REVERSE CULTURE SHOCKS! | Going Back to America After Living Abroad in Germany for 8 Months!

Going back to America after living abroad was a bit weird for us!! There were definitely some things that gave us a bit of a culture shock!!
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0:00 Introduction
1:42 Driving Differences
3:45 Landscape differences
5:02 Hugging + Interactions
7:33 Carpet
8:47 Recycling Programs
11:18 Infant Seatbelt on Airplanes

[@ellenschafer1918]

Carpets were common in Germany as well, but went out of fashion starting in the 90's. Generally carpets are very unhygenic and nasty, even tho it feels more cosy on the feet. Wood, laminat and tiles are easier to clean. If one wants to have more a carpet feeling, there are smaller 'mobil' ones. Easier to keep clean and change if cleaning does not work anymore.

[@michaelgrabner8977]

"Generally carpets are very unhygienic and nasty" I really don´t think so. I grew up with carpets in every room...they got vaccuum cleaned every day and wet cleaned at least once per month...So it depends solely on the carpet owners if their carpets are "unhygenic and nasty"..therefore that´s not "generally" ...some households are unhygenic and nasty without any carpets as well...solely either the people are unhygienic and nasty "generally" or they aren´t ....just saying

[@peterkoller3761]

@@michaelgrabner8977 tear out one of those "clean" carpets after a couple of years and then shake them out. I promise you will be grossed out!

[@leDespicable]

@@michaelgrabner8977 There lies the problem...you need to hoover very often to keep carpets clean, which is just impractical and annoying.

@@peterkoller3761 Look at your skin under a microscope. I promise you will be grossed out!

[@Greenwood4727]

the problem with wood floors, they can get slippery, and you can easily slip carpets have more grip

[@katriarjava658]

I can't fathom why people would want to hug strangers. I save hugging to people who I'm close to or have a hugging relationship with. An honest handshake is worth so much more than an empty hug. We Finns value our personal space and I find someone saying "I'm a hugger" and just proceeding to act accordingly really presumptuous. It gives more pleasure to let a relationship develop organically and eventually reach the hugging stage (sometimes sooner, sometimes later). Anyway it is important to learn about other cultures and ways of life and every time the cultures meet there is room for compromise. I do hope you enjoy your time in Europe and can combine the positives of both counties into your life.

[@christineperez7562]

Not every American is going to hug a stranger. I don't talk to people I don't know either.

[@huskytail]

I am Bulgarian and I'm with you on this. Even the kisses are creepy and unpleasant, hugs.. Just no. One arm length distance is absolutely perfect for strangers and acquaintances 😁

[@starseed8087]

Carpets are just an outdated thing here and Im happy about it. I grew up with carpets on the floor and every time a glass with juice or something like that felt down it was a mess. Wooden floors look so much better and are so easy to clean, especially for my vacuum robot..

[@OurStorytoTell]

That is too true-Much easier to clean up!

[@bernadetteontour3891]

Depending on the area and the age, Germans are big huggers! But Covid is a gamechanger and you arrived in the middle of an pandemic! I miss hugging, but hopefully sooner than later times will change again!

[@OurStorytoTell]

Yes exactly! It’s fun to hear that more Germans are huggers than we thought! 😊

[@isav5276]

Yeah, wanted to write the same. We are huggers. Especially in the south of Germany. But Covid happened and took us our lovely hugging habit :(

[@electronblue8334]

@@OurStorytoTell It definitely depends on the region in Germany. When my brother moved to Berlin, he suddenly became a hugger. But I doubt it was ever a common behaviour in the North (north of Hamburg). But one of the first things we were told to stop when the pandemic started was shaking hands and hugging people.

[@swanpride]

@@OurStorytoTell Depends on the area where you life and the circles you move in. Like, students are often huggers, but it is extremely unusual behaviour in a more professional setting.

[@wandilismus8726]

Bahh in northern Germany we hope to go back to 6 to 8m distance. 1,5 to 2m is so close 😛

[@dairuna]

Living in Germany: We used to have carpets in the living-room and the "clean" part of the hallway when I was a child. The entrance, kitchen and bathrooms were always tiled, for ease of cleaning. Those carpets used to be glued down and were installed to stay for years! The thought of it makes me shudder, hehe. Nowadays we have a carpet/big rug (washable) in the livingroom between the sofa area and the TV, so we don't get cold feet in winter - everything else is laminated flooring or tiled. Also, allergies, yes. Most of my family members have allergies, so keeping the carpets and fabrics to a minimum helps keeping the dust out of the living space.

[@PeTer-xd8nx]

It is a pleasure to welcome you back to Germany. You 3 are an enrichment for every community. In the north of Germany we say: you can watch on Fridays who comes to coffee on Sunday. But I think in Utah you see it already on Wednesday. I think the world would be a better place if every state would spend its military budget to let its young citizens explore other cultures for 2 years. Just to show them that their bubble is not the center of the earth. I wish you a happy and healthy stay in Germany - you are very welcome.

[@OurStorytoTell]

Thank you so much ❤️ Such a kind comment! It really is so important for everyone to better understand the world and how other people live.

[@MikeS29]

@@rockymtn1291 Say you don't know what socialism is without saying you don't know what socialism is...

[@rockymtn1291]

@@MikeS29 What countries do you think practice socialism?

[@irenestrmnss4496]

​@@OurStorytoTell wall to wall carpets are not so healthy for allergies , but many have it in the bedrooms . Not so modern here anymore. Strange thing is that in USA people dont take off their shoes.

[@mickey23052]

I am glad that you like it in Germany and that you feel comfortable here!

[@OurStorytoTell]

We do! Thank you 💛

[@DavidJones-oc3up]

Liked the video. I moved to the Czech Republic from Michigan in 2001, and have only returned twice, the last time being two years ago. It was definitely something of a culture shock to me because so many things had changed. I have to say that it was great seeing old friends and eating my favorite dishes again, dishes that I can’t get in the Czech Republic. But I was happy to return to the Czech Republic, and happy that it’s home now. All the best to you guys.

[@OurStorytoTell]

Thanks David! How cool you live in the Czech Republic! We cannot wait to visit your home country someday. 😊 We can relate with you feeling some culture shock & how nice it is to visit the areas, but then go back home.

[@dudoklasovity2093]

I know exactly what you mean. I am Czech and have been living in LA 5 years now. I came to the point of returning back exactly because it’s much better to go back, so many things have changed. I like USA a lot I have part family here and originally came to stay, but my life was more rewarding, meaningful and peaceful in CZ.❤️

[@bjoern0975]

Even though carpets used to be more common in Germany, too, until the 90s, even back then there were differences in comparison to the U.S.: carpeted floors in Germany used to have very thin and "hard" carpets, whereas in the U.S. they were and still are often quite fluffy and thick. Also, in the U.S. you do find carpeted floors even in public areas such as airport terminals. In Germany, there will always be marble or some other kind of polished stone floors.

[@BlissLovePeace]

Thank You guys! As a German, having lived 16y in the USA myself (14y CA, 2y NM) I can totally relate. My wife, who is American, is more European/German than me meanwhile in everything she expects, appreciates and does not want to live without any more.

[@flofaehrt]

Oh, houses used to have Carpets in the 70ies & 80ies. Then it got old fashioned. I put wooden floors in my whole house. That is a lot better then tiles (too cold and hard) or laminate (ugly). It is very nice to walk on wood. On top of the wooden floor I put carpets. Smaler ones in the hallway and the bedrooms, a big ones in the livingroom and in the diningroom. If you think they are too dirty to only vacuum them, you can hang them outside and clean them with a carpet knocker (Teppichklopfer, that word I had to look up:-). I was surprised the first time how much dirt was falling out of a vacuumed carpet. Or give it to a professional carpet cleaner. Oak in all rooms except the living room there is bamboo, the bathroom has tiles, also the kitchen has tiles. It makes sense not to have wood in wet places... Schöne Grüße Florian

[@maxbarko8717]

Another reason for not having carpets anymore in Germany might be in-floor heating which became more popular in Germany in the 90s.

[@annabelv.2400]

About carpets: when I was little, full carpetting used to be pretty common. But because of the allergies problems , hygiene, durability and just plain easyness to clean, wood and tile or laminate floors have now become more of a norm. About the hugging, I think the Covid/social distancing is partly responsible for that.

[@OurStorytoTell]

Yes all of those things make sense! Thanks!

[@zeideerskine3462]

Before Covid, hugging strangers was the normal form of address in Bavaria. In the north, we tend to keep five meters distance, speak up to three words a day, and do not leave our homes unless we absolutely have to and all other options have been exhausted. Most northern Germans did not really notice the quarantine measures.

[@agnes15101968]

And here is a sample of northern German charme and humour :)

[@elisabethstrazzanti2312]

Haha

[@Korinthe0203]

Welcome back home 😘 stay healthy and have a nice turn of the year. A simple tip from us from Northern Germany, stay with us forever. You are welcome. Big hug to the little one.🥰

[@OurStorytoTell]

Love that tip! 😉 Really it means a lot! Happy New Year to you!

[@regenbogentraumerin]

I remember a lot of friends having carpets in the house or flat when I was a child (in the 90s), but nowadays it's not really a thing anymore. We still have carpets on the upper floor in my parents house and just put a new one in about a year ago but we don't use that floor during the day, the carpet just makes it feel more cosy in the evenings when we spend some time in our bedrooms. In the lower floor where people are running around all day and bringing dirt in we have tiles and hardwood floor, it's just much easier to clean. About the hugging: Among younger people it's pretty normal to hug strangers when meeting for the first time or at least when saying goodbye, during the pandemic it's just gotten less and less. When it's over I'm sure you'll experience people hugging you way more often.

[@mojganjazayeri1862]

All comparison were very interesting. I have to say you guys always describe it so well that your videos are interesting to watch. Thanks for sharing your life experiences it is very appreciated. Looking forward to seeing more videos and I am so glad three of you are healthy and you are back to Germany.

[@OurStorytoTell]

That means a lot to hear that! Sometimes we feel like we don’t do a great job so thanks! We are definitely trying 😊 It’s fun to share with you guys!

[@nairbvel]

Former U.S. Foreign Service kid here... and wow, even though I never *lived* in Germany (after South America, Belgium & the Netherlands were home at different times) a lot of what you talk about is *so* familiar. The landscape differences are, as you mention, totally dependent upon where you are -- but almost everything else is a cultural thing. Of course the pandemic has been a real game-changer for everyone, but I don't see any of these differences going away soon. It's part of the spice that makes travel outside one's home culture so interesting! BTW, except for the kitchen and bathrooms, my townhouse is fully carpeted, as are all the others in my very large neighborhood. This is because it was the cheapest way for the builder to put them up. The only exceptions are those houses where the homeowners have had hardwood, laminate, and/or tile installed themselves. It's very common in this area (I'm in the Mid-Atlantic area on the East coast) for non-carpeted floors to be an extra-cost option in new homes, if they're even available at all.

[@LaureninGermany]

I originally come from Britain and I also missed the way we greeted people there when I came to Germany. People thought I was strange for offering hugs, „too soon“ I think, and I think they were mistrustful of my intentions (lol that sounds odd- but was and is still painful, tbh). Carpet- I miss the feeling of walking on soft carpets, but really appreciate the cleanliness of washable flooring, especially in hotels! Be careful in Germany, barefoot on hard floors can lead to pain. Talking from experience. Hugs from Bavaria (if I may hug, of course 🤗🤗🤗)

[@Kurikost_]

i always thought, hugs are a southern european thing..and no hugs is a central european or more a northern european thing

[@LaureninGermany]

@@Kurikost_ I don’t know about that. I am Welsh, which is already different to how English people tend to behave. And male friends hugging each other in Germany was a massive surprise for me! That was unusual in GB.

[@OurStorytoTell]

It’s really fun to hear about what your “normal” was for hugging!! Hugs back to you!! 😊 Thanks for your comment.

[@leDespicable]

Germans generally only hug close friends, hugging your average acquaintance is kinda weir lol

[@erikagoodale9014]

It's great to see you happy and healthy back in Germany! I just want to say that I experienced the same feeling to come "home" after visiting family. It was great to not have to go see someone and have a chance to relax. I loved my family but it became stressful to see everyone in a short period of time. We had no downtime! It was exhausting! Once we were home, I so enjoyed to just be with my husband and kids. Enjoy your beautiful home and have fun!

[@ernestmccutcheon9576]

Hi guys, welcome back. Regarding carpeting, 25-30 years ago, carpeting was pretty prevalent in German homes. Over time carpeting has been replaced by laminated/wood flooring tile. Probably due to more floor heating, but also due allergies and cleaning issues.

[@OurStorytoTell]

Makes sense!

[@WolfyLuna]

I am from the Netherlands myself, in my home and the one of my parents we never had carpets as it is just easier to clean any other kind of floor. Especially in the living room and dining area where one tends to drop a lot more food and drink stuff to the ground by accident. I have seen other people's bedrooms that had carpet in them but my mom is sort of against it herself and I took over her habit :)

[@veronicajensen7690]

I Denmark as in Germany and many other European countries, there was a time where carpet were more common, it went out of fashion. Wooden floors or tiles is cleaner and look better, I think that is what a lot of us think. Smaller carpets under the tables where you sit and naked floors in main areas are the most common now.

[@tommay6590]

Finally is someone addressing the main - and for me very obvious - difference between USA and Germany or other European countries: space and topography , especially in the west. The possibility to see for miles, the low density of population, creates a feel of freedom not normally found in Europe and thereby „mindsetting“ in the truest sense:-)

[@PJHMX]

Wilkommen in Deutschland wieder Taner & Risa !! Interesting to know how big the differences are between US and Germany. Always happy to watch your videos. Thanks for sharing them ! ❤️

[@OurStorytoTell]

Thank you PJ! We love sharing our experience! 😊

[@Uhrenfreund.]

Hello dear people. 🙋‍♂️ Welcome back to your new home. 👍 Nice to have you back. 😁🥰 Looking forward to your next video's. Wish you a nice and quiet Sunday. ✅

[@Sterndli98]

The carpet thing changed here in switzerland about 20 years ago. Before everything was carpet. I‘m glad thats changed because of allergies. But the reason I think is really ease of cleaning, looking more modern and durability.

[@OurStorytoTell]

Makes complete sense! Love seeing you’re from Switzerland. Gosh we love your country so much! Thanks for commenting😊

[@k.schmidt2740]

I didn't put wall-to-wall carpeting in our house, when we initially renovated 15 years ago, mostly for cleaning reasons. I am sensitive to dust and just do not like carpet I can't wet clean at least weekly. In the course of the years, that choice has proven to be right for us. It also gives you the opportunity to place some witty and/or beautiful area rugs.

[@emili9715]

In Italy we don't use carpets much. It Is for hygenic purposes, they get veeeery dirty and are hard to clean

[@elisabethreinbach9034]

I love that you love my country that much, it makes me proud!

[@jassidoe]

hahaha the hugging thing is a thing here, too. A friend of mine is from south Germany and she started hugging me from nearly the first meeting on. Usually a hug goodbye, but after we became friends a hug to say hello, too. I am from the north and I still remember me .... totally freezing up. "We have to train you to get used to hugs!" well... I'd say the south is generally more friendly, but the hugging thing, I find, is more common in the south west, closer to France etc. :D glad you made it back ok and are healthy again ^^

[@OurStorytoTell]

That’s a funny story! 😊 Thanks for sharing it!

[@kellybittner1561]

When I was little everyone still had carpets in the apartments that was modern my grandma still has carpets everywhere except in the kitchen and bathroom .

[@thecaptain2000]

In relation to Carpets, maybe you haven't noticed, but house carpets, in Europe known as "Moquette" are cheaper than a tiles or marmor floor but, at least in Europe, are considered of showing a lesser standing. When you build a house in Europe they will ask what sort of floor you want and you can go for moquette if you with, your house will have a lesser value however, as it had a lesser cost to be built.

[@robertopaulodasilva4471]

Oh man it’s so nice to have you back in old good Germany 🙌🤙🏽 And no carpet in my house I have a hard floor, it’s much easier to clean 🧼 love you

[@OurStorytoTell]

We definitely feel that with our house now!

[@falkhermann1061]

When they honk at you you are simply too slow

[@bettinab1702]

We love you being here❣️

[@OurStorytoTell]

Thank you 💛💛 We love being here!

[@frauvegantje2188]

Welcome back to Germany :) it’s so funny every time to see Bamberg in your intro :D we live close to Bamberg as well 🥰

[@OurStorytoTell]

Haha I bet that is a little weird when it’s so close 😂 We had such a fun time in that city!

[@mrk131324]

Well, about the hugging. It‘s the same with Du/Sie or with the meaning of Friend/Freund. If you do it with everybody it is meaningless. If you discriminate, if it is something that has to earned or established first, it has so much more worth to your relationships with people.

[@Stoll66]

Welcome back !

[@patriciamillin1977]

Having wall-to-wall carpeting was standard when I first came to Germany. I think with a lot of women going to work at around that time, hardwood floors just became easier to clean after a while. In fact I think it’s really only been like the last 30 years that hardwood has slowly taken over. A lot of older people still have carpeting. Personally, I prefer just small carpets , like under the coffee table or at the side of my bed. I’ve often heard from my American friends that recycling is a problem over there, especially in rural areas. It really is something that should be more expanded.

[@klopferator]

I still have carpet in every bedroom, the corridor and in the living room. It just feels better for me, it's less echo-y and surprisingly it's better for people with allergies because carpet tends to capture the particles unlike hardwood floor. When I read that people here say that "most people dislike carpets in Germany" it's a bit baffling because where I live most people still have and want carpets.

[@Alputherock]

i teared out all carpet , because it gets dirty super quickly , especially with children .. they painted on it with pens , spill everything on it , one of them puke on it when he was sick ... the carpet will never turn new after cleaning, we also put wood floors inside , i am happy .

[@summersun3745]

Good Morning. Glad you made it back in one piece… 😉 Hope all of you recovered well. No carpets here. My floors are covered with tiles and wood. Easier to maintain… And I do not have wallpaper in a single room. Instead I have artistic strucktured plaster which I than painted… About the hugging… Ok with people I know and like (!) but never with strangers or people I don’t like… That would seem fake to me… Have a nice sunday and enjoy whatever weather you have down there… Here the sun is shining and the birds are chirping. 😎

[@keithhinke3277]

Our house is fully carpeted, even the bathrooms. It was built by us about 37 years ago.

[@SABRINA.ARMY.BTS.]

About the carpet When I was a kid we had carpet everywhere and my grandparents still have carpet almost in every room but it changed years ago and now most houses/apartments have tiles or wooden flooring because it’s easier to clean then carpet!

[@dschoas]

The carpetthing has to do with the change in the heating method. Before there was the so called Fussbodenheizung, almost all households had carpets in their livingrooms. When the Fussbodenheizung came along, you didn't need to have the carpet as an insulation layer to the cold floor. Instead you get a flooring to transmit heat and feels warm when walking on it bare foot. Some used thin wood or Kork to lay the floor instead of a carpet. Another reason is the cleaning, and when using a vacuum robot, carpets are very dificult to be cleaned with.

[@theobald344]

Happy to see you mastered the health troubles you ran into in the US. About the carpets (basically MarkusNDS has already written it): I guess they have run a little bit out of fashion here. When I grew up in the 70es I remember it was quite common to have all floors completely covered with what we called "Auslegware". Nowadays especially wooden floors seem to be a lot more fashionable, with a decorative smaller carpet or here and there. Maybe the ease of cleaning plain floors plays a role. Have a very good time in Europe!

[@OurStorytoTell]

Thank you for your comment & kind wishes! 😊

[@dieteroffermann3880]

In the north part of Germany (Ostfriesland) it´s so flat there, you can see on wendsday how comes to lunch on sunday! :-) :-)

[@OurStorytoTell]

It’s fun to learn from you so thanks for your comment!! Sounds like Utah then! 😊

[@Naontaes]

I was raised up with carpets. They lays everywhere, Floor, Childroom, livingroom. I Loved them. Specialy the ones in the livingroom. They Had have briegth Lines who could be interpreted as roads and crossings.

[@wisteria3032]

I couldn't understand when you said carpet if you mean having a carpeted house (as in every single corner of the floor is carpeted - hopefully except for the kitchen and bathroom) or having a house with carpets (meaning for example that in the living room you can see the floor but the area between the armchair and the loveseat has a carpet). The first is really uncommon (I'm Italian btw) although there are some homes like that, because once it gets dirty it becomes really difficult to clean - please keep in mind that culturally we don't take our shoes off at home (we started doing that very recently - about 20/30 years ago. I can remember only starting to take my shoes off at home when I was 10 and we bought a house with a hardwood floor. The house we had before had a stone floor. My dad still keeps his shoes on all the time. guests keep their shoes on usually too). The second option is more common because it's easier to take care of but you need some money since no carpet is a bit worse than a clean carpet but a dirty carpet is a lot worse than no carpet, so lots of people don't even bother, especially if they have pets. About the lap babies... that's dangerous. I mean not dangerous per se but dangerous for the baby in case of an accident. The lap babies are the ones with the lower probability of surviving because at that speed of the airplane comes to a stop too quickly the baby gets torn away from the arms of whoever is holding on to him. America had enough accidents where only lap babies died that it's just criminal for them to still allow them. Incidentally it is your right to ask for a harness for the baby - just like in a car - but since the Airline will look at you as if you're a monster and the price is quite high (you have to book a seat for the baby and the harness itself costs an arm and a leg) even those who know about this possibility often decide not to use it. And the Airlines never ever suggest it. Of course the number of accidents nowadays is really low but that's why we call them accidents.

[@OurStorytoTell]

Great comment! Thanks for writing! Yes we meant any amount of carpet. Our German home has zero.

[@wisteria3032]

@@OurStorytoTell depending on the floor quality you might actually want to show the floor. People will probably freak out if you carpet the whole house but if you buy a carpet for the living room or the bedroom they will at most comment on how beautiful/ugly the carpet is - if they notice at all.

[@SuperLittleTyke]

It was so good to see you both looking fit and well after your Covid ordeal in the US. Perhaps in your next video you could briefly say whether you have all recovered fully, because many people in Britain are suffering from long Covid. On your specific points of culture differences, when I lived in Germany I participated in Scottish Country Dancing and our teacher had spent a number of years in America. She said that the standard of driving in America is atrocious compared to Germany. As for recycling, America is such a huge country that people probably don't think it's worth bothering with recycling, because there are vast uninhabited parts where yet another landfill can be constructed. We used to think like this in Britain as well, but in the past 20 years we have taken the hint from Germany and the Netherlands. Our recycling is still not as efficient as in Germany, but at least the government is talking about introducing deposit and return for plastic bottles. There are even some bottle deposit schemes running, but they are still at the pilot stage. The official word from the government is there won't be nationwide return schemes like in Germany until 2024. But at least we have bottle banks everywhere for glass, mainly wine, bottles - because we British do consume a lot of alcohol.

[@naneneunmalklug4032]

Recycling glass was one of my first hously duties growing up. When I was about 9 yo I would put all the glass in a hand dragged cart, take my little sister with me and we would make our way to the nearest glass container in our community. We were very proud helping out ;)

[@OurStorytoTell]

Such food helpers!! 😊 That’s a fun story to hear. Thanks for sharing!

[@naneneunmalklug4032]

@@OurStorytoTell yah, we helped with food too 😉

[@Beeboop10000]

Nice to have you here in a good health condition. Interesting video and stay healthy.

[@OurStorytoTell]

Thank you 😊

[@cynthiadoll-hartmann4903]

I live in Germany most of my life and I DO LOVE CARPETS in particular Persian carpets ;-). Carpets are sort of outdated here due to the upcoming of the fake wooden floors (melamin resin coated photo film placed on spruce timber i.e. which can be more easily built in than an original wooden floor) about 2-3 decades ago. For sure there are pros and cons in regard to ecological issues not to be discussed here ;-). Have you been to the "Hotel Vier Jahreszeiten" in Hamburg, this is just around the corner where you had a walk with your daughter on the Jungfernstieg at the Binnenalster. There you can have a particular carpet experience and a cup of English tea, very interesting experience by the way and I loved it ;-)

[@andreasklisch3695]

In Germany, during the 70s, 80s and perhaps also the 90s, carpeted floors had been popular in Germany. Many (although not all) homes had it. But from the mid 90s onwards, carpet floors came out of fashion. Many people began to feel the drawbacks. Carpets are sensitive, you have high effort to keep it clean. Especially with toddlers and pets within the household. And especially for people with allergy (asthma a.s.o.) it is a problem because carpets are all more or less populated with mites. You can never really get rid of all. And renewing the carpets after maybe 5-10 years also costs a fee. So, carpet floors got out of fashion. In Germany, people adapted the Scandinavian habit of having wooden timber piled floors, or they have the expensive parquet, or very often they have laminate.

[@mpmyprojects6687]

4:00 To get a little of that feeling here, maybe you want to try the north western part of Germany. Right next to the dutch border you'll find Ostfriesland (Eastern Frisia) and when driving on the Autobahn 28 and 31 you'll get a sensation of flat lands. As for cities Leer is quite nice, Greetsiel is a tourist must. For more flatland feelings visit the "Bohrinsel" near Ditzum. Great view on the Dollart from a old, now unused plattform. On the way back plan a stop in Oldenburg, a nice little city with lots of young people and a nice Fußgängerzone. Stay healthy and have a great time!

[@OurStorytoTell]

Thanks for the suggestions!

[@peterreitmann4496]

hi guys! german expat here, living in sun valley idaho usa, funny i lived in ogden for about 8 years my self, 608 douglas st. i' happy for you, that you enjoy germany, the winter time should be fun where you live!

[@OurStorytoTell]

Ah so fun to have lived in the same place as you!! We can’t wait for what Winter is about to bring. Thanks for your comment 😊

[@peter_meyer]

"i can see so far..." - you can have that in northern Germany. From my balkony in the 7th floor i can see 120km on a good day.

[@OurStorytoTell]

That’s what we are hearing about Northern Germany! Fun to learn. Thanks for your comment! 😊

[@peter_meyer]

@@OurStorytoTell Good to "have you back". You may want to try visiting the Harz region, the highest mountain in the north.

[@julek4211]

I do have only one carpet (that will come out soon) and the other 7 rooms have pvc for because it's a lot easier to clean and with allergies it's also better without carpet.

[@OurStorytoTell]

Makes sense! 😊

[@89five3five]

The driving thing is what I notice the most when coming back to the US

[@scanalive]

Welcome back in germany!

[@unabresnan5560]

Baby airplane attachment belt has been a requirement for quick a long time in the EU. The reason being is like driving the car. For the child's safety. When taking off & landing its required & then the kiddie can move around unless there is a reason the air hostess advises off.

[@OurStorytoTell]

Makes sense! It’s weird the US doesn’t do the same!

[@frauantjeshayday-farmen9517]

carpets are quite common. Especially Teppichboden. You can get Teppichboden at every Baumarkt if you want one for your house. It's just that it takes a little more time to clean them. But of course, there is high percentage of houses with Teppichboden. It just depends on the preferences of the owner.

[@jjivy6310]

I do a lot of recycling here in rural Texas, but your right, it is much more easier to recycle in Germany! I collect at home and carry to our recycle to our county collection point. It takes more effort.

[@JohnDoe-us5rq]

We used to have carpet in each and every room, when I was a child. I replaced that with hardboard, when I grew older. I think, it is a change in general taste of style. The 90s practically demanded hardboard floors. Most probably since it got way cheaper to install things like that. Before that time it was either carpet or plain concrete. I know my grandparents used to have plain concrete in their flat until the late 60s. And a major factor is the ease of cleaning. The carpet in my room had so many stains. Spilled coke from p'n'p sessions and even an old burn mark from when my gand parents lived in that room. 😃

[@OurStorytoTell]

All of those things make sense to us!! 😊 Carpet really is much cleaner!

[@melly7210]

there are certainly also houses or apartments with carpets. That changed after the laminate hit the market. Because it's easier to clean. A lot of dirt gets stuck in the carpet. That will be the reason why many no longer have carpets. I only have carpet in the bedroom.

[@glamorinepatrick9167]

Hi guys👋👋 It's definitely also a big South African thing!!!! Being a hugger♥️♥️ Im enjoying your videos 🤗

[@OurStorytoTell]

Ahh love seeing your comment from SOUTH AFRICA! That makes us so happy to know someone like you interested in our videos. Thank you 💛 & Hugs!

[@user-sm3xq5ob5d]

As I have learned it the US has carpeted floors. But those are not only a layer of industrially woven carpet. There is a layer of thick foam put under it. That is never done in Germany. Houses used to have board floors as a cover of the wooden floor joists. The more money you had the more handmade rugs were put on them. Hamburg used to be the warehouse (in the Speicherstadt) with the largest stock of oriental rugs in all of Europe. Modern buildings with concrete floors have mostly wall to wall carpeting. Just to hide the concrete and make the floor warmer. That came with industrially manufactured carpeting. In the last decades floor heating and also a preference for wooden or tile floors in the living room and bedrooms have become the fashion. The idea is that carpet makes more dust and insects (mites) could hide in there. What I always wonder is why Americans enter directly into the living room with just a door to the outside. And then they step on the carpet never taking their shoes off.

[@allys8801]

I think Carpets are not popular anymore because it's not considered as modern. In the house where I grew up in there were Carpets in every room. But my parents were very "old fashioned" and at my friend's places there were nearly no carpets. So I guess its something people don't do anymore.

[@Kikibeluga]

I agree!!

[@RobTheWatcher]

Yep. I grew up with carpets in every room (70s/80s). When we went to meet friends and other families there were always carpets as well. But nowadays no one seems to have that anymore. I can't even remember when I last stepped into a fully carpeted room.

[@markmuller7962]

In my apartment the only room with carpets got scorching hot this summer like a oven... The floor didn't release the heat at night so it stayed hot making it unlivable during the day. I think I'd rather get rid of these carpets then adding carpets in other rooms that btw helps so much in summer when you walk around with naked feet on a nice fresh tiles floor

[@trueamnisias]

Most rooms in our house are carpeted e.g. bedrooms and living room, but bathroom, kitchen and hallways are tiled or wooden floorboards.

[@OurStorytoTell]

Maybe it's more of the newer homes or simply because we live in this part of Bayern? Either way, we are happy to have tile. Easy to clean with a toddler constantly making messes 😂

[@heliosphere9789]

Hi! Middle aged German here. About carpeting: When I was a child (70s/80s) it was pretty common to have carpeting throughout your house. Also today I know some few people who still have it (only in the living room/bed room and living area, not in kitchens or bathrooms). But it has gone out of fashion (and it is not so easy to clean, as tiles or wooden floors). The typical floor nowadays would be wooden floors or woodish looking floors or tiles (I personally dislike tiles).

[@OurStorytoTell]

That makes sense! Our floors are tiled or hard wood floor and we do love them! (After the first week or two getting used to it) 😊

[@jonasfermefors]

Recycling is an argument for centralized government programs. Many European countries have mandated recycling for a long time on a national level which is something I don't see happening in America and without that it will never be as efficient and comprehensive.

Yes, we had carpet long time but over the years it got less and less for the reasons mentioned. Now I still prefer carpet in children's room, especially for the small ones and in the bedroom but sure also has something to do with floor heating becoming a thing.

[@eagle1de227]

Welcome back home!

[@OurStorytoTell]

Thank you! It feels good!

[@sebastianist40]

We used to have carpet in the 80ies. Often now people have hardwood floors or orher nonncarpet options. First - wood is much nicer, second carpets are really not hygenic. But a big trend for area rugs comes with it :)

[@thestonegateroadrunner7305]

Utah is a Desert. In Utah the air is so dry, hence you can see incredibly far. In contrast in Europe the air is humid, especially in summer, limiting visibility to sometimes less than 10 kilometers only. Carpets actually are a thing in Germany. Many people have them, often as completely carpeted floors not just rugs. Just not in hallways, kitchens and bathrooms.

[@Silber7]

Tiles downstairs (kitchen / living room) carpet upstairs (bedrooms) 🙂

[@M4tti87]

Interesting that you mention the carpet floor :D The paretn sof my ex gf in South Carolina they had a white carpet floor all over the place. IN the apartment Iam living in in Bayreuth its all wood. In my parents house in Hannover its marbel in the first story on the right and the other rooms are cork on that level the second story has wooden floors and the third is al carpet. The basement has carpet in the main hall and the sauna room and so have tiles. I like carpet, but its also hard to kep clean especially with pets :D

[@tommysellering4224]

In the 70s everyone had wall to wall carpets in Europe as well, but it was extremely unhygienic. The were producing allergies and simply collecting dirt (even when everyone remove their shoes at the entrance). That's why everyone ripped them out in the 90s at the latest. Today you see that kind of carpets only in cheap hotels in the UK.

[@MrNicopa]

Yeah and dodgy pubs where the carpets stick to the soles of your shoes.

[@HauptmannMumm]

Because we have underfloor heating that's why we don't have carpet in the house, a few nice rugs on the tiles. That's enough

[@syNNaptix]

i think its kindof a hygiene thing in germany. if we have carpets (at least thats my experience as a german) its most likely in the bedroom and maaaaaybe in the living room. theres just too much dust thats getting trapped in carpets, even if you vacuum it daily.

[@OurStorytoTell]

That definitely makes sense!

[@kanevard]

In the UK in the 60s and 70s carpets were aspirational (posh people had carpets) so everyone got carpets but then they realised they wore out unevenly became flat in hi traffic areas just about impossible to clean fully and in general more trouble than they were worth so most went back to hard floors .

[@BillboardBuccaneers]

If you like hugs you have to come to the Rheinland. People here are often much more comfortable with hugs and less reserved than in other parts of germany.

[@VersedNJ]

In NJ, except for legacy, most people have gone to hardwood or laminate. Recycling is done here.

[@robertbauer6468]

I think there are less carpets in germany, because underflour heating becomes very popular. Carpets would prevent effective heating.

[@stephanteuscher6583]

It's funny that you missed the German Autobahn. I experienced kind of a reverse thing just a view weeks ago: I was on vacation in southern Italy and adapted their way of driving pretty soon as always. It was not the "Autostrada", just the general way they drive. Since I'm back to Germany all the other drivers honk and curse at me all the time. I need to adapt back to German driving, because they can't handle that. And I could lose my license! 😨 We had carpets everywhere for a very long time. But I think it's gone out of style. Today we have hardwood and tiles.

[@vlndfee6481]

Carpet used to be a lot in houses, But is now more laminate/ wood. Greeting from Netherlands. Totally flat... felt weird to be in mountains of Sweden.

[@Dahrenhorst]

Carpets are out of fashion in Germany. They are regarded unhygienic and lots of work to keep clean. So today we mostly have hardwood or laminate floor and tiles, however you still can buy and install carpets if you want to. For some reason they are still very popular in office buildings. You will find rugs in many homes on top of the flooring, though.

[@witty2u]

In the 70s carpet was pretty much common. Except in the kitchen and the hall you'd have it everywhere.

[@katrinandrews79]

I think carpet everywhere is just outdated. In my childhood we had carpets everywhere. Even in the bathroom. I regularely flooded it. Nowadays ist is modern to have wood or anything like that… but i don‘t like tiles in the livingroom.

[@robertopaulodasilva4471]

Wait…. I need some Popcorn 🍿 I’m so excited 🥰

[@momingermany1084]

Our home in Germany has all tile and hard wood too. My feet hurt so bad for a couple of weeks getting use to it!

[@OurStorytoTell]

It definitely takes a while, but we do enjoy them more now!

[@Orbitalbomb]

carpet is a mixed thing. It used to be much more normal in the 90s. I assume that it’s more common in nothern germany where it’s generally colder. nowadays it’s become normal to leave the floors like they are. Also it’s an allergy driver, so with allergies you are better off without any carpets. we personally have one in the living room making it more cosy I guess. But other than that its just hardwood floors.

[@suveemi60]

The carpet thing, when I grew up (I'm 26) we had carpet in the house, my grandpa still has carpet in his home. But it changed and I honestly see carpet in homes as "old fashion" and it is nothing that I would get in a house.

[@OurStorytoTell]

We totally get that! We wouldn’t put it in our house either. It is nice on the feet, but other than that.. nope! Fun to read a comment from someone our own age! Thanks for watching our journey! 😊

[@suveemi60]

@@OurStorytoTell I had such bad burn ? wounds from falling and sliding over our carpet 🙈 We have a few of the mobile ones that we change frequently because we have dogs 🙈 After a whilr they are full of fur and dirt (even though we vaccum clean them daily) Love your journey. Greetings from Düsseldorf

[@sushi777300]

Born and raised in Germany I have a completely different experience when it comes to driving. I definitely prefer driving in the US. Roads here are so small and crowded that I find it rather stressful

[@OurStorytoTell]

Interesting to hear that perspective! We might think differently after a few years, but we are enjoying the change for now.

[@flyingcook]

Im 44 and i have carpets, i grew up with carpets also i feel its more cozy. I know people who dont have carpet because of their pets, also i think most landlords dont use them anymore and for the tenant it would be more additional costs in a time where they already have to pay for a lot of things.

[@OurStorytoTell]

Yes financially carpet doesn’t seem to be the best investment long term.

[@hans-dieternichau5467]

Willkommen zurück ,ich Wünsche euch eine schöne Adventszeit ,bleibt Gesund irgendwann wird Corona auch vorbei sein ,dann wird alles wieder normal sein ! Liebe Grüße

[@howierfs5471]

Hi, first of all, great to see a honest truly smile in your faces again. Tanner, why did you revealed your christmas wish already ? I am sure risa will knit pairs of wool socks for you during the colder times coming soon or even buy some nice and fancy Pamtoffeln, house shoes. You are talking about your next visit to Utah but I think its now the turn of your relatives to visit you and checking out you really enjoy your life in Germany. I am sure you will provide great hospitality. A "shock" for me in english speaking countries were always the tiny light switches, looked kind of funny, kids version for me. In a hotel in Spor'e I faced the sign "save the water" but there wasnt any chance to save water on smaller businesses. Yes, with all the recycling programs and by the people itself it looks pretty clean in Germany, mostly. In case you want to see you will meet the next 2-3 days, than go for a hike in the Fjell of Norway. I pray with you that Covid will no longer effect our lives so hard and we can travel again. Wish you all the best for the coming week. Thx for your update

[@OurStorytoTell]

Thanks for your comment. We will have to get out the wool and start! 😉 Also we agree, YES, our family should come to visit us here. The first family members are actually planning on it in April so we are excited!

[@howierfs5471]

@@OurStorytoTell I will cross my fingers for them they can make it and spring will arrived as well.

[@AL5520]

What's weird is that such a seat belt is not obligatory on flights in the US. Seat belts on planes are obligatory for all passengers during take off, landings and any time the pilot-in-command sees fit to require it in most (if not all) countries including in the US so it makes no sense to exclude children from this requirement. If in a car a child seat is obligatory in all 50 states in the US (with changing conditions) why not on a plane? In the EU an infant (2 years and younger) must either seat in a child seat on an aircraft seat or on the lap of an adult with infant the mentioned seat belt. Just like in a car, in many cases (including strong turbulence) your arms won't be strong enough to hold on to your child. why not on a plane? this, of course, applies when the "fasten seat belt" sign is on. Kids older than two must have their own seat with a seat belt or, if preferred by the parents, an child seat adapted to airplane seats.

[@johnp139]

I hope that the belt around the child is a separate belt from the parent, otherwise the child could easily be crushed by the weight of the parent.

[@OurStorytoTell]

It is separate.

[@Kikibeluga]

I was living in California for 4 Years in the 90tes. I would love to go back there sometimes. I had the best time in my life. Of course, in every country in the world there are good and bad sides. You are really so lovely humans and very open minded!! Let me know when you come back to Hamburg, I show you around. Summer ist the best time, because everything is green and beautiful. Liebe Grüße Katrin;-)))

[@OurStorytoTell]

You’re so kind!! Thank you so much ❤️❤️ Happy to hear you had a great experience in CA! It is a beautiful state!