Thank-you cshowell for such a thorough and comprehensive reply! If only I could do the same!
I'm not too worried about meeting friends at the moment, my main concern is picking the right location, finding somewhere to stay, and then a job. I too prefer my own space but without a job, and so no idea of income, would be reluctant to commit myself to a rental agreement. What if I don't like the location? What if I can't find work? I'd then need to be able to move somewhere else. I don't know. Maybe its a case of pick somewhere and, as you say, give it your best shot! And you're right, commit to it! Thanks