Liverpool is a city with a population of just over 400,000 and is known for having a population that has a 'never say die' attitude and always tries to see the brighter side of life, even through the hardest of times. Locals are often known as 'Scousers' and are famous for their quick wit. The city suffered a terrible tragedy in 1989 when the Hillsborough Disaster claimed the lives of 96 fans who supported the city’s most famous football team, Liverpool F.C. This was a horrible end to what was an appalling decade for the city as high employment saw the economy falter. However, Liverpool was made the European Capital of Culture in 2008 with the city and the people hoping to see a major improvement in the city’s economy.

Cost Of Living

Overall, Liverpool is said to be 30% cheaper than London. Rather surprisingly, it's believed that the cost of food is actually 10% higher than in the nation's capital. Yet housing is almost 50% cheaper and transportation is 40% less expensive. A three course meal in a mid-range restaurant can cost upwards of £50. Yet it is possible to rent a one bedroom apartment in the centre of the city for as little as £350 a month. Even a three bedroom apartment could cost less than £600 a month in the city centre and just £400 a month outside it. Essentially, if you don’t eat out often, Liverpool is definitely the place for you.

Transport

You should probably leave the car at home rather than drive into work. Although the Mersey Ferry offers a beautiful view, you are unlikely to have time to enjoy it if you’re fretting about being late for work! Parking in the city centre is relatively expensive too. Fortunately, the public transport service more than makes up for this hassle. There are four rail stations in the city, each of which services a particular area. This means that you’re likely to find a station that travels close to your workplace and also to your home. There are trains leaving every 15 minutes from these stations.

Amenities

Liverpool is top of the English league when it comes to alcohol consumption according to surveys. And when you see the amazing range of bars on offer, you'll quickly understand why. Bold, Fleet and Wood Street are the main nightlife spots so go there if you fancy a real night on the tiles. As well as normal pubs, there are a host of chic designer bars which offer a touch of class. Lark Lane is the place to go for a restaurant meal though you may elect to stay in one of the dozens of bars that serve gourmet food. In terms of shopping, Liverpool is now ranked in the top five cities in the UK. Liverpool One is a shopping centre with over 150 stores.

Music

When you mention Liverpool and music together, The Beatles are the first thing to come to mind. If you are one of the millions of people who loved the music of The Beatles, there are a number of places where you can pay homage. The Cavern Club is where the band got their big break and after being closed down a couple of times, the underground bar is open and better than ever with live music most nights of the week. There is also the small matter of the Beatles Story, a museum located on the Albert Dock which has the entire history of the band under one roof.

Football

And no discussion of Liverpool would be complete without a mention of their football teams, Liverpool and Everton. Both sides dominated the English league in the 1980s with Liverpool’s domination continuing from the 1960s and 70s. Liverpool F.C has won the European Cup five times, more than any other English club and third on the all-time list. Neither club has had much success in recent years (barring Liverpool’s European Cup win in 2005) but both sets of fans hope this will change soon.

Whether you are viewing all the attractions of the Albert Dock, enjoying the nightlife or shouting for your favourite football team, Liverpool is a city with much to offer and a great deal of growth yet to be experienced.