What 8 Years In Germany Does To You

[@NALFVLOGS]

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[@OrangeTabbyCat]

Would like the exact costs in Germany first

[@Marc_att_123]

i really liked the video, but i am very certain that the "i got hacked because i didn't use a VPN" story was at least partially untrue, simply because that's just not how that works. I'm perfectly fine with ads in videos, everybody needs to make money, however, i would much prefere it if you were honest while doing those ads.

[@daes5465]

Im German You hung around with settled stereotypes If you was with usual people you will see the Same Fake Shit as in USA The normal German IS an extremists too They are Not grounded They are also in an illusion They dont really Accept different people They lie and they Talk behind the Back As written Im German i know a huge amount of different people They are in different Staus of society from poor to rich I also wanted to know WHO These Humans IS as well as in other nations and everything IS exposed and christal clear You Made good experiences because of specific society you entered A huge amount of Germany IS distespectful bold and devious When they hear you are American they hide WHO they are Germans Fake things with using the Word sorry And because WE have a social system and health system and Pension system the government and the society IS bold and spoiled Enough IS Not enough Some Germans IS realy good people but they are naive following the Tagesschau They dont realy create chances for everyone As written You are American so they are showing you the best Side Go and Expose NRW and dont Tell everyone you are American Tell them you are polish or other You will see Its crazy in 8 years you dient exposed the Fake 😂😂😂 Many of my colligues and people i called Friends IS Fake 20% German IS good The amount of americans IS good and so 20% of mankind Everyone Else IS Just compromising illusions and extremist Shit A main fact IS that 30% of mankind IS narcissist so IT seems you dient met any German narcissist , Egoist ig orant or whatever If you confront German conservatives with the harsh reality they attack you as if you are stupid Not on their Level But thats they Same behaviour as everywhere I think you want to See Germans different The only Thing is different WE are in time If you meet the Standard worker 😂😂

[@daes5465]

Ja natürlich Natur Da werfen sie den Müll hin Willst du ein Foto vom Spielplatz hier ? Schick ich dir Von der ganzen Stadt 😂😂😂 Ordentlich Abfall überall Du lebst irgendwo in einem Dorf So wie ich das im Video sehe Rheinland-Pfalz, Bayern, Schwarzwald oder so Da ist es sicherlich so Aber ich bitte dich eine korrekte Darstellung zu schaffen und ins Ruhrgebiet und größten Städte zu ziehen , Essen, Dortmund, Duisburg, Gelsenkirchen usw Nach Frankfurt am Main oder auch Hamburg Und dort bitte in Bezirke due nicht der oberen Mittelschicht angehören Dann reden wir mal richtig Du erlaubst Deutschland hier als Märchenland , was hast du denn 8 Jahre hier gemacht ?

[@kingofthejungle2894]

What is the soundtrack of this video?

[@BruceBoschek]

I was born and grew up on the south side of Chicago where I never felt comfortable or felt as if I belonged there. After getting a BS in microbiology from Purdue in Indiana in 1965 I left the States for Europe. After a few months I felt like I was finally at home. Of course, in the beginning there was the beer, the sausages, the Autobahn and the Weinstuben, but after 6 months I got a job at a Max Planck Institute in Tübingen and that turned into a Doktorandenstelle, so I went on to get a doctorate in biological cybernetics, biochemistry and microbiology. The first time I returned to the US was 7 years after I left and it was a lecture tour, including a lecture at Purdue. I stayed at the Max Planck Institute for 12 years and then founded a department of electron microscopy at a major university in central Germany, from which I retired 40 years later. I have been married to a German textile and pastry artist who learned to make pies from me and went on to become a world-famous pie decorator and author of the definitive work on the subject. We bought and restored a 19th century abbey in which we live with our two German Shepherd dogs. I hijacked this video with my life story so that I could say this line: The very best thing I did in my life was to move to Germany.

[@lja530]

Wow, that is one impressive life story indeed, thanks for sharing. I'm German and of course I appreciate the good things we have but I don't feel as if I belong, I'm sorry to say. There are just a few typically German values I don't share and it makes a difference in day to day life. Maybe I need to follow your example and go and seek happiness somewhere else.

[@ClaireWellington676]

Very touching story. I enjoyed reading every line.

[@rainerm.8168]

Very interesting life story.

[@michelloenneberger8146]

good for you

[@dieterneudeck8726]

You would have mafe it everywhere, my guess

[@williamsmith455]

We all wish Deutsche Bahn shared our passion for punctuality.

[@stupidregistration]

Yep, that's the one exception here 😜

[@rikkidgermano9640]

One thing it did not change, your sense of humor. Yes, there are other KZbinrs from the USA living in Germany now but most of their videos are dull and boring but your videos are informing while still not missing the humor we've been getting throughout the years from you. Looking forward to the following years.

[@xliax4930]

How about complimenting people without being mean to others?

[@TimeCells2035]

@@xliax4930 It's impossible.

[@emjayay]

@@xliax4930 Stating facts is not being mean. Just ask a German.

[@frankgradus9474]

@@xliax4930 oh, come on, don't be a snowflake, it's just regular, good-natured banter

[@jayjaygothic]

@@emjayay It's not really facts though, it's an opinion on channels becoming lesser over time, but we're not told which KZbinrs the commenter is even referring to. Can only guess or assume things.

[@kimvaisanen7670]

Dear Nalf, Thank you very much for your Eight Years in Germany video on KZbin. Your kind words about European people, manners, nature, culture and history are so kind. There are so many nations and ethnic groups in Europe but punctuality is our Europeans good and bad manner. We Europeans like privacy. Nature is in our hearts. We love our nature. Four seasons in year is the best in Europe. European history is everywhere all over Europe. Old World means a lot all of us Europeans. It is our heritage. I wish you all the best! Greetings from Helsinki, Finland! Kim Vaisanen

[@Jasmine-b9u4z]

Nice words, but history isn't always simple to learn by sight, some don't even really learn history with vocabulary. Culture facts and Nature's facts are the most helpful lessons for distant adventures.... Or that's how my experience between books and computer sites has gone in America while studying with patience. Discoveries of culture help me adapt quicker.

[@jeffjeziorowski8612]

I love your videos! I was born in Germany to American parents. My father was in the army. I grew up hearing stories about Germany and how much they loved it there. When I turned 18 I also joined the army mainly to go to Germany. I was stationed in Würzburg 84-87 and Stuttgart 88-91. I married a German and everything you mentioned has also changed me. I still go back there as often as I can. I have few regrets in life but I do regret not staying in Germany 🇩🇪!

[@HoldMySoda]

Greetings from Würzburg. I remember the times when we went to the Leighton Barracks on the weekends and having a good time, there.

[@jeffjeziorowski8612]

@@HoldMySodaWürzburg is my favorite place in Germany. I was stationed at Leighton barracks. I’ll be back in Würzburg in April. I can’t wait!

[@siriosstar4789]

one of my favorite things about Germany is going shopping and not having to interact with people even though i am surrounded by them . People respect my non interaction as being ok . i also like that most sales people will not bother you.. I have to ask for assistance usually and then they are very helpful .

[@1958zed]

Love your comment about perspective gained by living abroad. When I was in the US Navy, I lived in Japan, South Korea, and the British Indian Ocean Territories, plus visited a number of countries in the Pacific Rim, Indian Ocean, Mideast, and Europe. Having that insight into how others perceive the US was quite interesting and valuable, and it was great to see how other countries do things differently-and often better-than we do. The key is having an open mind and willingness to learn. Sadly, too many Americans don't. Mark Twain once wrote, "Travel is fatal to prejudice, bigotry, and narrow-mindedness, and many of our people need it sorely on these accounts. Broad, wholesome, charitable views of men and things cannot be acquired by vegetating in one little corner of the earth all one's lifetime." So true. Lastly, on my first trip to Germany in 2007, I came across this on a bulletin board in the guesthouse I was staying at in my grandfather's hometown of Schöntal, not far from Schwäbisch-Hall: "Die Welt ist ein großes Buch, und jene, die nicht reisen, lesen nur die erste Seite." "The world is a great book, and those who do not travel only read the first page." Also true.

[@-weisherz-vonliechtenstein7761]

Hey, someone here from extremly close to Schöntal. Its a really nice place to hang out over the day or to cool of in the Jagst river. Hope you enjoyed it here. Thank you for sharing your perspective, its very rare to find open minded americans (or generally open minded people) that share their view at least in my corner of the internet, a true relieve from those crazy discussions inside of other comment sections. Greetings from Germany!

[@Cairol58]

@@-weisherz-vonliechtenstein7761So true!

[@Lenariet]

Not just Americans. There are still people here in Germany who for example get massively offended if you choose to wear a mask in public transportation or in other highly crowded areas. While I'm sure that there have also been people who were treated badly and who had serious medical conditions that made it impossible for them to adhere to public guidelines there most definitely are also those individuals who were simply too lazy, selfish and careless. Part of them are voting the strongly right-winged party AfD now, which is gaining immense updraft and who may soon-ish lead our country into darkness. But then you go visit Asian countries or "just" have a small Chinese community in your own city and see them wearing masks EVERY YEAR during flu season and you realize that some people in your own country clearly are whiny brats who might need a world tour to have their high attitudes properly adjusted. These people don't know to appreciate certain things anymore, currently the value of their own democracy. And we all may suffer for it one day.

[@juliashenandoah3965]

"The world is a great book, and those who do not travel only read the first page." This is nice and poetic. But I absolutely hate flying in real-life ... these disgusting narrow aluminium caskets filled with ten thousands of gallons of kerosene just waiting to start to burn after the SLIGHTEST technical error.... and avoid flying makes traveling around the world a bit difficult, just ship tickets would be possible ;) so page 1 and 2 must be good enough. Or waiting 50 years till Airbus finally makes their first electric-powered Tesla planes without tons of explosive kerosene and starting to travel in a few decades.

[@michaelburggraf2822]

About that small talk thing and Germany. My father and my grandfather liked to make funny small remarks to complete strangers standing nearby sometimes. It was something fitting to the situation and to brighten up the mood a bit. That of others and his own. Something to make the other person smile. And it works almost always. When I happen to find a good one I like to try that too and I enjoy it's effect on others and myself.

[@urlauburlaub2222]

Smalltalk in Germany was always rooted in homogeneity, where as in the US you have a mainstream culture above that, which works nearly everywhere. As Germany changed a lot recently, also from people getting very old and not being in the focus anymore, and internal migration, that homogeneity disappeared and so it became even more formal. Also people are less empathic, so many can't read beside the lines. Instead, many people try sucking infos out of you, why and how, but will never ever deliver anything back and think they are the greatest. In the US, the latter is less a case, as people are more positive in getting a return.

[@CharlesSummers-d1v]

Good analysis and I was onboard with all of it. I was born in 1957 and spent 3 years in Germany from 1980-1983. I was in the Air Force stationed on a German AFB and was therefor very immersed in the German society and culture. It only took a couple of weeks before I realized that I’d been given a unique opportunity. I did find that seriously trying to learn the language opened far more doors for me than if I had never tried. Although I was never fluent, I could speak and understand the language without having to use English. I never went home for the entire 3 years and really missed it once I returned home. Today, I live in a North Georgia tourist town that is German themed and has around 5 million tourists come through a year. We are super involved with most of the festivities and although it’s not Germany, it’s a great mixture of both worlds. Wishing everyone a great weekend and Fall Season. Guitar Player in Georgia.

[@peternase5103]

✌️

[@gyandajung4273]

In Cologne, we do love smalltalk as well... we talk to everybody whom we meet :-)

[@jayjaygothic]

I've heard good things about Köln, must be an ideal city.

[@alexanderschneider9121]

HM, you might as well move to the middle-east nowadays, its almost the same als Cologne

[@sirbonobo3907]

So true with all the negatives aswell.

[@blessingsoutlaw]

This was great! I wish all kids from the U.S. could take a gap year or two to travel...perspective is everything.

[@TimeCells2035]

They can't. It's too expansive for them. Not even one week. A year or two )))) Kidding?

[@RedZambala]

@@TimeCells2035 How Mormons do?! I live in Europe, and I have often seen Mormons around, they have a gap 1-2 years in Europe or other part of the world, they learn the language of that place, they communicate with local people a lot, I think that gives a big experience for them, and they live mostly on their & familiy savings as far I understand.

[@Allaiya.]

@@TimeCells2035 Expansive or expensive? Either way, there’s plenty of US kids who take gap years or study abroad during university. Some high schools take trips also. I know my sister’s husband high school class will be doing a trip to Europe in 2025. And my coworker’s wife is an Spanish teacher so they often go to Spain. They do trips every year actually to different places.

[@noooorm]

Great video. As a German living in the US since 6 years, I 100% echo the "outside in" / "inside out" perspective. I find it equally difficult to have a conversation about the US with Americans who never spent time outside of the US, and Europeans who never spent a significant amount of time in the US.

[@NavidReza-su1ku]

3:39 "There is a time for everything." - That actually is a german saying right there :D "Alles zu seiner Zeit."

[@sieglindesmith9092]

"To every thing there is a season" - I think from the old testament.

[@Oma_Wetterwachs]

​@@sieglindesmith9092 No, older

[@Abenahh]

@@sieglindesmith9092 Ecclesiastes

[@JohnMcDonald-ef5gz]

@@sieglindesmith9092 Yes.

[@TimeCells2035]

That's racist

[@heinerlanvers]

I am german and i love the small talk too....Yes its positive......kindness costs nothing

[@pwp8737]

but respect for privacy is priceless

[@blubbobbelo]

I hate it;D

[@bavariancarenthusiast2722]

@@blubbobbelo welcome to Germany then 😉

[@kaltaron1284]

I prefer politeness and proficiency. No need for small talk.

[@TimeCells2035]

And I am Russian. And I love to love... ))

[@lja530]

I feel like we don't really get winter in Germany any more, it's mostly just like a winter in the UK now, wet and miserable, whereas we used to have snowy, icy cold winters and I kinda miss those. I liked the video, I'm just nitpicking ;)

[@kaltaron1284]

Yeah, winter has been a bit of a let down in recent years. Then again the harsh winters in the 80s weren't really fun in many ways as well. But a lot in others.

[@Allaiya.]

It’s the same here where I live in the states. Winters seem to be much more mild. A white Christmas seems rare these days. Either it doesn’t stick or it doesn’t last long. :/

[@tinobommelino3376]

I don´t hink the amount of time you spend in the coutries gives you so much of another perspective, but specificly living with americans in the US and living with germans in Germany gives you a very precise picture. I still stay at my friends house when I go to Maine, where I used to live. And that really make me change my mind in a lot of topics after seeing german news on the US for a longer time. It actually gives me a more positive picture of the situation than we are beeing told in Germany.

[@melvinheward]

I agree with you! I lived in Berlin, Germany, on September 6th, will be for 46 years! I am from California.

[@amywalker7515]

Many of us went to Germany to work in the schools on American military bases. When I was there 1984-1987, I was amazed how many Americans had been there for decades. Many chose to retire there. I came back and wish I could go back. I also lived in France for a while. My problem is which country would I feel the most at home in now. My son is pitching for Spain, and then . . . there's Italy. Even Argentina has it's charm and entire culture to appreciate. Seems every country has it's advantages. Maybe we'll just be nomads till we decide which place is the best fit.

[@michellemoersch27]

I don't think the IS niceness is superficial. I'm also an American living in Germany. I recently flew back to the US because my aging dad was in the hospital. The kindness from everyone I met -- ranging from the medical staff to neighbors -- had me literally reduced to tears. Having helped care for my German parents-in-law until their deaths, including multiple hospital stays, I can say that there is no comparison when it comes to empathy and support. The US wins hands down.

[@gerhardma4687]

Yes, in many cases it is absolutely superficial. There are just as many examples where this friendliness and politeness is non-existent. In interactions at the airport with immigration authorities, in contact with police officers, in contact with people on the margins of society, for example. Americans are only friendly and polite when they interact with their peers or when it is expected of them professionally - such as in hospitals where patients pay horrendous sums for treatment and hospitals are in fierce competition with each other. An unfriendly doctor or nurse would be detrimental to business and would certainly often be fired immediately because it is so easy in the USA. And this hire and fire mentality is also what motivates people to be superficially over-friendly. You are under observation and 20 minutes later you can be out on the street without a job. But as with everything, you have to be careful with generalizations. I have also met an incredible number of honestly friendly, open-minded and super-nice people in the USA. It wasn't a show.

[@axelotl86]

You know what season looms on the horizon? Grünkohl season!

[@schneeroseful]

As a nordish person, yes yes yes! Living in Bavaria, it is not so much a thing here

[@sonjagatto9981]

@@schneeroseful I agree❣

[@sieglindesmith9092]

Your comment was so unexpected, I had to laugh out loud. And right you are!

[@stratotega]

What is grünkohl?

[@briocmonard1752]

@@stratotega Grünkohl -> Kale (green cabbage). One of the many vegetable seasons in germany. Like the asparagus season in spring, it is celebrated. And as delicious as it is, after the end of the season you'll get tired of kale for a year :-)

[@The1988Rose]

Big thanks for your work. You have the ability to really explain complex things in an understandable and respectful way!

[@khecke]

You mentioned living in both countries. I lived in Germany 23 years including during world war 2 and also lived in the US for 67 years and yes, I am interested in the history of both countries. The internet makes it easy to inform yourself about history.

[@karlerhardt]

I wish you the best health, Sir.

[@khecke]

@@karlerhardt Thank you.

[@adambriest5257]

i feel strange as a german to suggest this book to an american born citizen...Howard Zinn's excellent book "A People's History of the United States" (assuming you havent read it yet). should be on every curriculum in US schools,its a tough read but its important!

[@SecretSquirrel59]

I was my healthiest when buying in the open markets In Schwäbisch Hall.

[@flohteppich1363]

"People in Europe are a little bit more in tune with the natural cycle of things" and switching the scene to a cyclist. Made me laugh. 😄

[@marshallmkerr]

Bike must be biodegradable! 😆

[@norwegianblue2017]

Yeah, I had to scratch my head on that one as well. Americans live with vastly lower population density and fully embrace nature as part of their daily lives.

[@gammaraygem]

@@norwegianblue2017 lol, americans cant get anywhere without their car. If fastfood is "nature", sure.

[@jayjaygothic]

Americans go fishing, go to the beach, ride 4 wheelers, have campfires and go to the mountains to hike, it's not usual, even in the age of the cell phone. Fast Food is no longer a ''must have'' treat, things change, and Fast Food places been around since 1950's, and if it's eaten at the park it can be considered being out in "nature".

[@delanebredvik]

Awesome video! Really enjoyed this one. Totally agree.

[@VCRider]

Lots of great points!…you’re the type of person to make the most out of every situation and to make the world a better place.

[@jessicaely2521]

Spot on. I lived in Switzerland for 9 years. I moved back to the US and I'm always reading food labels, etc. Everyone thinks I'm nuts, but oh well.

[@Maxშემიწყალე]

why would you ever move back to the US from Switzerland?

[@Proudtobegerman]

You left Switzerland??😵‍💫😵‍💫😵‍💫

[@rainerm.8168]

Yeah, why? For me best country in the world.

[@lumina9995]

So do I! It's my body...🤷🏻‍♀️

[@MatthewC137]

When nuts think you're nuts you're doing something right!

[@holger_p]

Having inside and outside perspective to either of the countries is, what makes your channel interesting. If you just stay inside, you are kind of blind for the setup. Germans call it Betriebsblindheit.

[@Otte74]

Leaving the USC "just for a year"... was probably one of the best decisions of your life. You met tons of new friends, traveled many different countries, met the love of your life - but you still film a lot, made with unicorn town a film shown on multiple platforms... You got an italian citizenship and learned the european way. To quote Ferris Bueller "Life moves pretty fast. You don't stop and look around once in a while, you could miss it." Now you live in Europe, earn money with your films - and also have time to enjoy the benefits of traveling, Volksfest and lazy sundays. 😊 In the End: Leaving LA wasn't the worst decision. (To describe it the low-key german way 😉).

[@angelagr.5975]

Quite random, but: I love the random snippets of Schwäbisch Hall you throw into the video. Makes me look at my hometown with a different view

[@BucketList-qi3sm]

We live in the US (Florida) during winter and Schwaebish Hall in summers and absolutely love both places. Totally agree with you on food quality and interest in history. You might have also mentioned the weekly fests or besens in the area too. Never boring here. My wife told me her mom meant 12:00 for lunch and not a minute later, and that has helped stay on everyone’s good side. Thanks for the videos Nick! I most appreciate them in March or April, when I’m homesick about coming back to SHA.

[@kaltaron1284]

Yeah, many families take the 12:00 for lunch very seriously and if you are late there may be some lukewarm leftovers or something to heat up. Or not. It's of course different if you tell ahead that you can't make the normal time for a good reason.

[@cashmeremilk]

I love the openness of the Americans. Even if it’s superficial it’s super uplifting each other with some light small talk

[@roncenti]

Yeah... I can not talk to (lets say) Germans about the US when I visit because THEY are trying to tell ME what is going on in my country. I live in the US for over 25 years and they seem to think to know everything better. That irks me so much but I smile and change the subject. And I can not talk honestly about Germany to Americans either because their knowledge comes from a week or two on vacation in Germany and mostly Octoberfest or Berlin. That is not the same experience than to live there, to fight with authorities, find an apartment, etc... And you are right. If I meet an American who lived in Germany or a German who lives in the US, it is fun to discuss. Actually a German who lives in the US is more fun because us Germans love to discuss everything. Americans don't really. I miss totally random discussions where you can even disagree and still be friends (or friendly) after. Honestly Germany is one giant debate club.

[@HoldMySoda]

I think I know what you mean. Some years ago I just flew in from Germany and I was about to pick up my rental. It turned out that guy from the rental car company was stationed close to the place where I live. I told him that they closed down the post and it is used now as a refuge home. I shouldn’t have done that. He started to tell me how bad and unsafe our lives became. He thought he knew exactly what is going on Germany, without being there. He was absolutely convinced that he knows everything about my home and how bad everything became. It didn’t matter that I live there and just left like 10 hours ago.

[@Allaiya.]

@UserGaborIt is discussed /debated but only with people you are close to like family or good friends/coworkers. It’s always been considered impolite & rude to discuss politics (& sometimes religion) with strangers & acquaintances, or to bring it up at a dinner party because not everyone may agree. That advice has been around for decades now; I remember my mom telling me that as a kid. Personally I too would be annoyed if a foreigner (who only got their info from the news) brought it up because we already have those discussions/debates enough amongst ourselves online these days & on the news and everyone already criticizes the government on the regular, so it’s just tiring.

[@Allaiya.]

@UserGabor I’m not sure how it is hypocritical friendliness? Friendship & kindness shouldn’t be based off just one’s political views. Just like it shouldn’t depend on one’s race, religion etc. I like deep discussions myself, but if someone I don’t know well is bringing up politics right away, it gives me the first impression that they probably think & act like their way is the only right way. They’re not even open to a discussion. Usually that’s been my experience. If I’ve gotten to know them & feel like we’re reached that level, then it’ll naturally come up and both people are comfortable discussing the topics. Same goes for the topic of religion too.

[@Allaiya.]

@UserGabor Yes, it makes sense. And that’s nice. I think the two party system here just causes more polarization in general, but now especially with social media and the 24/7 cable news cycle which always seems to have hyperbolic headlines, it helps promote division unfortunately.

[@Allaiya.]

@UserGabor Yeah, I agree. Nice chatting with you also!

[@davidcomtedeherstal]

In Germany there is a word " Academics Quarter" for meetings outdoors. I know, that is somewhat annoying, but one has to endure it. Cheers from France. 🇨🇵

[@beatriceschmitt440]

Schwäbisch Hall! Great place to be!

[@p.s.shnabel3409]

I have to wonder if the "living with the seasons" is a question of where you live in the US? We live up north, in the countryside. And we have to take the seasonal changes into account when making plans. Very much so. As someone who immigrated from Germany, I'll probably never get fully used to how brutal the local winters can be. Storms take out our power grid every year, so you have to be prepared. Depending on the season, some big predators will be more dangerous than usual and you really want to keep that in mind when you go out after dark. Summers are mercifully short, but while they last, they're hot and humid and filled with a billion bug ... again, lots of preparations and considerations. The one difference between here and Germany is the availability of produce, though. That being said, I know better than to buy "strawberries" in winter :P Even if they were grown down south, they're harvested more or less green before being shipped up here. And so on. I still buy as seasonal as I can as a result. My American husband finds that funny but in the decade we've been together, he's gotten used to my ways. At this point, even he gripes about the way tomatoes taste in winter. Oh, and I got him addicted to sourdough bread.

[@blondkatze3547]

Great video , Nalf. That`s what I love about Europe , that you can travel to other countries and always eat the delicious specialities there. My husband is Italian and has lived in Germany for thirty-four years. Tomorrow we are flying to Italy , because we have been invited to the wedding . And the nice thing is that we can get there in two hours by plane. Bella Italia.😊🍕🍷Lovely Greetings from Northern Germany.

[@RichardBlaine-e2y]

3:39 Haha, "There is a time for everything" and shows a timeless Volvo in the background . . .

[@edonveil9887]

Since August 1974. Happy birthday! Må han leva uti hundrade år.

[@charlest8153]

As an American who lived in France and then Germany, I completely agree with everything you said. I totally get it. I feel I have such a deeper understanding of the world now.

[@amywalker7515]

You really can't understand the world until you've experienced the 3rd world too.

[@hrvojek9110]

Really nice video, I liked it.... coming from a person who is native of Croatia (born there), lived (and studied) in the States for about 10 years, and spend the last 10 years in Germany... so, I guess we could have a conversation on the subject matter once we meet... or via a virtual show. Great stuff, keep it up!

[@thejourney1369]

I’ve never been abroad, but I agree that we as Americans make alcohol an all or nothing thing. No one seems to know or understand that you can have just a glass of wine, a mixed drink, or whatever, and be done.

[@marmotarchivist]

I think it's important to buy seasonal food and the selection in European stores reflects that. Not only is it healthier, but the seasonal items tase better and it makes you appreciate limited items and renew interest when they are available once more. Same with the different weather, daylight hours, landscapes and activities. And the cyclical nature you mentioned is reflected in the ancient image of the rota fortunae and it can indeed be comforting.

[@DebYarbrough-sh3cd]

Older generations still do this, it's falling by the wayside over the years

[@LythaWausW]

I don't understand how seasonal food is healthier, can you explain why? For example asparagus has a unique nutritional profile and of course extended travel time can affect this. But it's still healthier than not eating it at all, I think.

[@marmotarchivist]

@@LythaWausW If you can choose to buy the produce with the higher nutricional value, it is better for you. Seasonal and local food often also has less pesticides and such. If the produce has more natural flavor, you will automatically need to add less ingredients, like fat, salt and other less healthy seasonings to make it tsste good. A seasonally changing diet is also good for your gut health. For example, fermented preserves, such as Sauerkraut, are ideal for your gut. Lastly, it is over all better for the environment to shop seasonally and locally and that is better for our health in the long run.

[@guyhunter4181]

I live here in Germany and have no plans on ever going back to the states

[@royhughes2854]

so do wish your brothers would start a TOUR COMPANY so that your fans can come to a pre-arranged (completely by you guys of course) tour of the GERMANY that you all have come to know & love, not the "touristy" places that typical tourists go & see. I wish you could give us the REAL experience that you have learned. You become our tour leader, you become the person that leads small groups into the experience of a lifetime. PLEASE????

[@A_Handle_2_Continue]

It's hard for me to interact with my fellow Americans, because I lived in Europe for a little over 8 years. There's an all in attitude about the states despite huge gaps in their knowledge of history, both US history and world history. I left Europe in 1990, nearly every day I wish I could go back to Italy, Germany or Greece. I'm leaning heavily towards Germany. I love that European countries have some guard rails against authoritarian figures. It's easy to find where they have failed. Poland, the European Parliament elections, Bavaria, Northern Italy etc. are just a few examples. Tell me if I'm wrong, but I feel that everyday life stays the same. You get your favorite bread, you sit at your favorite bar, you walk in the park or stroll through the woods. Despite the horrendous rhetoric of party officials, they aren't targeting individuals and the daily life. I'm Trans in a very unfriendly state, my home state of Florida. My being is physically and legally threatened daily. I barely avoided a road rage incident with a pickup truck while I was on a bicycle. I want out.

[@inParis1969]

Hi NALF! I like you and your videos very much! I haven't watched this to the end by now but nevrtheless want to say that I also appreciate your choice of (classical) music. Great!

[@give-peace-a-chance]

Dear Nalf, your haircut is getting much better since you arrived in germany. Best wishes 😉👍❤️🖖

[@madhurjo.karmaker]

Man! I need that ending music. It makes me fall in love with your videos over and over again.

[@utascholl6566]

I am German and live in Germany and we have many online summits were we are informed about toxicity in foods, cosmetics and products to clean the house. There are quite a lot of people and experts who inform people about living as healthy as possible, but the toxicity is here too. There are coaches too but the majority of people seems not to care

[@pqvid]

The thumbnail is genius! 😅 I agree with you on everything you said. Specifically on the part that it's now difficult to talk to your new friends about the US and Europe, as they don't have the same perspective. As it also becomes hard to talk to your old friends about the US and Europe, as they don't have the same perspective either. So while you can be (mostly) American with your American friends and relatives, and mostly European with your European friends, in fact you're a new person now, a new nationality: US+European. Some people are afraid of this and want to just be a part of a larger group. I, on my hand, always enjoyed being a part of a smaller group - so it fits me well and I quite like it. I have a feeling that you enjoy it too. Have fun and good luck with your channel! 👍

[@Kristina-jf4hd]

Schwäbisch Hall! My family lives in and around Stuttgart (where my late mother is originally from). I grew up in Nordrhein-Westfalen Westfahlen but moved to the US as a kid. I spent almost every summer in Stuttgart as well. I 💯 can relate to most of the things you mentioned; except I’m still not a huge history person. Glad I stumbled across your channel!

[@jennywells416]

I'm a born and raised German/American. Lived in Germany for 33 years and almost 10 years in the US now. Watching this video makes me miss Germany sooo much and I'm happy that i made the decision to move back to Germany next year.

[@Ulysses88047]

Things have changed VERY MUCH in Germany , the last years.....👎

[@jennywells416]

@Katharsis44-091 🤣🤣 the world has changed since 2020. Try living here for awhile and we'll talk again. Also, I know it has changed. I might not live in Germany but I'm not completely out of this world. One wrong turn, one mishap, or one mayor sickness, and you can lose everything here.

[@Ulysses88047]

@@jennywells416 Yes of course...and here in Germany , every day there are innocent people in the bus in the shop on the sreet and in parks , who are killed by islamic Migrants...EVERY DAY....and several times a day girls and women are being raped.....We have now millions of young men from Africa and Afghanistan and Syria who need women....😊

[@Ulysses88047]

@UserGabor THIS IS THE TRUTH ! I live in Germany and experience THIS every day !

[@drau331]

Punctuality: I would rather be there half an hour early and be able to prepare for the meeting than a single minute late and start getting angry on the other side

[@Maruun1986]

Its easy for me to forgive someone for being late when he tells me he is going to be late. At least he still is honoring our appointment and has the respect to tell me that he will be late. Rather me being in the dark if he still coming or not or i need to start making calls to find out something that is not my fault in the first place.

[@kaltaron1284]

This gets difficult when you have multiple meetings over a day. Or if you have to commuite from place to place. Still feels bad.

[@margotsobotka575]

Punctuality? with German trains? it is known it is not true... Please, stop those cliches...

[@gerhardma4687]

@@margotsobotka575 Just try reading, thinking and understanding! Where did he say anything about Deutsche Bahn and its punctuality? Not a single word. He talks about punctuality in general. And there are actually trains that are on time. So, better think in future before you make a fool of yourself. You've just succeeded.

[@wacholder5690]

People say "Travelling is educational". And living abroad also sharpenes the senses for the things and formalities you have accepted as "given". Living elsewhere changes your viewpoint and it makes you understand quite a bit more of the odds and ends as well. You can't judge when you don't know the facts and cannot compare. Thanks for sharing !

[@masterk4596]

Danke für diesen Erfahrungsaustausch und deine Eindrücke. Sicherlich hat Deutschland und Europa seine Baustellen, und jedes Land hat so seine Vor- und Nachteile. Trotzdem ist Deutschland lebenswert. Was ich dir mit auf dem Weg geben kann/muss: beschränke deinen Blick nicht nur auf Westeuropa. Entdecke mal Tschechien, Polen oder gar das Baltikum. Dann wirst du die Idee des vereinten Europa erleben und genießen können. Grüße aus Regensburg !

[@Henning_Rech]

Polen und vereintes Europa?

[@doreenk8526]

Make your experience in a Hostel 😅in Poland or Slowakei 🤣😂🤣, But be careful 🙈 horror movie start this way

[@williamcody5271]

Joined the US Navy and (unintentionally) made it a career. Was stationed overseas a total of 11 years, Japan, Korea, Philippines, and Diego Garcia. So, I understand your final point very well, having seen America through foreign eyes.

[@1958zed]

@@williamcody5271 Wow. Fellow Navy vet here. Yokosuka, 1983-84; Diego Garcia, 1986; joint assignment at HQ EUSA, Seoul, 1991-93. Made a similar comment earlier in this thread.

[@williamcody5271]

@@1958zed USS Midway (twice, best ship in the Navy) and NAS Atsugi, 79-81 & 88-91. CNFK Seoul '82. Diego AIMD 210 also 1986. Carry on Shipmate.

[@1958zed]

@@williamcody5271 Cool. My first deployment (1983-84) on USS Cochrane (DDG 21) was pretty much spent 2,000 yards astern of Midway in plane guard station. On DGAR, I was with Maritime Prepositioning Ships Squadron TWO and lived aboard the MV Cpl. Louis J. Hauge, Jr. anchored in the lagoon.

[@anitapeludat256]

I lived and worked in Bavaria , Germany for 5 years in the early 2000's. I'm from a full 4 season climate in New England. I found Autumn to be depressing as it's called "Golden October" in Bavaria. The "golden" was a flat yellow, turned to brown. Autumn has always been my favorite season, but , I found "Golden October" to be too disappointing and dull. I made certain I traveled home to New England in mid September to mid October for the brilliant riots of colors and brilliant blue skies of Autumn in a great many USA states. I'm also told we have incredible greenery in spring in the USA vs England. I assumed the rain meant abundant greenery, there. And we have far more bird species, with a loud chorus of many varieties all the time. The states are very fortunate with our seasons.

[@gigibenea3529]

I am not sure since when we are following you 😀, but at least 5years , before Covid 😅yes we all have changed 😅😅😅

[@jamesd9900]

Great video as always, thanks! What I find interesting about the whole small talk topic on these types of channels, is that it almost seems like Americans are viewed as the only small talkers out there. Actually, I would include most of Latin America, Ireland and Scotland to name a few areas of fellow "small talkers." I have to say though, having been to Germany (which I absolutely love btw) a few times in the past couple of years, I appreciate the lack of small talk in line at grocery stores. I don't mind a little because I'm very sociable, but not when everything comes to a halt, well... ;D

[@benjamindejonge3624]

Before we had Elvis but you’re the new world champion rockstar in Germany now.

[@Proudtobegerman]

Nickelback?

[@stevemenegaz9824]

I am surprised you didn't mention German directness and clear thinking. Its refreshing.

[@Whippy99]

Agreed! 😊

[@heinervogt4484]

Yep! A girlfriend of mine came from Seattle to germany , Duisburg! The first contacts shocked her but time after time she realized that is not kindles but straight and serious. Later , she loved it !

[@froggreen2067]

Danke ❤

[@DJMikeron]

😂😂😂those qualities disappeared long ago

[@billynash6768]

The German directness is repulsive, disrespectful and hurts people. That is why all foreigners living in Germany don't like Germans. The humor is even worse, it is based on gloating/schadenfreude and is constantly hurtful.

[@joannunemaker6332]

I really enjoyed Germany when I visited there. The food is fantastic. I enjoyed this video. 😊❤

[@tedcoates402]

If you'dl ivedin Spain or Thailand no doubt you would have changed .If you'd stayed in the USA you would have changed/matured greatly. It's not Germany, it's you, adapting to your experiences. ou are lucky enough to see your home country from a distance and that is very valuable.

[@johnl5316]

We can never prove a NEGATIVE

[@nevermindthees]

@johnl5316 But we can disprove a negative. (Popper)

[@habicht6]

I am German.....and I like smalltalk-....

[@oceanwave4502]

Immigrant-background german?

[@habicht6]

@@oceanwave4502 12 Jahre im Ausland

[@dertechniker8867]

I agree with the nature. No other country has a stronger bond to their forest for example.

[@horst4439]

funny. The US have a heck lot more of this. Romanticising about this appears to be the matter of germans. Despite they cut down their natural forests in the past and replaced them with boring plantages of spruce trees (with some delay), which are bound to be consumed now by bugs because of the big change.

[@bernardinelermite1133]

Scandinavians and Canadians do love their forest too, just to mention 2 very forestry countries. I guess Amazoninans do too 😄

[@DJFalkoHannover]

Sweden, Norway … MUCH more than Germany! Go visit there before you make such statements :)

[@Daniela-sk1rk]

Not true. Scandinavians and Finns are at least as connected to nature as we are, if not more! I have experienced it for many years. :)

[@Morticia147]

Hmmm, I am a German and I don't think that we have a bond with nature at all. Doing Sports outside and rampaging in the Mountains and Forrest doesn't count in my mind. If you think WE have a strong bond to nature than I don't want to know how it is elswhere.... Here I have always the impression that every little weed has to be killed and don't eat something that grows in the wild because a Rabbit might have sniffed on it. That's what I get from my fellow Germans.

[@musicofnote1]

Wait until you've ben there for 45+ years like I have been in Switzerland. BTW - I'm in your neighborhood until Wednesday. Enjoying the various small cities and their "old Townes". Lovely corner of the world!

[@bjorndehoust5768]

... you're the reason, Bro', I gotta visit Schwäbisch Hall myself...😅

[@aritakalo8011]

Well Americas does have thousands of years long history. However to study that one has to study people like the Aztecs, Inkas, Inuits, So if one wants to say study the long past history of USA, well one has to start studying like "What was the The Iroquois League doing 500 years ago". Sadly lot of this has been lost, since many used biodegrading building materials. Then again Aztec and inka architecture is very much around with the grand stone buildings. Also stuff like "oh that hill on the field in middle of USA, oh it ain't no hill, it's old human built mound". Just like there isn't that much left of say European anglo-saxon architecture, since well they built using wood. All you get is post holes in the ground and bottoms of fireplaces pretty much.

[@G.Harley.Davidson]

Jemand hat Nalf auf Leavenworth, Washington in den USA aufmerksam gemacht. Es ist gestaltet und sieht aus wie eine bayerische Stadt mit deutschen Einwanderern. Nicht weit von dem Ort, wo NALF aufgewachsen ist. Das wäre cool, wenn er Lauras mitbringt, dann können sie es besuchen!🍻🍻

[@michaelbright7577]

I lived three youthful years in Germany in the early sixties and have always had fond feelings for Germany as my youthful home. But this aversion to being polite and trying to spread cheer to others is unbecoming to any culture. You can call it small talk, but any effort to spread cheer to another life is a valuable asset to any culture. Peace and love, Deutschland.

[@astral_hearts3454]

Your videos atm are the only positive videos about the country I was born in Germany kind of a releaf of the current depression Ive been getting from being German. Im more proud to be a Freiburger than being German tbh.

[@matt47110815]

I totally get what you mean about the outside perspectives. I too have a hard time talking about Germany or the USA with most people. I lived 24 years in the US, 26 in Germany - so yeah, I suppose I am more aware of some things than the average person. 😅

[@PatCall-n1t]

Really enjoy your channel and happy to see videos from the Cedar Mill area. Currently cruising/biking on the Danube. Next is Munich, Bamberg, Berlin and Mainz.

[@fonebonedon]

I spent a year in Bochum. We had a very mild winter compared to what we have in a typical Minnesota winter.

[@holz6661]

I suppose you live in the South of Germany. The people there are different from other regions.

[@ryanmyer]

If you consider American history only from the moment Europeans discovered it, then yes, it's much shorter than European history.

[@stefanadolfspies]

Hey Nalf, what would you think is the perception of germany of a stationed US soldier ? can you do an interview with one?

[@paulfalke6227]

I am a german that has worked in the US. About US history: it is as long as the "old world" history. Just ask the natives. About small talk: I like the US small talk. In Germany there is some small talk between people seeing each other again and again, like the cashier in the supermarket you visit twice a week or the hairdresser, the most small talk oriented person in Germany. Thanks for your positive opinions about the "krauts".

[@andreseuler5989]

The topic of smaltalk in Germany is very dependent on the region! You probably live in a southern region where people are relatively reserved and sceptical. I grew up in a region where there is a lot of smaltalk, always nice and with everyone. Now I live in the south of Germany and I really miss that too!

[@t.kausch419]

Well done Nick.... weiterhin eine tolle Zeit in Deutschland. Bin gespannt wann Du (Ihr) nach Amerika geht.

[@wolfgangkranek376]

The thumbnail was pure gold. 🤣

[@gregoryPurpura]

Vivaldi was Italian! Yes the food issue is a big one.

[@coellnbrueder8879]

The last time I did small talk with a cashier, I asked a man by the name of "Herr Vorent" whether anybody has made fun of his name yet. He said no, so I told him that at least he could never be legally divorced, because it would always remain a "Vorent-scheidung", which is a preliminary decision.

[@vbu1957]

Thank you and ❤ you. All the best for you and your fiance!

[@shoelacedonkey]

3:06 the natural cycle of things... (I see what you did there) 😂

[@Solaris0071]

How is your German coming along?

[@sacroyalty]

Another banger. I agree on it all, well done

[@sonofa1000fathers]

As a German living in Canada and Germany I totally understand what you mean by being able to have the best discussions with others who have also lived in Germany (or other European countries) and North America. You feel right away that you are on the same wavelength.

[@Bueddenwarder-Aggerschnagger]

Nice! 😃 Greetings from Berlin to Schwäbisch Hall!

[@marcom2248]

You have been germanized... 👍 Live long and prosper.

[@lazarjd]

I get an "all we are is dust in the wind" vibe when I'm in Europe. Maybe it's the crushing amount of history or less emphasis on individualism, but it's there.

[@heiner97]

I living in the US now for almost 25 years I got used to the small talk and enjoy it but it depends on the situation. Sometimes I still think, it is a waste of time. I got less punctual and can make fun of the German punctuality at times like e.g. one scene in the British comedy series ‘Halo Halo’ about German occupation of France in during the Second World War. ‘Don’t be late, don’t be early either, be punctual’, that just cracked me up. I like the prospective I got to have lived in Germany and the US to see that both countries have their good and bad sides.

[@m98de]

So, you are still enjoying it to live here! Zjats cool, btw congratz to Laura, she´s awsome

[@bazzjumpa1984]

question: why do you need to be asked by a cahsier asked for how you do? They don't care, it's their duty to ask the customers. Does that really make you feel better when somebody ask you for no reason? I don't because I don't care either way!

[@larsedik]

I've never had four seasons and never felt a need for them. I was born in Texas and then moved to California when I was 22 and have spent most of my adult life in southern California near the beach, where the weather is springlike all year. It was difficult to understand history in Texas and California, since both places are so new.

[@baramuth71]

Hello Nalf. I absolutely have to ask myself is the FDA actually aware of what they are actually doing to the people in the USA. One has the suspicion that this is being done on purpose. It can also be seen as a cycle. People eat the food, get sick, have to go to the doctor, but you still have to eat every day, the misery doesn't stop. And living healthier in the US, well, you know how expensive the food is, and that's the third cycle, food contaminated with chemicals and harmful ingredients. A dangerous life in the USA, poisoned by food. But here in Germany you are in very good hands with Laura. You can be glad that you have her.

[@roncenti]

No. That is a conspiracy theory based on assumption like most of those. In the US it is just upside down. "Free" market is apparently the most important thing and the attitude in almost everything is that I can do it until somebody tells me I can not and then I will sue them and when a court decides I cant do it then I don't do it. All this stuff in food is in there for pure greed. It is cheaper or makes the food more addictive or last longer. It is that simple. The whole system is corporation based. People are the consumer or the product. All you have to do to be healthier in the US is check the label and see what is in it and only buy what is good for you. Unfortunately that costs more money and people with a low income cant afford that so cheap processed food is the only way they can eat. Nobody can cook anymore. But that is slowly changing due to the trend of Subscription meal kits. Once the person notices how to prepare the food in the kit, they can just buy it themselves and cook. Also Fast food and restaurants have become so expensive that people are forced to cook at home but boy.... I have met so many people who cant even make a simple breakfast.

[@pwp8737]

all governments in the USA are dedicated to promoting businesses. Government of the donors, gov't by the donors and gov't for the donors.

[@letsdance4078]

Yes the US knows quite well that the hundreds of chemicals in nearly all the food available to Americans is unhealthy and dangerous. The US is a very sick country, but what matters is profits- whether that be a company like Monsanto which continues to use deadly cancer causing chemicals in most vegetables and fruits farmed, or pharmaceutical companies who are deeply involved in the for-profit pyramid of disease and death. America is an unhealthy place to live- from crime, to the politics of deceit birthing the grifting loser Donald Trump.

[@Oma_Wetterwachs]

You're naive,sry :(

[@baramuth71]

@@Oma_Wetterwachs who is naive, what do you mean. you should explain that in more detail if you accuse someone of something like that

[@spoon1968]

I'm torn on small talk. Sometimes it is nice to have a conversation with a stranger, it can be uplifting and make you feel good about the world. On the other hand, it can be irksome when you are just trying to purchase something and move on with your day. I don't want to be rude, but I also don't want to tell a random cashier my plans for the day or weekend/ make up some platitude. The states are young, but small town local history can be incredibly interesting.

[@Why-D]

I like the part "There is a time for everything!". And eating seasonal food worked for centuries. And on drinks, there are so many non-alcoholic options, which now also taste good. There are non-alcoholic beers in any restaurant available today.

[@ane-louisestampe7939]

Ralf, you're SO right, we simply can't see the ground we're standing on. We have to take step a side, to see it 🤓 A couple of years abroad will TEACH you about your own culture. Until you then, you're just living it 😉 Love your videos! I learn about the US and Germany in one go. And I learn how much Danish culture is like the German. Until some one from an other continent looked at us, I thought we were very different 🤣