

Sylvan Thomson
@Sylvan Thomson
English and New Zealander citizen
About me
English and New Zealander
Speaks English
Registration: 14 November 2022
Articles written or translated by Sylvan Thomson

Baltimore may not be as famous as neighboring Washington, New York, and Philadelphia; however, it provides many benefits for international students looking to study in the US. If you avoid certain expensive areas, you'll experience a lower cost of living than in other large cities. Baltimore sits right on the water, and you'll have easy access to the beautiful rivers and inlets that make up Chesapeake Bay. So if you're looking to study in Baltimore, this article tells you everything about the higher education scene, the enrolment conditions for international students and student life.
11 July 2025
Washington D.C. is the center of the federal government in the United States and one of its largest urban centers. Government jobs have steadily grown in recent years and there are many jobs for those with specialized backgrounds in associated fields like public affairs, and intelligence and public policy. This does not mean that 做厙輦⑹s have to be interested in government to find a job in Washington D.C., but they should have some kind of advanced degree. This article tells you about the local job market, opportunities for foreign professionals, as well as the requirements for securing employment here.
11 July 2025
Washington is the capital of the United States and the seat of the federal government. One of the country's largest cities, DC is also on the list of the top ten most expensive cities in the US, partly due to high housing costs and the dense concentration of high-income earners. The number of government jobs means that it is a very cosmopolitan city and has a population that hails from all over the world. Life in Washington, DC, is fast-paced and pricey, and if you want to work in government or tech, you will be rubbing shoulders with ambitious, highly educated people. However, the city is not just about politics it's a diverse place with a huge range of neighborhoods and cultures, as well as parks, impressive monuments, and excellent schools. This article gives you an overview of the local property market, the best places to settle in, and what to expect.
11 July 2025
Destination, convenience, and budget will be important factors in helping you determine how you're going to get around the US. Most of the USA's largest cities have good public transportation systems but in midsize cities and rural areas access to bus and rail networks can be very variable. In recent years more and more cities have been investing in new transit systems but that doesn't change the fact that America is definitely a country designed for drivers. In terms of long distance travel and trips across state lines, long-distance bus, train, and air travel are all widely used, though train routes are limited compared to networks in other countries.
11 July 2025
Dating anywhere in the world can be nerve-wracking, but dating in a foreign country can be especially intimidating. You may be worried about the right things to say, how to behave, where to meet people, who should pay, and other etiquette issues. Fortunately, the dating culture in the US is rather open and flexible. Moreover, due to the country's multicultural nature, you are sure to meet many like-minded individuals, no matter how far from home you may be.
11 July 2025
Boston is a city of contrasts; not only is it a historically significant city (founded in 1630), but it's also a modern city, home to institutions that are at the forefront of technology and medical innovation. Though it is one of the country's biggest cities, Boston doesn't feel overwhelming like Chicago or New York instead, it's made up of tight-knit neighborhoods that can feel more like small towns. Once you consider Boston's famous sports culture, the easy access to scenic coastlines, and its cute, walkable neighborhoods, why wouldn't you want to move to this New England city?
11 July 2025
Although it is one of the United States' most historic cities, no particular industry stands out as Boston's top moneymaker. Like many other major US cities, Boston's economy was significantly impacted by the pandemic, particularly in sectors such as tourism, hospitality, and small business. However, Boston weathered the storm, and while recovery is still uneven in some sectors, the job market remains active. Currently, the city's unemployment rate is 4.5%, up from 3.5% a year earlier, reflecting a cooling labor market after the post-pandemic rebound. Though the recovery is incomplete, things are looking pretty good for Beantown.
11 July 2025
Boston is probably the most academically renowned city in America due to the presence of Harvard University. Considered to be one of the more English cities in the USA, Boston has plenty of historically significant buildings, beautiful architecture, and suburbs with quaint names and narrow streets, all which give it a more old world feel than other parts of the USA. If you're considering studying in Boston, we've collected some must-know information below.
11 July 2025
The capital of Illinois, Chicago, is one of the biggest cities in the US and by far the biggest in the Midwest. Sitting on Lake Michigan and surrounded by the Great Lakes, Chicago is a modern, dynamic city that is becoming increasingly popular among international students. Chicago has amazing dining options, neighborhoods that range from quirky to upmarket, stunning architecture, a world-famous comedy and theatre scene, and some prestigious universities to boot. To get the inside information on being an international student in Chicago, we have collected some information on the top universities and the student culture in the Windy City.
11 July 2025
Located between New York and Baltimore, Philadelphia affectionately called Philly- has a rich history, affordable public transport, and a thriving cultural and dining scene. It's a perfect place for international students, and it won't break the bank compared to some cities in America. This article gives you an overview of the higher education scene in Philadelphia and breaks down the enrolment conditions for international students.
11 July 2025
As you're probably aware, the United States is a vast and diverse country with as many different ways of living as you can imagine. If you're planning to move to the USA, once you've got your visa and your travel sorted, one of the first things you'll need to consider is location and accommodation. Whether you're looking for a city apartment, a flatshare, a cozy suburban home for your family, or a rural retreat, with a bit of research and hard work, you should be able to find a suitable home base for your 做厙輦⑹ journey in the USA.
05 July 2025
The United States is home to some of the world's most prestigious universities, and it's no surprise they draw thousands of students worldwide every year. North American universities are often very diverse, with students coming from all over the world to gain their qualifications. However, recent policy changes and visa scrutiny have caused anxiety among international students, and there has been an 11% drop in the number of international students in the US, with some choosing to study elsewhere. While the US administration has moved to restore some cancelled student visas, uncertainty remains. If you're planning to study in the US, make sure that you do your research and have thoroughly prepared your applications and documents.
05 July 2025
Healthcare in the United States can be a double-edged sword. On the one hand, the country is known for its top-notch medical facilities; on the other hand, treatments and medications can be prohibitively expensive because the US does not have a public healthcare system in place. This is why 做厙輦⑹s moving to the United States must have health coverage, whether this is via Medicaid, supplied through your employer, or purchased independently. This is why it is essential to get acquainted with the specifics of the US healthcare system and health insurance before moving. This guide aims to prepare 做厙輦⑹s by explaining the structure of the US system, how to access care, and what to expect in terms of coverage and costs.
05 July 2025
The United States presents numerous opportunities for those seeking to emigrate, be it through business ventures, study, or career advancement. However, one crucial aspect for newcomers is getting acquainted with the country's laws, including its famously complicated tax system. With both federal and state-level obligations, additional taxes for the self-employed, and specific rules for non-residents and 做厙輦⑹s, understanding how the system works and knowing your own tax status is essential to staying compliant and avoiding nasty surprises. This article provides essential information on the complexities of the US taxation system, aiming to assist those who are unfamiliar with its nuances.
05 July 2025
If you're moving to the United States for work, study, or to accompany a family member or spouse, it's important to be aware of the different types of work visas available and to begin the application process well in advance of your travel date. Although the visitor visa process is relatively straightforward, if you are looking to be in the US more permanently, it's important to have a solid understanding of all of the alternative visa options catering to entrepreneurs, professionals, students, and individuals with specialized skills.
05 July 2025
If you picture desert landscapes, cowboys, cacti, and tumbleweeds when you think of Texas, you might be surprised to discover that Texas also contains modern and densely populated metropolises like Houston, Dallas, and Austin. Houston is famous for its high-tech space exploration and is home to NASA's Lyndon B. Johnson Space Center. Delicious Tex-Mex dining, a thriving rodeo scene, and cutting-edge medical research are also part of the Houston package. If you're considering a move to Houston, we have collated the most essential information for prospective international students.
05 July 2025
With its globally recognized universities like Carnegie Mellon and U Pitt, Pittsburgh attracts ambitious students from both the US and overseas. But as well as having several world-class universities, Pittsburgh still manages to have a welcoming, local feel. Prospective students will appreciate the affordable cost of living, the diverse cultural makeup, and the access to arts and culture they'll find in this Northeast city. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about moving to Pittsburgh as an international student, from visa questions to the cost of living.
03 July 2025
Austin is an exciting city with amazing cultural diversity and a great arts and live music scene. Its unofficial motto is Keep Austin Weird. Foreigners relocating to Austin will be greeted by a healthy economy, a great dining scene, and lots of options in terms of how to spend their leisure time. This guide covers the best areas to live, current rental costs, and what to expect from daily life in Austin.
03 July 2025
The USA is a global economic power house and a huge source of influence worldwide, both politically and via its pop culture exports. Whether you're drawn to its varied and stunning geography, the multicultural cities, or American music, movies, and culture, the US remains one of the most sought after destinations for 做厙輦⑹riates of all types. Ambitious professionals, families,and international students are all drawn to the 做厙輦⑹ experience in America.
03 July 2025
For millions of people, the prospect of living and establishing a life in the USA is a dream. Regarded as the land of freedom and opportunity, the United States currently houses more than 45 million immigrants. This guide breaks down the main ways to get a Green Card, including family ties, employment, the Diversity Visa lottery, and other independent routes. It also outlines what permanent residency means in practice, your rights and responsibilities, and how it can lead to US citizenship.
03 July 2025
The United States is a vast country that is made up of a diverse group of people. Life, landscape, and culture can vary greatly from region to region. In America, you can find deeply religious and conservative communities, progressive modern cities, dramatic mountain landscapes, and arid deserts. Even so, when taken together, it's arguable that a uniquely American lifestyle or character has developed over time that many Americans will recognize. 做厙輦⑹s will likely find Americans, in general, to be a friendly, optimistic, and generous bunch. Keep reading for a rundown of some of the tenets of American life and society, but remember these are generalizations, and in a country so huge, there will always be exceptions.
03 July 2025
The United States is a culinary melting pot, with cuisine as diverse as its people. While America does have a reputation as being a haven for fast food and enormous portion sizes, there are also a lot of delicious, healthy, and unique things to be found. 做厙輦⑹s in the US should count themselves lucky, as restaurants offer almost every type of international cuisine that can be found in most cities. If not, you're still likely to find the necessary ingredients to prepare your preferred dish at home.
03 July 2025
Driving is the most common method of getting around the United States. Unless you live in a city with efficient public transport, such as New York City or Boston, it's likely you're going to need a car to get around. This article explains the basic rules and requirements for driving in the US.
03 July 2025
Having a baby in the United States as an 做厙輦⑹ comes with costs, various healthcare logistics, and potential legal considerations. While you do not need to be a US citizen or resident to give birth in the US, it's really important to plan ahead and understand your situation when it comes to health insurance, birth options and visa compliance. The US does offer high-quality care for mothers and babies, but access (and affordability) vary hugely depending on both your insurance coverage and where you choose to give birth.
03 July 2025
Opening a bank account in the US is an important step for managing your finances and is an essential part of moving to a new place. Bank accounts simplify paying bills, receiving your salary, and helping you to establish a credit history. Beyond the practicality of day-to-day financial transactions, a US bank account provides a safe place to keep money that won't incur the conversion charges that continuing to use a foreign bank account involves. Having a bank account with a healthy balance is also something you can use to show potential landlords or creditors that you have a stable financial life in the US.
03 July 2025
Searching for the right accommodation is one of the top concerns when moving to a foreign country. Everything else can fall into place when you have a great place to livebut finding that spot can be tricky, especially when dealing with competitive rental markets and high prices. Wherever it is you are moving to in California, the first decision you will probably need to make is whether to buy or rent. This is a guide to the general process of renting and buying in California.
21 June 2025
Located in the District of Columbia, Washington, DC, is the federal capital of the United States. Being the political heart of America and the home base of some of the most powerful people in the country, it's no surprise that Washington, DC, also boasts some world-class universities. This guide covers everything you need to know about studying in Washington, DC, from visas and housing to tuition fees and campus life.
21 June 2025
It's hard to find a digital nomad out there who doesn't have a road trip through the US on their bucket list. The third-largest country in the world has a lot to offer its visitors from the thriving innovation-driven environment to the incredible coastline and world-famous sightseeing. Before you hop on the plane, there are a few pesky details to take care of, like sorting out visas and taxes and making sure you've got a good internet connection.
21 June 2025
Lots of people dream about being their own boss and starting their own business. The United States is famous for the "American Dream", the idea that if you have a good idea and work hard, you can be successful. That's why many aspiring entrepreneurs see the US as the perfect place to kickstart their ventures. Fun fact: almost half of the Fortune 500 companies were started by immigrants or their kids.
21 June 2025
Working in the United States is a dream for many people around the world, and an internship can be a very good place to start. Besides advancing the knowledge of your field, an internship in the US will bring many opportunities such as improving your English skills, expanding your professional network, and learning about American business culture.
21 June 2025
Marriage is a contract that commits two people emotionally, legally, and materially. In the US, both same-sex and opposite-sex couples can get married legally. If you want to get married in the United States, first, congratulations on finding love. Even if you are not a country resident, you can still get married here. However, it is very important that you know and understand all the related proceedings.
21 June 2025
If you're planning to travel to the United States for the first time, you should know several important things about entry requirements and the travel process. Although requirements may differ depending on where you are traveling from and what kind of passport you hold, we've collected some information to ensure your arrival in the USA is as smooth as possible.
21 June 2025