I moved to France 5 years ago. Came home to Maryland to spend Christmas with the family. I got sick, went to the ER, and came out with a bill worth $1,900. The doctor saw me a week later for a follow-up. I needed surgery and it would cost more than $ 45,000. I went back to France after the holidays, saw a doctor, got surgery, 2 months off work and I PAID NOTHING. Technically my taxes paid for it but it feels good to see my taxes at work. Believe it or not, I make half the money I made back home but my quality of life is better.

Our experience of US supermarkets was as exciting and overwhelming as going to a theme park. The most insane was seeing a plastic box containing one egg.

I'm from Belgium, and I broke my leg in the mountains in Switzerland. I had to stay 3 days in hospital and had surgery because it was very bad. Then, 3 mounths of physiotherapy every 2 day at home, and I couldn't work during 10 weeks. My insurance is the basic one that everybody has here, about 10 $ a mounth. The global cost for hospital and surgery was negative ( my country has an agreement with Switerland like with every other country, except the US and North Korea), so it was about 90% covered, but I could come back home by myself with friends ( and normally they should pay for the transport, so they gave me back 380 $ more than I spent for that reason). And for 3 mounths physiotherapy I paid about 150 $. For the 10 weeks out of work, I was paid at 85%. I know that many in the US believe that we are some kind of communists while they are the "country of the freedom". But if I was living in the US, I would be so afraid of the cost of an accident that I wouldn't go to the mountains anymore, I wouldn't ride my motobike anymore and and wouldn't do any sport of any kind. And for me, that, precisely, would be against my "freedom".

Brilliant video. Completely sums up my experience living in the US ( 2017-2019). I lived in Boston for 2 years ( I'm from Ireland). The amount of people that assumed my country is this underdeveloped hole in the ground was staggering. ''Do you have Burger King there ? Are you British then ? ''. There's a severe lack of education in America. The endless amounts of stupid ignorant things that were said to me could fill a book. I found it strange too how so many people think they're from another country. ''I'm irish too'' is one of the most common things I heard in Boston. They're not irish-irish. Of Irish descent but not irish. They're American. I found that most yanks have a very fragile sense of identity and the culture nearly props that mindset up. I was worked to the bone for 2 years. 60 hour weeks. 6 days a week. Sure I earned good money but I didn't enjoy that money until I was able to head back to Ireland in 2019. Then I got taxed to absolute fuck on it all and came back with far less than anticipated. I made sure I kept up my gym routine and diet regimen and the looks I'd get from US colleagues ( who were totally out of shape, smokers, lived on fast food) began to annoy me.''Why don't you eat what you want ?''. I do. I eat healthy food because it makes me feel good. That's pretty much universal across European and Scandinavian countries. It's not really socially acceptable to be obese. Also the irish stereotype of ''you guys drink so much''. Yanks drink more than we do. In Ireland if you're driving you don't drink. I have never seen more people drive after drinking than I did in the US. They would literally have about 3-4 beers and hop in the car. So many yellow license plates in Boston showing that people had DUI's. There's just a lack of understanding of how people live in Europe. We have good healthcare, good work life balance. Our entire culture isn't based around earning money and climbing corporate ladders. We work to live not the other way around. I wish Americans could spread their wings and come and live in any country in Europe or Scandinavia for a few weeks/months. The pace of life and work is completely different. They'd no doubt enjoy not being constantly burned out by work, getting fatter and resorting to all shapes of substances just to cope with everyday life.

All of this rings true. We spent a month overseas, not doing what most Americans this summer were doing in Europe (i.e. frenetic touristing in a heat wave) but stayed put in one place. No cars, walk on foot everywhere, tiny market we'd go to daily, tiny fridge, socialize every day - and by the way nobody I socialized with asked me "what I do" even though I was working from there. I left the US behind. The minute I got back I was confronted with the politicized headlines, another shooting, my inbox dinging, the stress of driving, the lists of "things to buy", the simmering rage everywhere. We talk very seriously about planning our exit strategy. I do not want to grow old in this country.

I couldn't agree more about everything you said. I grew up in Germany for the most part. My Dad was in the US Army and my Mom from Germany. The way of thinking in the US compared to Europe is totally different especially now. The division and hatred in this country is truly sad! My husband and I are considering moving to Europe in the future. Fingers crossed it comes to fruition. The medical in the US is outrageous. I have insurance and they Approved my sinus surgery in May now they're refusing to pay $22,000. I'm livid! I'm just mentally tired of all of it frankly. But c'est la vie!!

This is not a put-down of America in general, which I still think is a fantastic country even though I now live in Tokyo Japan. I'm just sharing an anecdote about an occurrence in Italy. One time in Rome, my wife tripped on a step and suffered a severe cut on her forehead, and we sat on a curb to control the bleeding. A venue attendant noticed us and recommended calling an ambulance. Initially, we declined, but he insisted, so we accepted. The ambulance took us to a hospital where my wife received treatment and stitches. During this time, I sat in the waiting area, and contemplated the cost of the care which I assumed would be several thousand dollar, but we never received a bill. When my wife emerged from the treatment room, she sat with me in the waiting area, and we waited for settlement paperwork. A nurse noticed us after 20 minutes or so, and asked if we needed anything else. I inquired about the bill and learned that as tourists, we didn't have to pay and we were free to leave. As an American, this seemed unimaginable, and I marveled at the kindness of Italians.

I live in a very small country in central Europe and I'm shocked to read other people's comments about needing medical attention and paying huge sums of money for that. It's unfathomable to me that one would get charged so much money for even a basic checkup. I work as a teacher in a public school and earn an average salary which enables me more than a decent life - I can rent my own apartment, get a loan if I ever want to buy my own flat, I can travel and have paid both sick and vacation leave. If I decide to get pregnant, I will also get a 12-month paid maternity leave. For this standard of living in America, I can't even imagine how much money I should make to live this comfortably. It's just crazy.

Spent 2 months in Italy and another month in the rest of Europe. The U,.S. truly has major problems. I agree with the points he made you realize that very quickly in the E.U. It goes well beyond many of these issues he pointed out. Unfortunately, auto companies have lobbied hard and won and it is why America is the way it is. I believe many of the U.S. issues can be fixed if we learned from our western counterparts especially when it comes to culture. I found it so surreal that no matter what city I was in in the E.U. you could find people walking around at night talking having coffee talking amongst friends etc.. I had some of my fondest memories doing just that meeting new people going to hostels talking to locals.. Maybe it does happen in the U.S., but not nearly as often. I think especially the younger generation if they were given better access to public tranportation, this would encourage our young adults to explore America by Train it would encourage so much. Everything car based is what is isolating us as people. This was completely anecdotal, but when I was in Florence watching the sunset it was so cool that I was able to strike up a conversation with random strangers and that night we went too a bar all because I was talking about something to a friend. Those kind of connections are truly missing in the U.S. we are so focused on politics, news, etc dividing us we need to come back to what matters. That is being kind to one another having meaningful discussions even with divided opinions over coffee etc.. We are truly losing our way as a country and maybe it's too late to see a turning point. Our economy is tanking, our healthcare system is utterly corrupt, we have two pretty bad candidates for this up coming election we are in dark times for sure. I was just going on tangents, but Europe will change your views of the U.S. 100%. As someone who loves the U.S. I truly want to see it succeed, but we need a change.

Grew up in Inglewood CA, moved to West Africa 3 years ago and this is exactly how I feel going back. The weight gain, talking about work with friends, everyone being so busy, people getting sick, the violence, the news cycle...

As a British person, I used to complain about our National Health Service,because of delays and other things, until my wife and I got talking to a waitress in San Luis Obispo,California, who was ill but continued to work because she couldn't afford to pay for treatment. She told us that the only medication she had, had been donated to her, by her friend who was a veterinarian surgeon ! I won't be complaining about our treatment any longer !

Interesting perspective. I've lived in both the US and Europe (UK mainly). What I like best about the US is the nature and sense of space once you get away from the cities. What I like most about the UK is the free health care, the less polarised society and lack of guns.

As an American that's been living in eastern Europe for exactly 5 years now, you really hit the nail on the head. I absolutely love coming home for visits, but I really can't imagine living there again. So many societal problems. Definitely not a good environment for raising kids.

I live in Spain and my experience has been the same. There's something else I noticed, people in general don't look happy in America; they look tired. I love the US of my childhood, the one I return to when visiting family and friends is not something to look forward to. It makes me wish my loved ones were closer.

All rings true. I am an Aussie, but lived in the US for 5 years doing a couple of postdocs. I found the US a mix of the extremes. Some absolutely great things about the place and some terrible. These extremes have often driven me to wonder whether we cannot have some of those upsides without the downsides. For instance, the entrepreneurial spirit, which I think great, but can it exist without the interpersonal comparisons and hustle culture. Or its worst form, a literal hustle. Partner and I did a road trip across the US before we left, and there were some places where it felt like the point of 80% of the activity was just to separate people from their money, unashamedly.

My family and I traveled to Germany and Switzerland a few years back and I remember being devastated to have to return to the US on the way home. Europe was much more wholesome than the materialistic, money driven, career title driven USA. Plus, everybody was quieter, it was safer, the quality of products were far superior, no takeout containers to mass produce garbage…I can go on. Much love to Europe❤

this was so educational and refreshing for me as a Dutch person. i honestly never knew how the differences when returning to their home country can make some Americans feel

It's interesting to see how your lived experience in the US has influenced the differences you see between US and Europe. For instance, living in the bay area as an Asian male and working in finance, having friends in finance/tech, etc. I bring this up because the competitiveness seems to be magnified in major economic centers like Silicon Valley and cities overall. In other regions it may not be as prominent. Though this may be more an issue of the integration of urban and non-urban communities in US vs Europe and even vs Eastern countries. You also mentioned that the majority of police officers you've met are genuinely good people and that "we tend to label people based on this profession, it's a bias". While I don't disagree that many police officers are good people, your statement makes it seem like some peoples' perspectives are all bias, when the unfortunate reality for many people, especially minorities in low-income communities, is that their lived experience with the police can be largely different. Perhaps their many encounters with police haven't been so friendly. And this experience negatively affects their outlook on the people in this profession and the people like them. People are going to pull from their past experiences versus having the presence of mind to consider that others have had different interactions with the police. I guess these are just points to consider that I thought of. I appreciate your words and your perspective, and you overviewed well some key issues the US has.

I''m a retired working-class American (from Oregon) who has lived in The Netherlands for 2.5 years. I hope to remain here. I do miss the nature - fast rivers, mountains, huge forests, wild coastlines. I do NOT miss the consumerism, social stratification, grinding work culture, rising poverty, and political schism that pervades day to day life there. All my Dutch acquaintances say "We have problems here too" and I know they are right - but things are much better managed here. More civility, more relaxed life style, more peace of mind. People seem not to be afraid they will loose everything if there is a problem with work, or with health, or other uncertainties. Lots of fear in America.

You hit the nail on the head with every, single point you made. This is the experience most visitors from overseas (i.e. the other 96% of the world) have when they travel to the US. And yet, unless they leave the country and live elsewhere for a while (to gain a balanced perspective), most Americans will either argue that America is the best and that universal health (free) care is bad, or else they are totally oblivious just how crappy their lives are compared to almost every other developed nation.

I'm Irish and have lived here all my life but have been to the US 5/6 times as well as numerous trips to something like 25 different countries. The big things that stick out for me with the US compared to other places are the gun culture, the healthcare system, the 'two sides only' political system , the overly work orientated ethic and limited amount of annual leave and the massive gulf between the haves and the have nots. I love visiting the US, the people are generally fantastic, there's some wonderful sights and wilderness, NYC is fantastic to visit but IMO to visit only - I just wouldn't fancy living there. I work shift work so my leave is calculated in hours but so far this year I've had seven weeks of annual leave with three more to come and I'll be carrying around 120 hours (3+ weeks) into next year. My sister had a heart attack last Saturday (actually died but was revived !!!) will be in hospital for another week or so and will walk out no poorer than when she was carried in. If I get in an argument with someone or there's a road rage incident I don't have to wonder if they'll produce a gun. We don't have random mass shootings. Still have the right to defend ourselves but just don't have guns to do it with. Chances are the bad guys won't have one either.

I went to Japan for 5 weeks when I was 9. When I arrived back in the US, it felt foreign. The sights, the smells, the sounds, it all felt different, for like a day. It's hard to describe. Being immersed in a different culture at that young changed my perspective. I've gone back to Japan as an adult, but didn't have that same experience when I returned.

Hi Eleven years in Spain here. This video nailed it. On a return visit home, the supermarket blew me away. I lost 40 pounds after I moved here, mainly because of walking so much. But more importantly, while Spain is not perfect either, I never worry about my safety. I see more women in government than in the US, progressive new laws, an amazing healthcare system (again, not perfect, but livable), and a healthier cost of living. I see similar stories below in the comments that have me nodding my head. Great job, David. Clear, concise reporting. Will be sharing with those who ask if I'm going home. (Still haven't worked that part out yet.)

Reading all of these comments about the quality of life in other countries has me crying... I feel so horribly stuck here in the US, in debt (including medical), depressed, broke, needing healthcare but can't afford it... I feel like there is no way out of this awful system. I envy those who have escaped this hellhole and made a life for themselves somewhere better. I don't have the motivation or energy to climb my way up the corporate ladder and wonder if I'll ever be able to make enough money to leave. I hope I can figure out what to do... I can't stay here.

My son broke his arm in Italy at the park. Some teenagers gave us a ride to where an ambulance met us. They transferred him to a hospital, x rayed and casted his arm. We are American and though we had travelers insurance, they never asked for any information. They just told us not to worry about it. The next day we missed the Saturday bus to the train. A local man saw us, took out his back seat, left it on the curb, packed our bags and rushed us to the station. The people there were incredible; I was gobsmacked. Such beautiful people.

Honestly after studying abroad for a semester in France, all of these elements made my transition back to the United States super challenging! It can be nice sometimes to have options and big things, but for the most part it's exhausting and overwhelming all the time.

Your experiences and observations being 100% valid, I just want to get attention to the "illusion of being a foreigner". Meaning when you are living in another country as a foreigner, you typically either do not know much about the craziness going on in that country (politics, social/economic problems, etc.) or you simply would not care as much as the residents and citizens of that country.

When I grew up in the 90s the only MTV we had on TV was the US channel (they had MTV Europe and localized channels after). That influenced me immensely. Rockstars, Popstars, Beavis & Butthead, The Real World, Cribs, ... My dream was to travel the entirety of the US - living there was a dream I wouldn't dare to dream, so far fetched. Now, I would think twice about going there for a short trip. It's sad.

This is spot on. It’s exactly what I’ve been telling my fellow Europeans about America. Non-Americans often romanticise about the US and have this Hollywood projected image but the reality is a lot more complex. I am British-Polish and lived with my partner in the US for nearly 4 years, before returing to Europe. It was an interesting experience and I met some lovely people there. However, It opened my eyes to how completely dysfunctional the US is on so many levels. It also made me realise that’s not the lifestyle I want. Glad we’re back.

I moved to Germany in 1965 and never looked back. I see the US as an immature, adolescent country, unwilling or unable to grow up. Everything is a spectacle; high-speed chases, politics, sports, entertainment and religion. When I meet Americans here in Europe I am often impressed by their superficiality, disinterest and ignorance of history, geography and civilization. We showed some American guests castles on the Rhine and the whole time we were there they talked about the best ice cream flavours back in their hometown in Indiana. When I explained how superior our health insurance system is I got the response "Socialism is not the answer." I often think of Isaac Asimov's "Cult of Ignorance" and anti-intellectualism in the US. The attitude that 'My ignorance is worth as much as your intelligence" spells the downfall of a country.

French here. I have family friends who moved to the US a few years ago. They told me although they missed their baguettes (yeah, that was their main complain), they liked the USA in the way that everything is much "simpler" there. As in: you want something, you can get it as long as you have money. Few papers to fill in, few bureaucy. Things go quicker. But one bad injury, and you can be indebted for years. This is very scary to them. I remember one of them saying "One accident and you lose it all. No wonder Americans pray so much"

I was born in Oakland, grew up in Union City and moved to Eindhoven in 1990. Your video is spot on! I clearly remember the struggle when I had to buy food for my baby during a trip to California; I was so overwhelmed with the assortment in the grocery store! I agree with you that it would be difficult to move back home, but that doesn't mean that I don't get homesick at times...especially when I see the California coast as shown in your video! I can't tell you how much it still blows my mind that many of my Bay Area friends are struggling to keep their heads above water these days. They may earn more, but they definitely need more than we do in The Netherlands.

Congrats on your wider understanding of your own country. It's a fantastic feeling to find something you dislike and things you're in love with. You know that there are things to improve and things that work perfectly already. Things that people could miss. You're growing as a person!

I remember the first time i traveled to europe i was annoyed at the limited selection of goods. When i got home 3 weeks later i was like you, completely overwhelmed by the choice in everything. Less is sometimes more. Also i noticed, as you pointed out, that people in europe tend to have real conversations. Here all anyone talks about is work. Unless one has a legitimately interesting job like an artist i and most ppl just dont care what others do for work.

The food scene in Europe is awesome, every major city (which is also a culture capital) has all you need. Good grocery stores have a wide enough selection of every item you'd need. An immense number of European businesses are market leaders in their segments and are ambitious drivers of growth. Then there's the rest.

I'm swedish but have visited US several times. The part where you describe people in the US as polite, helpful and especially confident feels very true to me, in a positive way. It's a big contrast compared to Swedes that almost whoever you talk to in the US they are very helpful and confident in making decisions. We Swedes could learn something from that and possibly also have a little more ambition in our lives. There are pros and cons to all countries, I hope US finds a way to reverse the growing devide caused buy ignorance, media and fictional narratives. Thanks for a good video

As an American living in Berlin, what you said about the US reminded me of so much... So much I'd like to forget. Most people I still talk to there considers the condition of the US to be rather inevitable. They believe "that's just the way it is" or they know it's not like that but have no clue what to do about it. As an example, I had 2 surgeries last year, both went great and I paid zero dollars and never argued with my insurance company one time. My agent literally said, "Yeah, no worries, we'll take care of it." and just paid the hospital. I wanted to cry. I wanted to cry and fucking scream because I, and so many friends, almost lost their jobs because of being injured and therefore being unable to work. If they lost their jobs, they'd lose their healthcare and there is no safety net to keep them from smashing on the proverbial rocks. My European friends looked at me with sidelong glances like, "dude are you okay?" They don't get it. Keep your 47 different types of tomato sauce. The labels are different, the ingredients are all the same which almost always includes HFCS. I'd rather take reliable trains, read books and not go bankrupt when I need medical attention. I wish I could start a program to abduct Americans in the night and move them to Europe for 3 months, just to show them.

Thank you for making this video. I feel the exact same way about living abroad, inflation, the police and the news. Your perspective is true and spot on. I hope we both get back to the places that make us happy. 🙂

As someone who left the US in 2010 for work, I can relate to all of this. Especially the political division. Great job David. Though the thing about what company you work for and especially whether it's the Big Four might be a San Fran thing and not a US thing. ...but if you already gained 20lbs (9kg) in the first few days back there's a problem. :D

Excellent reflection and comparisons David! I can relate to most of your points in the video! I lived 13 years in the US, specifically in California, and yes it was quite fine! I live in Germany! The scenery and nature in Cali are incredible and the state feels vast! People also seem a bit more “relaxed and laid back” than in many places in Europe. Here is the think though; I don’t think I could ever trade Europe for America like you said! From what I understand, we (I) in Germany pretty much make (€$) the same amount as Americans, however we get taxed (way-) more than Americans.. that may, and if we study it’s intricacies have it’s pros and cons, but I would argue that that it overwhelmingly outpaces American’s quality of life in all (ok, many!) aspects. The list can go on and on! This isn’t in anyway meant to put down America. It’s just a reflection on the differences between the two. There is work do be done in America that is all!

I would HIGHLY recommend visiting rural USA and doing another video like this. The U.S. is incredibly diverse and many would like to see your opinion on the differences. For example: there is a notable lack of consumerism. The supermarket isn't 2 blocks, it is 2 miles. There are few, if any cyclists. But perhaps the most stark difference is the face of rural poverty and urban poverty. These are a few of the differences and there are many others.

Good video David :) I'm an ancient who has lived decades in both USA and EU. USA today is a pale shadow of what it was 40-50 years ago, it's a real shame because there's so much potential here. The place has been poisoned by various ideologies-political, social, cultural-and it's going to be a tough road back to a healthy state, will take at least a generation. I've read maybe 100 comments but didn't see anyone mention that there are tons of country comparison reports available these days, which look at hundreds of factors. So decide what's important to you, and go research the reports which look at those.

The biggest point for me many fail to address that you sort of addressed is that in the US literally everything is some sort of show and entertainment - even serious topics, even violence, even politics. To me as a European that is absolutely insane.

Loved your perspective. As an older ex techie living in the north end of California. I agree about the division and am seriously looking at moving. Everything you said was so true, and its sad. I love the US but its exhausting. Keep making content!

You hit the nail on the head! Also from CA living in DE. The thing is, to really truly understand the system of the US, you have to experience what it's like elsewhere. I somehow feel like my friends don't "really" get it, or like the experience shared is answered with something like a polite "that's nice" comment or gesture. I would dare to say it;s the understanding that many (young) US Americans so desperately need so as to understand that another way is conceivable.

I am moving to the netherlands soon. I am dutch but lived in the US for 23 years. A lot of people advice me not to and I know all countries have issues but I still think its better then how the USA currently is.

As a British/Canadian living in both countries extensively, your viewpoints are so fair and balanced. I'm always scared of watching these videos but I can tell you really are authentic. Great video!

You speak to my heart dude, grew up near Stanford, then moved to Berlin at 34. The states just don't look the same way anymore, thanks for articulating some of what I feel going back.

I visited Italy this past year in my first European vacation. I was shocked at the cultural differences. The inexpensive amazing food, fast cheap trains, friendly chill people, beautiful historic sites, public spaces to just hang out and more, I loved it. I'm confident it's not perfect, but it definitely made me realize that we've got a lot to work on here in the US.

This happened to me when we were stationed in another country with my military husband. It was wild to see the differences and I miss abroad life a LOT!!!

The "Cheese Sandwich (Dutch food)" pic after the varied and lavish display of vast food selection in the US floored me! LOL! So funny! Europeans (although I hate to generalize when it comes to Europe cos we're so different country to country) go out to small local grocers, and by fresh produce, bakery, etc. several times a week, e.g. on our way from work, or just popping out from our home at a whim, and rustle up some healthy stuff at home for dinner with it. Very few of us have a fast food joint as an option for food outside of a lunch break at work., maybe, and even that is not a usual thing. Also if your local corner shop, which in Europe is almost always small in square meter size, carries only two types of toilet paper and you happen not to like any of them, there's another store or a shop few meters further down the street or around the corner, where you know they'll have what you like, and you go to get your favorite brand there. I regularly have few stores I pop into for various favorites of mine that I know that they carry. It's part of knowing your neighborhood well and generally a part of living in a European city, everything in your neighborhood is walking distance, and you pick up your favorite stuff and food when walking around. We do have big box retailers, too though, but it's not as much a thing for people to necessarily drive there and buy in bulk for the whole week, although many, especially with families and living in the suburbs in bigger houses as oppose the city folks in small apartments, do, just like Americans. But don't get me wrong, If European cities were designed like American cities, for driving, and with vast suburbs, we would be acting the same way you guys do! It's just a nature of out environment and what it evolved from historically that forces us into a certain lifestyle that we just follow naturally, I guess! Also America is designed since its inception for a robust consumerism and selling. Everything has to be marketed in a way, and pushed on you to buy it! Free refills! huge portions!, cheaper price! bigger and better selection! they all are trying to get your attention and make you to buy! All this beautiful presentation, big, glossy ubiquitous adds in your face scream come to us and consume! Whereas in Europe I have a feeling the merchant is more like "This is what I sell. Buy it, if you like it. If you don't like it, well you can kiss my as..." LOL!

You made me laugh out loud, "Costco, our national treasure". Totally agree with your thoughts on the police. Its a shame that the actions of a few have affected perceptions of the entire organization.

ha! definitely can relate even though I have only lived in europe 14 months; however, I found shopping here in Europe very overwhelming at first and got super stressed trying to pick out laundry detergent and yogurt because there were more choices than I knew what to do with.... In the US, I shopped for specific items at specific places and hence it was super streamlined for me. In general my quality of life is better and I love the walkable lifestyle of my community. And don't get me started about how affordable and transparent the prices are in the health care system here.

I’ve lived in the USA my whole life and every time I leave to come back from another country, part of me feels bitter and hostile. Every time I return to the USA, I develop stomach problems with the food and people won’t even bat a second eye at you. I feel somewhat guilty because I always talk down the USA to people who want to move, but maybe it’s because I’ve dealt with the political issues for so long that it leaves a sour taste in my mouth. Trading material and wealth for experience and happiness is not a concept most Americans get, but I think it’s inspiring me to quickly finish off my student loans and get out fast!

After living in Rome for a year I went to the grocery store in my hometown in the U.S. What I remember was experiencing the same sense of being overwhelmed. Too much variety, most of it ridiculous. The cereal aisle was where I lost it. I think Americans are given these unnecessary choices to distract them from their empty lives.

I usually don't comment on video's much. But I genuinly loved how you made this video. This wasn't a comparison like most would do it. there was a lot of sentiment in it. keep up the good work!

I like the fact that you mentioned something from the bad things in the Netherlands, like paying for the toilets, which is ridiculous but you forgot to mention about the housing problem what they have. So many people struggle to get a room in sharing apartment or small studio flat.

It's a very non-biased video. Well done. Nailed it. My bias guard was up before I clicked on this video. But you are a wise young man and with good character. Yes, it is very competitive in most ways. Competitive manufacturers compete for shelf space, lone work hours...little vacation...all to spend more money. We do have a fantastic country, but there is a price to pay. The price I have learned from working in Europe is the reduced quality of life. We here are always racing around to do this and buy that. Our quality of life sufferers because of it all. This is one area that Europe has mastered. Slower with greater quality of life. Unfortunately, the slower pace would bore many of us in the US to death... : ) GREAT WORK, YOUNG MAN! Now go back to Europe and enjoy your life to its fullest.

🎯 Key Takeaways for quick navigation: 00:54 🛒 U.S. supermarkets offer overwhelming variety compared to Europe. 03:11 💸 High medical costs make people hesitate to visit the ER. 03:38 🕒 U.S. work culture features long hours and little vacation. 06:42 🇺🇸 Increasing polarization and mistrust shape U.S. society. Made with HARPA AI

I went to Spain for a month and wandered around. What I liked was the slow pace, being disconnected from news, and people are people, and pretty much left me alone. What I missed vs the USA is, yeah, lack of selection on some items. Lack of some spices too. I have to walk around with tabasco next time I go over there.

I'm a Canadian who has lived in Amsterdam for almost 7 years. Like you I miss the nature of North America but going back for me is quite a culture shock and a bit cringy at times. The consumerism, work-first, car-first culture, "false friendliness" and lack of directness are all things I don't miss. I also feel overwhelmed by the comical level of selection at stores and how good ingredients and quality take a back seat to synthesized ingredients, way too much sugar and preservatives. And last, while Canada has some similarities in social systems, rights, etc, I feel like the government and European Union makes a more honest effort to improve the lives of citizens first and not line the pockets (bail out, etc) of big, evil businesses. I feel this people-first mentality is a product of a lot more maturity and a focus on personal happiness/life over work

This seem like an honest reaction to a return to America after being away for 4 years. David's presentation is fair. He acknowledges the positive - even the wonderful things America is incomparably beautiful - along with the shocking awful things, like the high percentage of homeless/hopeless people and the predatory medical system that is completely inaccessible to many Americans. From here, France, it is hard accept the fact that Americans fail to see those failures in human service as a national disgrace in the richest nation in the history of the world. Since I grew up in California right where he was, I could relate to places he went, especially when he took the walk from El Camino to the Stanford quad, and it turned out to be a longer walk than he imagined or remembered it - probably because he had always driven it before. The acceptance of gun violence is completely nuts, as is the 60 hour work week with google doc planned "vacations." I was surprised that David did not point out the obvious fact that the political chasms in American are substantially manufactured by a right wing media that broadcasts lies. The news is not equally distorted. The divisions that threaten democracy do not serve the citizens on either side of the divide. They serve those who profit obscenely by Americans being so divided they can not make public policies that serve the best interests of their families.. I haven't been in America for 12 years. I can not imagine going back to the USA - even for a visit. I am grateful that my family and friends like to come here, so I get to spend time with what I'd miss about America.

😊 Very interesting video Dave. I lived in the Netherlands for 3 years, and ooohhh man, what different society compared with the U.S All what you said is so true and shocking, and it is unfortunate that we keep going like that. I think over all you are better off in Europe. Great video. Daniel

Excellent vidéo. French speaking Canadian here. Some say we are a mix of US and European culture. A lot of entertainment (movies and games) come from the US and as a French speaker it is hard for me to distinguish what is Canada-made and what is American made. Over here we do have health care and you don’t pay to go to the hospital. We are invaded by a lot of American stores like Costco, that take over local businesses and won’t accept employees union, even though is is a right. I used to idealize and dream of America, and even drove to New Orleans twice (2500km!!), camping out along the way - the roads are fantastic - but since the last prez, and all the violence, no, my dream is crushed. So come visit us up here, eh?! On vous attend ❤

This is really well done. Agree with alot of your points on life in N. America. I have never lived abroad, just a few vacations over there. The little bit of experience I do have there though, life is just way different and for the better, I think. Keep up the good work on the videos, I will follow more of your journey on here.

Great video, and great comments. From the outside (I am German) I always feel like the US today is a system that has a tight grip on everyone, they are kept totally dependent (student depth, depth if you need ER etc.). It is it's own version of a totalitarian system, for a lack of better words. If I imagine I once wanted to go to the US to work internationally. Huh.

As an American who is currently living in Paris and has been here for 6 years. I really related to this video. I LOVE America but I am also frightful of the "mess" we have gotten ourselves into regarding healthcare, lack of affordable food, gun violence, and excessive work culture.

As a European, i find appealing the whole consumer part of your country. You have thousands of services, stores, brands, events, tours of any sort of stuff. That thing is great! You have massive malls with mini-golf, ski park, amusement park... On the other hand, it's pretty hard to live in such a country, with private healthcare, people with guns, creazy people that do the craziest thing in any place at any time, crazy cops, terrible and warmonger politics and so on.

About vacation: I remember hearing an elderly American couple saying to another: Yeah and then we did Scandinavia... Which meant a 1-day visit to each of the capital cities of Denmark, Sweden and Norway... Wow. A European person would never say he did the US by visiting three places. It just makes no sense unless you are really shallow.

The big choice in the supermarket is not typical of "America", it is San Francisco, Los Angeles, New York. Honestly I had the exact opposite feeling moving from rural Georgia to Spain: supermarkets just outside Madrid were _huge._

It doesn't take that long when you know what you like, but if something happens, irritation, allergy, stomach issues....you have choices if you need them. Living in the US is such a blessing.

Left the US back in 2020, lived in Central America for about a year and a half, came back home in spring 2022. My body, mind and spirit still have not been able to get comfortable here. It’s so much, not just the consumerism, but the people’s mindsets here, the way energy is transferred and exchanged, and the drastic nature of getting a $15 latte on the same block as tent city. I, too, went to the ER cause the food here is so hard on my kidneys. It’s been hard for me to re-adapt to this environment. Actively seeking my next destination.

Coming back to the US after being abroad for 2 years was a shock. Things I felt were normal in my first 25 years of life living in the US seemed strange when I came back. Each time I turned on the TV or radio, I felt like I was being yelled at. Just going shopping, I felt I was seeing so much waste. Everything felt like it was covered chemicals.

A friend of mine from Europe once summed it up by saying that In America, You have a greater QUANTITY of life, but in Europe, You have a greater QUALITY of life. He said that many of his young friends would move to America to make as much money as possible and then move back to Europe after 10 years when it came time to settle down and raise a family and eventually retire.

Well that was interesting! I lived in the U.S. off and on for about five years. Coming from England, U.K., I found America very different indeed. Whilst I agree with lots of what you said, I disagree on a few points. I found it hard to get a job even though I was doing great at all the tests. Then I was asked if I wanted to be a Supply Teacher, i.e. one who covers for the regular teacher whilst they are away, sick or whatever. I don't have any qualifications to be a Supply Teacher. I am a Book-keeper, which I think you would call an Accountant. I didn't follow up on the Supply Teacher offer although it was tempting. In England, you have to be a trained teacher in order to do supply work in the classroom. I enjoyed my time in America but I wouldn't go back to live. Like you said in your video, they are very driven over there and I prefer a much more relaxed way of life. Keep up the good work. New Subbie here.

I lived in the Philippines for 4 months, a 3 night stay in the hospital only costed me $260, plus another $30 for medication, I enjoyed not hearing about politics and seeing everyone divided, loved not needing a car to get everywhere, and the best thing was not being asked about my job and schools with everyone I talked to, which resulted in not being judged. Only came back because I exhausted all $4000 I took with me.

I subbed after you said: "we should judge people base on their character". Wise words! You have a new channel fan from Poland :)

I only visited the USA for a few weeks. As an European, everything in the USA was bigger. The distance between two places was farer, the houses and cars were bigger and even a portion of food was more than in Europe. In the USA the motto seems to be "more is always better". But sometimes, they seem to mix up what is really better. In my opinion, more free time is better than more money. At least, if you have got enough money to live off.

My husband and I moved to Mexico eight months ago and I’m still detoxing from US culture. Reminding myself that I came here to slow down. Hardly anyone asks me what I do, the people here are warm, friendly, helpful and community oriented. Everyone walks, in fact we sold our car to be less dependent. Went back a couple of months ago and I’m glad we made this move, the US was literally killing us from stress!

We argue often with my friends about leaving our country and living in different place because everyone says it will be better without any facts or proof. So your videos fit perfectly when i need some real opinion about lets say Europe or USA. Keep up the good work !

Great video, thanks. One comment though, having lived all my life in the EU, you should have in mind that product/brand selection is not so limited in the EU as you present it here, maybe in Amsterdam commercialism is relaxed (and what isn't relaxed in the beautiful Netherlands?). But, you can easily get 20 brands of toilet paper with much greater feature variety than in the US in a middle sized Greek island. Not to mention the variety of products on a German super market. What I see in the US is that there are so many different brands in food and everyday living products, but they lack variety of features between them. Also, there are lower quality standards in US than in EU. US could be heaven on earth really, like any other big economy, but people have their way to screw thing up, right? 🙂

Greetings from Portugal...Originally from Texas...Been a legal resident here since 2016...Been blessed to live, travel and work in over 42 different countries...Being in control of ones happiness, health and well being is the most important thing for it does not matter where you live on this planet if you do not have it together...Quality not quantity of life should be at the top of that list...It does not matter how much money you have, if the money is your only Identity...Branding from the cradle to the grave...Being Authentic in a world full of folks who do not know who they are and letting go of any people, places and things that do not bring you true joy...Any environment that is toxic to both your mental and physical well being is not a place you will find me period...Portugal has everything I need in a small package...For I will never return to the United States...Boa Sorte...😉👌

A lot of the stuff you talk about makes sense. Ive lived in the US for 40 years but came from Europe. I dont eat out so i cook, i walk when i can. I only buy things when i need to. So some stuff i can help. But things like a lack of walking culture and the huge disrances i cant help.

I feel like you would love London because it's kind of 70% European in terms of our working style, social style, walking everywhere, government healthcare etc but then 30% way more diverse than most European cities because we have a way more diverse population, loads of different food and loads of choice.

In Europe we don't have free drinks refill but we have free healthcare.. Of course somehow we all paid for " that free", but I prefer paying for healthcare than for unhealthy drinks!

A really good video essay about why it's so hard to live/stay in the USA by a native Californian. I'm Canadian and lived in NYC three years on a free trade visa. Though I was half-way to being vested by my employer, I did not wish to continue further under the existing conditions at that time and returned home.

I work 40 hours a week, I have 30 days paid vacation banked plus 10 holidays by the company and I'm taking two weeks off. It really depends on what you are doing for a job. What you are talking about tends to be for the unskilled labor force. Blue collar and White collar both have paid time off, usually starting at two weeks a year gradually ramping up to four weeks paid off with seniority.

I was in South America with my friends and went to the beach and had Sun poisoning and went to the hospital for a shot by the doctor, and I didn't expect them to say I didn't have to pay for my treatment or for the medicine they gave me, it was all free. If I went to a US emergency room, I'd have to pay $500 or more.

I'm glad there is not a supermarket 2 blocks from my home, but if there were I'd probably walk there unless it were really hot/cold. When I first moved to my current area, my first apartment was about 4 blocks from a grocery store and I"d walk to shop at least twice a week. I would only drive there if I needed something on my way home from work which was a 25 mile drive. We are a competitive society, but as someone older than you I think this started to become more and more the case in 90's and 2k's. There was comparisons before, but they were typically based on large differences in professions (blue collar vs. white collar), but now even minute differences are compared in some effort to show you are different if not better. I think this is based on a need to show these people have knowledge or skills that you couldn't understand so as to buffer themselves against judgement from others. My dad was an auto mechanic who became a teacher at community colleges and then went on to become a director for our state's college courses for auto mechanics, but if you ask my dad today what his profession was he would still just say "auto mechanic". For all people criticize "boomers" for, they were at least humble in some ways. Those of us who are younger say there is more to life than a job, but when we describe ourselves we still use our professions.

I think this YOUR perspective and reality! I live in the US and I take 3 full weeks off, make a good living, work 36 hours a week with no weekends. I eat healthy and workout. Yes I can walk to grocery store. Many do in my neighbourhood. I do eat out on weekends but you have to be careful about what you eat. I have health insurance which is mandatory in the US to purchase through your work but I know in countries where it is universal, people have to wait months to see a specialist. I think it depends on how you set up your lifestyle here. I’m sure you can live in Europe and live an unhealthy lifestyle.

I left the US at 16 years old and never looked back, just for visits. I live now in Iceland, and every time I visit the US I am extremely careful not to get injured or sick (it's a real worry). My quality of life is unequalled. No hesitation.

Honestly I would love to live in Austria and as soon as it is possible I want to live there. The one thing about Europe is that because things are so slow in a since, I will miss the fact I could text someone at 3:00AM and that is normal, if I did that to someone from Europe they would probably get mad.

I just came back to the USA after living in Asia for 10 years and I think this video does a good job of capturing the American lifestyle. I shared this with my wife who is about to come here for the first time.

How you see the US after living in Europe vid. You are so right on people comparing themselves to others. It's almost like they are unconscious and defaulting to their conditioned mind that they must be this hugely successful individual in order to be a good person. I like how you said "you don't blame them" b/c our society/parents/schools put pressure on us to excel at everything, but I think it's just nonsense.

Having lived a year in the US, and having visited a few times on vacation, from Sweden I relate to some of these points of the video. Btw the comparing yourself to others problem is sadly a thing too here in Sweden

Lots of focus on food, but I appreciated the talk about work hours and vacation. Over 5 weeks in Europe, I never entered an automobile. I was glad to be back where I felt more free.

I am a German citizen, I studied computer science and programming, and because of my love for this profession, I wanted to travel to the United States with the aim of visiting and discovering this wonderful country . I was crazy about the technological development of the United States and After the visit, I changed all my thinking about this country! It's not what they say in Hollywood! Homeless people everywhere ! The cleanliness of American cities and roads is very low compared to European cities! Health insurance in Germany is free, and you can be treated in any hospital or clinic for free, and even medicines can be purchased at a nominal price that does not exceed five euros. If you lose your job, you will receive support as long as you are unemployed, and the government will pay the rent for the apartment and the price of health insurance, and you will be given a salary, and this assistance is not limited to time! Time in the United States passes very quickly. Many foods are not healthy in the US I am really happy in Europe and I really appreciate it . Thank you David

Visited Europe many times, but I still love living in the US, thank you!

Ambition is what is attracting me from the EU. Where I live dreaming big is frowned upon, and if you try to do anything you will quickly lose support from the people in your life. On the other hand the healthcare and homeless situation in the US frightens me a lot.

I've met probably two police officers in my entire life that didn't treat me like crap, like they have a testosterone problem and a chip on their shoulders, and they really just wanted to show off how better they are than me as a person. So when I say I don't trust the police, I'm not just painting a broad brush. I can literally remember the times when they're "great people". They were events for commemoration.