Big Pete,

Thanks for your information and questions. I'm retired (60), with my adult daughter in London for another year or so. We're from California, hence my interest in the south of England. I would like to be in England for 12 months.

Although some type of paid job would be nice, it's not essential. I would like to be involved with a community--through volunteer work perhaps--which is why I ask about American expat groups or organizations. A church would not work for me. I might also like to take college-level courses.

I don't know the towns at all, so I don't have preferences. Having contacted one rental agency in England, I have found that in addition to rent, one also pays Council taxes; for the small flat about which I inquired, the cost was about $2,000 annually. Is that standard practice for rental units? My budget is tight, so I have to be economical. However, I do want a safe and attractive area.

When you refer to "reasonable" towns, do you have any idea about rental costs?

Thanks much for your help.