How I See the US After Living Abroad for 15 Years [CULTURE SHOCK]

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Why I Left the US (Again) - new video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/fnuXoJttfqaUm6c

[@killiancruz142]

This is the first video I've seen from you. I'm curious if your income is American currency. I have traveled with the military and American currency was worth so much more in other countries. So living was extremely cheap.

[@I_fuck_moms_of_CIA_trolls.]

Don't agree with you about "the selection of stuff". To me, the selection of stuff, including but not limited to snacks, in the U.S. is severely lacking and monotonous when compared to China.

[@mahesh7069]

I just saw this and it resonated with me. I spent ~3 years in Hungary, England, Ireland....I agree with you completely. I have come back with modified values from when I left and now I am old enough not to care too much about what others think of me. Thank you, very interesting points.

[@manie3232]

Yes, Americans are very binary thinking.

[@charleswinterfeld5107]

Great you left....now there 's more room for the millions of immigrants that come here every year. People vote with their feet. By the way, you can revoke your US citizenship anytime.

[@brandableinsider]

The USA's greatest weakness is thinking that it has none. As a fellow world traveler, I'm in agreement with all your points.

[@WillmobilePlus]

We don't wallow in it, and flail ourselves to impress Europeans that all think it's cool to see your nation as dumb and horrid, and wonder why we dont act like them.

[@y.m.o8779]

@@WillmobilePlus ....huh?

[@willumvans5833]

@@WillmobilePlus ....huh?

[@WillmobilePlus]

@@willumvans5833 *rolleyes* >The USA's greatest weakness is thinking that it has none We dont think like this. We just dont make a show of ourselves crying and engaging in self-flagellation over every little damn flaw, like a lot of Europeans do with their countries, or how a lot of self-hating Americans do in order to impress foreigners online. We look on the bright side and all of the positives of being in America (far more than people online will ever admit).

[@CommanderRiker0]

What? It seems the popular pastime of a large portion of our country to talk about how terrible every single thing is.

[@AnandaYoga108]

Beautifully expressed. I am a German living in Italy, have travelled the world, including the USA, and have wonderful American friends. If all people travelled and met other realities, with open heart, we could learn so much from each other. I love my American, Italian, German, Indian, British, Russian friends.

[@kennymccannYT]

The beauty of traveling

[@pmckin92]

Ha. Good for you. But traveling isn’t easy when the cost of living is so high.

[@jamessampson5992]

Hell yes

[@coocookay1544]

Where in italy do you live? How come you moved from Germany to Italy?

[@vvanderer]

Aber nimmer die schrecliche Französischen

[@DanielHBuchmann]

From Mark Twain, “ 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.”

[@user-jy3zl2vp4b]

However....we are humans capable of learning and empathizing....so even if WE don't travel, our minds can travel and learn about other societies and therefore WE CAN develop broad, wholesome, charitable views. Sadly I think empathy for our fellow man is diminishing as well.

[@ronaldgarrison8478]

Unless you have the Internet.

[@forgiven2812]

Thank you for sharing that bit of wisdom. Refreshing in these times.

[@kenfelix8703]

Respect that, thank you 👍🏿

[@ContantContact]

@@theme6590 Democracy always fails. History proves that. The USA is a republic, not a true democracy. There is a difference.

[@ameliawilfinger2704]

Travel is fatal to prejudice, bigotry and narrow-mindedness... per Mark Twain. Whenever I travel outside the U.S., I find it much more difficult to adjust to our culture than I do to places away from home. I miss the simplicity and appreciation for everyday life I experience elsewhere. Thank you for posting this informative video. As a woman who travels alone, friends and family just don't understand what I experience. It's refreshing to connect with you in our like-mindedness. Thank you, thank you!

[@geraldobrien7323]

Americans are still not traveling, but with things like KZbin, we’re starting to open our eyes to some of the things that we just ain’t doing right.

[@mrgreen1198]

Mark Twain - Following the Equator!

[@miroperinich2495]

Ashley Colburn - Feels Like Home kzbin.info/www/bejne/bJWrmX9smpd7na8 Ashley Colburn na hrvatskom jeziku govori o Hrvatskoj kzbin.info/www/bejne/qoi9qqmpi76Em8U

[@masad92]

I was born in the U.S., but my father's work took us around the world. So, between the ages of 3 and 18 we lived in five different countries and visited many others. By the time I was 13 I had been around the world. Although we came back periodically to the U.S. for "home leave," it was a real culture shock for me when I finally returned to the States for college at 18. I could not relate to American teenagers my age and ended up hanging out with the foreign students from different countries and other expats like me. I had more in common with them regardless whatever country they came from than other students, my cousins and family friends. After living the next 45 years in the U.S. with occasional trips abroad, I finally moved to the UK for a job where I'd lived a couple of times before and ended up settling there where I'm more comfortable. Here I can talk freely about things like world affairs, politics, etc with virtually anyone many of whom have a similar broad understanding of things - even about the U.S. - than I ever found in the States. That says a lot from a retired history professor, even with my university colleagues.

[@DG_musician]

This isn't meant to sound rude, but based upon interaction with family and friends in the US, I find Americans the most sheltered and naive people in the west. So much of what's being discussed here is general knowledge, particularly among Europeans. It's extremely whimsical to us Europeans when Americans talk about the US "freedoms". 🤷‍♂️ We have our own set of problems in my home country of the UK, but it can be bizarre to hear some of the US assumptions about the rest of the world.

[@elizabethbennet4791]

to be fair, the indisputable fact is, the only people here in the US that talk about 'freedoms' like that with any seriousness (not in context of general advantages as a 1stW nation to thinking about a catastrophe or conditions in a 3W country or something) are right-wing. It's not most of us bragging about being better than everyone else..it's fascists and naive republicans with personal, emotional baggage

[@McPherson123]

@@elizabethbennet4791 and I hate to say it but I'm pretty sure that even regardless of ostensible party affiliation amongst citizens, the majority of people in the USA are essentially very right wing in exactly that way that you're articulating. It's a real shame.

[@alexhindes3861]

Nowadays in America anything anyone says or does is politicized, as you can see here by these comments..they've never even met 99% of the "right wing" people they're referring to and simply pass on severe judgement. I'm sure every country has its similarities and differences but I can agree America there is plethora of naivety. I think there is a huge world wide "lack of awareness" issue going on coupled with loss of compassion for the human race. When you have to start a sentence with "I dont mean to sound rude", it is rude. Most Americans adore Brits by the way.

[@japnikki]

Good point!

[@dalefleming6427]

@@alexhindes3861 Amen, I don't form opinions about people UNTIL I interact with them, and even then my opinion is not generally absolute or permanent.

[@the98themperoroftheholybri33]

I'll never forget the time when an American friend asked me "hey, so how many sick days do we get?" Which confused me, we take days off when we're sick

[@disciplinedgrindset623]

Wait what ? How ? I am sorry this is a bit of a weird shock to me . I can't imagine this . Why ? This is just evil . Why would anyone be ok with THIS

[@rmp7400]

However, many European countries have 2 months vacation in their annual employment contracts.

[@7YBzzz4nbyte]

@@rmp7400 We only have 5-7 weeks, plus the sick days (if you get ill on a day that's a vacation day, you get deducted a sick day and get the vacation day back to be used later.) In the 1930's they had only two weeks of vacation, four weeks in the 1970's and now five to seven weeks. I don't think it will increase any further. 🤔

[@Jenny-tm3cm]

@@disciplinedgrindset623 when I worked at Walmart I literally would go to work severely sick all the time because otherwise I would’ve been fired. I have health problems and managers would tell me I look like death and I should go home but then I’d reply I would be fired because I already have too many points. Also, if you are injured in the job and have to be rushed to the hospital, but you don’t have enough points, they will literally fire you because you left the building. Even if it means you would’ve died to stay. And this was one of the highest paying jobs in the area in 2018

[@disciplinedgrindset623]

@@Jenny-tm3cm ok how is that even legal people could literally DIE that is in no way legal , there must be some law that doesn't allow that

[@itodave100]

I have a Brazilian friend who has been living in America for the past 10 years. I asked him what his impression of America is from the time he arrived to the present. He said "America is an illusion." I think many of us fellow Americans feel the same.

[@TravelingwithKristin]

A lot do feel this way as well. Thanks for sharing this, itodave100!

[@HBC423]

America is a stage.. or a freak show

[@Tyson-luvs-nuggets]

Brazilian here living in the US for the past 15years. I wouldn’t move back to Brazil if you forced me to. There’s a lot of benefits to each country. It really depends on the individual and their current needs and wants

[@INTUITIVENORSK2303]

Yes, i do agree with this view. In fact, most of my international family & friends feel exactly the same way.

[@Chicquette]

@@Tyson-luvs-nuggets Absolutely, well said! Pros and cons to all countries. We pick what we want to focus on. We all have different needs. Perhaps malls are important to some while safety to others.

[@lindas5964]

Oh my gosh I am so relieved to hear someone with an objective view point say all the things I’ve been feeling for years now. I’m not just imagining it!

[@johnnyfiveo]

realizing that it's time to leave the U.S. here, we've been sold a colossal lie and few can escape it. we're both geographically isolated and living paycheck to paycheck. thanks for this video.

[@jamesmcload1137]

You're leaving the US? Who's going to be trolling cops?

[@mihran79]

I have watched this very interesting video, I don't agree with everything but it explains a lot of things very well: kzbin.info/www/bejne/r5mlnJh3pJd7osk

[@bobsmith6953]

You can leave anytime you like, go please.

[@KyleRuggles]

@@bobsmith6953 Typical American mentality, or what a troll would like others to believe, I pity you.

[@akolyt]

go ahead

[@jaysunbrady]

The four things that really stood out to me when I traveled across America was the consumerism, propaganda, shallowness and fear. I've never been to a society that is driven by so much fear of 'others'.

[@handyvickers]

Yeah, Jason, and it's precisely these traits that trumpism has taken a hold of, which has brought out the very worst of humanity. Very sad...

[@CanoeToNewOrleans]

I noticed the same thing during my travels in America. As much as Americans can be friendly, they also fear strangers.

[@aidanmargarson8910]

I've always thought "home of the brave" was more an aspiration then anything, when you think about all they spend on defence

[@lutherportnoi1611]

Only the guilty ones FEAR things. The virtuous fear not.

[@kimnobles7687]

As an American who has lived abroad, I can attest to the dear of others. It's the most insane thing ever. I am curious what you mean by propaganda (politics?) and shallowness.

[@GreenEnvy.]

Every country has a different energy in the air. I'm an American living in Morocco for 10 years and the energy here is calm and slow. The energy in America is so intense and fast that it gave me anxiety. Morocco's energy has cured my anxiety from living in America.

[@f8accompli238]

At the age of 18 (so many years ago) I was stationed in Torrejon, Spain and the pace of my life ground to a halt. Time seemed to stand still for 2 years. Then I ended up in San Antonio, TX; not as slow as Spain, but close. A year and half later, I returned home to SoCal. On my drive back, I ended up on the freeway during rush hour and the energy was INSANE. I panicked.

[@MGN_YTTV]

same here! Living abroad cured my anxiety

[@jacoblarsen7845]

This effect also occurs when living in different parts of the USA. Small city mid america is fairly chill

[@IronHorsey3]

Yes, if you go to a Third World country, things really slow down. When you're dying, it's slow too.

[@GreenEnvy.]

@@IronHorsey3 You've obviously never traveled. These "third world countries" have better healthcare than America, better treatment of their citizens than America, and better living quality than America. So maybe you should re-think which country is "third world" little hater.

[@daihunter3524]

As a US born and raised person I have travelled and lived as an expat for nearly 45 of my 80 years. I finally left the United States just over 30 years ago to live in Europe, never to look back, and I haven't. As a now senior citizen I am fortunate that I made that decision and regret that I had not done so sooner. The social system where I have settled is just so much better and supportive, and I am alive whereas had I stayed in the US it is quite likely, nearly certain, for many reasons, I would have been long gone by now.

[@kerryhill4470]

amerikkkka sucks.

[@LynLyn2000]

Where in Europe do you live, if you don’t mind me asking? I am a young American who would love to move to Europe, but have no idea where to start. I have a few places in mind, it can just feel overwhelming at times. Your post inspired me further :)

[@keltenbleich]

@@LynLyn2000 I´m living in Spain, which I highly recommend, the second place I could recommend is Germany. My wife is from there and we live two months in my house in Spain and two months in her house in Germany. She also says that she likes it better in Spain. France is way too expensive, they pay more taxes than Germans or Spaniards. I also have relatives there, and they all dream one day to be able to live in Spain. I don´t know nothing about other European countries. I hope this was help.

[@LynLyn2000]

@@keltenbleich okay, thank you so much! That was helpful, I had only really considered Germany or Spain so it’s good to hear that those are good places to live

[@johnhatchel9681]

Good riddance.

[@perthon]

Lack of empathy is the thing that concerns me the most .

[@DillaryHuff]

Maybe it's just my imagination, but I get the impression that the influence of social media is largely to blame for that being an increasing thing in the younger generations, as silly as it may sound. Feels like young adults, and teenagers especially, have to be part of the "me, me, me"- culture, otherwise they feel left out of the internet's social norms.

[@Radwar99]

@@DillaryHuff It's not your imagination, social media is cancer, where do you think crap like QAnon came from?

[@cankhovich1796]

@@Radwar99 Austin Steinbart out of jail!!! MEGA

[@Luckyrider1958]

@@Radwar99 And Antifa and BLM...

[@joepyfer1696]

Thank you for your honest thoughts on this world today. If only the leaders of the world were as honest,.

[@ellen1958]

I am a 62 year old single female who hasn't been much of anywhere outside the western US. Thank you so much for this video. It has given me alot to think about.

[@EspenX]

When this epidemic is over, I hope you can do a trip abroad. I am sure you will find things you love and hate about the country you visit and at least I find travelling also make you appreciate the good things about your country or life more too.

[@LifeinLao]

I am 55 and have been trying to take my life simple. I am not a Philippino but I do recommend you to visit the Philippines. I am sure that you will get a lot from your trip there. Wish you best^^

[@LifeinLao]

@Martin Luther divorced, male, streight and single at the moment. Looking for a lovely lady to praise.

[@hnttakata713]

Wish my fiancee children would leave the little village where they grew up; expand their knowledge, and become enriched by other world views. Spoiled; access and not a clue about values like empathy, importance of education and thrift

[@mollysimmons2960]

You NEED to get the heck out of the US. It’s fun & you learn so much about life & yourself. While we’re in a lock-down mode...Take time now & prepare how to travel, keeping your health & safety. Good Luck 🍀 I know you’ll be amazed with other countries. How different cultures are, experience how people live.

[@OrthodoxAtheist]

European here, who has now lived almost 20 years (approx. half my life) in America. Literally everything stated in this video I find to be true. This is a great country that really could be as great as so many think it is, if more people travelled and realized what so much of the rest of the world has, and what Americans also deserve, and then returned home to fight for it.

[@5ystemError]

Now that we have the internet, a lot of Americans are starting to do that. Hopefully we can change before it's too late

[@billgilkerson5294]

Well, sorry to inform but you have nothing to do, just enjoy your victory comrade.

[@joy_villa]

THIS!

[@isitsustainable]

Agree on the fact that more Americans would benefit from traveling and living abroad and seeing how world works outside of here.

[@paddymaluco]

We're too busy working not moaning and whining all the time about every damn thing in life

[@iampaytontv]

As an American, I agree wholeheartedly. Lately I’ve been seriously considering moving to another country after graduating next year. I’ve notice people have gotten more vain and narcissistic in recent years, and it’s frowned upon (especially in the South) to take time to care about other people. Individualism is pushed heavily here.

[@petebondurant58]

If you're young...which I am not...LEAVE. Don't consider it. Do it. You will not regret this.

[@kwpp7]

Don't fall into the trap of thinking that you can run away from sinful traits in humanity by moving to a foreign land. You'll quickly realize that human nature is human nature no matter where you go.

[@GWorksGrow]

If you can go explore the world! Be safe if you do but I hope you do!

[@alanyaalanya5524]

​@@GWorksGrowI

[@joshbanks9261]

Been living overseas for twenty years now. Yes and that is what I'm doing living exploring working on the projects that I want to. Even before I ended up with money I was scraping by but living and traveling was easy enough to find a teaching job. If you're twenty or even in your thirties stay in hostels or guest houses they are every where in Asia. You'll experience life in truly a different way interact with people from all over the globe. Traveling will change you get out and experience life while u can.

[@j1jh002]

This was awesome! I lived abroad for 9 months in the balkans. Traveling through those countries truly changed my perspective on life. It's amazing what it does to you, living amongst people who live and think differently than you. We need that as human beings. This world is too big to just live in one country your whole life. There's SO MUCH out there. So much beauty. So much life... Thank you for making this Kristin

[@luisvasconcelos1053]

🙏 amen

[@tvplaych7666]

I lived for 3 years in Belgrade/Serbia. Best time of my life!

[@josebazocosta9341]

And the Balkans can be very diverse. Different cultures... Albania and Croatia, for example, different worlds

[@j1jh002]

@@tvplaych7666 That city had the best vibe

[@davidbooher5559]

True. But not to sound like too much of a conservative, but this is just a life lesson for all disgruntled Americans... if you hate it here or don’t find America to your liking, find somewhere else to live. There really are plenty of great places out there. This isn’t North Korea. We’re ALL free to live our best life somewhere else. And on that note, I didn’t like the state I was living in ( Nevada, for over 40 years) so I packed up my car and drove 2,700 miles east to southwest Georgia. Couldn’t be happier. Great weather and homes cost a quarter of what they cost in Nevada. There’s thousands of towns around this great nation that are very affordable on even a limited budget. The house I bought 4 months ago here for $89,000 would have cost me close to $500,000 in Reno. With half the yard. And yes, before moving here I considered moving to Thailand, Mexico or Portugal. My own sister ( who owns one of those $500,000 homes in Reno) bought a secondhand house in Baja Mexico for $5,000, put $15,000 into for renovations and it’s a beautiful home. Only a 5-10 minute walk to the Pacific Ocean. Beautiful crystal clear blue water and empty beaches. In a tropical 🌴 climate. I’m considering moving there still.

[@tasdevl]

Watching this I thought “oh boy, the comments are going to be crazy”. And yet the popular comments are written by reasonable people who understand what she’s saying. Nice job Internet!

[@incorrecterror]

I totally agree. I was hoping she didn’t get dragged. And the responses are quite thoughtful.

[@deadtempleknight.6332]

Then you haven't delved into the comments of those comments

[@giacomopeters9988]

I thought the same thing. My experience is much less than hers..although I speak several languages, which has given me the opportunity to empathize with foreigners in their country. I half expected to see..no way..if you don’t like it..leave..etc. it is interesting if not promising how objective and rational many Americans can be!

[@sharronneedles6721]

If you enjoy a shitshow sort comments by Newest First 😂😂

[@billlincolnmd9159]

Well America is getting expensive due to over population, and in California the Asian immigrants are driving up housing. Ask real estate agents there. Millions being paid for homes. The key is personal safety which is lacking,in many places. Also, American Laws allow high profits and rip offs(think Pharma). America remains the number one destination of potential immigrants. I have also lived in multiple Countries. Very few are even close to America in terms of safety and opportunity. We allow everyone to leave. This is the last bastion of Raw capitalism. However, the medical capitalism is overboard here--profiting off suffering humanity. Americans are caught up in getting rich and into themselves. America has a lot of abundance (electric meters without coin slots).

[@txspacemom765]

I was raised in the US but in a European way. My mother was English and my father was Italian. I always thought we were odd..small house, shopping local, keeping things forever and maintaining things, not over shopping just what for what we needed, homemade meals, my parents didn't allow fast food, being outside all the time and being healthy with homegrown food. Being conscious of how much water and electricity one uses, clothes lines, and wearing the best clothes we could afford but not excessive in the our closets. Still weird like this and I am almost 50. I consider myself a well curated somewhat minimalist and people make fun of me, still. I experience it quite a bit more when I was in the military for 8 years and travelled overseas. America has always thought we had the best, we are the best, etc...reality is kicking in now.

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Thanks for sharing your insights, TxSpaceMOM!

[@opinionated2]

I wasn't much of a cook, although we did buy organic. We didn't grow our own food, but I checked all the other boxes when it comes to how I raised my daughter. Fortunately, we lived in a small community of like-minded people in a large city. My parents and siblings were more consumeristic and your average Americans who were addicted to sports and quite oblivious to world events. Even years before my daughter was born, I was considered the "oddball" of the family. Once organic food and healthy living became more mainstream around 2000, they didn't think I was so crazy anymore. I guess I'll be on the cutting edge again, when they're stuck here in America, and I've moved on to another country!

[@quaker1849]

I'm Irish in my 70's and feel you have iriterated exactly how we still live here in Ireland, my grandchildren are being brought up with the same values of community and respect for all regardless of their circumstances, hopefully that'll continue in spite of outside influences like the Internet which I find can be a fantastic educational tool,never lose hope for the next generations

[@txspacemom765]

@@quaker1849 This makes me smile! And I am tiny bit Irish.

[@monicamattox72]

yes exactly we both just want some PEACE & SANITY vs the war with ourselves here in post TRUMP and post COVID 19 America I am SICK of the bizzaro Pharmaceutical Ads, then 2 years later "class action law suits"....my friends seem alienated and depressed also....feeling disenchanted really SURE we all LOVE our country and proud of America but now...I think we are in the decline in a malaise and having an identity crises...kinder, calmer, simpler, like when I was YOUNGER..right? xoxoxoo ?/?

[@Ajlez]

I feel like the friendliness here in the US comes sort of from our detached way of living, and I could be totally wrong since I'm not exactly "one of them". I've always been friendly and was automatically raised to do things like smile and say hello to anybody I pass while walking, but I've never been a "comfortable talking to people" person. Which is becoming more and more common, people are terrified of eachother. But I do find that people here will express friendliness regardless of willingness to actually have any level of closeness to another person. To me, that's almost like an expression of what you're missing in life. One time, an online friend from Bulgaria asked me how my health was, and I gave him an honest answer. Then I immediately apologized, because here in the US when you ask someone how they are, you don't really care, you just want to hear "I'm fine" (which I obviously find pointless). He said no no, I asked you because I was actually interested, we ask eachother this all the time and we don't expect the other person to fake. It was very surprising to me. In fact, I felt like I wasn't important enough to actually answer that question honestly, which really shows something wrong with how people treat themselves.

[@pambmusic]

When my wife and I went to Europe for the first time, we went to Venice first. At dinner we noted the smaller and reasonable portion. The next thing we noticed had us stop eating at the same time. Then I said to her, “something is different.” We remained quiet as we thought, then at the same time we said, “it’s fresh!”

[@realworkoutsforrealpeople5041]

I had the same experience while traveling around New Zealand. I had bought apples and carrots for a snack and taking a bite stopped me dead in my tracks. It tasted. So. Good. I was absolutely gobsmacked. It has made eating food back in the US very difficult.

[@pambmusic]

@@lomborg4876 I mean it’s fresh as lacking in chemicals and whatever crap they do to food in the US. Trust me, go to Italy or Spain or the place the other responder mentioned. You’ll taste the difference. I’ll give an example of an experience in the US. I don’t like blueberries. I went to brunch at a vegan restaurant in NYC. There were blueberries on my plate. I tried one, then another, then another until they were gone. What was the difference? They were fresh and free of whatever they usually do to the food. They burst with flavor. I tried blueberries from the grocery store again after that. The things were flavorless and nasty. They looked fresh, they weren’t going bad, they had no flavor.

[@pambmusic]

@@lomborg4876 Ahh….ok. I wrongly assumed you were from the States. My bad. I have a feeling, based on what you shared about Scandinavia, I’d tell you Scandinavian food is fresh. 😊

[@lotioninbasket9197]

Pam, I concur, I visited the states and ordered a salad. It was massive just too big and tatsted bland. I’m glad you enjoyed your experience though.

[@animaljam6372]

@@pambmusic I'm not denying what your saying is true, but there are farmers markets all over the USA, and it's legal to grow a garden last time I checked....eating fresh is a choice.

[@TheSadsham]

“They call it the American Dream, because you have to be asleep to believe it.” George Carlin

[@gelinrefira]

Carlin also has a similar routine about stuff. Having a house is just a place where you put more stuff! Then you get a bigger house so you can put even more stuff!!

[@martinko4086]

@@gelinrefira I like Carlin as comedian. i hope you know the difference between comedy and reality . Having a house is a lot MORE than just a place where you put your stuff . IN my world it is an investment in the first place , if you know what you are doing .

[@martinko4086]

@@nyranstanton203 Home is always an investment , and you do NOT need to sell it !! NO wonder that you are POOR .

[@gelinrefira]

@@nyranstanton203 That is his value system because he is indoctrinated to think life is the rat's race. He is precisely the type of person Carlin also castigated in his Baby Boomer routine, even if he is not born during the boomer years.

[@douglasbrown5692]

@@martinko4086 Eww - you're vile.

[@joeschembrie9450]

I'm in my sixties, and the differences between the US and other countries that you describe is similar to the differences between the US now and the US when I was young. Food was more natural, medical care was inexpensive, rent was affordable. As I recall, pharmaceutical ads were illegal too. The 1960s counterculture movement was a reaction against the kind of materialism that is celebrated in the US today. I don't want to get into a tedious debate with some internet troll about whether I think it was 'the good old days,' but those differences were real and actually happened and to repeat, compare with the differences you describe between the US and other countries today. There is a saying that has turned out to be literally true: "The past is another country."

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Thank you for watching and for sharing your insights Joe!

[@lizlee5052]

I posted this to another comment, but it fits so well here, I’m adding to here too. We didn’t used to either. The polarization of the two party system & party before country, materialism, illegal government shenanigans, out for #1, lack of empathy for others, let alone helping them, ideas like ‘I have to keep you from getting anything so I can have mine,”. has change literally everything. I’m outing myself as old because I can remember when it was different & people weren’t so harsh with each other. ( not back in the day, it really was different. )There’s very little I can say is better. Tech? I sure don’t miss the ubiquitous smoking although I understand it that way still in many countries. & yes to another poster. Advertising pharmaceuticals was illegal & is still jarring to me. I feel that ought change back, along with how political contributions are now regulated. Even our Supreme Court is outed with corruption. So many things that once were trustworthy. & companies had pride in there products ( before planned obsolescence) & many of them cared about there employees as much as they did about profits. & yes I think Americans are workaholics & companies take advantage of it. It really, truly was different. It’s not nostalgia. This period is closer to the robber baron era as much as anything. Okay I’ll stop my rant now which no will see.

[@RobertJohnson-lh6dg]

Thanks to the Democratic Party for making the US nearly unaffordable for the majority of citizens

[@econdude3811]

As you suggested, I'm not continuing an argument. Not fun, however, to find myself in the late 1950s as a college student. I had no idea about culture shock or how horrifically rude, etc. people would be to me for no reason. So it goes both ways. I couldn't stand the lack of consumer variety, slow pace of life, no motivation of anyone to get ahead or improve themselves.

[@deckard5pegasus673]

@joeschembrie9450 you are exactly right! Also what this channel fails to explain is that the other countries are catching up to the USA at lightening speed!! and turning into the USA, and adopting the USA's way of life and culture. I have lived in Spain, Germany and Italy and traveled ALL over europe(England, France, Denmark, Holland, Sweden, Hungary, Austria, etc.etc...). Taking Spain as an example(which could not be further away from the US culture), what she says describes Spain 20 or 30 years ago, but certainly NOT now. The rent in Spain has skyrocketed! people no longer sleep siestas, people no longer have long lunches. People in Spain now have dryers for their clothes. All the food in Spain is now flooded with American brands, people drive cars everywhere, and no longer walk, etc.etc.. This video is outdated in the sense, if she was talking about 1990's or early 2000's europe, I could agree there is a difference between the USA and Europe. Now Europe is basically, for the most part, becoming more and more of a carbon copy of the USA living style. FYI I have lived in europe since 1995, for 28 years! I have seen and lived the changed.

[@carminfrancisco339]

Oh Kristin, thank you for speaking the truth about the US. It has become a superficial, shallow population for so many reasons. I thought that I was thinking crazy, but I feel the way you do. I don’t value a shallow conversation or the materialistic culture. I’m in my mid 50’s and I’m ready to escape the negative, self-centered mindset of the US. It’s time to find a better community for the next years of my life. You’re a fantastic inspiration!

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Glad to know you resonated with me, Carmin! Thank you for watching and for sharing your insights as well!

[@patrickwayne3701]

@@TravelingwithKristin I just turned the corner on 57 years. Starting out as a military brat [stepchild], did kindergarten in Augsburg Germany... allot of learning about how to be small and quiet to avoid drunken violent attention. Had to live that way until 16 and emancipation came my way thanks to Grandparents who finally could speak for me. I appreciated them and their love for me beyond anything I can ever express. They were a WWII couple who got together when he came home from the 82nd Airborne. He built her a home with a beauty shop she could work in, and he went to work in a factory in southern Indiana. I thrived in their care. Got good grades and won a scholarship and was on my way at 18. I followed him into the business of engineering at the same company he retired from and I have been caregiving for both of them in their last years. He slipped away in 2016 at 90, and she passed at 93, in 2018. I have lived, laughed and loved in the light of their love... and their teachings. I watched your post about Costa Rica with mild interest because I am a few short years from retirement... I am intrigued by living somewhere away from the burning shytteheap that is American politics, but I have been totally schooled by the school of hard knocks,, and despite all the fleas to scratch,, Lady Liberty is the light of freedom, for the world. I saw the words from the Brazilian who lives in Denmark and said they worshipped the USA when he was a kid, but now, not so much,, and I agreed in principle,, but I am loyal to a fault. I am interested in whether a pizza in Bulgaria could POSSIBLY be better than the one I had last night outside of Indianapolis.... or if there's ANYWHERE else in the world where I can enjoy Top Fuelers at full candle,, or a fabulous blue eyed girl telling me how wonderful the rest of the world is from the comfort and safety of the good Ole USA. Kristin ,,, thank you for sharing your experiences and your thoughts. You 'resonated' with me because I remember well,, the big German gals who looked after us kids in Augsburg in the early 70's. They laughed easily, and shared their baked goods and their love with us kids,,, and they showed a very young me, that not all Germans were the kind I saw in the wartime newsreels from my Granddad's war. I hope we get a chance to avoid WWIII. It's not looking good though.

[@ronaldreagan-ik6hz]

Only progressives have rotted the USA.

[@handymack5324]

I lived in Asia for 30 years before coming to the US and I can tell you that I am still in a cultural shock. I am sharing the same perspective here with you. I think Americans, American businesses and most strikingly the US government , are constantly being in a state of flux marked with feeling of insecurity (being less powerful than another country), loss of control (being overtaken by someone more superior). The mainstream media have made Americans mentally sick by constantly, explicitly comparing people's "net worth" in terms of $, millions, billions, trillions but never encourage people to look at society from a human point of view.

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Glad you resonated @handy mack and thanks for sharing your insights.

[@Stevah00]

YES, YES, Though I never considered it before, you are absolutely correct. The money drive is fabricated by the MEDIA!

[@jefesalsero]

Exactly! We Americans are mostly asleep. We're dumbed down by our Mainstream Media. A real lack of critical thinking among the population. Too much emphasis on the material and the superficial here.

[@hkraytai]

Me too. 28 years away, Now back and seeing people hating each other with division growing.

[@Stevah00]

@@hkraytai what you perceive as hate really profits one political party, the one that promotes that and would have you think that they are against it but still they promote it so you'll vote for them. In truth they are the source of the hate, these are the people that promote that minorities are not smart enough to bring a driver's license to a voting booth. If you believe that... you are the racist

[@tiagoneves1380]

When i was a kid i wanted to go to university in USA. For the last years i have seen how truly usa is. Instead of spending 50k a year in university, I will spend 697 Euros per year on a top engineering uni.

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Totally agree, Tiago. It’s much more affordable abroad

[@thecomment9489]

this is the role model country for many Indians

[@ninaoman]

in my country Uni is free, we pay for PhD, but even this can be paid for

[@jessicaely2521]

Oh also Highschools sometimes have programs where when you graduate highschool you have the certificate to work in whatever field you studied. For example my highschool offer kids a computer programming class, automotive class, or childcare class. For these classes you would take it for the 4 years that you were in highschool. The end of your 4th test you would take a test to get your certification. I had 3 friends that went through one of the programs. All of my friends graduated highschool with an ok paying job. My one friend went on to work for working for the US government to make our government files safer. My friend at 28 made $100,000 a year and this was just from a highschool program. My cousin got his certification to work on Air conditioners in highschool. He graduated highschool with an ok job as a a/c repairman. Now he's on his own and is raking in the money. I hope more schools go to offering these kinds of programs.

[@jessicaely2521]

I should say Uni should be way more affordable. You shouldn't have to jump through hoops to make Uni affordable. I still think all schools in the US should do some kind of schooling for trade work. Not every kid is cut out for Uni and they should have a way to make decent money right out of highschool. What I mean by decent is not minimum wage or $8.50 an hour. I'm talking about $10-$20 an hour. Yes I understand for most areas anything under $15 you can't live alone. Some areas you gotta work your way up the ladder.

[@jinglebells6864]

Your video is spot on! My husband and I are both Filipinos who used to work in Chicago for 20 yrs. We moved back to the Philippines in 2013, and believe it or not, all our back pains, insomnia are gone. My husband's BP is controlled now. When I was in the States, I felt self-entitled, impatient, selfish, etc. Here in the Philippines, where I see real poverty among our neighbors, I am more giving, more understanding, more patient. And what's even more incredible is that our poor neighbors turned out to be way more generous that most of our so-called "moneyed friends" back in the US. We retired early, and my colleagues asked me how I was able to survive here without all the conveniences America has to offer. But no, they'll never understand. And it's okay. Because I know their consumerism and materialism mentality are what's molding the kind of life they feel everybody wants and should have.

[@roninmantis7584]

I can relate to your experience. For many they will not see it, even if they travel to the Philippines simply because they view it as a tourist.

[@silynita]

Our health care system though😔( among other things) Edit: I agree. We're "poor" but you can still see genuine smiles. How many "rich" people on developed countries have you seen still smile like how a child would?

[@maxafricanus6489]

WOW….Your statement is Absolutely Perfect…Every time I go home mental and physical pains fall away, and true humanity is embrased again.

[@jinglebells6864]

@@silynita The irony is that although there's excellent healthcare system in the US, more often do we find ourselves sick there. Not only did we have the frequent insomnia, back pains, migraines, and high BP there (stress-related?), but we also had our bad stomach or respiratory flu every year. Here in the PI, we never had any bouts of flu. In the US, before you get to see the doctor for non-urgent reasons, the complaint is all gone ☺️.

[@registerednurse1983]

Thr other side of the coin is that you lived in Chicago for 20years thus enabling you to financially NOT be impoverished as your Phillipine neighbors

[@danlei88]

I like that you brought the issue of the 2-party system. As an European, I've occasionally tried explaining to Americans online how that polarizes the political discussion in the US. Though it's not getting through since they don't have the experience of witnessing how multi-party governments work here in EU for example. Here we don't have such emotional attachments to specific political parties in general since you have so many options to choose from that still align with your views. But all the political discussion online done by Americans seems borderline existential where the other party winning will mean the end of everything you love. It is really weird to witness this phenomena.

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Thanks for sharing your thoughts on the topic, Daniel 😊

[@alextjflorida]

LOL, EU countries are similar to the U.S. in terms of political system and are American vassals.

[@lizlee5052]

We didn’t used to either. The polarization of the two party system & party before country, materialism, illegal government shenanigans, out for #1, lack of empathy for others, let alone helping them, ideas like ‘I have to keep you from getting anything so I can have mine,”. has change literally everything. I’m outing myself as old because I can remember when it was different & people weren’t so harsh with each other. ( not back in the day, it really was different. )There’s very little I can say is better. Tech? I sure don’t miss the ubiquitous smoking although I understand it that way still in many countries. & yes to another poster. Advertising pharmaceuticals was illegal & is still jarring to me. I feel that ought change back, along with how political contributions are now regulated. Even our Supreme Court is outed with corruption. So many things that once were trustworthy. & companies had pride in there products ( before planned obsolescence) & many of them cared about there employees as much as they did about profits. & yes I think Americans are workaholics & companies take advantage of it. It really, truly was different. It’s not nostalgia. This period is closer to the robber baron era as much as anything. Okay I’ll stop my rant now which no will see.

[@thysonsacclaim]

"But all the political discussion online done by Americans seems borderline existential where the other party winning will mean the end of everything you love" Because it will. Sounds like you're too disconnected to know the things that are at stake. Contrary to what Europeans think, the two party system doesn't really stymie the political gradient at all. There are conservative Democrats and Liberal Republicans. It's been very common. However it has deteriorated only in the recent past, precipitated by the culture war.

[@Comfy8443]

2 party system one of the worst things that ever happened in the United States.of Merica.

[@iloveyoumadhuri]

George Carlin was so right about America: “The reason they call it the American Dream is because you have to be asleep to believe it.”

[@Antagonopolis]

"People spend money they don't have, on things they don't need"

[@EggEnjoyer]

@@Antagonopolis well they’ve been conditioned too. This is what happens when you’re raised in a society that does nothing but teach you to spend money

[@WakaWaka2468]

Says the guy who made millions telling jokes on a stage

[@ChrisTenalach77777]

👍

[@mromneyobama]

This don't make sense.

[@arobertpetersen]

Glad to hear someone else voice that criticism of American media. Fear, conflict and outrage. Spot on assessment.

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Thanks Bobo!

[@stellaborealis4846]

@@TravelingwithKristin which European country do you suggest for an American who wants to retire? a place with lower cost of living, where I can fully enjoy life and nature, but also have money left to traveling within Europe?

[@JohnPMiller]

"Public television" in other countries is paid for by the state, so the government will find a way to replace journalists who disagree. I saw this in France: David Pujadas, Philippe Verdier, etc. It's bad, but in a different way.

[@johngardner1898]

@@TravelingwithKristin Your life experience, work ethic, and awareness make you a very interesting person. Subscribed.

[@derekho7720]

@@stellaborealis4846 I know I am not Kristin, but I would suggest anything in Eastern Europe. I heard Prague and Split, Croatia, are quite nice.

[@CleopatraPapadopoulos]

I am from Greece and have been living in the United States for quite some time. Every time I try to discuss how I feel about it, people say "well if you do not like it, leave". There will never be improvement here. Here; you pay for health insurance but it takes months just for a primacy care doctor to grant you a visit. If you need something, you have to go to an urgent care where usually they do not help much and there is ALWAYS advertisements for medication. I feel like this psychologically just makes you sick. It is always about being ill. They have closed so many companies just to open up urgent cares everywhere. They want to advertise these things because they want to make money from us. This is subconscious making us sick. Yes everyone says that the taxes here in the United States are low, but we keep less money from our pay-check due to the cost of living. To be honest, I pay 30% in tax, and I receive no incentives for it. I have been working since I am 16. College isnt free, healthcare isnt free, there is no maternity leave, no prenatal care, and none of this money goes into retirement. In fact, unless your job provides you with a retirement, you will not have one. You can have a 401K but this is attached to the stock market, so if the market crashes, guess what? You cannot retire. The cost of everything is so high and salaries stay the same. In Greece, people might me more poor but they enjoy life more. You go to a coffee shop, and you can get coffee and dessert, and just sit down for hours and talk with your friends. Here in the USA, once you eat, they basically throw the bill at you and yes, the food here is terrible. It is packed with hormones and antibiotics. In Greece, we have something called "Laiki" and you can only get what's in season at this market. It is much cheaper than a super market too. I am just tired of being overworked. I cannot wait to leave! This place is not getting better. Why cant people accept that?

[@jaimegutier273]

I can relate to everything you have said so far. The USA has always been like that, always with a snear with the foreigner that just arrived to work while being mocked by those who just happen to be here before. Sure, it is the dream paradise for those with aristocratic aspirations but nothing of nobility in them. Is an awful place to live where everything is focused in how to make more money. I came here because I was offered a job, but after 4 years working here, I'm tired of living in the USA. Getting permanent residency is difficult and I haven't been able to make true friends at all here. And they are also discussing about leaving. This country is a big scam for new arrivals and I'm hoping to get a job somewhere else soon.

[@jaimegutier273]

Worst thing is that this rotten American culture is spreading everywhere around the world through the mass media of news and entertainment. Many people are adopting this toxic American mentality.

[@CleopatraPapadopoulos]

@@jaimegutier273 Yeah. This country prides itself in being overworked and I do not get that. You are supposed to work to live not live to work. People take pride in being at their beck and call of their company and job and people get fired just for wanting to take a personal day. Its terrible. Meanwhile in many countries, they have mandatory vacations! I believe its the dream paradise for those who have either a lot of money or come from REALLY shitty countries like Syria. Nobody from a first world country comes here and does not want to leave again. If I may ask are you American born?

[@CleopatraPapadopoulos]

@@jaimegutier273 Actually I travel a lot and I don't see it as bad as it is here. People are not obsessed with their phones and they have a different sense of pride.

[@tvbuu]

I feel like this everyday. I'm 28 and thankful I have woken up to this true reality to see things for what it really is. Majority of Americans here do not care because they are too deep down the rabbit hole.

[@CassieUmali]

Just discovered your channel and watched this as the 2nd video and it’s more relevant that ever even after 2 years of it’s posting. Thanks for putting your heart into your work to share that side of you. Vulnerability is the real strength. Subscribed and shared this with my family 👍🏽

[@CristhianItu]

I used to live in Long Island, New York... I went on vacation to a place called Mallorca, Spain... I never went back to the states.. That was 13 years ago...

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Oh wow! How is life there? hope you are doing great Cris.

[@martinko4086]

Cris Iturralde , tell the true, you lost all your money and you cannot afford to come back . OR you got married and your wife made a personal slave of you . I am not crazy about NEW York , But there are many places in the US worth to live in . ARE you a citizen of SPAIN ??

[@PVMe1967]

Lucky you, Mallorca is such a beautiful island.

[@KK-sg5gl]

@@martinko4086, what does he need money for if he’s already living his best life? Do you know the fisherman story? A man tells another man: Instead of just fishing for your food everyday, you could work hard over many years to build a fishing company, then hire a manager or sell it, and retire. What would you do in retirement? Do what you love, fishing. Fisherman: I already do that...

[@martinko4086]

@@KK-sg5gl Your story is "good " for little children , because they are easy to fool . Fisherman on commercial ship is one of the deadliest jobs on this planet and i am convinced that if this fisherman has o lots of money / like this IDIOT cris ilturralde with a lots of money in Mallorca / he would NOT risk his daily life . Most of the people are working jobs they do not like , just to feed theirs families . Please , teach children reality , NOT bullshit .

[@medobrundo8481]

The fact that Kardashians are famous is a prove of consumerism mentality in America

[@gregcampbell4577]

You said it ! I Mean who even follows the Kardashian Crap???

[@annakirshenbaum1458]

But they're famous globally, not just in US

[@medobrundo8481]

@@annakirshenbaum1458 Yes but here in Europe we are mostly making fun of them but American´s are mostly praising them or Am I wrong

[@ahalpert]

Also a bad look for millennials. Boomers, for all their flaws, would nvr have made the kardashians famous.

[@lkytmryan]

The kardashians have nothing to do with consumerism. It is celebrity for the sake of celebrity worship.

[@solodolotrevino]

I would love to have optimism about the trajectory of this country but I don't want to sit around for the next 30-40 years waiting for things to change when there's plenty of places already compatible with the way of life I want. Channels like this make me know I'm making the right decision.

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Glad you think so, Trevino. 😊

[@janetblanc7658]

good luck with living in the country of your choice. Greetings from Switzerland.

[@DerrickCartercosmostravels]

I have a lot of optimism for America and I love our country, I am even going to school for urban planning but I need a few years out of the country before I pledge myself to helping the trajectory of the country

[@manumaster1990]

1000%!

[@Arltratlo]

you have to wonder, i live in a country with public health care for the last 139 years... and make a guess what i think about the USA and its political system and its members.....you have Ted Cruz and "Moscow Mitch" McConnell, subhumans!

[@vickygalindo2135]

Wow!!! You are amazingly REAL!! A breath of fresh air to know that people like you exist!! Thanks from the bottom of my heart ! In these days of craziness and turmoil I'll be looking forward to your grounding videos every day. Sending you the biggest and warmest hug for what you do!!! From your 64 year old Colombian woman and biggest admirer. Thank you sweetheart ❤

[@ernestoaranda5855]

I cancelled my accounts in Netflix, Prime, don’t eat out and three things happened: My cholesterol got better I had more money at the end of the month And I have more time to perform better with my family.

[@MashZ]

It could be even better if you could use cars less. But US cities and towns are designed to make people rely on cars and have nothing in walking distance

[@harveyweinstein8937]

@@MashZ cars don't really have to cost that much. I've been driving the same Toyota pick up for 20 years. Even with repairs, tires, insurance, and fuel it amotorizes out to less than 2k USD a year. It doesn't get good fuel mileage because its 4WD, so it could be even less. If you need a new car every 3 years, it will cost a fortune.

[@cornbread1209]

I cut out watching movies as they are huge time wasters and 99.99% of the time glorify poor values and/or negativity.

[@michaelmatthiesen8300]

Itt ppl virtue signalling by giving up dumb inconsequential things for dumb inconsequential reasons.

[@Djjdwg06]

@@MashZ exactly which is trash i live in canada minority of our locations have long range transits

[@romeoalpha68]

Lack of Empathy in the US is a big thing I've noticed . The people trying to out do each other .

[@lifevest1]

Pandemic has made it especially worse.... the "Me Me Me" mentality has been turbocharged.

[@lordstephen513]

I feel like this is a product of our brand of capitalism combined with our notion of individualism. From birth we're all inundated with a message saying "YOU are the greatest thing ever. YOU are special. YOU are amazing. Nobody can tell YOU what to do. The whole world wants to watch YOU...using the latest ! So hey, come buy one!" It was like this in the 80s and 90s, and the advent of the internet and social media have only exacerbated the "EVERYBODY LOOK AT ME!!" problem. Add in the fact that politics and profit margins are focused solely on short term goals of *this quarter* or *this election cycle*, and it adds up to a society built on instant gratification with no regard for next year or next door neighbors. I don't feel like we can reasonably be surprised that the US has turned into a nation of sociopathic narcissists who burn every penny they have on status trinkets. America, land of the "F' em, I got mine!"

[@JaniceHope]

@@lordstephen513 No, I don't think that's it. What you are describing is more of a symptom than a cause. It's more ingroup vs outgroup and how that thinking permeates every strata of population in the US. Once you no longer qualify for an ingroup, people in it no longer care for you... add the rampant racism and classism and the rat race and empathy dies --- because everyone fears that they'll dragged down to drown with those 'losers' (in all the many ways you can be considered a loser by society). So they have to constantly prove that they are not like them. The American type capitalism makes it so that you can't trust really other people because they too often want (or rather 'have to' to survive) to make money of you with their side hustles or other kind of deals. It must be so stressful and tiresome.

[@sithmaster8838]

Its like the majority of the people have become sociopaths.

[@cajbaf]

Yes, greed is very high.

[@marias5088]

"...in many ways, we have been taught more to value hard work and independence sometimes at the expense of logic, empathy, and humanity" I couldn't have said it better!

[@VASIGTravelingLifeinLondon]

Yeah, I also totally agree with that! Btw if you’re looking for something to watch, I have videos from London and other cities as well☺️ if you want to check them out

[@gatorbuc99]

100%

[@dinismantas7265]

It doesn't even make sense.

[@ViciousAlienKlown]

Freedom is bad? Now I know I'm dealing with leftards.

[@russwright]

I’d add to that and say sense of community is lost as well

[@randyneilson7465]

Hi Kristin. We are a retired couple and are in the process of moving to Portugal. Thank you for your wonderful, thoughtful, well produced channel. You are wise beyond your years, and that is a result of the life that you ended up living. I just watched your video about being back in the US, and you really hit the nail on the head with your observations. We have seen many changes in our country in our lifetime, some good some bad. We just completed a year and a half journey around the USA, and you're right. It is an amazing place, but there are problems also. The highlight of our trip was definitely the many people from all walks of life that we met. They gave me hope that the country will continue to progress toward a positive outcome. Thanks again.

[@LRH143]

I was fortunate to live in a small village in Germany for six years while I was in the Army. And most people like myself would agree that living in Germany was a beautiful experience. Instead of hanging out with GI's I made friends with the locals that took me to places that I will cherish forever. And it afforded me the opportunity to visit Austria, Switzerland, Liechtenstein, Italy, France and my favorite city was Amsterdam. It was an education that money can not buy. The people I met in Germany were so friendly and hospitable. Those memories I will cherish forever. I too live in Florida and it is sad what has become of my home town. And now that I am retired I look at all my stuff I am trying to get rid of most of it. Less is more. I fell right into that consumerism trap.

[@carolmiller5713]

I recently ,y retired and travel most of the year (until now of course). What I’ve found, and those I meet agree - people around the wotld are basically the same. We want to enjoy and help show visitors our life, share the similars, appreciate & learn from the differences. I mean just the food around the world is worth the trip!

[@caledonia171]

@Robbi Grimm Lori didn‘t say „countries“. So we‘re good. :)

[@pushnpow]

Western Europe is such an epic place to explore, and the people are generally awesome too. Such a shame we can’t enjoy it anymore.

[@tweetyuno]

@@pushnpow they love the money we spend there.

[@sonjagatto9981]

@Robbi Grimm Lori stated..."and my favorite CITY was Amsterdam".

[@bobbytwoshades9986]

I think this is......HALRIOUS! Because as an american who has had a similar experience as her (left US at 21 returned at 31) I looked around.... And I was like..... Nope.... I have to go back. I love my family, and I'm proud to be an American but I cannot live here knowing life can be so much better. I wish America could match the quality of life other countrys offer but that is reserved for the few, the rich. America is so preoccupied with bullcrap politics, backstabing, lobbying, lies and misinformation that it is not helping its own people. I wish my family could live in peace here but I cannot make decisions for them. Feels to me like if America continues this way it will be like the fall of Rome.

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Thanks Bobby! I wonder how many of us are out here...

[@bobbytwoshades9986]

@@TravelingwithKristin Some, but it is a strange feeling to live outside of the bubble, look back and think... Dang..

[@michellewestlake6766]

it's a strange thing, bobby, because the last time i was in the US (from oz) i had the overwhelming sense of 'end of empire' everywhere from east coast to west coast :( . it was saddening and unsettling.

[@dominiquedrozak3723]

@@TravelingwithKristin me , back in canada for now but looking to get out of the cold, canada is nice, but we are not getting rid of snow fast enough, panama here i come! i did live in the carribean for 9 years...

[@Canishaliaeetus]

I live in the place of the election breaking hackers.... Actually, I was drawn to Russia - because they were "the enemy". I had to see it for myself. Russians are interesting (and unfortunately over enamored by American culture.)

[@mikecorcoran6834]

I have lived my life of 66 years in the USA. Much of what you noticed, I have been complaining about for a long time, especially the drugs being advertised & how our medical system has turned into a profit only business. I don't trust the doctors & the food for sale, so I grow most of what I eat now and stay much healthier as a result. I'm ready to leave.

[@marite135]

Go, go run fast. You will have a better life away.

[@gs7828]

Europe has got much safer food regulations.

[@scotttabak6755]

Have you seen the drug ad where 2 good looking ladies were dealing with their paranoia? 1 thought everyone was staring at her very pretty she is the other heard voices and she was in a crowded area duh!!

[@tanyapineda7212]

The US has been making less & less sense since I was born, I totally agree.

[@Ron-zr6se]

Mike, what is holding you back? We are the same age but the difference is I left decades ago. Life is far better outside of the US.

[@suedonn7996]

Came across your Channel while searching info on Costa Rica. I'm a retired teacher and have become so outraged at the toxic "environment" in my own Country that I have been looking at alternative places to travel to and maybe even lay down new roots. It's so refreshing to see a young woman with your perspective. I plan on watching and learning more from you and will inquire about your services. Thank you.

[@mwauramwaura2989]

As a Naturalized Citizen in the US and having migrated here in my teens , I wholeheartedly agree with you and wish so much to relocate to Costa Rica and still be close enough to the US so I can see my grandkids and my daughter and husband yearly. I'm retired (early) on SSI and cannot afford to live here anymore although I have been working here since I was 18 , two degrees and nothing to show for it but stress, disease and anxiety. I feel I will die an early death if I continue living here. I'm 65 yrs old and feel 80😢😢😢😢

[@andremarceau2736]

I have lived in Europe for 22 years. I am from Detroit (the ghetto). You are correct on every level. I lived in the Netherlands, Belgium, London. I live in France now. I speak fluent Dutch and my French is okay as of now, but working hard toward fluency. I will return home in time, and I already know that I will have serious culture shock. One thing for sure is having to deal with the dogmatic policing of the citizenry. I have not engaged with a police officer in any fashion during my now 22 years in Europe. Well outside of a pleasant conversation here and there. Oh yes and a few years ago I was lost in a Dutch city, the police officer saw that and stopped me to give me directions after being extremely polite and cordial. Didn't run my plates or anything like that. Didn't ask for my ID. Sometimes I tell my friends that I live the American Dream in Europe, which is stupid.

[@IAmTheEggMan111]

Most Americans do not have much interaction with the police. Aside from random pleasantries I Have not had an interaction with any police in over 35 years. Don’t believe what you see in the media. They have an agenda that they are presenting

[@gbossaboy]

Great post Andre, thanks.

[@fcassmann]

Why don't you come back to "Mokum" Amsterdam. greetz from Amsterdam.

[@Getemtone]

@@IAmTheEggMan111 thats bullshit!!! blk ppl out here dying at the hands of police daily!!! what are you talking about??? Ive seen it with my own eyes!!!!!

[@pamelastokes2964]

Living the American dream in Europe is not stupid. Unfortunately, I don't honestly believe you could live it in the United States, especially right now. None of seem to be able to at this time. Too much power grabbing and political b.s. Stay where you are, if you want to stay happy. I wish you much luck and happiness. Pray for us in America. 🤗

[@dondiddly8942]

One thing that I wish you would have mentioned is the perceived American belief that we are the most free people on the planet. Law enforcement is extremely heavy handed over here. Your experience may differ, but I have been effed with my entire life by government authority personnel. I was truly shocked when I lived in Europe for a half-year, and I noticed that police agencies don't harass you at all over there unless you actually really do something wrong. I breezed through airports and rail stations in Europe, but the instant I came back to the US, Customs agents subjected us to unlawful searches in violation of the 4th Amendment. Folks, we are very much NOT the Land of the Free.

[@brittanywashington407]

I think people say that we have freedom because we are able to voice our opinion about politics, our sexuality, the president and etc. without cruel punishment. Because in some countries that’s not a thing. I feel like it’s a spectrum of freedom we’re not entirely free in all aspects but we do have a freedom to express ourselves.

[@MiikeyLawless]

Eh, its a cultural thing. The police dont have to be so heavy handed as the populations in europe tend to be better behaved. As my ukranian friend said, the police are cool and wont bother you unless you mess with them. If you do mess with them, you will have very bad time.

[@KAFNOR]

@@brittanywashington407 Americans tend to think/be told they are freer than Europeans, who have similar political and sexual freedoms (if not more!), simply because Europeans do not have free access to guns. Americans do not understand the freedom it is to not feel you need a gun in the first place.

[@silvereagle404]

yes very weird why our law enforcement is more relaxed, it's because guns are illegal?? only heavy criminals have guns here. and they don't walk around strapped if they don't need it. so police assumes everybody is unarmed.

[@hideousvenomous1247]

More freedom in Mexico!✌🏽

[@jdigap007]

My conclusion from your video? Americans need to travel more and be open minded to learn and experience what life is from other places.

[@TravelingwithKristin]

🙌

[@joshuabroyles7565]

But once they're gone, why will they ever come back?

[@aclstudios]

Okay, give me the money so I can afford it!

[@boopsnootandboogie]

That's just not possible for the average American. Many don't have vacation time or the money to do it. 40% of Americans can't even afford a $400 emergency.

[@janedolores79]

bruh most ppl don't have the money to

[@natalieohlsson7777]

I saw a quote the other day that said in Europe, a hospital is for your health, and in America a hospital is a business. In Europe, you are the patient, and America you are the customer.

[@Musicbomb29]

We lived in the Uk for 2 years and had such a culture shock when we moved back to the US. It was actually so much of a culture shock we are moving back and hoping to stay in the UK or Europe for as long as we can.

[@stuartross2908]

Chuffed you like the UK, we are not too bad..

[@garywhapples365]

@@stuartross2908 we're pretty much america at this point. we have to have a dishwasher and tumble dryer because both me and my partner work full time to pay mortgage, as do most people i know

[@user-pf5xq3lq8i]

Ask Julian Assange how he is enjoying the UK.

[@excelsior999]

Just don't have any dental work done in England, even if it is free.

[@nic969]

@Frank Silvers why do assume the US is for everyone the best place to live?

[@jennifercartwright6416]

When I moved back to the US from Sweden 2 years ago it felt like the entire USA had changed. People everywhere here in the USA just seem so miserable. It just feels like everyone hates everyone else. My husband who is Swedish keeps begging me to move back and I have every intention of doing so. We purposely had our daughter in Sweden. She and my husband have free health care because of it.

[@49wire30]

Well... Not everywhere, you need to get out of the big cities

[@hobohabits3246]

I feel the same way. Everyone is pissed off. I think its due to the fact that everyone works constantly and on days off everything cost an extreme amount of money. U cant even go to a park or a lake ir even some hiking trails without getting charged a bunch of money. Not to mention the constant regulations . The regulations in america are out of control . From parking spots to regulations at home its crazy to even own a house its like u never really own your house. Ive been stopped for walkingbthe wrong way down a street . Then that leads to mistrust and loss of respect for the police. Life starts to just suck after u put all that together

[@arobertpetersen]

This country _has_ changed, especially since 9/11, when a host of laws and regulations came into play to “fight terrorism “. But it’s been changing since the 70s, imo. Corruption and glorification of the profit motive has ruined the American dream...and bankers, politicians and mega corporations are largely to blame.

[@ashtonhashbrown6155]

I disagree, the rural areas are where I reside and it's the best :D the cities are cool and all but it's not somewhere people should always stay at.

[@hobohabits3246]

@@ashtonhashbrown6155 i grew up in a tiny rural tpwn and the laws suck ther as well . Yrs its great and a paradise on my mind but thats ofcourse accepting the bs laws and knowing that it is better then a city. Actually me calling it paradise us mainly becausr i compare it to a city. Ogcourse once a person grows in age put of ther teens and 20s and is relaxed at heart then yes rural ereas are excellent and peaxeful. Ther arevdo many beautiful places in america that ppl have no clue exists becsusr all americans feel tgey have to leave the states to fund it. Sad really

[@autumneagle]

Lived abroad for five years, came back and thought "what the hell is with these self centered idiots.." then I realized I was a self centered idiot for 25 years

[@jmitterii2]

Thank the boob tube and other media outlets. The robber barons did their job well with their propaganda. Pitted the worker against each other, and fomented the nonsense that everyone is a millionaire or billionaire in waiting... and of course those that have a brain realize this is impossible and statistically obviously ridiculous as buying one of those Mega or Power Ball lotto tickets.

[@beyond-journeys-end]

@@jmitterii2 So do you also disagree with 28:14 on freedoom-wealthy? Im uncertain on what is meant by innovation and opportunity, seems to be more like self-indulgent/using others for mony. And lastly would you say being rich means running free from prison?

[@churblefurbles]

Just look at this channel, what's more self centered than a rootless childless globe traveler.

[@BlackHoleSpain]

That's called ETH - NO - CEN - TRISM (check Wikipedia if you ignore the concept) Every time I've written the whole word in a proper manner, automagically the comment is censored by KZbin. Freedom? Hah!

[@TheAutumnNetwork]

@@churblefurbles sounds like you're just salty. Rather be a childless globe traveler, than someone with a kid stuck in a debt-driven country.

[@SoCalLAKid]

I lived the first 1/3 of my life in Asia, the following 1/3 up and down California, and this present 1/3 in Europe, having traveled to 35 countries, a few of these many times. Kristin has perfectly put into words what I have felt all these years about the "greatestcountryintheworld" and its relationship with the rest of the world. This video is gold. I'm keeping it forever.

[@bobgraf7510]

I left the US 30 years ago and never looked back. I have returned frequently as a visitor, both for business and holiday to visit family so I maintained a connection to the country, You're right about the consumerism and over the top materialism. Everything is done in excess, even the politics. It's the only country that needs two political parties to have a one party state.

[@crusader2.0_loading89]

ROFL🤣

[@markplimsoll]

lol

[@gaylarice6124]

So true!

[@hbourgeois1]

Or a proliferation of news channels that put out almost the same news and only include international events if they are sensational.

[@edwardmiessner6502]

@@hbourgeois1 I don't think it's just international events they ignore unless it's sensational. I think it's all events. And the corporate media have split themselves into two csmps each side spoon feeding us propaganda

[@fionahunterjohnston]

I moved from the UK to Portugal 4 years ago and never looked back . Still being within Europe the contrasts are not as stark as for you, but there were a lot of things that still resonated with me from your video. In Portugal there is less commercialisation, slower pace of life, and they just seem to get it when it comes to living a healthy balanced life - it comes naturally to them. When I arrived I had dreams of owning a big house with a pool there one day, overlooking the sea. Now my priorities are the proximity to local cafes, small restaurants, good neighbours to be able to invite them round for a BBQ and a beer. I want to integrate, not set myself apart from them. You are exactly right when you say you become a product of your culture! The best things in life are free (or often much cheaper than people think).

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Thanks for contributing to the conversation, Fiona! Which area of Portugal are you in?

[@cindz4618]

Totally agree. I made the same move to Spain. Very similar experience..

[@jordanabeaulieu2530]

@@TravelingwithKristin How were you able to sustain yourself financially in all those countries?

[@TeganGordon]

Is neighboring a thing in other parts of the world? I've been in Chicago my whole life, I'm v loving person but most ppl don't give 2 shits about anyone but they're profile pic & bank acct here :( I'd love to live somewhere socializing is real

[@bikerfirefarter7280]

Excellent. Just the points I've been making to all these narrow-minded 'I can't afford it' types. Good for you to go with the flow. High five from me. btw I have known/know numerous people trans-locate to Portugal (and other places), some like you, embraced it, others couldn't hack it and either came back or moved on (some had to be 'rescued' having got it very wrong), it all depends on how trapped you are by your mindset or the mindset of those you are stuck with, e.g. spouse/kids etc.

[@prtauvers]

I left the US 15 years ago and you are spot on with everything. Never going back.

[@andrew_koala2974]

My dad left his home State of MI decades ago, as did his sister and niece. They went to the UK. ( and later my dad relocated again to Australia) Other family member moved from MI to Chicago IL and to FL [ Tampa - Val Rico - Sarasota ] My daughter did the opposite and relocated from AU to NYC. where she resides with her husband in Lower Manhattan. I have resided in the US many times, including 2 years on attachment to the USAF When I served in the Military. For the most part the people are excellent though many are overweight, the country has some great features, but the US System is pathetic in every respect. Though AUSTRALIA as a US puppet and TRIALUSA has progressively declined over the past 50 years, it is still a better place to be in than the USA.

[@rickhughesprints]

Good for you. I wish more people who feel as you do would leave. I lived overseas for thirteen years and now appreciate America and Americans than I ever do before. And no, I didn't live in an American bubble while overseas. I learned the language, worked in the country, lived like nationals and appreciated their culture. When I came back to the States, I started a nonprofit to help the economically disadvantaged. I rely on donations of good and finances on individuals, not accepting government help. I get to see the most wonderful, giving people on a weekly basis. There are wonderful people everywhere and I wish all Americans could live overseas to a while. If they like living overseas better, they should be like you and stay. And people like me, who loved the experience but are drawn back to the States, should take what they learned overseas with them.

[@prtauvers]

@@rickhughesprints well said- I, for one, married a local and we run an art gallery...so there’s that.

[@dwaynedwayne7951]

I wish he would've taken some liberals with him.

[@prtauvers]

@@dwaynedwayne7951 - Which other countries have you lived in?

[@PMCpunkSLC]

I have never heard someone explain the state of the American psyche so well. I love your outlook on life in general. Very empathetic, pragmatic, deep, and thoughtful. Thanks for sharing!

[@domenikamiteva6786]

"Pretty much everything from Bulgaria tastes good." This puts a big smile on my face as I am originally from here. Thank you for sharing your thoughts :)

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Glad to know you liked it Domenika. It is my pleasure. 😊

[@danielmoskovich2953]

This is true. I've visitted Bulgaria for tourism, and it was amazing, especially thanks to great food and great mountains!

[@banicata]

@@TravelingwithKristin I'm Bulgarian, too! The food in California can taste quite good though. There's some good produce in immigrant owned supermarkets

[@even9721]

My gf has stated the same about their food

[@piccalillipit9211]

Im British - Ive lived in Bulgaria for 12 years. The food is one of the greatest delights of living here. The American food companies ARE buying out the BG ones and filling everything with sugar - so people are getting fat... BUT, If you buy the real food - meat and vegetable and cheese etc. It is just fantastic. I eat a diet most people in American would have to be seriously wealthy to have and I buy it 200m from my apartment block. Whish IS a commi panel block, the nightmare looking things that shock westerners [me included] but are actually great to live in.

[@arlingtonguy54]

Im over 65 and have finally realized how bad the scam is here in the US. Ive traveled around the world a bit and know first hand the quality of life in other countries. I've also traveled to countries with worse conditions. We have been lied to all our lives as to how great the US is. We are currently making plans for our exit.

[@SelfMade717]

I'm the opposite as in I live in Europe but travelled to the US dozens of times. The US people are lovely but so brainwashed to think the US is the greatest nation and way of living on Earth. Its 100% not but most are too blind or proud to see that. Its a country built on capitalism and consumerism. Poor health care, poor quality food, less paid holidays/vacation, and the News is mind blowing. Nothing but race wars on the TV and adverts for drugs and spend all their money on defence budget instead of helping the homeless ect.... Its crazy. Once you spend time in other countries you realise how messed up the country is. I hope you find a place to retire in

[@IExpectedBSJustNotThisMuchBS]

65 and I left the country nearly 8 years ago. I saw into the future - where the US is today with the divide as insane as it is - and I wanted no part of it. My health was poor and there was not much I could do to be the change I wanted to see. Instead, I chose to live near family (my mother was an immigrant to the US) abroad.

[@RingsOfSolace]

@@SelfMade717 I literally got disowned by my family for pointing some of this out and saying the US is a shithole for it. Apparently it's okay for Trump to call other places shithole countries but I can't point out that we don't in fact have the best quality of life. I honestly hope to leave here in a few years.

[@marite135]

Best of luck

[@marite135]

@@SelfMade717 forgot to mention poor education

[@bicyclist2]

This is my first time watching this channel. I went over seas with my girlfriend and her parents in August 1990 for two weeks. It was the greatest trip I've ever been on. We went to Paris, Amsterdam, Copenhagen, Salzburg, Oslo, Zermatt, Munich, and Rome. It completely changed my view of the US, and the world. Unfortunately many very nieve people think that the US is the greatest because they were told so. Once you leave the US your perception of the world changes. Please keep up the good work. Thank you.

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Indeed, christdragon! Thanks for sharing your experience and insights too 😊🙌

[@jessemartinez243]

Most people dont want to leave the US because they've been brainwashed since childhood that the US is the greatest country on earth. You can't have a top world economy without mindless loyal wage workers

[@leskobrandon691]

The US media is the biggest problem with the US. Everything is a narrative. And every narrative is a lie. The media hates the constitution. The media hates our founding fathers. The media hates you. The media believes you incapable of thinking for yourself, thus, they think they know whats best for you...the way you think & what you think, that is, and if you dare to not fall for their ruse, they say you are a radical and are alt..........fill in the blank. They drive a wedge between us & get mad when u kick the wedge to the curb & refuse to hate people who think for themselves & possiblythink differentthan yourself. Something shocking....like 75% of todays so called journalists no longer believe in freedom of the press...they support censorship. I believe the current dismal state of our country stems from them. I have lived abroad & am heading back abroad because of this. They have the power to shape us any way they want, and instead of choosing to bring us together with classical liberal values, they've chosen to chuck those aside for divisive progressive woke values, which aren't accepting, which aren't inclusive, which aren't rooted in love. They are rooted in hate. The left in this country is lost & they've turned into exactly what they accuse the other side of being, and you are watching the left & right swap places. The sad thing is that so many people who believe themselves to be liberals are blind to what has happened & are marching lockstep with fascists & authoritarianism. If one fails to acknowledge that this is what is truly happening, then they have been snookered by their own prejudices, reinforced by their echo chamber which allows absolutely zero dissension. I believe we have the least free press in the world today. And it's voluntary. There is no big brother forcing them to do what they do. They pit black against white, gay against straight, citizen versus immigrant. What's crazy though, is that for years, the numbers spoke for themselves. There were so many coming & so few leaving. They are still coming, which speaks volumes about what the American ideal still means to those who remain oppressed. But we are leaving now. We are capable of leaving, however, because of a system that allowed us to become financially capable of leaving. Funny thing....the mexicans are coming here in record numbers still....and we are going there in record numbers. It obviously wouldn't be that way if we weren't capable of becoming financially successful even today. Talk about rambling....I'm guilty... but it's because I'm so frustrated with the country i love so much. The politicians couldn't get away with what they do without help from their friends in the media. There is zero integrity left in the institution. And our universities have become one huge echo chamber that no longer foster critical thinking & debate of the issues. Debate is no longer allowed on our campuses either. I could ramble for days. And btw, my classical liberal beliefs are now called alt right, white supremacist homo trans phobic beliefs. What has happened? SMH

[@Michael19830106]

The US is just like the USSR, but without communism. You talk a lot of shit and you believe it.

[@ADG-pl7ur]

I bet your girlfriends parents paid for the trip.

[@sinelo3965]

In the U.S., people live so squeezed by employment, competitiveness and the cost of living that when they drink alcohol, what they are looking for is to release all the tension created by this way of life; I guess that is partly why there is also so much addiction to opiates. I really appreciate you being so sensitive at the end, it shows the love you have inside. Keep those wrinkles, especially the ones next to your eyes (in Spain we call them "patas de gallo", crow's feet). They make you more expressive and more authentic, more human so to speak.

[@timothyw7663]

13% of Americans are 'on' anti-depressants.

[@jademusic1211]

Keep her wrinkles because it makes her more authentic and human?🤷‍♀️🤦‍♀️ And opiate addiction happens everywhere in the world, not just America.🙄

[@deafbyhiphop]

Choosing to be sober is quite lonely in the US

[@WesB1972]

I am an 82 year old native U S citizen. I have had many hardships in my life (loss of job,death of many close friends and family, financial hardship, divorce general hard times) and drugs or alcohol have never seemed like an answer.The facts about both drugs and alcohol and their risk are widely known. No one holds you down and forces you to ingest either one of these substances. Drugs and alcohol are life style choices made each individual.You reap what you sow.

[@triquepersonalwork6369]

I am an American that has lived in Europe for years, and I can say that all of this is so spot on. I would add that there are many more cultural differences too, and this sort of unravels the more that you are away.

[@joaosousa4946]

Im happy that you found peace in Europe, were happy your here, and out of the mass hysteria modern slavery that is america. Stay and enjoy life, money isnt everything!

[@keithsims5109]

@@joaosousa4946 everywhere you live you can say that what you said. Americans are not all chasing "money" like you believe. We are at the most loving and caring people that want the best for our families and to be a country that helps when needed. America belongs to the world, because we are a nation built on immigrants and we are free as a people, it is people in Congress that want to enslave us, all you have to do is read our documents: Declaration of Independence is where to begin

[@moresoysauce5489]

After living abroad for just 3 years and coming back that was enough to make me realize what a joke the US is...I'm leaving again next month and don't plan on coming back

[@blasphimus]

​@@keithsims5109 Most people in America are chasing money because it's expensive to live in any city. Rural living in the US is pretty trash at best unless you can remote work. I don't know many people who aren't working more than 1 job to make ends meet. That's unheard of in Europe because they typically have government healthcare that's not based on capitalism and they have much higher minimum wages. But housing is cheaper because they don't have conservatives that turn everything into a product like the healthcare industry or housing. Thus less poverty and more affordable living. Also it's funny you mention the government because I live in Europe and I've live in the US and the Democrats are so conservative it's insane. It's not a surprise everything is expensive. You guys need more AOC types like they have in Europe.

[@keithsims5109]

@@blasphimus may I correct you. 1. "That's unheard of in Europe because they typically have government healthcare that's not based on capitalism and they have much higher minimum wages." True Europe has Gov Health Care, but they still pay for it through taxation right and lower wages? I live part time [6 months] in Lithuania since 2012, so, I got a good understanding on EU policies. VAT [Value Added Tax] is 21% and predicted to go higher because of the influx of Immigrants. The employer has to pay half of the employees health care and pension, so, the average Lithuanian with a degree earns roughly 900 Euros per month and the average laborer earns 300 - 500 Euros per month. Food cost is somewhat higher as a average city in the US and gas, well, it is 1.30 euros per liter. 2. "But housing is cheaper because they don't have conservatives that turn everything into a product like the healthcare industry or housing." The average rental apartment is around $400 euros plus utilities which run around 50-100 euros per month [total 450-500 euros per month]. Why do you Liberals hate Capitalism? Conservatives do turn everything into a product, it is called "Capitalism" right? nothing wrong with that, or do you want to not earn income on your investment? 3. "Also it's funny you mention the government because I live in Europe and I've live in the US and the Democrats are so conservative it's insane. It's not a surprise everything is expensive. You guys need more AOC types like they have in Europe." Democrats are NOT conservative, they are anti-capitalism; anti-American; Socialist/Marxist; Slavery mentality; AOC, come get her and these Democrats, we will GLADLY give them to you and you will see what idoits they are. Not sure if your American or European, but you can have the Socialism and I will take the Capitalism. Here in Lithuania, young economist love Capitalism, we all know it isn't perfect, but it is the best system. One thing though, I dislike Lawyers and Politicians because they are the ones that are driving up healthcare by the way. Stay in Europe and call all the Democrats and tell them to leave America and come and stay in Europe.

[@billybobhouse9559]

From my perspective as an Englishman, the US looks awesome. The scenery is beautiful. You have mountains, deserts, beaches, huge wilderness'. There is so much good about the US. I want to visit some day. The problem seems to be that everyone is so convinced they are the best there, that they don't question all the crappy political decisions that are made ie health care, working conditions, etc.

[@kelseyt4033]

I'm from the U.S. and agree with you. There are many things that I love about the U.S. and think that the U.S. does well. I do love our natural landscapes and the people I know and love here. However, we shoot ourselves in the foot all the time because we are so convinced we do everything "the best" and any kind of critique means you "hate America." There are a lot of things that can be improved, and unless we address them, the problems will keep compounding.

[@SInman-dz1uj]

I'm from the US- and I disagree. Not all of us think our nation is "the best" or feel the need to rank ourselves. This is a narrative that many of our media outlets and TV shows have pressed for many decades now- so plenty of people do repeat it - that's true, but not to the tune of 'everyone'. I feel that I have had a pretty good life. I am grateful to the place I live that allowed me to have the life I've had thus far, but I don't feel that we as a people or a nation are "better" or "number one" by any means. I think every nation probably has things that they are proud of and things that they are not. I, myself, question political motives and decisions regularly. We currently have a number of problems that have yet to be addressed- lobbying for one, persons in regulatory positions that previously worked in industries that stand to gain from decisions made by those regulatory positions for another- a good example would be our FDA, and many others. The fact that the elected employees of our legislative bodies are some of the wealthiest people in our country is really telling. A good many of us are concerned that we are being run by corporations instead of by the will of the people and many of us are making concerted efforts to do whatever little we can to try to change the things we disagree with. Going up against wealthy and powerful corporations and lawmakers is not easy- and I expect it will take a decent amount of time for changes to come, but plenty of people are trying. There are a myriad of beautiful places here to visit and plenty of worthwhile persons to meet and get to know! I have lived on both the east and west coasts and have road tripped I hope to visit England myself someday! My father was stationed there while in the air force and my mother and father lived in a flat in England for a couple of years before I was born. I grew up watching a number of BBC shows and have always especially enjoyed British humor and British accents! I'd be happy to open up a dialogue if you have any questions about what things are like living in the US. All this being said- I hope you are having a lovely day and that I have left you with a better perception of the variations of thought here in the US! Cheers!

[@billybobhouse9559]

@@SInman-dz1uj you make some great points there mate. Of course, what I said doesn't apply to everyone. Its just a general impression that I get from watching the news, KZbin etc. Obviously, I've never been there so take it with a grain of salt. All the best.

[@jamesbinns8528]

Half of the US population wants a country with benefits similar to what Europe has. We don't run Congress.

[@kelseyt4033]

@@SInman-dz1uj Well put! I think you explained the nuances of U.S. culture better than I could. It's definitely not everyone, and there are a lot of people advocating for change. It definitely isn't as simple as wanting the change because of all the power dynamics you mentioned. While it isn't everyone who has the "The U.S. is better than everyone mentalilty," I do see it all the time. A common response I hear when someone brings up areas we need to improve is "if you don't like it here, then leave." I think that is a very toxic mentality to have. Loving your country doesn't mean you have to see everything through rose colored glasses. I hope this changes and that we can actually work on what we need to work on to make the U.S. a better place for everyone.

[@Sinoochka]

Obesity in US is also caused by the extreme low quality of the food, and the fact that it is very processed. While on a Work and Travel experience, I kept my home diet - cooking, eating vegetables, exercising, but I gained a few kilos for just 3 months. Using the same ingredients I would use back home in Bulgaria. I don’t think Americans even realise how bad they have it there.

[@jokuvaan5175]

From what I heard, eating healthy in US is more expensive than eating unhealhty. So poor can't afford to eat healthy :/

[@evamaria7298]

I heard there is sugar even in the bread or what we call toast. We have bread as well as toast here and we don't have sugar in those things. People coming home from vacation in the US were telling us that everything tasted sweet somehow, and the things that were supposed to taste sweet like cake was in fact so sweet that they almost couldn't eat it. Oh and the vegetables in burgers, sandwiches or salads didn't really smell or taste like tomatoes, salad leaves, cucumber and so on, those things had less flavor so they couldn't be told appart by taste, and the little bit of flavor that was left was overpowered by overly sweet or savory sauces Edit: oh I just now watched the part where she also mentions the flavor of vegetables and so on :)

[@heatherl6107]

I came back from Serbia this past Oct and my first observation was eating some food. My god, so much salt and sugar! In 9 months I've gained several kilos. Going back soon and am eager to have real food again

[@jessejones1102]

@@evamaria7298 Finland calling. Used to work in McD's and the sliced surface of the bun has sugar on it to make it crispy and not soggy from moisture of the fillings. I assume that is the reason if it's done in toast too. Never heard about that before...

[@evamaria7298]

@@jessejones1102 oh wow I didn't know that as well. Yeah maybe that could be a reason, at least for the sugary toast, thanks

[@naiman4535]

WOW! That final ending segment really was heavy and really packed a punch! Thanks for making such a thoughtful, thought provoking video, Kristin. And now, as I write this post from my motel room here in Albuquerque, on the verge of a return back to Guanajuato, Mexico, I will definitely keep your thoughts and observations in mind and take them to heart.

[@TravelingwithKristin]

I'm glad you found the ending impactful! 🌟 Safe travels back to Guanajuato 🌄✈️😊

[@sofiyork5881]

What really striked me in the US is public transport. Here in Europe, it's totally normal to travel by bus and train, also in between cities. Everyone uses them. When you enter a bus you'll find a variety of people from all walks of life and different financial backgrounds. It's a completely different vibe on a Greyhound bus.

[@JerEditz]

you can get the same interesting effect if you take actual city transit in US (though not as extensive as our European counterparts) or taking amtrak which by comparison is... okay.

[@jessicaharris1608]

The US is geographically huge. We have an absurd car culture that's true. Places that could be pedestrian friendly are not but that doesn't eliminate the issue of the sheer number of miles/kilometers America spans. If I drove 3 hours west from where I live I'd still be in the same state! Based on distance I would guess that someone could drive through several nations in Europe! I have been without a car of my own several times in my adult life. I have never lived anywhere with even a speck of public transit so I've been stranded at home for long periods unless my relatives were able to drive me. More public transit and pedestrian friendly areas would be great for some but it would NOT solve the overall need for cars.

[@xFD2x]

@@jessicaharris1608 Ok, have another perspective then. Lets compare the USA with the "United States of Europe". Almost equally huge. Still lots of public transport. You can compare Europe with the USA.

[@HelloSpyMyLie]

🤣

[@HelloSpyMyLie]

Yeah, a greyhound bus is all you need to see how fucked up America is

[@jankelsey9738]

I’ve been in this country for 50 years and I’ve detected absolutely no lies in this video. Your traveling experiences have made you a very astute observer of people and culture. Very well done video and best wishes.

[@bostonbased8324]

I'm an Italian immigrant who's lived in the United States for decades and she is right about all of this. Life here revolves around capitalism; money, competition, status. We can learn to appreciate the smaller things more.

[@robtriton]

As an American who lived in Catania, Sicilia. I can state that I would prefer American Healthcare and advanced treatment options over the Italian healthcare system. Italian cities riddled with spray paint graffiti, trash on the streets, potholes that never get fixed, transportation strikes, and expensive grocery stores. It goes both ways.

[@suzanh7777]

@@robtriton That was a result of MASSIVE influx of immigrants into Italy I was told. The same person said it was beautiful and peaceful before all the illegals FLOODED in.

[@areswalker5647]

@@robtriton 1) Sicily is among the poorest regions in Italy and the health care system there simply reflects this fact (the service you get in the northern and richer regions is so much better). That said, italian healthcare system is one of the best (2°in Europe and 4°in the world) and far superior to the usa's. in Italy there's universal healthcare too; it means that everyone gets to be cured for free in a public hospital but if you prefer the private option and want to pay for a better and faster service you could also get it. Summery: you can't say Italian HC is bad just because you saw the Sicilian one (specifically Catania's), that's as if i said the American is bad because i was in Detroit or the Bronx 2)graffiti have not the same negative connotations in Italy as they have in USA, to this day we have graffiti written in Latin by ancient Romans just to say. There are murales, love phrases, satirical drawings, political paintings and others written for fun, we just don't associate graffiti to degrade, the most we do is cover up those that seem not aesthetic or too offensive but for the most part we like to express ourselves even with them. 3) trash on the streets, potholes never fixed, strikes. Again, you were in one of the poorest regions; many things don't work there (mafia, corruption, political scandals are things that to this day influence the daily life of what happens to the community) yet big progresses are happening (i. e. Today trash issue is just a little tiny fraction of what it once was around ten years ago) 4) expensive grocery stores, this is the first time i heard of something like this, really. Maybe you're talking about processed food and yes it cost more than healthy food but that's the aim; you as a state should want your people to eat healthy so vegetables and in general fresh items are gonna be less expensive than a pack of cips or premade dishes for example. You don't get to have one of the best life expectancy result in the world by forcing the poors to buy processed food because it cost less, caring about people means that what you need should cost less and what you want can cost more. That said, Italy has a lot of issues and we Italians are the first to point them out without any reservations. This is no perfect country at all and could be improved a lot (especially if we started to less the gap between north and south) so you're free to think whatever you want, just wanted to give the point of view of someone who knows what you're talking about since I'm an enthusiast of American culture southern Italian. Love😘

[@janjones2629]

Dear Max: (and this video author). You talk about what life in the USA "revolves around". As if someone has a gun to your head, and you-just-can't-control-the-evils-of-what-Capitalism-has-brought-to-this-country. Absolute bullshit. There is NO COUNTRY on this planet that values INDIVIDUALISM more than America. "We can learn". YOU can "learn" what ever the hell you want. Including to set up what ever life style you want. NO ONE IS STOPPING YOU. MOST people, if you bother to take the time to get to know then, DO appreciate the small things in life. We don't need a lecture from you to tell us how to live our damm lives. LOOKS LIKE WE HAVE A NEW NATIONAL PASS TIME NOW - bashing the very country that makes peoples lives the most comfortable and choice filled on the planet. Oh, so now it's a "problem". Wow. Just wow. Go take a history lesson and learn how people REALLY lived, just 100 years ago.

[@rob5197]

@@robtriton true about graffiti and shabby rundown towns but I'm sure there are many such places in the state that are probably worse where not just poverty but desperation ,mental depression no hope ,drugs and alcoholism all things you don't see anywhere in italy

[@bffaris]

I think you nailed it. You are wise beyond your years, obviously your travels contributed to this. Everywhere has its good and bad. The US is an amazing place with many great people as you pointed out. I just wish it wasn’t being co- opted by corporate greed.

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Thanks for sharing your thoughts on the topic Brian!

[@ArturoEspinosaAldama]

America: working hard to become an underdeveloped country.

[@chrisstone5743]

Unfortunately true.

[@WeAretheWalrii]

much less to do with being "underdeveloped" and much more to do with destructive politics that seemingly want to decimate the American middle class

[@chrisstone5743]

@@WeAretheWalrii The destructive politics is what is causing the USA to become underdeveloped. The USA seems to be in decline.

[@drmachinewerke1]

Give biden another year. And we can just send our retirement money to the government. Bad thing is. He does not even know what he is signing

[@PlanetEarth3141]

Wow! That is an interesting way of looking at the direction of America. I neither disagree or agree with that point of view. I will spend time thinking that through. But the statement caught me off guard and if true has bad portents. I personally see America at odds with itself, contradicting directions. But becoming essentially an undeveloped nation is a bold statement.

[@WC_Beer_Reviews]

Contentment is a difficult quality to cultivate in the US. You're always made to feel like you dont have enough. On top of that, the monetary divide between the haves and the have-nots makes it close to impossible for even the modest families to reach solid level of contentment. I really enjoyed your perspective!

[@martinko4086]

Your perspective is ridiculous , NOT everybody is a LOSER like you . People from all over the world coming to the USA and many of them succeed more than you . YOU are the problem , travel on your own for god sake and use your logic . have you ever been in Bulgaria ?? I was 3 times. It is very poor country and there is a REASON for it .

[@TravelingwithKristin]

I appreciate that! Thanks for sharing your insights!

[@Find-Your-Bliss-]

Meditation & letting go of cravings- Over time, I am now little interested in shopping, acquiring or display. I am grateful for that change in me. I worked in Europe & Asia, lived in Costa Rica, & America is quite violent & mean, compared to anywhere else I have been. People seen stressed & angry. I am sad that this is how it feels now.

[@rmp7400]

Find peace in your soul - serve Almighty God - our reward and happiness come in Heaven: earth is NOT home.

[@MrSpandex1]

@@rmp7400 so your basically saying that you have to be dead to be happy

[@juancarlosmorenoaldana2361]

Ma'am You really hit the nail in the head. I lived in the US some 30 years ago and I felt that something in the entire system was wrong. 30 years later, now living in Spain for 18 months, I've realized that this people really know how to live better. I just make enough money to live, but I feel great. People are not competing with each other for having this or that, but just living simple, happy life.

[@robertbrown-qf8xy]

Wait until you have lived in Spain for 18 years, rather than 18 months. I'm certain you'll develop a very different perspective/attitude.

[@mauricio9564]

@@robertbrown-qf8xy The US just keeps getting worse everyday,why are you defending it so much,I know there is a lot of things good in US but attacking other people for liking living abroad specially in other more advanced countries cause it hurts your weak nationalist ego is just sad.

[@cakeisyummy5755]

I have 3 Questions for you; Do you wanna stay in Spain forever? Do you speak Spanish? Dp you plan on obtaining Spanish Citizenship?

[@juancarlosmorenoaldana2361]

@@cakeisyummy5755 who wants to know?

[@juancarlosmorenoaldana2361]

And Why?

[@willmolina7395]

Wow ..!! Found you yesterday and love your videos.. 3 yrs later and your comments are still Soo valid. Saludos from. Los Angeles CA, your Cuban papi 😉

[@landrover4284]

"The most dangerous of all "Weltanschauungen" (world-views) is the world-view of those people, who never have viewed the world." Alexander von Humboldt

[@torstenheling3830]

Great quote

[@ronagoodwell2709]

Really says a lot. Americans are as insulated as highlanders living in New Guinea.

[@teodora7219]

Great quote

[@suzanh7777]

VERY VERY well said!!!

[@abw48]

@@ronagoodwell2709 :Though Americans have a lot more choices than those living in those Highlands. Wee bit of a difference there eh?>

[@jefflebowski4287]

Yeah I lived abroad for 8 years and this sounds all to familiar. One of the things that strikes me most about Americans is they really think they are so much more advanced and that the American way of doing this is just the “normal” way to do things. Basically completely oblivious to the world around them, even outside of their home state.

[@stephenlock7236]

That exact mentality has been the main reason for American bad behaviour around the world. Other cultures see it as arrogance and hubris while Americans thinks they're superior. Ironically, that led Americans to think that the rest of humanity should adopt the American way of life, but lashes back when the adopter starts to do even better than the America itself.

[@lexstockton2451]

Not important but the time I (lived in the US since birth) notice it in our bizarre measurement system. We can’t call it by it’s real name, we call the British Imperial system the Standard measuring system. 7.5 billion use the Metric system but the 0.32 billion who the use antique British system are using the Standard measurement system. Right….

[@jshroud]

@@stephenlock7236 🎓🎓💯💯

[@jshroud]

🎓🎓💯💯

[@stevenlowe3026]

@@lexstockton2451 Actually, it's called the Imperial system - but that would go down even worse in the U.S. than calling it the British system ;).

[@jamesroof6150]

I lived abroad for 4 years. The Netherlands. I had more culture shock coming back to the US and it was the spoiled self entitlement of so many Americans and the shallow entertainment consumption culture that stood out the most.

[@TravelingwithKristin]

I love the Netherlands. Definitely a difference in cultures

[@nox8730]

This. It may not be accepted that a french guy like me may give his opinion, but this is exactly how i see things. Culture, creativity and arts has become a business meant to lick the boots of shareholders. That is why Hollywood crumbled. The saddest thing in that, is that our countries have to face competition not in respect to quality but to shitloads of money and agressive marketing meant to stifle every incentive to offer something less mainstream, meaning this American trend, and every American trend, contaminate the World like a plague. Not because it's good. But because $$$. Here, it is my personal opinion, but for someone like me, who believe in education, curiosity, who worship knowledge and people more knowledgeable than me, this trend is what makes the world rot and the humanity regress to dark ages.

[@tishhill9561]

@@nox8730 You have described the rot very well indeed. You are not alone!

[@johnnytocino9313]

@@nox8730 you're so spot on my French amigo. Being an artist in the USA is a strange thing. It's like being in a Charlie Chaplin movie where you Are Charlie Chaplin. When I went to France and other countries in Europe I was amazed at how much more respectful people were to me when they found out I was an artist.

[@nox8730]

@@johnnytocino9313 Hard to say, but this is the same for everything. From what i have seen, even the lives of people is a business for shareholders. This topic is exactly the reason why i have a huge problem with the ultra liberal economic model in the USA. Making sure that there are rules is not being a communist. Normally, when we meet an artist, we are curious at what kind of works he does, not how much he makes. Good luck to you anyway.

[@carodrig8425]

I see so much value in your videos and definitely want to give it a try at living abroad and watching you is very inspiring for me. I think you are an amazing person and I wish I could meet someone like you once I am able to start my journey.

[@LuddyFish_]

I spent time living in a third world country for about a month, and it was so eye opening. People were very happy despite having less than us first world countries. They were grateful for just the smallest things. These things were things that we pass off as normal and expected. It felt so much better not having to look on social media every hour or worry about being late (I spent some of my time in a traditional village and the concept of time was a lot more relaxed for them). Smiles and joy were extremely common amongst faces. If anything, the media lies about third world countries being so depressing and sufferable, because it seems that first world countries are more sad and depressed even though we have more.

[@1lolofred]

Money can not and will not replace and buy inner peace..It comes naturally among us. My hunger for friendship more than food. People who never been out of USA will always think that 3rd world countries are the saddest place on earth...how wrong they are.. USA in the last four years has been the saddest and gloomiest times for Americans. I am really hoping that things changes for the better for everyone. I still live and reside in the US but I own a beach property in a small Island in the Philippines, make occasional visits and actually retired about 3 years ago and I can relate to what you were saying..Peace and stay safe.

[@Elcapitaan5]

Sadly social media has taken over in the third world now.

[@pineapples7449]

Speak for yourself. I smile. Must be you.

[@muskaanbhayana7921]

Hi I was just wondering what 3rd world country you lived in

[@karl-erikmumler9820]

The first world has invented and pioneered several newer maladies. It's poetically ironic.

[@Lansdowne11]

From my travel experiences, I tend to agree with you. It's strange to realize how ingrained we are with American values when we're abroad. I've seen entire cities shut down on Sundays, just to provide everyone a day of leisure. I've seen opportunities to sell food, drinks and other good/services squandered because people choose to have a peaceful day in the park rather than just another venue for commerce. To my American brain, I saw this as opportunity lost, but the gains are actually far more valuable than whatever money would have been gained. We're trained, as Americans, to want more and to show everyone how much we've got. And to what end? Thanks for sharing.

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Thank you for commenting. It’s still a struggle for me to turn off my working brain while in the US. Work in progress. I’m looking forward to traveling abroad again soon

[@Zachw2007]

@@TravelingwithKristin It’s legal to do Speedballs in the Netherlands 🇳🇱, right?

[@diarmuidkuhle8181]

@@Zachw2007 haha you wish. Xd It IS legal to smoke weed and eat hash brownies though 😜

[@yaimavol]

@L M That is a stereotype but you might find it surprising to know that asking someone how much money they make or offering up that information yourself is considered rude in the US. People don't talk about their salary, especially to strangers. I have no idea how much even my best friends make in terms of annual income.

[@gidget8717]

You do know that it used to be that way in small towns all across the united states 70yrs ago, correct? Up until the mid to late 1970s most businesses were closed a half day on Wednesday and Saturday and not opened at all in Sundays. It was before the media convinced women that being a homemaker was a bad thing. They should be out there making their "own money". 2 income families and "keeping up with the Jones's" was the future. They stopped teaching home economics sometime in the 80s and increased the business courses in high schools. It was more important for a student to learn how to be indispensable to an employer than for a student to learn how to care for their future family. No child left behind! They need to learn how to make more money. Its no wonder this country is in such a mess.

[@cooksmary]

I have been living abroad since 2009, in a number of different cultures and countries, and there is nothing you mentioned that I would disagree with. I feel so bad for my family back in the USA. They work so hard for minimal rewards and they don't even know it. Thank you for this video. I hope people use it for good.

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Thank you Mary! I hope that it has a positive impact as well

[@skybox-101]

Where did you move to? I think a lot of people would like to move to another country but where and how?

[@Utubedeletescomments]

Most Americans are getting played and ok with it because they keep drinking the " this is the best country on earth " koo-aid . Their excuse is always , " well that's why everyone want to move here " . I always tell them that people move / migrate to many countries , not just the U.S . Also, the Majority of people moving here are from " 3rd world/war torn countries " . Btw , I've been to 33 countries and definitely moving out the U.S soon . Hate mail from sensitive Americans below.

[@jcdom3841]

Oh Kristin! What a video… I’ve only recently discovered your channel and so glad I have. Greetings from the UK! 🇬🇧 Your experiences have clearly strengthened, matured and humbled you, probably beyond the people you left behind, all those years ago. I hope you can appreciate the incredible country from which you hail with fresh eyes. After years of travel I fell back in love with the UK as it taught me all I have and took for granted. We are both very fortunate.

[@DCLayclerk]

Hi Kristin, I don’t know if you’ll see this comment or not, but I just wanted to congratulate you on it. I think what you had to say about the differences between the US and other countries is spot on and absolutely beautiful. I’m eternally grateful to my parents who valued travel as we were growing up, and I’ve been going to Europe at least once a year since about 1984, and I’ve lived in Germany and Austria at various points, as well as taking 25 trips to Italy, and countless trips to other European countries. The more often I go to Europe, the sadder I am when I get home, because I see how too many people are engaged in pointless debates over every issue of the day and can’t just get on with the business of living. I see Europeans do that to a much greater degree than we do (that is, just living their lives) Three quick points in conclusion, one is that a priest friend of mine who passed away and was my spiritual director for a short time shared my love of Italy and said “I feel like I can be myself there.” In 2017 I walked the Camino of Santiago de Compostela and I was happier during those days of backpacking and sleeping in albergues than I had been in the US for a very long time. And finally, we spent my birthday in Barcelona in January 2019 and I remember having a conversation in French with a couple of other tourists at a bar, and the one guy said “ sitting in a bar enjoying a glass of wine and chatting with another couple, that’s what life is really all about.“ Thank you again for the video and I’ve subscribed.

[@drmmr123]

What a kindhearted, sweet young woman you are. Your care for your fellow humans really stands out. It was a real pleasure hearing your thoughts.... The last few minutes were touching.

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Thank you so much! 🙏🏼💓 I really appreciate your kind words

[@markfoster1520]

drmmr123 is right. I don't know why this took weeks to hit my recommended videos..... So you moved back to the US during the final months of another Florida Man.... & yet you kept away from an easy blame game. Abroad...you loved the food....you loved the economy...& even the Healthcare (Bernie, take note!). I'm glad you DID mention how this poor, tired, huddled mass.... did make this (what we are taught is) the Greatest Country in the World! North Koreans are also taught that.... so.... Quality of Life..... That's so very important. It is how I think of the end-of-life decisions....so, why not while I'm living!?! I'm going to subscribe to your channel.....this is someone I need to know! Thank you.

[@danielkuzmov3963]

As a Bulgarian, thank for appreciating the fruits and veggies we have ! Also the yogurt:)

[@jc5331]

Greetings from Singapore. We get your wonderful yoghurt here too!

[@sailorgunsveteran5260]

I had the privilege of visiting Bulgaria and the food and drink there was top notch.

[@g_c6668]

Food in Bulgaria just tasted so delicious

[@esterloanzon1046]

@@jc5331 dd

[@janheard3826]

We have Bulgarian gardeners (in England) and they tell me Bulgaria is not only a really poor country but it is one of the most corrupt countries in Europe. I guess that’s why many Bulgarians have chosen to make their lives in the U.K.

[@josephhuth3714]

Being from the USA and having lived in 5 countries in both Western and Eastern Europe for the last 8 months I can say that the information Kristin presents here is accurate and spot on.

[@RobertMJohnson]

more like a bunch of lies.

[@gibsonms]

@@RobertMJohnson hahaha you wasteman

[@heavenj7]

I agree. It’s amazing how many people who just want to hate and disagree come here ? With no intention to travel and learn!!

[@josephhuth3714]

@@heavenj7 Thank you. I was surprised at the negative reply to my comment by the troll Robert M. Johnson.

[@josephhuth3714]

@@RobertMJohnson Are you happy living under a bridge, Mr. Johnson?

[@njm3211]

Retired to southern Italy. Never regretted a second.

[@TheBoliviaShow]

Man i love reading comments like this. Did you happen to buy one of those $1 houses?

[@ApriliaRacer14]

Truly enlightening experience that so many Americans will not understand. The American bubble is real.

[@davepike7546]

Love Italy and we'll both be retired by September. Don't think we'll settle for long in one place, but if we did Puglia and the Amalfi coast would be right up there. Enjoy your time.

[@njm3211]

@@TheBoliviaShow No. Paid market prices

[@emmanuelkofyagyapong6382]

We loved from Veneto East Italy to the USA but for some reason I feel like I am not sure whether to stay... I LOVE America it gave me the second opportunity in live I wouldn't have gotten in Italy but the quality of life my friends...

[@joylove8693]

Kristin, you are a lovele young lady who has depth, sensible, open minded, empethetic, our world will be much beautiful if we have more people like you.

[@TravelingwithKristin]

So kind of you to say! ❤️❤️

[@Gen-XRider]

❤️

[@valsummerfield3069]

I just took a deep breath before writing here. I'm starting to have some real sadness because I feel I lack those types of bonds with people here in the US. I'm referring to deeper, richer and more genuine relationships. I'm not saying everyone is shallow but I just don't fit into American culture and I'M AMERICAN. You see my issue? I've travelled a bit and my husband is English and I only mention this to say that I feel like a foreigner in my own country at times. My own travel experience to South America, Europe and the Caribbean throughout the years have shown me that relationships, and the things we value as a culture are particular to this country. I appreciate you sharing your honest view.

[@TravelingwithKristin]

I totally understand you, Val. A lot of people feel this way as well and you are not alone. I appreciate you sharing your insights and experience as well. Thank you!

[@mr.saturday3252]

I totally agree with you and I am also an American. The one thing that I miss from living abroad was the amount of get togethers that had NO TV'S on and people sitting around just talking and laughing for hours! One of the things that I miss the most. Be well and much Luv.

[@email4664]

After spending my childhood in Ireland, and then traveling to 18 other countries as a young adult, I find myself in USA - place of birth- and actually feeling like this has been the biggest compromise of my life.

[@nancyanderson7422]

Kristin, this video is phenomenal! I'm an American Expat living in Istanbul Turkey and I agree with your views on this video 100%. I'm sharing this video with all my Turkish friends that are contemplating moving to the US (or any other country for that matter!) because it is the issue about culture and lifestyle that really make or break a living abroad experience. Also, the media doesn't reflect a true representation of a country's lifestyle or culture for the majority of people living in that country.

[@flexystyle]

I am a Jamaican who moved here as an adult and remember writing a paper in college about culture shock. In Jamaica, I hardly bought clothes and shoes unless I had an event where the clothes/items aren’t appropriate in my closet. I could go years and not buy anything. Moving here you really do get sucked in. There is that pull to conform. It has now taken me years-after accumulating too much-to realize that I don’t have to buy everything I want because everyone else has it. I’ve been trying to downsize, but in the process I am being sucked back in. I’ve also traveled to all the continents outside of Australia and Antarctica and have developed an even greater awareness of how “more-ish” I am and the influential pressure that is placed on you here to have the season’s latest trend in your closet. You’re right. I have also been working from home for the past 4 years and again, you’re right! I eat at my desk and keep working! Hmmm-didn’t even realize I did that! Truly enjoyed your perspective. I’m also grateful to have the opportunities that I have been given moving here. The balancing act of living minimally while still feeling plugged in is a constant struggle that I’m trying to master. Good luck!

[@paddymaluco]

Ganja and Red stripe Yaaa man

[@danielher4515]

Born and raised in the USA. It boggles my mind when I hear of people who buy clothes once a week, or even once a month. I buy new clothes like once every 5 to 10 years. The only clothing item that I buy regularly would be socks which is only once a year. I did have a boss who told me that the US economy would tank if everyone was as thrifty as I am.

[@stevendedeian7774]

less...is really more....lol

[@bostjules6176]

Very much enjoyed your perspective. 😉

[@biancahotca3244]

Yes but Jamaica is a very poor nation. Most of the people there live in poverty.

[@_stephanie]

I left the US to live in the UK 7 years ago, and this resonatedwith me so much. I never really felt at home in the US, and I feel so much more like I belong here. I think it's a great goal to want to help others find a way out if theyre not happy!

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Thanks for watching, Stephanie! I’m so glad it resonated with you and that you’ve found your place abroad 😊 Are you still in UK?

[@maribethsnow2090]

I wonder where in the US you used to live?

[@michiganmikeupnorth]

People here in the U.S. never seem happy.

[@Lea-rb9nc]

I'm another one who never "belonged" in America. Travel was addictive from an early age and I've spent time in several European countries as well as South-east Asia, and from the moment I first found my little village, I knew, I had come home. Bonne courage et bonne chance.

[@TheMaldonadoVlog2022]

Live in different country is the best I live in Greece for 5 years and now I’m in Portugal for 12 year.

[@B20C0]

We have a saying in Germany: "You're the property of your property."

[@Mmmmkaaay]

In America we say: the things you own end up owning you.

[@athena7071]

Gut gesagt

[@color-head1696]

oder "weniger is mehr" (less is more)

[@ZealotSeraphim]

Our possessions possess us, that's why they are called possessions

[@tttttttt8482]

In Japan they say: It's not an earthquake killing you, it's your possessions, that kill you ( your home, your furniture and etc.)

[@jackoman1959]

A book could be written (I've thought about it many times when trying to educate people) about the US and why leaving is the best thing a person could do to improve their life. I first left the US over 40 years ago when I was 21 and travelled around Asia, Northern Europe and the Mediterranean. Upon returning to the US and after finishing college I left to work as a volunteer in Ecuador for 2 years. Once I saw how people lived a simple and content life, and after dating Latin American women there, upon returning to the US I was never able to re-integrate. Everyday, my eyes were pointed south until I was able to leave again. I permanently left 20 years ago, married a latin woman and have raised my family (wife, 2 kids) in South America. This video by Kristin is a decent breakdown, but I still find it only a surficial level 1, where there is alot left unsaid, with 2 deeper levels that might not sit well with many people. For example: History (genocide of native peoples [the most taboo topic of them all], slavery, melting pot breakdown of other cultures), American Dream (Hollywood, education system propaganda, pseudo-feminism, American exceptionalism, consumer pop culture, worship of popular people as if they were Gods), Empire (political, economic and militaristic oppression of other countries), Psychosis (cognitive dissonance, hedonism, narcisissm, violence, fear, rage, emotional distance, mindless consumption, tendency to dichotomize complex issues), Corporate Dominance (top to bottom control in every aspect of society), Health Care (A major scam and super $$$), Pharmaceuticals (Still super expensive compared to other places in the world), Education (Beyond ridiculous prices), also worth mentioning: The Federal Reserve (handouts to the rich, punish the poor/working class), Genetically-Modified-Foods (who needs this crap anyways?), Police State disguised as security for the so-called good people, Prisons (most in the world, do we dare mention cheap prison labor?). The list goes on. What is truly amazing is that I can have intelligent conversations with most people from Latin America and Europe about these topics and almost never feel resentment or anger that people from the US immediately express. Yes it's true, that most people from the US are severely brainwashed and drunk on patriotism, since they are taught from birth that good people think in red, white and blue. There are still a few things that I miss: the beautufil parks, bike trails, open spaces, baseball, jazz, folk music, and yes, the few nice people who remain, mostly residing in rural areas of the midwest. Other than that I'm very content living outside of the madness and have never for a minute regretted leaving.

[@josephowens4654]

I’ve lived overseas almost 30 years and you summed it up far more eloquently than I could. I only ever got as far as America went fat, mean and crazy while I was away. I’ve seen my hometown and family almost destroyed by the drugs, political insanity and media induced paranoia. And I’ve watched good people die scrimping on healthcare they can’t afford. I love my homeland but it’s so hard to look at these days knowing what we could and should be if we could break some of these insane cycles.

[@CanoeToNewOrleans]

You bring up a number of topics that get a lot of media attention. There are plenty of reports about drugs, politics etc. but the media doesn't go into much detail about what happens to people who can't afford healthcare. The issue needs more coverage. If people knew more about it they'd be more willing to break the cycle.

[@stanpetrides1887]

America's media is the cause of this instability

[@johnp139]

I’ve learned to largely ignore advertisements. I also don’t care what anyone else thinks about what I wear or own.

[@ronaldmcdonald3965]

Last GF could not stop telling me to buy new truck, furniture, boot. Everything is good enough for its purpose. And I can afford anything I want. But I don't need.

[@jermainemyrn19]

Advertising is something is always something I have ignored

[@KozmicKarmaKoala]

John P... Why should you have ever cared what anyone thinks ?

[@ACNC1]

Yep, its not excessive advertising or marketing...its really brainwashing.

[@markplimsoll]

Your "rugged individualism" denies social goals and concerted effort, so you are a perfect consumer, irresponsible and unthinking, emotionally driven by the anxieties caused by your neglectful "American" and (probably) severly withered nuclear family. No one should need day care in human society. Kids can reproduce in early teens, but the brain matures after 25 years (car insurance companies beat scientists to that conclusion!) so obviously grandparents should do childcare to keep kids safe from parents! Not caring what, how, or if others think, makes a person irresponible and we don't have much time left to respond to the Climate Emergency, Anthropocene, and the need to Save the Afterlife. We belong to, and co-evolved in, Earth's biosphere, and that will make space colonization almost impossible.

[@MrTruthAddict]

The grocery stores here give you the impression that you have many options but the variety is really in the labels. Almost everything has high fructose corn syrup and gmo grains. Even the fruit is gmo, designed to LOOK healthy and ripe when it's not. I traveled around the world for 6 months and actually ran out of my antidepressants and found I didnt need them. The food was just more nutritious and I felt great. I got back to the states and it wasn't long before I felt like I needed the antidepressants again.

[@stephenkiernan8520]

Wait untill you start taking your antistupididty medication. You might even reccognise the irony of that statement.

[@blancavelasquez9859]

food made you depressed? i’m sure there are other factors contributing to your use of the medication but to just blame it on food...

[@chris-mg5ui]

And factory farmed meat animals and increasingly fish is pumped full of chemicals and drugs

[@curmudgeon1933]

The vast variety is just an illusion. Most packaged products are just differently branded versions of the same things. Corporations have acquired so many small independent companies over the last few decades, that it has become increasingly difficult to know who manufactures a particular item.

[@emiletard4201]

@@blancavelasquez9859 the food you eat is actually very closely connected to your mental health

[@MarcusAurelius-rq7bd]

Thank you Kristin for your insights, honesty and authenticity. I am in midlife, wrapping up a productive career and looking to open myself and discover the world and a new way of living after 25 years of pursuing my teenage dreams. Im now moving on to a new phase and your videos have inspired me. From Cape Town, South Africa

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Glad to know you got inspired by content, Marcus! All the best to you trip!

[@sherai55]

Oh you nailed it with your comments on the food quality. I'm a Canadian who lived abroad in Europe for a while and I was *shocked* at how affordable good quality food was. To get that quality of food in Canada is very very expensive.

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Right?! I used to spend $20 per week on organic produce at the farmers market in Costa Rica but if there’s anywhere I’ve spent more on groceries than in the United States it’s definitely in Canada!

[@lawrencelawrence3920]

@@TravelingwithKristin that is so true, Canada is unreasonably expensive. After watching your video I wanted to make the comment, if you compare the high costof living in the US to Canada, Canada is very expensive to its value.

[@MrBrachiatingApe]

@@TravelingwithKristin The food culture in Europe is spectacular; here in SE Asia, though...ha! Organic wasn't a thing until like 2 years ago.

[@MW-nr3lg]

@@lawrencelawrence3920 My weekly food is around $150 week in Canada. I am shopping at Whole Foods to get quality and organic. That's the cost for 1 person. People from the States comment on how expensive it is in Vancouver. I'd like to move to the States but where? I'd like a smaller city surrounded by rural areas.

[@lawrencelawrence3920]

@@MW-nr3lg $150 a week if you are single it think is high. I live in a small city in Southern BC and my weekly food bill at the most is about $40. It helps that I eat plant based, I have a garden, I grow, freeze, can and dry my own food, I buy my grains in bulk from the organic wholesaler and make my own pasta and bread. If I do eat fish I catch it myself but I rarely eat it and it is usually salmon , trout and perch and I can the salmon. Freezer and canning shelves are full so much that I give away food. Wild forage for mushrooms, berries and plants also help.

[@robertpeterson1497]

I really think we would be better off if everyone could live outside the U.S. for a while. I lived in Spain for a couple years and it forever changed the way I see America, not to mention my perspective on life in general. It is life changing

[@TravelingwithKristin]

It will surely life changing. Thanks for sharing your thoughts. Robert! 😊

[@Antonio-wh3oq]

I’ve done it the other way around: born and raised in another country, and moved to the United States. I prefer it here.

[@1111pamo]

Are you living in the U.S. now? If so, why would you come back if it's better somewhere else?

[@timothyknight8529]

Yes, I've been to Spain twice. In 1965 we almost died on a train ride from Madrid to Barcelona ... you see, the train was vintage 1900 and was FILLED with COAL SMOKE for the whole 13 hour trip! In 1970 I was in Majorca for two weeks in August, and the heat was insufferable. The one thing I remember best about both trips, however, was the ever-present "perfume" of Spain ... the smell of sewage.

[@tante_Ique]

@@timothyknight8529 really? You had to go back more than half a century? 😂

[@heleneg525]

Kristin, I am an American senior citizen. I just caught this video, and I agree with you 100 percent. One thing I'd like to add: When I was growing up, American culture was very different from what it is today; it was more "European." That is, there was less focus on materialism, superficiality, waste, showy wealth, us v. them, over-sized houses and wardrobes. When I was growing up in the 50s, 60s and 70s, people didn't show off their wealth. They kept it quiet among their own four walls. The wealthier neighbor (who had an average-sized home) was very welcoming to their poorer neighbor -- nobody knew who had money in their neighborhoor and who didn't. Now, I sometimes think people show off with their over-sized houses and vehicles, but might not have any savings -- just for the purpose of "keeping up with the Jones's." I have traveled internationally (for vacation) -- often solo, and I've seen the difference in attitude and culture that residents of other countries have from the U.S. Were I a young person today, I would look to move to another country. Also, the U.S. geography and population are so large that it has become too big to manage, so I think this country is on the downward spiral and will one day go the way of the Roman Empire.

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Hi Helene, thank you so much for sharing your perspective. I can remember sitting in world history class in high school and wondering if I would be alive for the fall of the US empire. Time will tell! I love that you have a solo traveled so much and I can imagine that the US lifestyle was more European initially. My great grandmother came from Hungary and she used to butcher chickens in the backyard of her house in Miami and cook pasta from scratch. I wish I was alive to witness that! (And for her to teach me how to cook)

[@dominostimes2119]

Your feedback is really interesting. I wonder what the bottom will look like. 2021 will bring a lot of answers

[@anneerickson8614]

I relate to your comment Helene, I grew up in the 70s in small town America. Keeping up with the Jones was not a thing, nonstop buy this buy that was not a thing. I'm sad for this country.

[@Miamiguy2000]

Yes Helene. Also remember that the economy was phenomenal. FDR built the economy from the ashes(after the Great Depression) and set a foundation for the following decades. It wasn’t deregulation(get rid of labor laws, environmental laws, banking laws), cutting taxes on the wealthy, cutting public spending(cutting our social safety net) that built that economy, it was the complete opposite. So we had democratic socialism(what europeans and specially the Scandinavians currently have) throughout the 40s, 50s, 60s. Then we got the conservative movement that obliterated our economy and created the largest income wealth gap and we are still suffering the consequences. We need to restore FDR’s economic policies(Increase heavily taxes on the wealthy, regulate wall street, massive infrastructure spending(bullet trains, roads, bridges, water pipes, etc), increase our social safety net. If we do this, this country will flourish again.

[@Randy778]

Don´t give up. You the people need to fix the Broken States. Have you ever heard about "Granny D"?! She was a hell of a p***ed of Granny- therefore she walked across the continent! Please condsider taking a look at wolf-pac dot com and join 50k other americans allready on their way to repairing some of the damage you did to yourself. Best wishes from yurop!