find something right.

Working There
How is business done in California? Learn the inside track on business etiquette as well as details of how to start a branch or main business. Need an office, banker, lawyer, accountant, courier, printer, staff? Find them here.

Spouse Survival Kit
So you are here with your partner? Does that mean you have to sit at home? Our survival kit helps you make the leap – form friendships, find work, join clubs, network, take courses, keep busy.


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