How GERMANY Changed Our Life | What We LOVE About Germany

In this video, we share how Germany became our second home. From experiencing serious culture shock to falling completely in love with the country, it’s been an unexpected journey. Join us as we reflect on what makes Germany so special to us!
Have you ever fallen in love with a place unexpectedly? We'd love to hear your story in the comments!
#AmericanExpats #LivingInGermany #ExpatLife #GermanyTravel #GermanyCulture #WhyWeLoveGermany #ExpatStories #TravelingExpats #Germany

[@heatherk7017]

I can understand this sentiment. Germany was never on my radar till I met a nice German guy and „came for a visit.“ Twenty-five years later I‘m still here and after adjusting to the language/culture myself all those years ago,I now have another readjustment of viewing Germany through the lens of my school-age kids. I have my complaint list for sure (see, I‘ve adapted culturally-ha!), but the quality of life for families here and especially the freedom my children enjoy always tip the scales.

[@travelingexpats]

@@heatherk7017 It’s nice to hear from someone else who came to Germany and learned to appreciate all that it has to offer. What a great story. Thanks for watching and for sharing your experience.

[@usbxg3474]

I´m a german living in Rhineland palatinate in an area which, since the end of the last war was always strongly influenced by american bases and american communities that were build around them. My german mom used to work for decades on Sembach AirBase and later, when it closed down at Ramstein AB. When I was 18 years old she married an Air Force Master Sergeant. During that time my Mom and Step Dad always planned to move back to the USA, and I, at the age of 18 always fantasized to leave germany with them and living a totally different live somewhere in California, Florida or even Montana (Where my step Dad was born and raised) and for a few months this became a totally valid option. But then, a few things we could not influence (a stroke, early retirement and other reasons) totaly changed and my step dad decided to stay in germany, the country he fell in love with over the past years. He fell in love with germany, it`s "cosiness" , the german friends and hospitality he´s recieved over the years and after all the "easy living" compared to the USA. No gun violence, a decent health care, german holidays, access to US Base commissaries, getting to at least 3 totally different countries within 2 to 3 hours of driving, the food and the overall the mostly friendly atmosphere he found as an aged american when connecting with the european people. When I was 19, 20 years old I was totally surprised about his decision to stay in europe instead of returning to "gods own country", but the older I got I started to understand his reasons, learned more about america,the hustle of making money, the dissapointing political choices, the divergence between rich and poor, the race problems, the guns, the hate and I understood the endless fight between rich states vs.poor ones, east coast against west coast, NRA lovers against peaceful people, fundamental religions of the bible belt vs. Atheists and so on and now, as I am in my 50´s I totally can understand and relate to his choice to leave the "rat race" and stay in the middle of europe and become part of "our" society and live a peaceful and normal live with some ups and downs, but you don´t need a gun, follow a cult or sell your soul to be part of the society of the "better ones".

[@SOCIAL_MEDIA_CREEPS]

@@usbxg3474 Thank you very much for the wonderful comment. Unfortunately, many Germans do not know how privileged they are to be able to live in this country. One of the reasons is the fact that they have never lived abroad and never bother to think outside the box. Of course, like many other countries, we also have problems, but nothing that the future cannot solve. We have a strong democracy and social security. Even if some people think we live in a dictatorship 🙄 I wish you and your family all the best for the future.

[@travelingexpats]

@@usbxg3474 Very well said. Thank you for your watching our video and for sharing your thoughts.

[@ftux1915]

The Sunday thing is one of the best we have. To paraphrase Depeche Mode, "Enjoy the silence"

[@travelingexpats]

@@ftux1915 Absolutely! We like Depeche Mode too. Thanks for watching and sharing your thoughts.

[@rc2552]

We have visited Germany 3 times. We love Germany. Our reasons are the predictability and consistency, cleanliness, safety and the discipline of Germans. The discipline can be a bit severe, but it goes along with the consistency. Germany is beautiful pretty much everywhere. We have talked about living there, but our home is Texas. Difficult to leave home, but with all the people moving to Texas, we are beginning to see our home change. So, maybe, Germany, long term, is in our future!

[@travelingexpats]

@@rc2552 It’s a great place to live for sure. I used to think that I wanted to live in Texas, but not anymore. It’s just way too hot for us. Thanks for watching and for taking the time to comment.

[@christiandengler6689]

So you think we Germans want you here? You don't like foreigners coming to your country and changing it, so you want to pack up and leave, being the foreigners that we locals don't want?! Stay put where you are please!

[@gudrunasche9124]

Auch Deutschland verändert sich ständig. Auch durch die Personen, die kommen um zu bleiben. Die Veränderung ist die einzige Konstante im Leben.😊

[@travelingexpats]

@@gudrunasche9124 Das stimmt. Danke für zuschauen!

[@peterfischer7084]

@@travelingexpats It´s only a great place until you´re getting old and are faced with the decision of going to an old age home (which implies giving up your pet) or employing a "live in domestic helper". Thanks to minimum wage and labour laws, the latter has become financially impossible for 99.9% of people. That´s why my mother decided at age 87 to move to a country where it was affordable.

[@jasonborg7272]

I am retired Army and my wife and I have lived in Germany for now 6 yrs. For all the reasons that you highlight, I wholeheartedly concur. Started watching your channel and enjoy your personality and perspective. We lived in The Pfalz for five yrs and unfortunately had to move to Hessen. Still great but prefer the Pfalz. Bis später….

[@travelingexpats]

@@jasonborg7272 So happy that you like our channel. Thanks for watching and taking the time to comment.

[@Kristina_S-O]

I have lived in the States as an exchange student, and I am still close to my host family. We have visited back and forth through all those years, and whenever I travel to the Ststes I'm in awe of the sheer size and the landscapes. I also love the friendliness. That kind of smalltalk with cashiers in the grocery store, or random compliments you might get for your dress, hair (or anything really) from total strangers is totally unknown in Germany. I would still not want to live there permanently. I appreciate the social security Germany offers and the peace of mind that comes with it. 😊

[@travelingexpats]

@@Kristina_S-O Thanks for watching our video and sharing your thoughts. There are many wonderful things about the U.S. for sure. But we really love life in Germany and miss it whenever we aren’t there.

[@eastfrisianguy]

As a German, I'm very happy to hear that. 🤩 My partner's father was stationed here in 1983 when he was 18 and he was also very disappointed at first, because he heard a lot about Germany (actually all the clichés you know about Bavaria) and he ended up in a village in northern Germany 😂He was born in a very rural area in Maine and that's exactly where he wanted to get out and was stuck in a village again 😂But he fell head over heels in love, got married and stayed. He lived in Maine with his first two children and wife in the early 90s (I think for just under a year and a half), but he liked Germany more and thought Germany was a better place for his children to grow up, so they moved back and my partner was born just under 10 months later. The marriage didn't last, but he's still here today.

[@travelingexpats]

@@eastfrisianguy What a great story. So many of us “GIs” were forced to come to Germany and then fell in love with the country after living here for a while. Thanks for watching and for sharing your comment.

[@margaretsimmons7143]

I definitely wouldn’t mind living in a place with a slower pace. Everything is so rushed here, including meals. Thanks for sharing your story.

[@travelingexpats]

@@margaretsimmons7143 Thanks for watching and for taking the time to comment. We appreciate your support!

[@Splattercat82]

I am german and i think many americans like the work-life ballance, the good food,the healthcare system, the beutyfull and historic landscapes and mostly the life without gun violence. Certainly there are many more reasons, but i think this are 5 of the most reasons.

[@fabigrossi2976]

You're probably right. I wonder why many Americans vote against said advantages anyway, when it comes to their own country. And call it communism or socialism 😉

[@travelingexpats]

@@Splattercat82 Those are the 5 best reasons for sure. Thanks for watching and taking the time to comment.

[@travelingexpats]

@@fabigrossi2976 I think most Americans are bombarded with propaganda that tells them that everything is better in the USA and everything else is second class or worse. Of course, when you visit another country you quickly realize that the USA isn’t the greatest in everything. Thanks for watching and for leaving your comment.

[@BrendaNeal-qg9iw]

This is another amazing video, I live to watch your video's you make them so plain makes me feel like I'm their with you every step of the way..❤ Love watching you & Betty every video is exciting & amazing thank you 😊 🙋🏽‍♀️✨️✨️✨️✨️

[@travelingexpats]

@@BrendaNeal-qg9iw Thank you so much for watching and for your kind comments. We really appreciate your support.

[@BrendaNeal-qg9iw]

@@travelingexpats You're welcome 😊 it's very exciting!!🙋🏽‍♀️✨️

[@LETMino85]

I've been an Expat in a couple of countries and for every place it took a while before you "felt" it. But essentially traveling really open your mind and bends routine concepts.

[@travelingexpats]

@@LETMino85 Absolutely! I couldn’t agree more. Thanks for watching and taking the time to comment.

[@BrendaNeal-qg9iw]

Don't forget your family loves it when you come home too ..😂 We miss y'all too🙋🏽‍♀️😊💜💜💜💜💜💜💜✨️✨️✨️✨️✨️

[@MokaandChai]

Visited Germany multiple times before the pandemic. Cologne, Frankfurt, Düsseldorf, Hamburg. Looking forward to go next year hopefully. Thanks for sharing this. It’s so nice to hear your perspective and story. ❤ Please do share more of your experiences here in Europe

[@travelingexpats]

@@MokaandChai Thank You for watching and for your nice comments. We appreciate your support. Have a great time during your next visit to Germany.

[@Arltratlo]

i visited the USA before Covid, too.. i will never go back, Switzerland is so much better to visit!

[@e.458]

If you come to visit again, I recommend visiting smaller towns and villages. Many of them are beautiful and have real historic buildings (many of the historic buildings in bigger cities are actually reconstructions because they'd been destroyed in the war, most smaller towns and villages had less strategic value and were more likely to be left alone). Look for towns that have "Bad" (Bad Ems, Bad Tölz) in its name, it's German for "bath", wich means they're spa towns). They're also some smaller towns that have a long and rich history (Roman towns like Trier and Mainz, towns that were important to Luther's Reformation, like Erfurt and Wittenberg and towns of the medieval emperors, like Aachen and Worms). Also, if you like hiking, take some time to explore the many hiking trails - lots of them lead to one or more of the thousands of castles or castle ruins in Germany. Another way to explore would be going on a river cruise (or day trip) among the rivers Rhine or Moselle (Rhein, Mosel), there are some hop-on, hop-off options, I think. Both of those regions are wine regions, especially famous for their white wines and cozy wine (cellar) restaurants. In the north you can have (guided) walks in the Wattenmeer, an area of tidelands that make for great barefoot tours when the tide is out. They also have many towns belonging to the "Hanse" (Hanseatic League), a powerful trading organisation that established fiscal and with it also political power outside of the nobility by the end of the Middle Ages in the Baltic region.

[@travelingexpats]

@@Arltratlo Sorry to hear that you had a bad experience in the USA. But Switzerland is very nice. Thanks for watching.

[@LisaFlowers333]

Though I've only been there once, I loved the country. I'm German on my mom's side who was born there but raised in the states. I would love to get back there someday for a visit. My husband and I enjoy watching your videos. Keep on sharing. Very interesting.

[@travelingexpats]

@@LisaFlowers333 Thanks for watching and taking the time to comment. We’re so happy that you enjoy our videos.

[@KlausRe-m8c]

I like how honest and precise you describe your experiences. Well done. Greetings from Bamberg ( I can recommend to visit Bamberg, one of the most beautiful Cities in Germany)

[@travelingexpats]

@@KlausRe-m8c We love Bamberg! We spent some time there last year, beautiful city. Thanks for watching and for taking the time to comment.

[@sacroyalty]

Hey, interesting story. We are an American family who was doing some traveling around Europe the past few years trying to find a place (that has a visa we can manage to get) to break into Europe. Germany / CH / Austria (DACH region) was my favorite by far, especially Berlin (from the limited areas we saw). However it looks like we'll be moving to a different European area to start, based on my wife being fluent in another language and I'm only A1-A2 level in German. Either way, it should be an adventure! Applying for the Visa Monday it looks like. Thanks again for sharing, I could def see ourselves moving to DE in the next few years! And, we may cover the journey on YT in case it helps others, depending on how much time I have I guess.

[@travelingexpats]

Thanks for watching and sharing your story with us. We hope all goes well with your adjustment to life in Europe. It’s a journey that will have bumps along the way, but ultimately will be worth the effort.

[@jensbiederstaedt8022]

Germany is nice when you don't have to work. Money for most people is scarce, making a living is hard. For normal people at least. We left Germany when we were 40 years old with 2 teenage kids, went to Canada. As much as I miss a few aspects of Germany, I am glad we did it.

[@travelingexpats]

@@jensbiederstaedt8022 That’s interesting and I find it a little surprising. Recently we’ve noticed several KZbin channels of Canadians who have moved to Germany because they can’t afford to live in Canada and a recent trip to Canada revealed shocking expensive prices to us. Most Germans that I know enjoy life more than most Americans I know, but every situation is different. Whatever you are doing I’m happy that you’re enjoying life in Canada and I hope you continue to do so. Thanks for watching and sharing your experience.

[@falk6121]

@@travelingexpats The green is always greener on the other side of the fence. In winter my green is in Spain, the rest of the year I prefer my loved homeland, Germany.

[@travelingexpats]

@@falk6121 Absolutely! That sounds like a great combination- winter in Spain and the rest of the year in Germany 🇩🇪. Thanks for watching and taking the time to comment.

[@miskatonic6210]

Money is scarce when you only played with your balls at school. I don't know any "normal" educated people that lack money. Unless your definition of "scarce money" is you can't afford three SUVs, a nanny and going to a restaurant two times a week. Wtf is your definition of a making a living is "hard"? I just met an immigrant from Syria who's got an own company after 6 years in germany. I'm quite sure you don't even know what "hard life" is.

[@starchyshauna]

Thank you for sharing your Germany story, I love it! We fell in love with the parks in Germany🥰 It would be interesting to hear about the process of buying property in another country, that seems super intimidating to me. Thank you for sharing, love the background in the walk❤❤

[@travelingexpats]

@@starchyshauna Thank You for watching and taking the time to comment. We’re happy to hear that you enjoyed our story. Maybe we’ll do a show about the home buying process in the future.

[@KK-vq9vt]

I think it's great to be able to experience and take with you the most beautiful and best things from your home country and the country you love. That's ideal. Being based in two countries is a gift.

[@travelingexpats]

@@KK-vq9vt We are very fortunate there’s no doubt about that. Thank you for watching our video and sharing your thoughts with us.

[@FjellFjordFrihet]

Hey, I am German living in Norway. I really like everything you said about the positive aspects of Germany and I miss my old home in Bavaria sometimes. What I don't like though, in my opinion Germany is a very overpopulated country and it seems to be getting more crowded. There are so many inhabitants it is really hard to find a peaceful and quiet place for yourself. Most people live in apartments, have to deal with lots of traffic when going places, missing parking spaces. So I found it very stressful just to go places. I've been to the US and lived in Canada for a couple years, find the people there much more friendly and welcoming and life in general was relaxed.

[@travelingexpats]

@@FjellFjordFrihet I understand how it can feel very crowded sometimes. In my opinion though, Germany has managed urban sprawl much better than we do in the U.S. and even if you live in a huge city it’s possible to find a peaceful place not too far away. Thanks for watching and sharing your thoughts.

[@wabisabisylvie111]

So interesting to hear your moving to Germany background story, and that you didn’t like it at first. Funny how life finds a way 😊

[@travelingexpats]

@@wabisabisylvie111 Life definitely throws curveballs and changes your perspective. Thanks for watching and for commenting. We’re happy that you enjoyed our story.

[@sebgo1308]

Liked and subscribed from a German, thanks for your video and your kind words about Germany. Let's see what you don't like later on. :P

[@travelingexpats]

@@sebgo1308 Thank you for watching the video, taking the time to comment and for subscribing to our channel. Germany is a wonderful country with many more positives than negatives for sure, but we’ll try to make an informative and entertaining video on the things we don’t like as well.

[@lisaferraro4878]

I have been to Germany 2x so far. My adult son lives there for almost 3 yrs now, he really loves it and does not plan to return to the states! I will probably end up there with him some day. It is a beautiful country with alot of wonderful things to see. Personally I would rather the warmth of Italy but he wants me there so that will be my retirement soon! Liked your video!

[@travelingexpats]

@@lisaferraro4878 Thanks for watching and taking the time to comment. Best of luck in your future endeavors wherever they lead you. Germany is a great place to live.

[@mazestitching5182]

@lisaferraro4878 The beauty about living in Europe is that you can travel to most countries in a couple of hours very uncomplicated. Get in the train in the evening and enjoy breakfast in France in the morning and be somewhere else the next day if you wish so. Spain, Italy, Greece, Poland, Denmark, England, Turkey. There are so many beautiful places to visit and so many different cultures and languages to explore. You will be encounter amazing foods and thousands of years of history. A complete new world for you to explore and enjoy. You will love it!

[@e.458]

Italy isn't too far from Germany, depending on where in Germany you're son lives, it's probably closer than having family at the other end of a big US state, like Texas. You could go to Italy several times a year. If you go outside the tourist season it won't break the bank.

[@G.J..Journeys]

Nice to hear your background story 👍

[@travelingexpats]

@@G.J..Journeys Thanks for watching and taking the time to comment.

[@arnodobler1096]

I follow many US Americans, but also other nationalities who live in DE. There are now more US Americans coming to DE than the other way around. Times are changing. Here on Lake Constance there was a French occupation zone, so more French people here. Thank you for sharing your story. Greetings to the great woman at your side, as Ephraim Kishon said "The best of all" 😜

[@travelingexpats]

@@arnodobler1096 Thanks for watching and for taking the time to comment. Many Americans don’t believe it when I tell them that most people would rather move to Germany than the US. Germany definitely has a lot to offer. Lake Constance - beautiful! We were there many years ago, we need to go back.

[@gangamecker8221]

I like , that you like germany ❤

[@travelingexpats]

@@gangamecker8221 Thank you for watching and for commenting!

[@squarecircle1473]

What a lovely story :) Its very understandable wanting to be with family :) Thanks for telling the story! Greetings from the netherlands :)

[@travelingexpats]

@@squarecircle1473 Thank You for watching and sharing your comments. We’ve had some lovely times in the Netherlands as well.

[@stephenmcnamara8318]

what camera are you using - the quality and tone is amazing!

[@travelingexpats]

@@stephenmcnamara8318 thanks for watching our video and commenting. Here’s a link to the camera we used: www.amazon.com/DJI-Vlogging-Stabilization-Tracking-Photography/dp/B0CG19FGQ5?crid=1WZRU8W5JY1OQ&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.uXYYldA65F0ai-N4JPMJrw0vKL1jUT2qik9Zy-ln0X_7-KOT2UBxhPowRtCEX5RTxTJ0evZatcB5HEVVe7GkU_VUkl0CQAn1Qi924LVNdknfzkybZftav3EPNGxG31K0IADeDZXnJ8FCPvSzxrNoaPAnHTGRJxf627PLG9R6W8uhmeYlStf5QqvRlZO7jTY9dUoLh1ZK_65OCeYENPxqEHUq9xwFTKtKLwdlSsouNF0.u4No3dMrTlV_mEgWE--QodvSXbvzYlRTHS-ertuJP2o&dib_tag=se&keywords=dji%2Bosmo%2Bpocket%2B3%2Bcreator%2Bcombo&qid=1727306827&sprefix=dji%2Bos,aps,187&sr=8-3&ufe=INHOUSE_INSTALLMENTS:US_IHI_5M_HARDLINES_AUTOMATED&th=1&linkCode=sl1&tag=travelingexpa-20&linkId=490ce1ec09db67ed0fb35bc870135be3&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl

[@Why-D]

Many Germans like to see only the "bad things" and sometimes don't look across the border, that here it is a very good mixture. So seeing foreigners talking about their experience in Germany, shows that there are really good things.

[@travelingexpats]

@@Why-D There are many wonderful things about Germany. It’s a great country. Thanks for watching and for commenting.

[@cptntwang]

I like to hear this as a german guy.

[@travelingexpats]

@@cptntwang Thanks for watching and taking the time to comment!

[@Moneyfromzero]

Hawaii has too many volcanos!😂I'm with Betty on the Sunday Football😂I enjoyed hearing about your story. I thought you might have been military and that is what got you over there. Thank you for your service!

[@travelingexpats]

@@Moneyfromzero Thank You for watching and commenting. We’re happy to hear that you enjoyed our story.

[@Luke86811]

Keep up the good work guys love your content!

[@travelingexpats]

@@Luke86811 Thanks for watching and taking the time to comment. We appreciate your support!

[@stephenhickman304]

I'm British and really saw little of the UK until aged 13 when my dad left the army - i concur with all of the above positive things about Germany. It is stupid beautiful and I wouldn't hesitate to big up Germany for a place to live and work . Surprised you never mentioned speaking German though as I grew up with this language and love that too. My mother was fluent in German and insisted that I use the language at every opportunity 😊

[@travelingexpats]

@@stephenhickman304 Thanks for watching and sharing your comment. Unfortunately for me, the German language continues to be a challenge and likely always will. That makes day to day life more interesting I suppose. 😂 Thanks again.

[@rairei]

I appreciate to have you here in Germany and being part of the community. Germany: after the USA the second most immigrants in the world .. a lot of nations 🙂

[@travelingexpats]

@@rairei Thank You for watching and leaving your comment. We love Germany 🇩🇪!

[@martingades]

4:13 “why not Hawaii” 😭😂 this !

[@travelingexpats]

@@martingades Thanks for watching and commenting. Happy that we could make you laugh.🤣

[@kristianamrhein3775]

It is interesting how things can change the opinion of people

[@travelingexpats]

@@kristianamrhein3775 Absolutely! My way of thinking about the world is totally different because of my experiences through life in Germany. Thanks for watching and taking the time to comment!

[@michaelworosz7940]

Another story similar to ours. We’re older than you. Stationed in Europe in 67, 68, 69. Our first child born there (Heidi) and then it was time to return home and the dream ended. I took a public service job and we set off to rise the family. Will 25 years later retirement time and the dream to return was still there. Returned in 96 and knew than we need to vacation in Europe. 30 plus trips over the pond and in the last few years we get 3 months a year in our favorite place. We have been here 2 months now and returning to the states in a week. We share the whys you love it and if we had the time might live here. But 4 kids and 8 grands highly unlikely. We have 3 months to be here and plan on using all that time. Now that we found you looking forward to your tapes.

[@travelingexpats]

@@michaelworosz7940 Thank You so much for watching our video and sharing your story. We are thrilled that you like our content. Enjoy the rest of your stay in Europe and safe travels.

[@achimschroter8046]

German. When i was young i wanted to leave my Land as soon as possible. Well the Wintertime and the Attitude of the people. And i did that for many many years. And AS time passed by i had to learn that the grass isnt always greener on the other side of the fence. I am now about your age. I am back now and i am starting to appreciate things more. Like the quiet family orientated sundays, the reliability of the people aso.

[@travelingexpats]

@@achimschroter8046 I understand why you are happy to be home in Germany. It’s a lovely place with really very nice people. Thanks for watching and taking the time to comment.

[@jaysigma]

I'm a natural born swebian guy in my 60's, active in music (Blues) and had been twice in the US. 2015 made a trip from San Diego through Arizona, Colorado, Utah, Kansas, Missouri up to New York. Had some mixed experiences (especially in Kansas). Second trip was the Bluestrail from Memphis over Helena (AR), Clarksdale, Hazlehurst, Jackson to New Orleans. I found the southeners in the US much more relaxed, down to earth and a perfect fit with my "South-German" mentality. I love it, though you have to watch your back when going through certain areas. There is something about the "Southern Hospitality" for sure! And most of the Americans which had been in Germany admitted they've got a different view of the world.

[@travelingexpats]

@@jaysigma Great story. I’m originally from southern blues country and have family near Memphis. I’m happy to hear that you enjoyed your time there. Thanks for watching our video and taking the time to comment.

[@Herzschreiber]

Glad to hear our German bureaucracy wasn't able to chase your love for our country away! :)

[@travelingexpats]

@@Herzschreiber 😂 The bureaucracy is very frustrating sometimes, but Germany is a lovely country. Thanks for watching and taking the time to comment.

[@crossfire2204]

great. you ever welcome in germany 🙂

[@travelingexpats]

@@crossfire2204 Thank You so much. Thanks for watching our video and for taking the time to comment.

[@rampp17]

Ich lebe in der unmittelbaren Umgebung von Grafenwöhr. Dort ist eine sehr große US Army Kaserne und deshalb leben hier viele Amerikaner, auch bei uns hier im Dorf/Stadt. Amerikanische Touristen werden ja nicht so gern gesehen weil sie oft sehr laut sind usw. aber die Leute vom Militär waren bis jetzt sehr freundlich und viel angenehmer. Entweder liegt das an der Militärischen Disziplin oder die werden vom Militär geschult oder so, keine Ahnung. Aber bis jetzt nur sehr schöne Erlebnisse gehabt mit den Amerikanern die hier leben.

[@travelingexpats]

Vielen Dank fürs Zuschauen und für Ihre Kommentare. Wir kennen Grafenwöhr sehr gut und lieben die Gegend dort. Es ist schön zu wissen, dass Sie gute Erfahrungen mit US-Militärangehörigen und deren Familien gemacht haben. Wir hoffen, dass diese guten Gefühle auch in Zukunft anhalten.

[@Christian-il4fe]

Hi Welcome to Germany! I am from here (for 59 summers now) and watched many KZbin channels from US people who - for the most part - enjoyed it to be here. I am really interested in the differences between the 2 cultures and I like to train my English a bit this way. It seems to me that most of Your fellow country-comrades like similar facettes of live in Germany like You: the lack of gun presence, the slow-down vibe, the „work-to-live“-vibe, the health system, the beauty of (some of) the countrysides, the public transport systems. I admired the US when I was young and have been on vacation there - and meanwhile also on business trips several times - mainly on the west coast. But today I have a more (at least I am hoping so) realistic view of the american way of life. That dooes not mean I don`t like it but I learned that it is not my cup of tea. I am looking forward to the part of what You don`t like about Germany….

[@travelingexpats]

@@Christian-il4fe Thank You for watching our video and for your great comment. I think many Germans really want to live in other countries when they are young, but as they get older they realize that Germany is pretty wonderful. Your English writing is very good, I wish I could write so well in German. Ich lerne ein bisschen Deutsch jeden Tag aber die deutsche Sprache ist eine schwere Sprache oder vielleicht bin ich nicht so schlau?

[@travelingexpats]

@@Christian-il4fe Thank You for watching our video and for your great comment. I think many Germans really want to live in other countries when they are young, but as they get older they realize that Germany is pretty wonderful. Your English writing is very good, I wish I could write so well in German. Ich lerne ein bisschen Deutsch jeden Tag aber die deutsche Sprache ist eine schwere Sprache oder vielleicht bin ich nicht so schlau?

[@TrekkingwithDebandMike]

Another interesting story

[@travelingexpats]

@@TrekkingwithDebandMike Thank You! Thanks for watching and for taking the time to comment.

[@baramuth71]

There is only one thing to say: never listen to what others tell you, but always follow your own feelings and experience(s) for yourself. As you can see now, the opposite has happened and you are and live here in Germany. And as you can see, you haven't regretted it so far. I don't want to say that everything here is perfect, it can't be, and you won't find it anywhere. But in contrast to the USA, it seems to have paid off for you to live here. Welcome to Germany. I can recommend a KZbin channel that you should take a look at, that of Type Ashton, an American family that lives and works in Freiburg. Ashton studied in Freiburg and did her doctorate there. She makes very good videos, does excellent research and knows what she is talking about. She compares life in the USA to Germany in a nutshell

[@travelingexpats]

@@baramuth71 Yes, I’m familiar with her channel. She does very good work. Thank you for watching and for taking the time to comment.

[@DerParsifal]

I was born in Germany to German parents so my first language was the Bavarian dialect spoken at home. When I was 5 my parents emigrated to Canada to join family that had emigrated in the 1920s. I had no problem learning English. It seemed like I breathed it in with the air. After getting my degree I was employed in Montreal by a multinational company. I loved Montreal and its French style but when I was offered a job in the USA I took it. I lived in New York, Virginia, Texas and California. My job took me to every State except Alaska. My kids and grandkids are all born Americans. I made good money so we lived the American dream. America was a great place but it was what I call "crazy-making" in a way you don't realize until after you regain sanity, like waking up from a bad dream. I retired in my 40s, got divorced and said "Now or never" and became an expat. Mexico, Guatemala, France, Spain and finally right back where I started Germany. All places like all women are great in their own unique way.

[@travelingexpats]

@@DerParsifal Wow, what a great story and an amazing life. Thanks for sharing it with us. Thanks for watching our video.

[@LETMino85]

"Why not Hawaii?" Is what a lot of Germans asks themselves too 😂😂😂 Most wanna live somewhere warm, vacation somewhere warm etc. I myself looooove the colder months ❤ Autumn, Winter and spring ❤❤❤

[@travelingexpats]

@@LETMino85 Thanks for watching and taking the time to comment. I enjoy the cooler weather now myself. I don’t want to live in Hawaii anymore, I much prefer Germany 🇩🇪.

[@Bunny99s]

Though it's the typical "the grass is always greener over there". Most are just bored or annoyed with their life and environment and just want some kind of change. Though in hindsight it never was that bad, just different.

[@travelingexpats]

@@Bunny99s I agree.

[@juricarmichael2534]

That work - life balance exists for normal employees up to a certain level! For self - employed persons or in the higher management positions it's different. If have experienced this in all of it's facettes over the years in my own working life.

[@travelingexpats]

@@juricarmichael2534 I hope you’re able to enjoy some balance now. Thank you for watching and sharing your thoughts.

[@peterpritzl3354]

Regarding neighbors, German proverb: 'Wie man in den Wald ruft, so hallt's zurück.'

[@winterlinde5395]

I follow a few KZbinrs who came to Germany from the US. If they were coming here like you for work and knew nothing about us, you see the same development you went through. Each time I hear Americans say „everything is closed on Sunday, there is nothing you can do“ I immediately want to help them. Call and tell them everything is open! Except for the stores. The movies, theaters, concerts , museums, waterparks, themeparks, the village fair in the village next to yours (when your own one is over), same with local sports events , open gardens, tracking trails through the countryside ( which are always there. And you won’t find them by google search. Because they are just about everywhere) But I don’t have to tell _you_ 😅 I would love to hear more about your children growing up. Where did they go to school? Do they speak German? I know of two Americans living in my small town. Both with their German wives. They love it here and contribute to our social and cultural life 😊

[@Arltratlo]

i met an American, who learned German for his job.. his boss wanted to send him to Switzerland.....so he learned German... me being curious, ask him where in Switzerland... he told me, its a town called Lugano... i have been to Lugano and its wonderful lake... the only problem is, they speak Italian in the Tessin!

[@winterlinde5395]

@@Arltratlo oopsie!😃 so you were able to rescue him?

[@Arltratlo]

@@winterlinde5395 yes, i met him in Philadelphia, inside the German society, my EX-wife been in the same class... after she left the USA for Germany, she never went back... my daughter wanted to visit her cousins in the USA.. after she Googled and watched some YT videos about their place, she decided to not go to the USA! she went 6 weeks to South America, visiting her grand parents there!

[@travelingexpats]

@@winterlinde5395 Thank you for watching and for sharing your comments. Unfortunately, our kids went to American schools. I wish we sent them to German schools, but when they were young we didn’t know how life would turn out. We love spending time with our German neighbors.

[@Brainreaver79]

i dont know,.. i live in a moderate sized city around 600k in germany. many people will say hello when you pass them or give you a nod. just smalltalk isnt a thing..

[@travelingexpats]

@@Brainreaver79 That does happen sometimes for sure. Thanks for watching and for taking the time to comment.

[@kchaze]

Now I really know why you guys left us. 😂 - At least it opened up the opportunity to become full-time KZbinrs. Now, when are you guys coming back to visit?

[@travelingexpats]

@@kchaze Hopefully soon. We’ll be back in Germany in November.

[@neiletordee5407]

👍 Dankeschön 🖤❤️💛 ✌️

[@travelingexpats]

@@neiletordee5407 Bitteschön. Thanks for watching and taking the time to comment.

[@hans-heinerkleinmanns1955]

like yourComment.😀 and liked.

[@travelingexpats]

@@hans-heinerkleinmanns1955 Thank you!

[@jorgbruggemeier2840]

You can watch NFL here :) this is no problem .:) i watch NFL for over 25 yaers here ;) Packers Fan for life :)

[@travelingexpats]

@@jorgbruggemeier2840 Yes, you can now. But not 30 years ago and not on Sunday afternoon. Late Sunday evening or very early in the morning and with work the next day it’s very difficult. But, it’s much better now than in the past. Thanks for watching and sharing your comment. AND - GO Cowboys! America’s Team!

[@christianebersold829]

About the coolest thing with Americans is their way to speak the Rhotic-R. And though I cannot say why, I do understand them way more better than the British.

[@travelingexpats]

@@christianebersold829 Thanks for watching and for taking the time to comment. American influence has spread far and wide, hopefully for the best in most cases, but American influence certainly doesn’t always foster improvement. We love to visit Austria by the way.

[@jomohogames]

I am german and I've lived in the US and Australia. All 3 countries have their own benefits. I definitely enjoy the german cosiness and slowness sometimes, but while things are slow here, germans aren't very laid back a lot of the time.

[@travelingexpats]

@@jomohogames Yes, sometimes Germans do get excited. Thanks for watching and sharing your thoughts. I hope you enjoyed your time in the US.

[@timhenning18]

Hey man, come visit the Ferguson Museum in Rothenburg ob der Tauber 😉

[@travelingexpats]

@@timhenning18 Would love to. We love Rothenburg o.d. T, haven’t been there in many years though. We’re not familiar with the Ferguson museum. Thanks for watching.

[@timhenning18]

@@travelingexpats Where in Germany do you live? Katterbach, Illesheim or is it the Rammstein K- town area?

[@travelingexpats]

@@timhenning18 We live near K-town

[@timhenning18]

@@travelingexpats i figured 😉

[@guinessdraught2758]

Everyone is looking for a place where they can relax. If it's Germany for you, then that's OK.

[@travelingexpats]

@@guinessdraught2758 Thanks for watching and taking the time to comment.

[@Starfish2145]

I like that most Germans follow the rules, they don’t put up with nonsense, they are efficient and get things done. I’m half German so that makes sense to me lol

[@travelingexpats]

@@Starfish2145 I agree 100 %! Thanks for watching and taking the time to comment.

[@allenreid62]

I would love to be able to retire in Taiwan where my wife is originally from, but I don't think that's going to be possible.

[@travelingexpats]

@@allenreid62 I‘m sorry to hear that. Sometimes life works out in ways you don’t expect and it turns out to be a pleasant surprise. I hope you have a great retirement wherever you end up. Thanks for watching and taking the time to comment.

[@Starfish2145]

In Germany, you don’t have to worry about being gunned down in school or at a supermarket or just going about your normal business!

[@travelingexpats]

@@Starfish2145 Correct. Thanks for watching and taking the time to comment.

[@RainbowYak]

I'm Swiss and have lived in the US for some time. Here are two differences that come to mind (one good, one bad). 1. America has an abysmal public transport system. For other people, this may not be a big deal but I'm blind and thus unable to use a bicycle, motorbike or car. The only modes of mobility I have at my disposal are public transport and walking. The latter is typically not an option in the US because everything is so spread out. So, if there's no public transport either, that means you're literally a prisoner of your geographic location. You can't do anything by yourself, you can't even go grocery shopping unless you've got someone who gives you a ride. It can feel very humiliating at times. Frankly, I wonder how blind Americans deal with it. Even in places like NYC or San Francisco where the locals are proud of their public transport system, it's really crappy compared to other places around the world. In Switzerland, we've probably got the best public transport system in Europe, if not the entire world. For disabled folks, it can still be frustrating at times to be relient on trains and trams but at least I can get anywhere I want within a reasonable amount of time. There's also no planning required. You just go to the station and hop on a train. There are enough connections that you won't ever have to wait long, even for destinations that are far away. 2. In my experience, it is a million times easier in the US to find a romantic partner than it is in Switzerland, particularly as a guy. Partially, this is due to the general American mentality of chatting up any random stranger. In Germany, people are much more reserved and in Switzerland, they are even significantly more reserved than they are in Germany. However, there's a second reason and that's women's attitude toward dating. In my opinion, American women have become a lot more proactive during the past 20 years, at least among Millennials and Gen Z. There are lots of girls who start flirty conversations with men, maybe ask a guy for his phone number or ask him out on a date. In Switzerland, this is unheard of. Even Swiss girls who consider themselves emanciped and love to hold fiery feminist speeches will act strangely conservative in their everyday life. They usually expect guys to act like "real men", which includes being the one who asks her out, leads the conversation during a date, proves his worth to her etc.. Looking back, I don't remember any woman here in Switzerland ever flirting with me, let alone asking me out on a date. I think most of them are super scared that if they do this, they will be viewed as thirsty sluts. Or maybe they were simply socialized to sit on their pillow and wait until some guy shows interest in them. Either way, I find this very frustrating about my country. I'd love for women to be braver and more forward. This is one reason why I like German girls a lot. They are less reserved and show more initiative. Their brutal honesty and directness can be rather scary at times but I dig their confidence.

[@travelingexpats]

@@RainbowYak Thank you very much for watching our video and taking the time to comment. We appreciate you sharing your thoughts. As far as dating goes, I can’t say. I haven’t dated anyone other than my wife in over 30 years. When it comes to public transportation, I couldn’t agree with you more. I would say public transport in America is terrible, but in fact in most places it simply doesn’t exist. I’ve spoken with several Germans who complain about their public transportation system and I simply tell them to be thankful that they have it because an imperfect system is better than no system.

[@hans-heinerkleinmanns1955]

In 1994 y0u was an Expad.this is right.

[@Kivas_Fajo]

The American "Hello, how are you doing?" is not to be translated to: "Hallo, wie geht es Dir?" It's supposed to be translated to "Hallo!" "Guten Morgen/Tag/Abend!" "Servus!" "Tach auch!" "Keule?!" "Na, alles senkrecht?!" "Grüss dich!" "Moin" or "Moin Moin", et cetera. It is in the same drawer of errors the Germans make that does/did, -ing, how come...?, squirrel...are to be found in.

[@LETMino85]

Yeah, "Wie geht's dir?" Is an actual question and you ask when you meet your friend at a Cafe. For the English speaking world it's a greeting. Confused me as heck at first 😂

[@Kivas_Fajo]

@@LETMino85 Sums it up nicely.

[@travelingexpats]

@@Kivas_Fajo Very good point. Thanks for watching and for sharing your thoughts.

[@stennostenno1346]

Are you in Harz there?

[@travelingexpats]

@@stennostenno1346 No, I haven’t been to the Harz in a few years. We hope to visit Quedlinburg and Wernigerode for the Christmas Markets this year. Thanks for watching.

[@Kivas_Fajo]

You forgot to answer the obvious question an American viewer might have here. It is: "How come you don't get shot wandering forests, that are not yours? Aren't you afraid of homeowners getting you with their 12 Gauge?" ^^

[@travelingexpats]

@@Kivas_Fajo One of the first videos we made a few years ago was about how nice it is to go walking in Germany. It wasn’t a very good video, but many people watched it. Thanks for watching and for sharing your thoughts.

[@Zentralrat-der-Schwaben]

Hi, and what's bad about Germany?

[@travelingexpats]

@@Zentralrat-der-Schwaben There are a few things we don’t like, but not too many. I’ll share those next week. Thanks for watching and for taking the time to comment.

[@ViviNorthbell]

strange to choose to go to the states, when you can have an almost free education in our universities.

[@travelingexpats]

@@ViviNorthbell I agree and we really wanted them to stay in Germany, but I think they thought they were missing something “American “ because they spent so much of their youth in Germany. We started college funds for them when they were very young and at a time when we didn’t think we would return to Germany. The college funds combined with scholarships that they earned have pretty much paid for their university education and, unlike most American students, they will graduate debt free. Thanks for watching and for sharing your thoughts.

[@gurlix]

I live in Germany and I love it. The main reason I prefer it over life in the US (as far as I know about it) is guns. Just realize how much is bad and wrong in the US because of guns.

[@travelingexpats]

@@gurlix There is a lot of truth in your comment. Thanks for watching and sharing your thoughts.

[@ulliulli]

The kids went back... to the US... for University? Do they hate free education here in Germany?

[@travelingexpats]

@@ulliulli We started college funds for them when they were very young and at a time when we didn’t think we would return to Germany. The college funds combined with scholarships that they earned pretty much paid for their university educations. As much as we love living in Germany, our kids felt as though they “missed out” on something by spending so much of their youth in Germany. They are both successful and don’t regret their decisions. Thanks for watching and sharing your thoughts.

[@mattesrocket]

I am German. What I think about Americans who lives here? I don't categorise people by their home country, in every country there are nice and not nice people. Short: if you would behave like ... as neighbour or colleague or behave like ... so would I think then about you. It's all overrated to think in the category of countries. And all the videos in KZbin about countries are wrong in the sense of, that all countries in the world are changing constantly and it all depends in what area you live in this country, what town, what company you work for etc. There are many areas I would never wanted to live in Germany, but others surely. There are many professional fields I would never want to work for in Germany. Servus

[@travelingexpats]

@@mattesrocket Very well written. You make excellent points and I agree with you. Thanks for watching our video and taking the time to comment.

[@Mala82]

Sprichst du fließend Deutsch? 😀

[@travelingexpats]

@@Mala82 Leider nicht. Ich habe seit Jahren mit der Deutsche Sprache gekämpft und spreche ich immer noch schlecht Deutsch. Vielleicht bin ich nicht so schlau? Danke für zuschauen und die Kommentare. I hope this is correct.

[@Kivas_Fajo]

What's the one thing you miss the most, when away from your second home?

[@travelingexpats]

@@Kivas_Fajo That’s very difficult to answer because there are MANY things that I miss from Germany. I miss how easy it is to leave my house and go for long walks through beautiful forests, fields and villages. Betty said that she misses good German bread and cakes the most. We also miss our wonderful neighbors. Thanks for watching and leaving your comment.

[@Kivas_Fajo]

@@travelingexpats Betty is officially germanised. 🙂 Missing bread is the top answer any German will give, when asked this question.

[@berndhoffmann7703]

Behörden, authorities are really indimitating here Ausländerbehörde is the worst in that respect ❤ Regarding Internet, I am puzzled, I live in one of the sparsest populated areas, nevertheless I have reception even out in the forest, I guess it comes down to the providers used. I am living in village of 2k pop and have fiber connection, no complaints from my side here😂 Wondering why you have not mentioned dialects, omg... WC, well in official buildings, in supermarkets, etc. they are for free, in places wete you consume stuff, like Restaurants they are free, with some exceptions like most frequented shopping streets, tourist areas and Rest Stations along the motorways (there was a piece of law changed to alllow that) for very obvious reasons, the cheap skates do not consume and leave it dirty and the owners have to higher the prices for all to compensate. Additionally new public restrooms in cities and around parks etc. cost money as well, the old ones don't, but are in a dramatic state...

[@travelingexpats]

@@berndhoffmann7703 Thanks for watching and taking the time to comment. I think Internet speeds are getting better, my village of approximately 2K is in the process of getting fiber optic lines, so hopefully it will improve. I’m not sure when the project will be completed though. I moved from Leipzig recently and I had good, not great, internet connectivity there. It was good enough for me, but others complained. I guess the thing that really puzzles me is the spotty cell service. There are literally dead zones all around, even in very populated areas, which I don’t experience in other parts of the world unless I’m in a VERY remote area. As far as dialects, I did originally mention them, but we felt the video was too long and edited that part out. Of course none of these complaints take away from the fact that Germany is a great place to live. Thanks again for watching.

[@m.h.6470]

If a place seems like a genuine utopia to you, it either only seems that way, or it will soon no longer be a utopia, because you - a human - are now there. Humans are imperfect, so they can never create something that is perfect. And even if we find perfection our imperfections will soon ruin it. With that said, Germany isn't perfect - not even by a long shot - but it is a lot better than other places. Including a lot of places in the US, in my opinion.

[@travelingexpats]

@@m.h.6470 I agree with you. Germany is definitely one of the best places in the world and there isn’t anywhere I’d rather be. Thanks for watching and taking the time to comment.

[@matt47110815]

Germans asking you why... Those are the ones that complain bitterly about everything, totally oblivious to how much better they have it than other places. Also, they see and know the USA only from watching murican Movies/TV Shows.

[@travelingexpats]

@@matt47110815 I think you are correct. Thanks for watching and taking the time to comment.

[@touraneindanke]

I love living in Germany…… That is not very informative my man. Germany is as whiskey lots of different parts with VERY different lifestyle’s and costumes.

[@travelingexpats]

@@touraneindanke Thanks for watching and sharing your thoughts.

[@nitka711]

How come you think your kids will want to stay in the US? With the current political climate, too! Don‘t you think they will want to come back when they are ready to start a family for the social security?

[@travelingexpats]

@@nitka711 I hope they will want to return, but I feel it’s unlikely. They have careers and are doing well in the U.S., although they acknowledge that there are serious issues there. They enjoy visiting Germany very much and often experience „Heimweh“ , but for the most part they are happy and feel their futures are in the U.S.

[@faragraf9380]

man sieht gar nichts über das schöne Deutschland, außer dem Gestrüpp.

[@travelingexpats]

@@faragraf9380 Ja, leider bin ich jetzt in den USA. Ich kann jetzt nicht in Deutschland stehen bleiben weil ich keinen Visum haben. Nächste Monat fliege ich zurück nach Deutschland. 🇩🇪 Danke für zuschauen und den Kommentar.

[@faragraf9380]

@@travelingexpats bestimmt gibt es jede Menge Bildmaterial auf dem handy.

[@53kama]

Viel geredet, nichts gesagt!

[@travelingexpats]

@@53kama Vielen Dank fürs Zuschauen und dafür, dass Sie sich die Zeit genommen haben, uns Ihre Meinung mitzuteilen.

[@Lifeinthewyldewest]

Hi! I'm so glad to be here! Betty has been leaving me such lovely comments and watching my content. You have such a great following and so many comments. Must be so hard to keep up with. I can't wait to watch more videos and learn more about you two. Amazing to me that in the beginning you actually didn't like Germany at all! You tell such captivating stories. I loved every moment of this video. I also want to take this time to thank you for serving for our country. I appreciate you. I love how Germany taught you to slow down. I have a good friend who lives in Berlin and it's on my dream list to visit her someday. I love to see your images and what she shares with me. We chat on What's App and keep in touch that way. She seems to me like salt of the earth human. I really love that you have a contrast of Germany verses the states.

[@travelingexpats]

@@Lifeinthewyldewest Thank You for watching our video and for your kind comments. We really appreciate your support. Our time in Germany has really shaped us into the people we are today. It’s a fantastic place and gives us such a special perspective on life. Berlin is an amazing city and a great place to visit.

[@Lifeinthewyldewest]

@@travelingexpats looking forward to watching more of your videos/adventures.

[@hans-heinerkleinmanns1955]

You are no Expats; you are tourists Ore immigrants. No Expats.

[@travelingexpats]

@@hans-heinerkleinmanns1955 Thanks for watching and sharing your thoughts.

[@whitesheepdriver79]

Wir wollen euch hier nicht

[@gigi2091]

Ich schon, ich mag die Ametrikaner so gerne und sie schätzen Deutschland so sehr. Ich glaube Du verwechselst sie wahrscheinlich mit den Ausländern, die hierher kommen und auf unser Kosten leben, die Sprache nicht lernen wollen, Gesetze und Kultur nicht respektieren und zudem noch rauben, verletzen und sogar Menschenleben fordern (noch nett ausgedrückt...)

[@minischembri9893]

Wer ist " wir" ?? A( rbeitsgemeinschaft) f (ür) D (umme) much ?

[@SOCIAL_MEDIA_CREEPS]

Armer Hasenpups 🥺

[@Dalmen]

Wir wollen dich auch nicht.

[@LETMino85]

Ich will dich hier nicht.

[@Kelsea-2002]

I grew up in Kaiserslautern and I know part of your story exactly. Because I know at least 20 American families who were stationed in Ramstein and who felt very similar to you. I wish that many Germans would see their country as you do. They don't even know how privileged they are.

[@travelingexpats]

It's a wonderful country and we feel lucky to live in Germany.

[@Karl-dd4om]

Privileged? You must be kidding, the economy is going downhill! Major companies are either leaving Germany or going to be insolvent! Uncontrolled migration and a soaring criminal rate are rampant! Our government is not creating jobs but destroying them!

[@wimschoenmakers5463]

So, you almost escaped the third world country called America, but you had a partial relapse? Maybe one day .......

[@travelingexpats]

@@wimschoenmakers5463 😂 maybe someday. Thanks for watching and taking the time to comment.