Update: It seems that my move there now has been permanently postponed. I'm moving out to CA instead...sad but true. However I'll probably visit my family in London when they are there.
California?! The land of Nuts and Fruits. No offense to those actually living there (or moving there). Nice place to visit and good luck to you no matter where you find yourself.
What part of CA are you being transferred to? Some parts are better than others for lack of "fruits and nuts" ya know. The north from Santa Rosa up toward Oregon is lovely country. Their sales taxes are horrific out there, but if you get sent there you have little choice in the matter. Sorry to hear no Emerald Isle is in your future, but all the best no matter where you land.
I lived in Sacramento for 25 years and loved it there. I'm going back there to live with my best friend and transfer with the company I currently working for. I know all about the sales taxes unfortunately but..I don't know. I'm pretty devastated about the recent turn of events..I wish it were different.