8 Reasons Why This American is NOT Moving Back to the US | American in The Netherlands

Visiting the United States after living in the Netherlands as an American is a recipe for reverse culture shock. In this video, I share some reasons why I won't be moving back to America. italki link: go.italki.com/sept-dutch
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I like to share my experiences of an American expat in the Netherlands. I describe both the unique and everyday aspects of Dutch culture, and life in Holland while enjoying every bit of it!
Blog website: www.dutchamericano.com
Instagram: DutchAmericano
Get in touch: [e-mail]
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[@PatrickSchouten]

In America, you live to work, in Europe we work to live and that is why we have a more balanced life en more free time.

[@JanneWolterbeek]

Pretty accurate. I love my friends from the US, the country has some amazing places and achievements. But to live there? Big NO! The country terrifies me. Always a central place for profit and not people. Always the simplistic winner-loser mentality. Ugh, no. Happy to be Dutch, happy to be European.

[@safe-keeper1042]

Yeah, lived there from 01 and 04 and loved it, but it's just way too polarized today for me to even consider going there.

[@Crogatho]

Yeah, the USA is a horrible place to live in terms of compassion and support. It's all win or lose.

[@FrankHeuvelman]

America still hasn't figured out yet that on the long term cooperation leads to collective happiness and personal satisfaction while on the other hand competition only creates losers. Even the sole winner of today will be tomorrow's loser.

[@bornwithoutprivilege2050]

America is not as wonderful as Americans are led to believe. The founding fathers were slaveowners and keeping people poor was how the rich got rich. It is a superficial country whose heroes are reality show stars and sports figures. The politicians are all bought and paid for. Stop saying “well we are not all perfect” as an apology for the crappy system in America. The Dutch have a better system where all people’s needs are considered and the government takes care of all its citizens and not just the rich. America was founded on greed and that is the only dynamic there. Ordinary Americans buy into the propaganda even when they are suffering from the unfairness of the system. They have been trained well.

[@WHYOSHO]

But that’s my thing though, we focus on the amazing places and achievements. Me personally, I know America has its problems… but for me, I don’t think I’ll find another LA outside of America, I don’t think I’ll find another Miami, or another Atlanta. Cities that are culturally significant to me. I loved Europe, but it’s like comparing a grey blob to a rainbow. Yes the rainbow might cause a distraction, but it’s vibrant and colorful.

[@nfboogaard]

I can only imagine how much anxiety and stress people in the US live with every day, not being willing or even able to miss a day of work, worrying about medical bills...how do they even *entertain the idea* of having a baby?!?

[@DutchAmericano]

Good question...

[@nfboogaard]

@@DutchAmericano edited, the question wasn't directed at you personally of course :) but Americans in general.

[@ramarkble101]

@Martin OnTheWeb its a bit like f*ck yourself in to poverty. What they are working to now is only rich people can have kids. As nature is that if you are poor you have more kids because they can help you to have a better life.

[@Anonymous-sb9rr]

Yet Americans have the most babies of all western nations.

[@erikaverink8418]

@@DutchAmericano I also think the credit score is plain stupid, based on debt history.

[@nancyvdspek]

@Dutch Americano ... Hi Ava, I'm a American living in Leiden for decades now. I wish I could go back sometimes but there are so many things that are better here. The healthcare system is number one on my list, the fact that narrowminded religion is so prominent in their lives and politics is second. Job security third. In Holland quality of life is important, not working till u drop dead.

[@ReneedeBruin]

This is great, I was born in Leiden and lived there till 1995, then I moved to Roosendaal, Noord Brabant and still live there.

[@bornwithoutprivilege2050]

Why would you want to go back sometimes. It’s just a thing Americans say, still pretending to believe that the system in America is great and at the same time knowing it’s crap and preferring to live somewhere else. Stop it! We know that many other countries have better societies. I’m an immigrant from the States and have no desire to ever live in the States again...ever. Why! What are you nostalgic for? The homeless, the traffic, the incompetent government, the rich buying politicians, the hate, the violence. Americans need to come out of their stupor that America is great. It was never great, except for a few decades after world war 2 when a middle class grew because of social programs. That’s all over now. Welcome back to the real America.

[@carimavandijk1091]

@@bornwithoutprivilege2050 it is understandable that you sometimes have the feeling of wanting to go back to the place you grew up in, eventhough you know it's worse there

[@oscarvanwalstijn6902]

Are you an economical refugee then ?

[@nrnexusrising]

@@bornwithoutprivilege2050 I love your comment! I find it annoying and disturbing that you hear all the US Americans talking about how they love the US and may go back one day, but prefer to live elsewhere. They need to stop kidding themselves and accept that they made a better choice by leaving. You’re right, the US isn’t great and never was, even in that short period after WWII, if you really look at it honestly and don’t over look the human rights violations that occurred all throughout that time. I think if they are honest they will come out and say that all they really miss is friends and family. And if you think I have no basis in saying these things I’m a US American, born and bred, and I finally managed to move away almost two years ago and it was the second best decision of my life and I have absolutely no intention of moving back. I only wish I’d been able to make the leap to real freedom sooner.

[@dillinsutherland2301]

One of these days I will also be in the Netherlands I come from South Africa and I am totally in love with the Netherlands, all I want to say to you is that your videos are very much needed, and it's because of you I know so much about the Netherlands. Thank you for uploading videos

[@nfboogaard]

I used to work with a number of SA people here in the NL, absolutely lovely folks! Hope you can make it here some day.

[@_-Naz-_]

you are welcome mister southland :)

[@Tclans]

One practical word of advice, the Dutch housing market is stressed out at the moment. So be prepared to be truly dumbfounded about that experience over here.

[@rendomstranger8698]

The fact that you treat being jumped as if it's something normal is just, wow. That demonstrated better how bad things are than any statistic you could have given. Being jumped should never be treated as normal, or something that doesn't result in trauma.

[@XLHeavyD999]

About the work thing. We have a saying in the Netherlands. "Je werk om te leven, je leeft niet om te werken".

[@dillinsutherland2301]

Yeah that's the life I want because in South Africa I have to work megalithic hours to even get anywhere in a business not to mention if I even get a job, but I hear in the Netherlands the work/life is one of the best in the world

[@doosenco]

@@dillinsutherland2301 At the other hand, South Africa is the most beautiful country in the world. ;-)

[@hafight]

@@doosenco that is a whole other topic and i sure a lot people will disagree. For me Tanzania is the most beautiful country of the world

[@edipires15]

I think every country has that saying

[@MusicJunky3]

Yes, welcome back ! . You're one of us now and I saved you a chair .Goed gedaan meissie ! 🇳🇱

[@sarahjohnson9241]

I have an idea about why friendships seem “superficial”. I think it’s because here in America our lives revolve around work. Unless, your a colleague or involved in our daily routine it’s too hard to make time for people. We barley have time for ourselves and our families. I feel as though European countries take their time to enjoy life, that includes friendships. Here we strive to work, work, work and die.

[@ReneedeBruin]

It is because The Netherlands strive to have work and private lives in balance. If you are able to have work and private life in balance, people are more happy in general. Less tired, more motivated. And it works here, because we have such a social democratic political system. Where everyone is supported where it needs to be. And it isn't always perfect and it isn't always working as it should, but it is a constant work in progress. Our country is even far ahead in comparison to other European countries. Although we do complain a lot, I think we do that, because we don't really realize how well we are taken care of most of the times. And in political view, we have a say in so many things, even though there is still a lot that we don't agree on. Yet, in comparison with the US and other countries, it is a lot of freedom. Real freedom.

[@johanwittens7712]

I think it also has to do with the much more "superficial" culture of the USA. It all revolves around keeping up appearances, looking your best, seeming successful, etc. So even in meeting someone, Americans are very friendly and chatty and will say "we should do this again" etc. but it's really nothing but superficial banter that's expected of you. If you're honest, if you met someone and after a few drinks it turned out you really didn't like them or had nothing in common, would you say that to that person's face? No. An American will smile, be friendly, keep up appearances, say goodbye, and then never call, respond or meet up again. A dutch person, and most N-europeans I've noticed, are just more upfront and will say to your face that you're not getting along and maybe you shouldn't meet again or there's no point in meeting again. Dutch culture (and most N-europeans) are far more direct and upfront, especially compared to Americans that will avoid confrontation at all costs and will keep their ''pleasant'' facade at all costs. I think that is the biggest underlying ''cultural'' reason for this difference... And this isn't solely compared to N-america. I've noticed the same with S-european countries that tend to be very friendly keeping up appearances, but keeping friendly contacts very superficial and probably never contacting you again. For example, as a Belgian I've had the same core group of friends for almost 22years now. I'd trust them with my life, and can rely on them completely if I have to. If I make a new friend, you can be sure they need to vibe with my friends first, and need to be accepted into that group, otherwise the new friendship is a write off from the start. And I notice this is the same for many fellow Belgians, and is even quite similar in for example the Netherlands and other N-european countries. Friendships are much more serious and "intense", and last much longer, but this does make it harder for "outsiders" to make new friends and be accepted into an existing group, especially if your not used to this type of "friend culture"... At least that's my personal experience and opinion...

[@BertBlanco1962]

We work to live, we don't live to work.

[@rrolf71]

Also, the US culture is much more mobile. Compared to Europe, people have no deep roots. You get a new job in another state, you pack your belongings and move. The houses are made from cardboard so it's not a big deal to tear one down and build another one. That's natural - the society was created by these restless people who dared to move their lives across the ocean, after all. I've never been to USA, but I have travelled across South America, and this overal sense of "rootlessness" compared to any European country I've seen was a palpable cultural shock to me. I can show you villages in Austria where families have been living in the same house (with armlength thick walls made from brick and stone) for 3-4 centuries at least. This means you need to forge much stronger bonds with your neighbours; the friendships have time to grow, even across generations. Of course I have no personal experience, but I can bet you will find stronger and more lasting friendships in rural USA than in the cities.

[@sucram1018]

There's other ways of making friends. Just because some cultures are more open and willing to engage in socialization doesn't mean it's superficial.

[@njcurmudgeon]

I was born in the U.S. and still live here. However, the older I've gotten and the more experiences I've had, the more disaffected and alienated I have become from America. I can honestly say I sometime feel hatred for 'Murica. I am ashamed of being associated with it. I do not feel obligated to profess fidelity to a place just because it is where I happened to have been born. Yes, I know there are plenty of terrible places I could have been born that are far, far worse. Yes, I know I don't have it nearly as bad as a lot of people even here. Yet seeing how much freer, happier, and generally better-off people are in several other countries, I also know it isn't enough to settle for being better than the worse. Had I the opportunity and resources, I would definitely consider leaving and The Netherlands has been on my list of top possibilities.

[@MrFlatage]

My lands of the free where the mighty red, white and blue flies will always be top of the list.

[@ViffeNify]

@@MrFlatage Good for you that the Dutch have the same color in their flag.

[@MrFlatage]

@@ViffeNify What are these 'Dutch' and how are they good for me? And how does anyone have a colour inside a flag?

[@Leanfear69]

You are very welcome to come and live here RJ, no greencard needed.

[@rudib4353]

@@MrFlatage Good for you. Please, stay in your 'land of the free'.

[@dutchman7623]

Your years in the Netherlands served you well. It has opened your eyes for other ways of doing things. With one foot in Dutch culture and another in US culture, you are able to pick the good of both and drop the bad, because we all know that a perfect place doesn't exist. NL is member of the EU and within this Union we try to harmonize laws and rules, slowly, with regard to differences in culture and economics. The EU stimulates cultural exchange between their members, to create understanding and mutual respect. It is a search for what binds us and what makes us better people, step by step into a better future.

[@FrankHeuvelman]

We in Europe are driven by the wish to avoid yet another war and cooperate together where America is almost solely driven by greed, ego and competition. Ask, generally spoken, any toddler in the US what they want to be when they grow old, good chance that they'll tell you without shame that they want to be the richest person in the world. When you ask them why, they'll tell you that then they can buy everything they want.(!) Something is really wrong when children have become so self centered and materialistic in their thinking that they forget all about love for and being nice to other people. I right now at this very moment can hear certain people from a certain country think "What is wrong with being rich? What's wrong with personal ambition? What's wrong with only wanting the best for your family?" No further questions, Your Honor....

[@yamuis]

Thank you! With every new video you seem to take more pronounced positions on various subjects, and that's why I like every new video more than the previous one. Thanks again.

[@DutchAmericano]

Thank you, that's nice of you to say =)

[@Xenolithicful]

I've moved from California to the NL back in 2010 for a couple of years of postgraduate study, but I am still here happy and enjoying the Dutch society.

[@AMFire81]

How is the cost of living there? When I retire in 2031, I estimate to be making around $6k a month take home. Will that be enough to live in the NL? I need to get out of the US as soon as I can..

[@Xenolithicful]

@@AMFire81 It depends on your lifestyle and the average annual inflation in the EU, which is ranging from 3.4% to 3.6%. Currently for average living 6K is more than enough.

[@raoulpechler]

@@AMFire81 yeah like xenolithicful has said. currently 6k usd a month will allow for a very comfortable life here in the netherlands

[@AMFire81]

@@Xenolithicful I appreciate it my friend..Thanks!

[@ClayShentrup]

Fascinating. I met my wife in San Francisco and then we were priced out when we had a kid so we moved to Berkeley. Then we had a second kid and moved up to the Pacific Northwest and are in Portland. The bike advocates here try so hard to get the city to build bike infrastructure but there's virtually zero. I mean the best you'll get is paint on the ground which is pointless. It was 116° f this past summer, and climate change is obviously at our doorstep. But you can't challenge the supremacy of the car. It's madness. My wife's sister has lived in the Hague for like 20 years after marrying a Dutch guy. We're going to visit again soon, which will be the kids' first time out of the country. I'm pretty ready to make the jump. This country is insane.

[@Tricster4]

I'm also an American in the Netherlands and my parents also live in upstate NY XD I enjoy watching your videos with my Dutch partner.

[@Doubleranged1]

Good to see a new video! I was looking forward to it!

[@DutchAmericano]

So lovely to hear this =)

[@Doubleranged1]

@@DutchAmericano You were talking a lot about certain ideals you have and how the Netherlands matches them better than the US. I am very curious to the opposite: What idealism from the US would make the Netherlands better in your opinion? Or differently focussed: What ideals from the Netherlands do not match your personal ideals?

[@MrAestas]

Ava during preps: "whatever I say, Don't Mention The Guns" and....did a great job

[@Linda-hs1lk]

Some people in The Netherlands don't realize how lucky they are living here. They're complaining because they can and they nag over everything. Personally I"m very VERY happy I was born here and grew up here. Btw, what I will never understand, but that's not just in the US, is a jury system. It's so weird. So glad we don't have that here.

[@c.j.bakker5653]

HAHA We Dutchies complain about almost everything, because we can! It's a kind of luxury problem i guess..

[@ronaldderooij1774]

The idea behind the jury system is that you are not judged by a state owned elite (judges), but by your equal peers. Some say that is more democratic. In the US it is only guilty or not guilty by the peers. The professional judge will generally say what penalty comes with it.

[@TomOostenrijk]

I fall on my knees every day thanking every god in the universe that I was born Dutch. That being said, there's enough to complain about. Recently, mostly our politicians.

[@MrJimheeren]

There is also a lot to complain about. The housing crisis, 20 years of right wing neo-liberalism, the hollowing out of our healthcare industry, teachers who get paid pennies on the dollar, corruption in the upper crust of government, the extreme violence used by the drug gangs, the mass production of meth in Noord Brabant, the cost of studying that just keeps rising, staggering minimum wage. There is a lot in this country we need to change, yes the roads look nice and the PM is not Boris Johnson, but goddamn we need new left leaning governments in this country

[@ronaldderooij1774]

@@MrJimheeren True, but in the final analysis, it is (compared to most other countries) a good place to be. But I agree with the problems you point out, except with the corruption. There is none. There is leaning to big companies in government, but that is ideology, not corruption. You rightly point to GB to have real corruption in government, which is a big difference. I would also add two problems (maybe one and the same). Foreigner's integration into society. People from all over the world come here to enjoy our country. That is fine with me. But only a small part really wants to be part of the Dutch civil society. They have their own clubs, churches, living places where they congregate. That fractures society in the long run.

[@jeremyoliviervoice]

Hi Ava. I have lived in Korea for 8 years now and many of the things you talk about are true here too. After being desensitized from American thinking and being a spectator of our country, I completely agree with your saying about not feeling safe. I would LOVE to move to the Netherlands having Dutch heritage myself. Thanks for reading!

[@crazymulgogi]

The food is better in Korea, though. :)

[@listeningtothevoid]

Interesting, I am fascinated whith Korea for some months now. Mainly due to series on Netflix I have to admit. But I understand that Korea shares some of the social problems Ava talked about? Is that also true when talking about mentality towards people and succes?

[@crazymulgogi]

@@listeningtothevoid Have you seen the movie Parasite? :) Rephrasing that: if you have plenty of money, South Korea is paradise, a wonderful place to live.

[@listeningtothevoid]

@@crazymulgogi Thank you for your reply, I havent. And it seems I have to save a litlle first before visiting :)

[@larsverschoor]

@@crazymulgogi nee man, daar heb je geen broodjes frikandel

[@manicantsettleonausername6789]

Thank you for another fantastic video!

[@armanwa5eem]

I have not been to the states yet, but I do feel lucky living in the Netherlands. I was born in Pakistan and live in the Netherlands. Here in the Netherlands, I have never been discriminated. Not for my color, name, religion. Nothing. In the job market I always was and am treated well. I have never been ethnically profiled for a frisk or stopped by the police giving me the impression that they're profiling. Yes, there are things I disagree with, but that is just being involved as a member of society. Also, in my working life, I have been asked to work overtime once. And that too for only a hour. I love the Dutch mentality that there is more to life than work.

[@user-rx4jg8lq7h]

I am so happy you have had good experiences! As a Dutch person, I genuingely sometimes worry about racism in NL (you know, since there has been a bit of an uptick in far-right parties etc). It's always important to remain wary about racism, but reading your post still gave me some relief. Thank you for writing this. Lucky to have you here! :')

[@armanwa5eem]

@@user-rx4jg8lq7h Dank u wel. Ik ben ook Nederlander. Ik ben geboren in Pakistan, maar opgetogen in NL. En ja, het klopt wat je zegt. Er is uiteraard wel racisme en discriminatie en dat moet blijven aangekaart worden. Ook ik vind de opkomst van extreem rechtse partijen problematisch. Wat ik vertelde was mijn persoonlijke ervaring als een gekleurde Nederlander, of Nederlander met Pakistaanse roots of wat voor trendy termen momenteel gangbaar zijn in de media.:)

[@indifairey9131]

In less words overall it's 10 times better living in the Netherlands, due to the "systems" we have here... USA isn't that great after all, unless you are rich! I know a lot of people that became homeless, because they couldn't pay their healthcare bills anymore, mortgage over mortgage! It's very very sad that people that are sick, get punished for being sick. We complain a lot about our healthcare "cost" but it's peanuts compare to the US, especially when sick! We don't have to worry about anything here in the Netherlands, hopefully it stays that way! I'm lucky to have best of both countries. But yes prefer living here for now!

[@gert-janvanderlee5307]

If it stays that way will largely depend on the voting in future elections. If people in the Netherlands keep voting for rightwing majorities, the Netherlands will continue on a path that makes living more and more expensive for the poor and more and more profitable for the rich.

[@indifairey9131]

@@gert-janvanderlee5307 Maybe you're right, maybe not. Left wing does have subjects i really don't agree with myself. In all honesty i even think it's quite the opposite. Not saying i agree with how things go right as we speak, because i don't. I respect your opinion though thank you!

[@gert-janvanderlee5307]

@@indifairey9131 It's not just an opinion though. Not sure where you're from but in the Netherlands the leftwing politician Willem Drees was responsible for creating the Dutch welfare system after the war, which boosted qualify of life for the Dutch working class. While the more rightwing politics of the last few decades solutions to most issues was to phase out a lot of welfare and introduce market mechanisms.

[@longbow857]

@@gert-janvanderlee5307 I get what you are saying. Privetising the public transit has made it so expansive. Privetising healthcare makes costs rise while they sit on billions of euro's. Many things have become worse because the market would make every buisiness perfect, wich is defenitely hasn't. But to be fair: the healthcare system as of such cannot cope with the large old generation we are facing right now, so even tho leftist policys are for the best, they sometimes do go overboard with what is feasable.

[@gert-janvanderlee5307]

@@longbow857 "The market" doesn't make anything perfect and it never will, because that's not the purpose of the market and it never will be. The purpose of the market is and has always been making as much profit as possible for a small group of people. And that's fine in most businesses as there is plenty of competition to keep the price/quality ratio in balance but both in healthcare and public transportation there is no market with competition. And rightwing politicians would have known that if they would have thought and cared about it. But they didn't. They don't care if it works or not as they are only interested in very short term succes. Cutting costs to save a few bucks now to brag about. They don't care that those cuts might turn out to cost more in the long term. That's a problem for the next administration.

[@dmd2803]

This video is so helpful! I'm an international student currently studying in the US and I found a lot of the challenges here like you said - need to drive everywhere, superficial friendships, rat race, healthcare costs, etc. I'm looking for other options for my higher studies and Netherlands is def in my list :)

[@jackvandersluis1723]

Nice show Ava, very informing!👍

[@pepijnstraatman5730]

Great videos! Sorry to hear about the attack, but glad to hear you recovered.

[@moshemordechaivanzuiden]

Your best vlog ever (so far)!

[@bigtoun]

Love the vid❤

[@sarinijssen2735]

I really like your videos :) Thanks for reminding me that my home country is actually pretty great! I'm Dutch but have lived in different places over the years, most recently I moved to Austria/Vienna (for work). Compared to The Netherlands, I feel like Austria takes even better care of its citizens. For example, public transported is heavily subsidised (an annual pass costs 1€ per day, for all metro/buses/trams/trains), the employer pays for your social security, and parental leave can go up to 12 months and can be split between partners (compared to 4 months in The Netherlands for the person with the uterus and a week for their partner). And the big one: over 50% of the people in Vienna live in municipal housing, which offers huge flats at super affordable rates (600€ for a three bedroom in the city center... yeah I was shocked as well). I think in these respects The Netherlands can definitely still improve, especially the housing market is a disaster :D Anyway, sorry for this enormous comment, you just got me inspired thinking about these things! Keep up the awesome vids!

[@kimulm0619]

Really like hearing your piont of view.Thank you for this video

[@aleencaeli]

As you said at the end "[living] in a society that matches your ideals;" that is so crucial to me right now!

[@tedbreuer6927]

Rite of passage for expats in Holland: After your first bike get's stolen, you're one of us. 🤪

[@jaus1701]

You’re absolutely correct. Great video.

[@dogacla]

I watched your video before Netherlands, i continue to watch after start to live in Netherlands. You have clear voice to understand. Your ads is little long. Thanks.

[@jasonharris3277]

Excellent video! Thanks for the info and insights. Nice to hear you espouse such progressive (and kind) ideals. I'm looking forward to visiting the Netherlands for the first time in late July. :)

[@marcusfranconium3392]

Congratulations , you made the biggest step yet in becoming dutch , even if things are good work perfectly fine you find things that need improvements.

[@carmenmarialinne2650]

True meaningful long lasting relationships are built upon shared VALUES. Sharing and “living true to Values” is the glue. It takes time to nurture a good relationship, which also means being capable of diligence, patience, trust, discernment and respect. ( some folks do not have these skills)

[@safe-keeper1042]

I think your maternity leave part was an excellent demonstration of how calling the mother a "person with a uterus" doesn't work in practice, in everyday speech.

[@sammymuller3504]

I love your video's by the way! So honest :-) Great stuff. I would love to meet you some day in Belgium :-)

[@lilmoesk899]

I think the superficial friendships and social exchanges likely come from the “business-first” neoliberal, corporate ideology that dominates modern American life. If you go to nearly any smaller city nowadays, there are very few mom & pop shops, usually just standard strip malls with the same chain restaurants and stores everywhere. Go to a restaurant in the USA and be treated by staff in a very friendly but superficial way. No one actually cares how your day is. Staff are instructed to do that in order to improve customer satisfaction. In the end, the pursuit of money, rather than building satisfying human relationships, is the final goal. So it’s not surprising that in our personal relationships, this kind of “instrumental” approach to networking and friendships dominates.

[@MelbaNL]

Very Interesting topic, im also living now in The Netherlands and i can say i love it here too...

[@FrankHeuvelman]

MELBA? Van de toastjes?

[@MartijnHover]

The problem with Americans is that they see society as a zero-sum game, meaning that your gain always has to be my loss. They cannot imagine a situation in which everybody gains something, like as in providing poor people with a decent income. Although many Americans are decent and sociable enough personally, their society is basically anti-social.

[@gindrinkersline3285]

Interestingly that is a Marxist take on society. But thankfully society is not a zero-sum game. You can have great social security/social mobility while still maintaining a competitive free-market capitalist economy.

[@MartijnHover]

@@gindrinkersline3285 Obviousl;y, as many western European democracies prove. The USA not so much though. What the USA proves is that Marx was right as far as unregulated capitlaism is concerned: a few people get very rich, but the middle clas shrinks and you get a lot of poor people. This has been happening in the USA since you all elected Ronald Reagan, with his promise of "small government". Regular people like you and I do not profit from "small government". Only billionaire parasites do.

[@gindrinkersline3285]

@@MartijnHover Thanks for the thoughtful reply. Firstly though I am European, not a US American. Secondly, Reagan lowered federal income tax BUT failed in his promise to lower US federal government spending. So the "small government" did not happen. On a side note Sweden, Norway, and Island (Nordic countries with strong welfare systems) all have more billionaires per 1 million people than the USA. Back to my original point: "You can have great social security/social mobility while still maintaining a competitive free-market capitalist economy."

[@MartijnHover]

@@gindrinkersline3285 Glad to hera that you aren ot American. :-) Of course the US government is always intent on spending way too much on "defense", and that eats up a lot of "government spending". Even while Biden has trouble getting some very sensible policies accpeted that would really benefit the averager American because it is supposed to be "too expensive", he still presided over a record defense bill of trillions. (I don't have the figures of billionaire per capita in the Scandinavbian countries, but you have to remember that all three of them put together have about as many inhabitants as my own country, the Netherlands. And if the USA really has fewer parasites per capita, all that proves really is that the so-called "American Dream" really is a big lie.) (I also have to add that my own country has been basically under a neoliberal regime for the past 30 years, and that we have become a tax haven for the rich and the big corporations, much against what I would prefer, but I have only the one vote.)

[@CarlosHuiskens]

When it comes down to the Rich VS the Poor in the U.S. I once saw another KZbin give a very good example while walking around New York. Basically he said that 1 in 25 people you see in New York on the street on a daily basis are millionairs. Normally you would think that those numbers are pretty good. But he also clarified that 1 in 5 people you see have below minimum wages.

[@willy4170]

Can you link the video?

[@joeyq3269]

I simply despise America and I can't say I've ever enjoyed my time here past childhood. This sounds harsh but it's true for all the reasons you mentioned and more. The country is a disaster, most people are uneducated, the political system doesn't work, individualism has made us fear one another... Also the country itself is built on stolen land and slavery and has yet to properly address these things. I see it as a very bad place. I've felt socially isolated since I was probably 12 because you need a car to go absolutely anywhere, and the only places to go to are malls or shopping centers. America has little interest in safe public spaces or parks. I want to move out of America but I feel like it would be betraying my community. Something needs to change and maybe I can be a voice to start continue that conversation. Thankfully I am planning on living in Spain this time next year.

[@angeloavanti2538]

yes. europe in general is older with well developed cultures and they have more experience with all the ills and goods of human nature and governing. we, the us, is about 246 years old, hopefully to be here longer but based on past 'empires' 300 years is when the s&*t hits the fan. the us is relatively isolated too. either by geography or choice. just a few things that have made 'us' who we are.

[@AnimalDreams86]

I think it's funny that one of the big issues often mentioned by expats in the Netherlands is also the first reason you don't want to move back to the US! Yes, it is harder here to form friendships when you're an adult, but at least it will be a meaningful friendship. And this also isn't reserved for expats/immigrants. As a native, it's also not that easy when moving to another part of the country. Although it does help that you speak the language when you're a native.

[@Leanfear69]

Hi Eva, I like your video’s ! I’m wuite a bit older but have travelled quite a bit and I must agree in general with your observations. The Netherlands is a good place to live. A bit small and a lot of people but you get used to that. Nice to see you live in Utrecht, my favorite city by far. Lots of students and so a realy good interlectual atmosphere. Keep it up !

[@Alvicatchannel]

Thanks, like your videos!

[@Drawthemoral]

100% on all of these. I've lived in South Korea and Germany (we're also looking at moving to the Netherlands in the next few years), and to add on to this, one thing that smacked me in the face when we first moved back was just how much our culture *is* consumerism. There are so few places where you can just exist and enjoy life, without needing to buy something. For most part, Americans go to work to pay for a house, and to pay for the car that lets them drive to work. Then they have to climb the ladder to afford a nicer house, that's probably farther away from work, which means you want a nicer car, which gets you into more debt so that you can....get a better job/house/car? And the cycle continues. Your free time then, is to drive to some place to go spend more of that money in either a restaurant or place to shop. And those places aren't meant for you to chill. They're designed for you to buy, buy, buy. In Europe, you could always just go to the city center and exist. You could walk through a park. Even restaurants were supposed to be an all-evening affair, rather than just the pre-game to whatever event you're going to go do. It's invisible when you've never lived anywhere else. Then, once you recognize that our culture IS driving and shopping, it's almost impossible to unsee it.

[@Eldalote87]

How is being mugged a rite of passage? It's trauma and very normal to be affected by it. Maybe even ptss

[@christiaantinga]

I've enjoyed this episode so much! :) :)

[@THommersom]

Dat gedoe met small talk van jouw landgenoten heb ik ook ondervonden, je zit notabene aan tafel met iemand voor 1,5 uur of zo, en de volgende dag zien je niet eens staan. Uitzonderingen daar gelaten, maar het overkwam me erg vaak. en ja eerste 2 zinnen zijn altijd, waar kom je vandaan, en wat die je voor de kost.

[@MissMommyMoo]

Moving to Delft from the US in a few weeks with my husband and son - I'm bingeing your videos . LGBTQ + Linguistics? I am hooked. Thank you so much. All of this is so helpful.

[@lauriedepaurie]

Good luck! If you need any help, I'm sure we can help you in the comment section. I love my country, but I realise our rules, regulations and structures can provide quite a steep learning curve. And don't be afraid to shoosh us when we try to 'help' by speaking English while you're trying to learn Dutch. Most of us keep forgetting we're making it harder for people to learn the language. Delft is a lovely city, great public transit options and a lovely historical centre. I hope you'll have fun here and you can always send me a message if you run into any problems.

[@mathesondeese5212]

We’re visiting end of this month to scope out a city we like. Tilburg, Utrecht, and Leiden are where we’re looking first. We’re excited!

[@mariusfacktor3597]

You are spot on with every point in this video. After I burn myself out here in America (~5 years from now) I'm moving to Europe and maybe Amsterdam!

[@zuur303]

You probably already know this but Dutch railways offer a yearly subscription that gives discounts up to 40 percent on ticket prices year round (if you plan your travel times outside of rush hours).

[@erikje7352]

in the usa the 7 families with the most wealth own more than the bottom 180 MILLION americans COMBINED one more fact BEFORE covid 40% of americans have LESS than $400 in the bank now they estimate that the number has gone up to 60%

[@tommievandenheuvel6876]

leuke video's heel erg herkenbaar moest vaak lachen om hoe je het vertelde

[@sjaakdumas8917]

Entertainment with humor!

[@leonardallen7380]

Thank you 😊

[@daanloco7200]

Been thinking about moving to the states for a few years now, Texas, Tennessee and New-Mexico in particular. I found out that even there's low income and wealth tax, cost of living is still much more expensive. When you're financial independent probably the space and privacy you can have could be a big factor to move there but if you're a working class person and especially when you're in welfare and need good healthcare.. in the Netherlands it's much better living.

[@dn5239]

Definitely would choose New Mexico or Colorado 🙂

[@dn5239]

Never Ever Texas!

[@daanloco7200]

@@dn5239 Colorado definitely to liberal for me. Don't like that

[@daanloco7200]

But is should be gorgeous out there

[@xyzzy4567]

Tennessee is fantastic as is Colorado. Best weather, lowest taxes, and friendliest people, goes to Tennessee. Most beautiful mountains, best hiking and skiing, and generally outdoor activities goes to Colorado. Good jobs in both states with reasonable cost of living.

[@brian5154]

Very mature analysis. Well done.........

[@drfrankmalone]

Thank you. Spot on.

[@catquack]

I agree with all your points. As much as I love my country -- the US -- I'm happy not to live there. I feel so much safer and life is so much more interesting in my chosen country in Asia. Yes, The Netherlands is a wonderful country. It's my Dutch husband who doesn't want to live there, otherwise I could easily make my life there.

[@longbow857]

Would you mind sharing why he doesn't want to live in The Netherlands anymore?

[@FrankHeuvelman]

@@longbow857 I bet it is about government spending and progressive political policies.

[@jdjphotographynl]

7:46 For train travel in the Netherlands, you can just buy a ticket on the day you go wherever you want to go. For international trains though, you better book well in advance if you want the cheapest rates. If you'd book 3-4 weeks in advance, or even closer to your desired travel date, you pay the motherload at both the ICE trains to Germany and Thalys to Brussels and Paris.

[@RichardRenes]

However, if you take the normal train to Brussels, you can get your ticket on travel day and it won't be more expensive that way.

[@TheNixie1972]

That depends on your destination and preference of adventure. Traveling to Germany or Belgium does not take any planning. Just buy a ticket and hop on the train. For further destinations planning is wise, but not required.

[@jdjphotographynl]

@@TheNixie1972 It doesn't necessarily require any planning, but you will pay for it if you don't plan ahead. If you'd like to take a direct train from Amsterdam to Berlin today at 13:00, it will set you back 123 euros. If you'd like to take that very same 13:00 direct train on Monday October 18th (guess I do stand corrected on my statement on paying the motherload if you 'only' plan 3-4 weeks in advance) or Monday November 15th, you only pay 29,90 euros in both cases. A near 100 euro saving if you do choose to plan ahead. And then my example is just a one-way ticket.

[@FlameCold258]

Glad you are in Holland, Reagards from Norway.

[@TheMongobongo]

I come from Boston but live in NL now. From my perspective, zip code is everything in the USA. In other words, what town or city you are raised in has a massive influence on the direction of your well-being. I was raised by a single mom who made 40k a year but fortunately we were able to stay in a very affluent town. I had a good public education, but also was surrounded by friends and peers who had immense family support and cushion to focus on academic and lifestyle ambitions. This environment definitely influenced my path to a positive well-being, while “on paper” it looked like I was an impoverished adolescent with no resources to support growth. All in all, I feel that it can be very situational for those in the USA, but location is a very big factor in determining your success into adulthood. Ps. I have been jumped twice in the USA as well, wtf is up with that!

[@johanwittens7712]

40y old this year. Never been jumped. Never experienced any violence that I felt threatened by. The occasions I felt mildly unsafe at night I can count on one hand, and always turned out to be nothing. It all has to do with social provisions. Only a tiny, negligeable percentage of people CHOOSE to become a criminal. The overwhelming majority turn to crime because they feel they had no other choice left to them. Social programs. Decent liveable minimum wages, Liveable Unemployment benefits, guaranteed income, affordable health care, great public schools for all, affordable higher education, mental health care, etc, etc. What people often forget, especially Americans I've noticed, is that these kind of social programs don't just help people who are down on their luck or had something bad happen in their lives. They also prevent people from turning to desperate measures when the worst happens or keeps happening, or when they're stuck in a vicious circle they can't seem to break out of... Abundant crime is a symptom of a society that doesn't take enough care of all its citizens, not something that's just part of life and can't be avoided.

[@rudib4353]

@@johanwittens7712 Very well spoken, sir. Luckily, most of the things you mentioned are reality in Europe in general and especially in The Netherlands. The USA has still a long way to go.

[@johanwittens7712]

@@rudib4353 Even in EU we often have a bit of work ahead of us, especially in the newer member states. And in the developed countries that do have plenty of social programs, these are always under constant attack from mostly rightwing politicians, and seen as a waste of money by these people, not realising the good they've done for society as a whole over the past 100y. The USA just has been an extremely right wing country since ww2. They have no real left wing. Even Bernie Sanders is just a moderate leftist to us Europeans...

[@robertboender5816]

So you're glad you came back 😁

[@wadams92101]

You nailed it. We moved to France last year because we felt it was a overall better place for our children. All of the things you mentioned factored. Not minor things like "the beer is better in Europe" like I've heard some other vloggers focus on (actually, that's one of the few things in the U.S. that has caught up with Europe).

[@hanserikkratholmrasmussen6623]

I still remember years ago, standing in the Champs Elyses waiting for the Tour to pas by. There was a public phone next to me, and an American girl called home to her parents and told them how she had been shopping in London, what she bought and at what prices in USD. Next where she had been shopping in Paris, what she bought and of cause the price in USD. I thought to myself: "Oh yes, she can only be American." Of cause I also knew it from her accent, but I'll never forget her. 😊

[@bobgilmour3172]

Spot on! We live in Caribbisch Nederland. Same deal. Don’t want to go back to US. Same reasons, plus a few.

[@Frazec_Atsjenkov]

In the Randstad you'd expect to get your bike stolen at some point. In the more rural areas having your bike stolen is a LOT rarer. Some people even feel so safe that they don't lock their bikes.

[@richthomas9170]

Been 43 years away from the USA its not my CUP OF TEA !

[@aadnales2091]

the Italki ad in the middle of the video is much cooler than then the website .. :-)

[@ApPot]

Hi… welcome back on my timeline. Doing great!!

[@crazymulgogi]

There might be an explanation after all for the superficial nature of friendship as you describe your feelings about it in the United States. Americans might simply have less time than Dutch people, because they have to work longer hours and spend more time commuting and such. More exhaustion means less time for your friends. No work means poverty or even worse. Capitalism is simply harsher in the US whereas in the Netherlands it has been tamed to a slightly higher extent, making life somewhat more relaxed (although the government is doing its best to move us in the wrong direction).

[@pppetra]

I often talk with friends on the phone when driving home;) We are Both in a car, Lets talk a bit. (Cause at home.. kids, dinner, schoolwerk, chores and bedtime and after that we are too tired to meet up)

[@tom.jacobs]

Parent-leave serves 2 goals: the traditional one; getting over the trauma of giving birth and/or bounding as a family. That's why it's decided in the Netherlands that everybody should be able to take that time when children come into a family. So for all new parents, they make these rules: for the one giving birth it's more than the ones without physically having to go through labor (adoption/foster care is thereby also included). If the pregnancy prematurely ended or the child did not make it through labor there is another arrangement (to my knowledge only for the one that was pregnant, which is still a bit strange) Time for all is a matter of balance; as a new parent you want more, as society there is an economic reason to make it as short as feasible. Don't like the expression "people with a uterus", really make me cringe: understand where it is coming from, but every language is rich enough to be descriptive without throwing body parts, besides I think it's pretty confronting for people having to deal with issues concerning those parts.

[@aphexart]

I always wonder if there really are any Americans who have lived in Europe that say Europe is so awful they want to go back... Anyone?

[@gnomealone350]

Well, if they exist, they’re not making videos on KZbin! I also think it is a certain kind of open minded American who would leave to live somewhere else in the first place. The ones who think it’s the “best country in the world” will never leave. 🇨🇦

[@spiritualanarchist8162]

I remember living in Miami for a few months in the 90thies .I ended up renting a appartement in Miami beach, and thought. Wow .This isn't bad ! Nice beach, clubs, lot's of police protection . Then i drove into Miami itself and noticed how 80% of Miami was one big mess. Crime, gangs. homeless people, carjackings . Maybe it has changed overtime, but was a sobering experience.

[@FrankHeuvelman]

Florida is a red state. Maybe that explains it.

[@spiritualanarchist8162]

@@FrankHeuvelman Funny how 'red' (the international color of 'the left )' is used by s conservatives in the U.S. .But yes, Florida is a very conservative state. A lot of police, yet no prevention.

[@FrankHeuvelman]

@@spiritualanarchist8162 The Republican Party was established long before Karl Marx was born so their claim on the color red is more legit than that of their counterpart's. Here in Holland red is the color of choice for the left, blue for the liberal right and, believe it or not, green is used by the conservative Christian party as their color of choice.

[@spiritualanarchist8162]

@@FrankHeuvelman The color red is associated with 'the left 'ever since the French revolution.

[@FrankHeuvelman]

@@spiritualanarchist8162 You are right. Forgot all about France. Can you forgive me? Thanks!

[@robstone8435]

hi you make nice vids. I want to say that i live my whole life in the Netherlands and never is my bike stolen. I lived more then 50 years in North Holland. In a city with 60k people, i think it is more common in a big city like A'dam or Utrecht.

[@BassMaestro]

My bike was stolen 3 times from my backyard haha

[@ronaldderooij1774]

Nope. I can say from my own experience, your bike will be stolen everywhere in the Netherlands. I have no idea why, but it happens.

[@nfboogaard]

Two bikes and a moped (Zaandam) 👎🏼

[@transient_]

I used to live in Enschede. The first 4 or 5 years I lived there my bike was stolen at least once a year. It is a city with a university. Maybe students are in more need of bikes. 😉😢

[@arturobianco848]

Do you even have a bike? i live in a village and even there i lost two bikes.

[@khulhucthulhu9952]

a car (at least in the netherlands) is not that cheap either, using public transport and a bike is actually cheaper here for most people

[@pebertje]

Hi Ava, i'm Dutch and on one of our trips to the USA i was talking to a guy who was working at the Car Rental we hired a car from, and we talked about the differences between our countries. When i explained how our social security system worked,and how much we have to pay for that (Tax for example), he asked "but when i'm not ill or need anything, i payed all the money for nothing, that's unacceptable". For me it explained a lot of the American mind setting. Everyone thinks he can take care of himself and don's need anyone else (je dopt je eigen boontjes). I admire Americans for that point of view, but i don't agree with them. In the Netherlands there are people who act the opposite way, being secured, get payed without working, that's normal.

[@DeSjeft]

Every man for himself and god for us all.... I don't admire that one bit. The 'samenleving' we have here in The Netherlands is something alien to an American.

[@gerbrandlub]

There's some great video's explaining how Americans generally pay more in cost of living versus the US if you look beyond taxes. Combining utilities, taxes, rent and groceries will leave you with less spending money than in the EU, and you're still lacking in proper services like infrastructure, healthcare, social security and whatnot.

[@bleifreiesweib6655]

Actually, the difference between the two countries is very simple: The US is a country for winners, Holland is a country for losers and if you happen to be a winner in Holland, you still have to pay for the losers through high taxes

[@keesnoort]

@@bleifreiesweib6655 great saying, LOL. At some point, true. However, do you then support abandoning medicair and medicaid? Public schools?

[@ravingcyclist624]

Yes the US is messed up. And it will fight HARD to stay that way.

[@safe-keeper1042]

There's an increasing number of people fighting hard to make it better, too, fortunately.

[@hanserikkratholmrasmussen6623]

Stay in the Netherlands. The US might soon end up in some kind of religious fascism. I'm so glad I didn't move to America back when I was young, and found a girl over there. Three weeks in America was enough for me, though I also found the country fascinating in many ways. But in the end: no security for normal people, my job as a trucker would be underpaid, no medicare if you get fired etc. etc. And you literally drown in commercials all day long, but worst of all is the fact that most of the politicians live off the bribes they take from corporate businesses, which is not very good for either the climate or the environment. Sorry to say it, but that is how I see it, and with America as one of our strongest allies (Im danish) I really would hope for Americans to have better lives.

[@elizabethnilsson1815]

I enjoy your videos...

[@Wuppie62]

I always thought an explanation for the American behaviour of making friends fast but being a bit shallow/superficial, had to do with the very mobile nature of many Americans. Because of having to be flexible in where you work and live. If you change jobs and move often, over longer distances. It's more convenient to be on a first name basis and friendly immediately when you're in a new area, also because of having to be 'succesfull' and appreciated in your network. But it's also less opportune to get emotionally attached and involved with everybody, when you probably have to move soon again..

[@mayratorres6215]

and this is why among other things is as to why I have decided a few months ago, to move to the Netherlands.

[@gordonwallin2368]

Ava, as a Canadian, it always amazes me when I go down to the states-when we could-and how, on the surface, both countries seem so similar. Well, except for every third house or business having a US flag. But, talking to Americans, and it gets creepy, with their attitudes on guns, "socialistic countries", religiosity, hyper-masculine sports ( and I ride big "masculine" motorcycles, down there...) dismissiveness of anything not American. Superficial friendliness and rigid roles for men and women, (maybe not California so much), all make for a real appreciation for my own country, so I understand what you're talking about. Cheers.

[@dannymolfilmpie]

Canadian always seem so european when i meet them anywhere in the world, or 'sane amercians'

[@dragon67849]

Why is socialist countries in quotes? What are you not saying here?

[@crunchysocialisthippie]

@@dragon67849 Socialist countries is probably put in quotes because of the idiotic way that Americans demonize socialism and wrongly conflate it with communism/Marxism, fascism & Nazism. And I say that unfortunately being an American myself (albeit an American of Indian [India] descent)

[@henkvandervossen6616]

​@@dragon67849he is meaning that what americans call socialism in Europe is mostly not socialism at all but social democracy, which is capitalist without ugly exploitationism

[@dragon67849]

@@henkvandervossen6616 Ah, thanks for the explanation but social democracy is in actuality a precursor to socialism. I thought it would never happen again but as it turns out, history does in fact repeat! I don't like europe but I hate america. I don't like europe cause it sucks. I hate america because it should be better!

[@donaldtank]

I live in the USA and I am on disability I nearly us up my check for food and medication for my diabetes I don't have a car I only have a bike will a delta recumbent bike I have to live with my mother because I can't afford a apartment or a car to go to my doctor or to a job I am afraid one day I will be homeless

[@jjsmallpiece9234]

I've never been to America - but the more KZbin videos I see from Americans living in Europe, who are grateful for European society/healthcare values - the more I'm also grateful for being born and resident in Europe. America - no thanks, I see nothing that attracts me to the country.

[@MarsMellow84]

I'm envious of anyone who lives in Europe. I know their healthcare is better, their cost of living is better and just better life in general.

[@shadeblackwolf1508]

I can't imagine living in a country where a woman has to pick up an uber customer to the hospital to improve their odds of being able to pay for childbirth

[@mistrants2745]

The forgetting part i disagree with. The thing you describe happens to me all the time lol. Im really bad at keeping in touch with people if my life doesnt force us to be together regularly...

[@johnkochen7264]

We generally refer to the person with the uterus as “the mother”.

[@andressica6993]

People who’s sex is a woman, but gender is man or nonbinary (trans people) can have uteruses to

[@johnkochen7264]

@@andressica6993 You have a great talent for making simple things overly complicated.

[@reuireuiop0]

Subject matter wasn't trans or non binary, but parental leave being different, referring to women being treated differently. And, John, as long as she's just expecting, she aint no mum yet. And you might be concerned of how your daughter sis whatever are treated when they are the one bearing the kid. Those kids are going to be society backbone pretty soon taking care of all your elderly needs. By the way, compared to most Euro countries, parental provisions in NL are extremely basic, not just in parental leave, but also in kids day-care, which in NL is very very much under-financed, contributing greatly to womens' relatively low work participation.

[@johnkochen7264]

@@reuireuiop0 And how does any of this have any bearing on what I commented on?

[@cynthiamolenaar770]

@@reuireuiop0 ever thought about the fact that woman tend to love doing other things besides their work and therefore looove their parttime jobs. The nasty thing is overall it’s not commonly acceptes for men to donthe same. The have to be the career man and work 40 or more, dor women it’s just more accepted.

[@MarianneExJohnson]

According to Wiktionary, both "uteruses" and "uteri" are acceptable as plurals of "uterus."

[@davidschaftenaar6530]

Welcome back, Ava. You're an asset ^^

[@TheVail1234]

Considering to moving to the Netherlands! I live in LA ... it became a hellhole , riddled with homeless on every corner, very high crime , or people with teslas working hard to beat their competition, while you pay 11 dollars for a coffee at erewhon. And , now everything is ' trump or biden' , huge polarity , and way too sensitive about race. You can't even engage in a socio cultural debate because there is always someone who takes it personal and brings the racist card in, it's a sad country. And the healthcare system , the worst nightmare. You can't get a quote on any injury or surgery you might need. And when you do, expect bills to keep coming at a very high price for the rest of your life.Netherlands looks amazing, been there many times, and wim hof is a badass local!! thank you for your video.

[@timward3116]

I think a lot of the preoccupation with work comes more from struggling to pay the bills than from actually trying to get ahead of other people. Note that I said "a lot," not all. There is, in the U.S. a huge working class that is constantly teetering on a brink - and contrary to what the pharmaceutical/healthcare-sponsored corporate news programs would have us believe, this working class is not all "people of color." I am neither of the "right" nor of the "left," but I do have a university degree and decades of experience in my field - and I am still paid only what economists say SHOULD be the minimum wage in my area. Where I live, there is no practical public transportation, no universal healthcare, virtually no "free" things to do, and few labor laws that aren't easily skirted, etc. You may have guessed that I live in one of the "bottom" states in the country, but the entire country ranks far below "best" among the advanced countries of the world in many, many, areas. If it were practical to move somewhere else, I would.

[@genxgina1106]

Same. So true :(

[@timward3116]

@@genxgina1106 Good luck, there! Take care!

[@PrinceWalacra]

The easier people are getting into contact with eachother (small talk, meeting doing leisurure time things), the more friendships tend to be shallower. If friendships in adult life get loser, most people probably cannot deeply connect to many other persons. I think it has something to do with the level of individualism in a society. The USA is a very indivudualistic society, but the NLs is rather too (compared to like southern European countries, where it's often more difficult to connect to people in a short temporarily way).

[@johnalexander8682]

Nice!😀

[@NRfun]

I always find it kind of funny when Americans call it "living in Europe". Europe is not like America. When you live in a country in Europe, you never say: I live in Europe, because the contenent doesn't say anything about your country. It's like someone who lives in Chili wouldn't ever say I live in South America, they would say: I live in Chili.

[@fickyni2]

There are no trains or busses where my parents live in the NL, but I can cycle to the bus stop in 15 min though.

[@Tclans]

Ava, did you go and see the musical protest Unmute Us and what did you thought of it? Cheers, Tim.