How We View the US After Living Abroad for 12 Years

[@LoveDimashali]

THIS is why I say that people in the US that say we are the greatest country in the world have never traveled outside of it.

[@gooseberry769]

I have. So name me one country that’s better than the US overall.

[@swampsprite9]

Yea supposedly feminism is ruining the US and we live in a matriarchy lololol. Men run everything, but it's a matriarchy. Funny men in more advanced, equality minded places like the Netherlands and Sweden, are not trying to move to the US.

[@hiltonwatkins6750]

@@gooseberry769 “better” is such a bias generality as to render any statement which is so loaded with emotion is just meaningless.

[@gooseberry769]

@ say it better

[@julesjma]

@@gooseberry769 FINLAND, ICELAND, NORWAY, DENMARK, GERMANY, JAPAN, CANADA.... Shall I go on? Almost ANY country that provides health insurance and general care for it's citizens. You are just embarrassing yourself and YES, I'm American AND have travelled extensively.

[@MrEmpireBuilder0000]

People have no idea just how precious peace of mind is. And being an expat saved my life.

[@claresage]

Where did you choose?

[@julieraymond-walters1481]

Do you mean an immigrant?

[@tyronevincent1368]

Me too. Left US 1998. Retired to Azores last year after 25 years of living in Amsterdam.

[@THX-C]

It blows my mind that you have to pay taxes in a nation you can’t even afford to live. Thanks for the level-headed content; you both are a breath of fresh air.

[@owennovenski4794]

Living outside of USA now over 20 years, Australia, New Zealand, France. All superior in health care, transportation, food, political richness and safety. America has been on an extended PR campaign since the 1950’s; having discovered its easier, cheaper and more expedient to spin the idea of superiority than to actually achieve superiority.

[@marciakipp3633]

"Well said"!....❤😊..

[@OilBaron100]

How did you find Australia’s healthcare system compared to France’s & New Zealand’s?

[@owennovenski4794]

@@OilBaron100 Based in Adelaide, hospital there technically of greater value than New Zealand experience. Southern France, Arles; quality physicians readily available and diagnostic capability of GP’s notably high, equal to New Zealand. Had a wee stay at Arles hospital (same one that Van Gough stayed) questionable and very old school. What was astounding was even there, a correct diagnosis was given on first go, where in the the USA it took three go’s.

[@OilBaron100]

@@owennovenski4794 thanks for the input. I've gathered from another KZbin video that US hospitals tend to string people along and add lots of little extras so that they can maximise the bill that they end up giving you to pay. I guess doing multiple diagnosis' is one way to do that.

[@chriseagan9036]

Wow! SPOT ON!❤

[@WarrenChurch-mq1tv]

In Canada I was involved in a Horse accident that broke my back and caused a stroke and heart attack. I received fantastic care and my work absolutely covered my recovery, I had heart surgery, occupational therapy, speech therapy and no bills. I’m so happy to be a Canadian citizen!

[@redgree1645]

You are so fortunate, I can’t say that about the USA.😢

[@WarrenChurch-mq1tv]

@@redgree1645 it makes me sad that what happened to me would ruin families lives there.

[@MatthewBretton-cu2el]

​@@WarrenChurch-mq1tvwhy ? That's what they want. Ever heard any Republican thank Obama for affordable health care ? They all complain.

[@lcclark1307]

Appreciate freedom to make your choices. When you lived in USA, if you voted in elections for Republicans and for more Guns you screwed things up for rest of us! Will take a while to clean up Republican trail of chaos. Things are looking up esp when in Nov 20224 voters elect Kamala Harris & Tim Walz Democrats to expand medical coverage w current American Care Act or Obama Care. President nominee Kamala Harris & Tim Walz will expand benefits and lower tax costs for working families and make housing more affordable. Harris & Pres Biden recently completed a historic lowering of prescription costs. 😊Things r looking up. 😊Vote Kamala Harris & Tim Walz for democracy 😊 or move to China to be happier!. Make America better and Vote for leaders who will. Just Do something stop complaining.

[@Scott-oh4md]

Because Obama care is no good. It costs way to much.

[@flyjet787]

I've been a Flight Attendant for a major U.S. airline for 32 years. I've been all over the world, made friends in many countries, and spent a lot of time abroad. Everything you said is absolutely true. Great video.

[@MegaEllemae]

Thank you so much for sharing your life's journey!!! I'm American and I agree 👍 💯

[@5thdimension954]

I was a volunteer in an orphanage in Africa and who represented the majority of regular volunteers? Flight Attendants. I was always impressed with their presence. Keep moving!

[@serafingarcia8991]

Are you guys working abroad?

[@serafingarcia8991]

Do you have children??

[@peterpolacik6754]

I don’t think you can compare California with all states in the US.. although many things you are saying, I think it’s true…

[@beverlywright7763]

As an American, I'm not mad at this video, because its all true. I dream of moving to southern Italy 🇮🇹

[@jwt1035]

This doesn’t have to be a dream. You can get Italian property literally for free in some areas that have lost their population. Live there a while, build your home, learn the language and culture, and become a citizen.

[@JoeBlow-yr3ts]

I’m lucky to have a union job but I’m hoping I can use my Italian heritage to retire there and get quicker citizenship. I’ve heard with a family heritage you can get citizenship easier. I’d love to retire outside the US and use my pension to live more comfortably. At this point I feel the US is a lost cause, too many ignorant and even worse pridefully ignorant people chanting were number one and freedom when in reality we rank worse than just about every developed nation and we don’t even rank highest on the “freedom” list either. Only hope is the younger generation seems to have much more world knowledge (probably the one good thing of the internet) but the big corps and big donors are way too entrenched and now moving to an open Oligarchy where the wealthy don’t even bother to hide it anymore.

[@daveed4475]

Spain for us.

[@SheilaR.08]

I'm planning to move to Portugal in a few years.

[@god1971b]

I'm in UK. So do I, but Brexit made that alot harder.

[@ramonsantiago5766]

In the U.S., life has become work, work, work, die. No family time and not enough money to cover the bills, never mind vacations and travel.

[@HeathWatts]

It has been that way for most of US history. There was a brief period when labor unions had power, which gave us the 40 hour work week, etc. The right wing has crushed labor unions and convinced workers that labor unions are bad. The US only exists for the rich. The so-called Founding Fathers were oligarchs who dreamed of plutocracy; their dream has been realized.

[@marilynrodgerson3331]

Emigrate !! Australia is a great country !!

[@om4313284]

I’m an Iranian engineer working in the Netherlands, I’m happy not being an American and my decision for emigrating to beautiful Europe ❤

[@OscarFSaleh]

As someone who has lived most of my life in the U.S. as an immigrant, I can confidently say that these observations are spot on. I applaud Jen and Stevo for creating this video, and I sincerely hope that content like this helps drive cultural change in the U.S. through well-informed perspectives.

[@richardfadle5921]

Then why live here if so great elsewhere???

[@OscarFSaleh]

@@richardfadle5921 Well, I have children at school and my wife wants to stay longer in the area. However, after our last child finishes highschool, we probably reassess our situation. With AI, the next generation of children won’t need a teacher in the current form, so our children will have the freedom to choose a location without having the same limitation on education or schools.

[@OscarFSaleh]

@@richardfadle5921 Please do not feel offended because we have other points of view. I realized while back that most of the people around the world just want to have a job, raise a family and enjoy peace. The toxic politicians and the corrupted media brainwash the people as means of manipulation.

[@rogerrynearson2500]

I'm afraid we are running out of people that care about well-informed perspectives. The facts of the utterly stupid are painfully extracted from their ass and they don't want to lose that investment.

[@samwdavis]

Spot on??? Really??? Paranoid about gun violence when they step out the door??? As an expat in Argentina for 20 years, the difference is you don't get paranoid when you step out the door. You feel like you can't sleep safely in your own home. There are daily assaults and robberies within 1/4 mile of your own home. You feel like you need 8 eyes like a spider. The normal US citizen lives their life with VERY little concern for security. There are parts of the world where every day, you feel like you are taking your life into your own hands, and the laws are such that if you try to protect yourself, YOU will be the one that spends your life is a horrible prison. We have a home alarm, a community alarm, 360 degree security cameras, 2 trained German Shepherds, and more... and we still can't sleep soundly at night. We CANNOT walk in our own neighborhood. Does that sound anything like the typical American's life?

[@richardcoffey3125]

I first left the U.S. by way of military. I was never the same. Korea, Philippines and Europe opened my eyes to all the possibilities. Do I love my country, you bet! But as a thinking rational person with only one life to live, leaving my home country, traveling abroad and exploring other cultures is what living for me is really all about. The people, the genuineness, the openness is like moving to another planet, not just a country. I’ve come to the conclusion that we as Americans overthink life and living. Having lived with so little in my travels has opened me up to just breathing, laughing, crying and living all in their simplest deepest forms. Shed the cars, the boats, the bills the rudeness the self pity and live to the fullest your one life! No regrets, no looking back and no overthinking how to really live. P.S your family and friends will become un relatable. no matter how much you love them, because you wear different glasses. You see in a different way. You have breathed in the air of a world traveler.

[@108doublestitches]

Don't breathe the air in India or Africa.

[@jennytorlage676]

You must be joking!! As a South African who has travelled to America on several occasions to visit my son I can identify with so much of what Stevo and Jen are saying. It is absolutely not the greatest country on earth. Your comment about the air in Africa is SO wrong. We have the pure, clear, unpolluted air here that you just don't get in America. And despite poverty and hardship, people are just so much happier. Have you been to Africa Robertp?@@108doublestitches

[@SillySpanish]

That’s kind of the stuff I wanted to hear in the video. Very shallow and disappointing. So thanks for giving me hope there’s others

[@charlesharvey2164]

So very true, everything you said. I am also ex military and traveled to 40+ countries. 4 years left in my career and I'm leaving the US.

[@daviddarden1915]

Totally agree, having lived overseas by military 🪖 and DOD Civilian Police contractor.

[@itzryyster]

Thank you for taking the time to post this video. As an American myself, this country is quickly going downhill and no longer represents what it once was. This video pin points the US 100%!!! Glad to see it works great for the both of you! Please post more videos when available ❤

[@amberr6]

Agreed. But I can’t think of leaving it to the “care” of those running it into the ground. I love my country too much to just give up on it.

[@SheilaR.08]

​@@amberr6You can move abroad without renouncing your US citizenship. That means we'll still be able to vote and try to slow the downward trajectory.

[@amberr6]

@@SheilaR.08 Of course, but one is still limited by being so far removed from daily life in our country.

[@Thealignmentkeys]

Born and raised in the US. Everything u say is 100% complete. People are trained to believe the US is a Democracy. Its a Plutocracy. Planning to move to Costa Rica within the next 2 years. Thank u for such a great video.

[@gokuformanvsfood]

Dont sleep on Uruguay! I hear its one of the best countries in south america to relocate to!

[@rjh2772]

The cost of living there has skyrocketed or do you plan on living on the beach?

[@kadosholl]

I move from Costa Rica to El Salvador, my family feels fulfilled, happy and in the right place.

[@berg8970]

@@kadosholl El Salvador is a beautiful little country, a great choice.

[@cesarnopo]

For some weird reason Americans can only think about Costa Rica. There’s nothing there, much better options farther south.

[@kenpatton8761]

I retired from the US Air Force after 24 years. During my time in the service I spent 12 years in oversea assignments. In all of my assignments I lived off the base and on the local economy. I was also the only American living in any of the villages so the locals got to know me pretty well. So after living in England, Germany, Turkey and Kuwait and visiting France, Spain, Luxemburg, Israel, Mexico, Canada and the Bahamas I found that I really didn’t have a lot in common with any of my old friends back in the states. They just didn’t share the interests or knowledge that I had learned and were only interested in their “world”. So, at least in my experience, the old saying is true- once you leave home you can never go back! Of course you can go back but it will never be the same as before you left. Keep up living YOUR life as YOU want and be happy. Myself, I’m taking my wife on her first overseas trip, to Munich GE, and I can’t wait for her to see what it’s really like! Who knows maybe we’ll stay! Cheers

[@dksilber9500]

We would you welcome here. Enjoy your time in Germany!

[@didier55744]

So True .. Many people don’t have the Slightest idea how is to be living in another Country . Enjoy your freedom .?

[@lynnm6413]

I hope she'll enjoy it... Just tell her she needs to bring comfy city shoes as well, because we have cobbled streets where heels are a problem..

[@opheliaelesse]

Munich is great!

[@ralfklonowski3740]

I hope you both have a great time in my country!

[@Ademirb123]

I lived in US and moved to Europe. I do not regret it. Having a health care system that works is a plus. The food is much better in Europe and no GMO.

[@kar460]

How is the fruit and veggies? Does fruits last a few days longer?

[@Ademirb123]

@@kar460 There are farmers' markets near you 7 days a week. I buy fruits every other day

[@kar460]

@Ademirb123 in my city, it's always on Thursdays. I work during the day. And sometimes I don't go to lunch until 2. There done about 1

[@Summalogicae]

I tried to move to Europe and without a job lined up, or a fat wallet full of cash to buy a home, it was extremely difficult and I had to stay in the US. Glad you were able to do it.

[@jamesbarrett9066]

@@Summalogicae Thailand, Sri Lanka, Bali, India, all better less expensive options.

[@briarrose5208]

American lady here, age 73. I agree with everything here except the friendliness factor. In my experience most people are genuinely friendly, not acting friendly out of fear. In big cities where people are more likely to be afraid, they’re not extra friendly, they just try not to call attention to themselves.

[@darcy5761]

I know that friendliness because they might have a gun is bull.

[@jwt1035]

I too disagree with their opinion on American friendliness. Maybe in their local community, but not generally.

[@SD-co9xe]

I find Americans to be genuinely friendly also.

[@markconnelly1806]

Almost nobody is friendly in Tokyo Japan to foreigners. There is a fake cultural politeness, but don't mix that with being friendly. In many Asian countries, friendliness to foreigners is really trying to get money from b

[@kayingthao5072]

No friendly to some people not all.

[@tmpBO]

I completely agree with you. I’ve been out of the US for nearly 10 years and truly don’t want to go back. I even hate visits but have to because my spouse wants an annual visit. If I could not go I’d prefer it. The overpriced flavorless food, the threat of gun violence and a medical issue make it so unappealing. My annual visits create so much internal stress, I can’t even tell you. The changes are worse every time we go. Why are we tipping even cashiers? The already tapped out public is paying for these people’s salaries instead of these mega rich corporations! I get so full of rage that I don’t even want to go. It’s horrible. I love my country but the only thing it excels at now is making money, but only for a certain class and color person. My heart is broken. The knee jerk patriotism that comes up immediately when things like this are said makes it impossible for those living there to see how much propaganda they’ve been fed.

[@Twocantravel]

We agree with your points!! It can be difficult to be back in the US, even just for a visit. Thanks for your comment and for sharing your experience. It's good to know we're not alone.

[@tmpBO]

No you’re not. Obviously I hope things improve but it going to be bumpy for a while I fear.

[@Twocantravel]

We hope things improve too.

[@thomasvanantwerp728]

I can tell you're American; you had to add the words "I love my country" in your comment!!!

[@tmpBO]

@@thomasvanantwerp728 guilty as charged… it does feel compulsory to say.

[@petersmith2040]

Former American here who left the U.S. and moved to France many years ago, and became a French citizen. You can always purchase a travel insurance policy that also includes healthcare coverage in the U.S. provided that you don’t stay for more than 90 days in the country when visiting your family and friends back home.

[@dougdownunder5622]

Until you are unhealthy or too old

[@paulhublal6237]

France? Hah the islamist are taking over

[@markbrockman9859]

Why not just pay for your family to visit you since it’s too dangerous to be in the us.

[@jon_nomad]

I have been living outside of the US for more than 30 years... the best decision I have ever made for my family.

[@richardscathouse]

America is no place for children 😢

[@cicada9471]

​@@richardscathousehow so? What state or city are you talking about?

[@glasslinger]

@@cicada9471 You will find out when your boy wants to be a girl!

[@headishome8452]

​@@cicada9471everywhere!!

[@Someone-dv8uj]

​@@richardscathouseIt's no place for the poor and uneducated either!!

[@-Finlander-]

So proud to be a Finn living in Finland ! The happiest people in the world. ❤ 🇫🇮

[@kareneason8804]

And a beautiful place as well!!!

[@-Finlander-]

@@kareneason8804 Than you. Kind of you.

[@deryaturker3908]

I love to move to Finland. ❤

[@-Finlander-]

Welcome to Paradise ! 🇫🇮

[@julesjma]

As a Finnish-American, I am sorry that I didn't work hard to move there when I was younger. I would give anything to have sauna daily and live there.

[@ymhktravel]

Generally speaking, Americans who travel outside of the US often are more open minded and receptive to different pov, cultures and peoples. They also realise their media are not as trustworthy compared to those who have stayed in the US their entire life. Having different experiences in other countries whether as tourists or residents is cathartic when they realise that places they thought as backwards before they travel isn't at all! That's what some of my American colleagues said.

[@MrWaterbugdesign]

Hmm, I've noticed travelers I meet think these things, but talking with them they seem as delusional as any in US American I've met. Just delusional in a different way. They have a very high opinion of themselves. Higher opinion - more delusional. And locals say the same especially about Americans. They're friendly and put up with Americans because that's their culture and they like the $$$ Americans have in abundance.

[@mystrength5640]

Love what you wrote. South African here.. I’ve traveled to The USA.. a few times! on speaking to people.. Many thought the Country of South Africa, is a Continent!🤫 It’s a Country… They asked why wasn’t I darker Skinned.. and asked me about Lions in The city Streets😳 and many weird questions! Great to be Open minded and Knowledgeable, about other Countries and Continents in the World!

[@zlauriault]

Agreed, as well as third culture kids like myself... includes people who grew up as diplomats' kids, military kids, or kids in religious missionary families.

[@wilsonfamily1762]

absolutely!

[@paulcarfantan6688]

You`re correct about most of the US media, but I happen to listen to EuroNews in French and the BBC in English, from time to time and they`re just as bad. So you know...

[@LuvHrtZ]

I'm an Australian living in Adelaide, South Australia. On Christmas Day I spent all day, and night, in the Flinders Medical Centre. I thought I was about to have a heart attack so I caught a cab to Emergency. I had x-rays, CT Scans, blood tests, countless hookups to monitors, blood pressure tests every hour, they gave me my own room for the night and tried to feed me breakfast as I was leaving - ALL FREE. The doc eventually told me everything was fine, but said that I shouldn't hesitate to come back at any time if I needed to. Thank the stars I was born in the right country.

[@doloresparlato]

@LuvHrtZ And...you're country also bent the knee to the government during Covid like no other, quarantine camps, masks forever, arresting people simply for being in contact with someone with Covid. Sure, health care is free, but you aren't.

[@averagejoe845]

All free? Don't you pay taxes? You're paying, you just don't know it. You had to wait all day and all night to get help at a medical center and received no care and when you think you're having a heart attack and you had to take a cab to the emergency room, sounds like excellent health care! Hope the cab driver know CPR and has a defibrillator handy!

[@doloresparlato]

@LuvHrtZ How you're country managed Covid tells me all I need to know about how great Australia is....recall quarantine camps? Arresting people for just having contact with some who supposedly had cover (i.e. tracing)? Masks forever? Uh huh, all free. Except for you; you live in a communist country and you don't even know, and like it. No thanks. I need my brain to navigate this life.

[@lbfarfullo]

@@averagejoe845you definitely did not get his point, of course this Aussie man pay his taxes as we do in US, but when he said his medical bill was all free is because he was taken care of even spent the night at the hospital, was all checked out and left without to pay any other single extra money, sorry buddy but we know that’s not the case in USA, we pay taxes, we have to pay high cost of insurance each month, and if we go to the hospital like he did for an emergency care we will end up paying on top of everything thousands of dollars just for that emergency visit. He is being honest, and compare to USA here health care system and cost is a mess!

[@averagejoe845]

@@lbfarfullo You don't get my point. His health care isn't free, he just prepaid for his through taxes. It's no different than here in the U.S., we prepay with insurance. If I go to a medical center in the U.S., I don't have to wait day and night to see someone, even on Christmas day. If I feel like I'm having a heart attack while at the medical center, if they don't have the staff to help me, an ambulance, with trained staff, will take me to a facility that can care for me. Yes, the health care system in the U.S. is a mess, but he lives in a nation where he has to take a cab to get from one medical center to another when he thinks he's having a heart attack, that's really screwed up.

[@nikkinfl]

I am 55 years old and my father was in the military while I was growing up, so I was with him most summers and I have been to most places in the U.S. and Europe. 2 years ago I sold my house in Florida to travel and I had every intention of coming back, however, after seeing the world as an adult, I can't go back to live in the U.S. on a permanent basis. You are right on all points! I have friends who think that because you say something negative about the U.S., then you must hate it so you need to leave! I can love my country and have good memories of growing up in the U.S., but still not want to live there because of the direction that I see it going. I have been in Mexico for the past 2 years and I'm on my way to Thailand to explore Asia with a base in Bangkok. The media makes American's fear other places and quite frankly, I have had people ask me, why on earth I would want to live in another country. It's amazing how ignorant most Americans are of other cultures and the world in general. I can live in Mexico and Thailand for less than $1500 per month for EVERYTHING and the people are just nicer imo. Great video!

[@DubboU]

It's always interesting to me, that it seems to some people, criticizing their own country somehow translates to not being patriotic or hating the country. The truth is the complete opposite. It is because we love our country and wants it to do better so it becomes an even better place for all. That is the ultimate form of democracy those same people always spew in their mouths.

[@bryantint1339]

I hate Babylon. I only liked the Detroit Iron.

[@bryantint1339]

Babylon USA 🇺🇸 has no gratitude.

[@roughrosa]

A suggestion, may wanna look into Malaysia as a base. It’s dead centre the heart of South East Asia, planes tickets are cheap to go to other countries from KL, English is widely spoken, low cost of living and great medical tourism & top notch healthcare, etc.

[@annebokma4637]

You can love someone yet can't live with them, everybody understands that. Why is it so hard to imagine it can be the same for the country that you were born in.

[@chicagofineart9546]

This is one of the most honest videos I've hear on youtube. It's direct and free of any hidden agenda, unlike so many other youtube creators who have something to sell you, whether an item or an idea. These people are following their own path and as long as they have each other they will not only thrive they will find joy too.

[@WilliamFluery]

I contracted an amoeba in a mountain village in northern Thailand. Fortunately, my symptoms began after to returning to Chiang Mai. After two days of fever and constantly sitting on the porcelain throne, I caught a tuk tuk to a Thai hospital. I spent 3 days and two nights in a private room with a mountain view. Room and board, doctor, nurses, lab tests and IV medication cost a total of $657

[@radawson1018]

Glad you survived that amoeba, sir! No telling how much you’d have paid here in USA…roughly $60,000 without insurance I’d imagine! It is scary when an illness sidelines you when you’re abroad. I had to have several stitches put in a cut thumb on vacay last year and fortunately got excellent, no charge care at a medical center in London. Thank you, England, for caring for your visitors, too!

[@WilliamFluery]

@@radawson1018 Fortunately, I have great insurance in the US that my employer still pays 100% of premium even after retirement. I will have to pay for Medicare in three years when I turn 65.

[@DowntownsUptown]

What do you do?

[@WilliamFluery]

@@DowntownsUptown I watch KZbin videos all day….🤣…I had a 30 year career at nationwide Quick Service Restaurant chain in the USA. I led the Training Department that supported 3,000+ Restaurants and 300,000+ Restaurants employees. I am now retired.

[@josephshields2922]

Does your employer have to pay your medicare?@@WilliamFluery

[@BlackPegasusRaps]

American Patriot here. These people have a point. America does have its perks BUT it’s a dark time here currently. Very interesting.

[@joosfake]

Exactly. SUPER dark and Satanic times in America.

[@joosfake]

Very dark and Satanic times.

[@guym6093]

@@joosfake Not satanic.... Willful Ignorance.

[@aguy446]

America is like a girl that got too popular. She doesn't have to try anymore so she doesn't. Everybody wants to come live here thinking free stuff just falls from the sky

[@chrisjames7286]

Currently, it been this way every since I've been paying attention.

[@AlexAdam-v1k]

I'm an American and I now realize we Americans are being Ripped off by Corporate America in all facets of life. I'm 79 and in fairly Good health Thankfully.

[@asullivan4047]

The (U.S.) isn't the only free world nation that has corporations ripping off it's citizenship. Know your facts before making puedo statements.

[@markcleaver6573]

*80* next birthday, congrats in advance, a long life

[@CraigMitchell-zc4cw]

Agree with everything you're saying I live abroad about 6 months a year I do what's called geo arbitrage and use it to my benefit

[@bjwnet397]

Government fingers in the soup is why

[@dirkmasters7453]

Just now realized? I knew that years ago, lol

[@Sandy_00000]

Agree with you 100% I am from Bangkok, Thailand and currently living in the US. I fly back home every year to get my heath check-up. Spending 250$ for a private hospital in Thailand is a lot better than spending thousand of dollars and months of waiting to see a specialist in the US. We are now paying 3,200$ for rent in San Francisco and we need a car to commute everywhere and it is mandatory with no choices. While in my home country, we never need a car because our public transportation is covered to most areas. My husband and I are definitely going to move back to Thailand when we are retired. Can’t wait.

[@basementstudio7574]

American here, born and raised. But raised by a French father and Venezuelan mother so I had an upbringing that wasn't US-centric. We travelled a bit when I was a kid: Montreal, Toronto, Mexico and Venezuela. As an adult I didn't travel much as I couldn't afford to for most of the job related issues you pointed out in this video. But now as retirement is close, wifey and I travel as much as we can both inside and outside the US: NYC, Yosemite, San Fransisco, Boulder, Montreal, Toronto, Reykjavik, Amsterdam, Paris, Lisbon, Porto and Albufeira. These last few trips have been for vacation but also to scope out the cities to see if we could live there. This summer we're going to back France to check out the Mediterranean coast as well as cities like Toulouse, Bordeaux, Bayonne, and Pau.

[@nox8730]

Born in Bordeaux (small city next to it called Langon). I presently live in Pau. Obviously, i know Bayonne a bit, it is not far. I can give you some informations if you want ^^. First, avoid Bordeaux. I don't like Toulouse, but i would advise trying out Montpellier instead. First advice for those moving to foreign countries (not just France): learn the language first, before moving. Both of you. Those who move but don't learn may be somewhat welcomed in the beginning, but as soon as it becomes clear that no efforts is done to learn the language, attitudes of the locals may change. This applies to me, too. Good luck.

[@ellend9739]

What can I say ? In my old age of 69 I am a immigrant of the Netherlands to Canada ! Worked for 38 years with Canada ´s major Airlines ! I loved it now retired I still have a medical plan because I worked for so many years ! I am a extravert and love people but have my own group of friends ! Europe is very expensive right now ! But South America is the place to be if you like to live cheap ! Perhaps Asia too but depends where ! I wish you both well but I ça live out of a suitcase any longer ! And I think Canada is a beautiful place ! It also helped to be a baby-boomer I guess ! Because things where easier done in my young years ! I see it on my children now , how frustrating it is to make a dollar just to pay , if you are lucky , a mortgage ! If you can’t afford a place to buy , you are further away from your dream to ever own a place ! Rents in Toronto , Vancouver are over the top now ! A specially Vancouver ! Vancouver is landlocked because it’s close to the ocean and mountains ! One bedroom apartment is easily $3000 a month ! How can you save for a house ? Anyway , have a wonderful life and I wish you the very best ! I am sure you did the right thing by leaving your home country! Enjoy you guys ! 👍

[@nox8730]

@@ellend9739 I concur regarding South America. I lived in Ecuador for 2 years when i was a kid (quite some time ago). And i have very good memories of the place.

[@jacquelinevanfossan7007]

Try Chateauroux in Indre (center France). Small town but only 2.5 hours south of Paris. Pretty, nice people, fairly affordable housing, and they are used to Americans since there was a US Air Force base there. There is even a Franco-American organization. I live in Chicago, but Chateauroux is my hometown. Might be worth a visit when you go back to France.

[@basementstudio7574]

@@jacquelinevanfossan7007 Thank you very much for the info. Will definitely check it out.

[@carpediem4619]

Traveled overseas for 2 years with my spouse, and we stayed in nice central locations, 2 bedroom apartments in Berlin, Barcelona, Madrid, Prague, Edinburgh, Brussels, etc and we still saved $10k per year, or 20%, including travel costs! My spouse had to have a permanent tooth replaced in Budapest, and the entire process including several visits, top of the line enamel material, x-rays, fixing/drilling the nerve channel, and teeth cleaning, etc was only $900. The facility was unbelievable. High tech, clean, doctors spoke 5 languages, best equipment I've ever seen, and everyone was so helpful and accommodating.

[@melissapelletier2138]

That’s amazing!!!

[@user-lz6dm5lk9y]

That is an eye opener. My dentist retired about 4-5 years ago. I did not like the young dentist that bought the practise, so I looked for another dentist nearby and found what sounded like a good dentist, so I made an appointment to have my teeth cleaned. My old dentist never insisted I have x-rays done any more often than I wanted to have them, so I would have a set of x-rays every few years. Cleaning and a visual examination cost roughly $115. Now, the new dentist insisted on a full set of x-rays including the panoramic x-ray. I agreed because I had not had any x-rays done in at least 4 years. The office was clean and pleasant. I liked the dentist, too. Then I went to check out and almost fainted at the bill. It cost me almost $400, which is almost 4x what my old dentist charged for cleaning and exam. My old dentist would have charged $50-$75 for x-rays if I wanted them. On top of the outrageous price, the new dentist marketed to me endlessly. He kept pushing to sell teeth whitening and other cosmetic procedures. I really did not like to be marketed to this way. Anyway, I decided I would not go back there again. I asked friends to recommend a dentist. I found that just as asking for doctor recommendations, friends would reply "I do not know anyone, but if you find someone good, please let me know because I am looking, too." Says a lot about medical in the U.S. does it not?

[@testymann5045]

​@@user-lz6dm5lk9y What was the name of the clinic in Bucharest?

[@redlars]

In Denmark, we have paid maternity leave, free healthcare, and a free educational system paid over taxes. The taxes are high, but they do so much for us.

[@edwardkangas6420]

Same in Finland.

[@mariajuhl9924]

And Sweden.

[@MonarchOfIrvine]

doesn't matter if your disposable income is also lower for professional fields. also, denmark is less diverse and more xenophobic as well lol

[@Serolfarim1]

No one will run for office here in America and announce to the public that they will pay $8 a gallon for gasoline because of higher sales tax and the income tax rate will also go up.

[@edwardkangas6420]

The cost of HOUSING is not as ridiculously overpriced as it is in the US, so you can live better on less income. Also, you have a good national health insurance system. The Medical Industrial Complex doesn't rip you off of everything you have at the end of your life as they do in the US! "Less diverse?" So what! Less violent, too! Xenophobic? You mean they don't want their country overrun by migrants? Well, good for them!! @@MonarchOfIrvine

[@strongheart8]

Thank you Jen and Stevo. This is really a good video. As an expat American, I have watched many videos about living abroad. This is the best I have seen. The alienation I have felt when I talk to Americans -- and when I watch events from the U.S. just seems to grow. Thanks again!

[@Stitcher_in_MD]

Thank you for the delightful chat! I’m retired and 73. I have often thought about living abroad, but here I am. I would miss my family if I left. I’m happy just being a visitor when I travel. Hope you have a happy and long life. Thanks for sharing your thoughts.

[@hiddenriverarts]

Same here. Lots of these videos are made by couples. To leave my adult children and be alone?....it is much harder.

[@happysheepies7321]

The ONLY reason I stay is because I would miss family and friends.

[@MR-pr8tp]

I too am 73 but seriously considering moving. Unlike you I do not have children. I have siblings that are older then me- meaning I can't depend upon them. I think one reason I want to move is the healthcare, I have to think about. the greatest need of affordable assisted living, or elderly care, or nursing homes. I watched my father die of Alzheimers, and the quality of care broke my heart. He couldn't afford much more and this was many many years ago.. Having said this, it is a concern to move at my age and see if countries will issue healthcare as I have discovered there are several countries that will not sell health insurance past a specific age. And there are issues of being taxed twice as some countries will tax your US Pensions in addition to the US taxes. A lot to consider but still haven't poo pooed the idea.

[@crustydownunder]

I'm an Aussie and my wife was American. She moved here 17yrs ago, and she refuses to go back to America, not even for a visit. She gets free hospital and medical treatment here. She feels safe in Australia, but never felt safe in America. We don't tip here. And she earns so much more here than she did in America, even while she worked as a TV presenter and reporter in Georgia. She's so happy to stay here and never go back, that she surrendered her American citizenship, and became a naturalized Aussie citizen.

[@timothymcclain2150]

I'm an American and would seriously love to retire to Australia. I thought about it as an investor but those visa permits dried up. I am in excellent health (marathon runner), affluent, and would not be a burden to the state. But obtaining a long-term visa or citizenship is unfortunately not available in your country. Perhaps I need to find a Aussie to marry? lol

[@no_clot_shot1128]

And I guess she doesn't live in a plywood shed that she'd call a "FINE HOME" in the US either 😂

[@mitkodimitrov8396]

hahaha she open her eyes,but at some time,the peoples of USA,will must make change in their country,as allweis happen in Old granny Europe,they will not invent hot water,there is not any balance there and this alweis finish the same,you will see.Healt and happynes,from old beauty Bulgaria hihi

[@zztop8592]

I hope you people in Australia don’t get bit by too many snakes. lol

[@TheHealthLife]

The only issue is we THINK we are free...but we just have the ILLUSION of freedom here in Oz. The USA was founded on INDIVIDUAL civil liberties and rights. The last 4 years in Australia, especially with the commy premiers has felt like a wannabe communist country that is full of lefty nutjobs.

[@luannecaskey6587]

Thank you for this! I'm from USA but live in Cyprus. Most Americans don't even know where it is.... I'm now 65, have been here 9 years. Visits to 🇺🇸 have been scary without medical insurance!

[@nmefdappl]

Luann - I just recently researched Cyprus as a possible place to live. What do you like about it?

[@valeriedavidson2785]

​I am English. A lot of Brits holiday in Cyprus. Been there 6 times over the years because I have friends there. Personally I cannot stick the heat in summer. It is terrific. Perhaps you don't mind. For pleasant heat I prefer Southern Spain or the Spanish islands. Much greener. Not humid like Cyprus and only 2 hours back to England.

[@KNIGHTSTEMPLAR13]

I lived in CYPRUS and thinking of going back forever it's a beautiful country with beautiful people.And I'd love to show some Americans around EUROPE and the EAST and they'd probably never want to go back back home

[@valeriedavidson2785]

@@KNIGHTSTEMPLAR13 We are all different. There are much nicer places in the Mediterranean. Do not like it at all.

[@cjoylabelle]

You’re 65 now. Sign up for Medicare for visits to the US.

[@robertohollas2099]

After living in Italy, England, and Japan, the culture shock is always going back to America. I'm looking at moving to Vietnam next, since my wife is Vietnamese. The world is such a beautiful place filled with wonderful people. Having learned about other ways of life and how they do business has put me at odds with people I know in the States. I feel like many of us who live overseas and have for a while are nodding our heads in agreement throughout this whole video.

[@alancranford2024]

WOW!!! YOU guys hit it right on the head! At 79, I am giving up on my "retirement" and heading back to SE Asia for some work and real food... I have told my children to come and visit me, because I am NOT coming back! There response was to 100% stopped talking to me.... Here's to a NEW life!

[@TheDeldaisy]

Good for you. Live your best life no matter the age. It is a beautiful.part of the world. I'm shocked at your children. They should be happy for you.

[@xuelianchi]

I have lived in southeast Asia my entire life and have never been to the US, the video surprised me and I think you made the best decision, here in Indonesia, real and fresh food is everywhere and super cheap

[@cindybogart6062]

Good luck Alan! Best of luck in your adventures!

[@Trista4Prez]

They sound like a drag anyway 😂

[@alancranford2024]

@@cindybogart6062 THANK YOU VERY MUCH!! Tell me, please, would you watch a blog by a traveling grandfather's foreign adventures??? THANKS!

[@barryrosenblatt1282]

OMG, everything i have been talking about for years. I was in the military, mostly in korea and because of that I was able to observe from the outside looking in. We are now on long term "slow-travel" around the world and spend much less then we were spending in Florida (where we retired), and we are staying mostly in nice places (4/5star hotels). We are renting our condo and sold the car, we are now planning to move permanently to Kuala Lumpur, a fantastic place. No guns! Fantastic public transportation! Great English. Safe! Extremely affordable. A similar condo to what we have in Florida costs about a third. So much more. Unless you live in the top 1%, the US is a third world country.

[@goodguyaus]

Glad to hear your story Mr Rosenblatt, and heartened that you and your loved one(s) are living a better life; and soon to be in the under-rated KL [am a similar fan!] 🙂... although the humidity kills me.. haha, guess your Florida stint was a trial-run.

[@kimharris8440]

So very true! Add 'satay' and all its trimmings to your K.L. experience!

[@johnphoon6436]

Most welcome to Malaysia....we are a Peaceful n light n easy society.....❤❤❤

[@earlysda]

barry, you just told us you are the hypocrite. .

[@RandallMoore-x4k]

@@earlysda um, how exactly?

[@Sonorus52]

Your perspectives are familiar (I left the US with family 14 years ago, healthcare being the primary driver). One thing you did not mention that we observed almost immediately upon establishing residence in Europe is how much less waste we were generating, largely due to the more conservative packaging of products in Europe; we estimate that we reduced our waste by between 60 and 75 percent, and that has remained the case. We have become more conscious of waste with regard to water and energy usage and have lived happily car-free ever since moving abroad. Ultimately we feel more comfortable (and safe) living in an environment where national policies are more in line with our personal values.

[@SillySpanish]

Lots of points they were missing. Shallow stuff

[@elleaubry3772]

@@SillySpanish If that’s your way of defending the United States, that’s pretty shallow stuff .

[@nycbearff]

I noticed the big reduction in the trash I was generating after moving to Mexico, too. The big supermarkets and other places use too much packaging here, too - but I buy most of my food locally, from the mercados, and generate very little waste.

[@nzfreeski]

You can basically insert GOP for all your concerns - they fight worker protections, affordable healthcare, common sense gun safety (without losing second amendment protections), etc etc

[@RoyinThailand]

I am an American who has been living in Thailand for the last 12 years. In that time, I have only been back to the US once for a week and I was quite frustrated by the cost of just being there. I am not particularly in love with Thailand but it is safe and affordable. I am approaching 70 so I can only justify buying inpatient insurance but outpatient care has been easy to pay out of pocket. I generally avoid talking to Americans here as the politics have become so divisive. Thanks for this and I wish you all the luck in your life.

[@CarMaintenanceGuy]

Correct. Stay away from the liberals. They are destroying the cost of living by taxing the piss out of everyone. Then they tax large companies which end up not eating the taxes. They instead raise the prices which end up hurting the middle class. It's best to get a US income, leave the US and then file an F.E.I.E. after you are gone 11 months so that you don't have to pay federal taxes.

[@mikeoglen6848]

So, who do you support? Trump or Biden?

[@CarMaintenanceGuy]

@@mikeoglen6848 Who do you support? 14,000,000 illegals? The woke people? Raising taxes to millions of people? Or do you want to plug the leaks, deport the illegals and the terrorists? You're either for one or the other.

[@RoyinThailand]

Does it matter?

[@jeffmanty6721]

I once protested a gay pride parade in Minneapolis back in 2012 when I lived in Minnesota. (I fled America for Zambia two years ago) I had a person approach me only to ask the dumbest question he could ask a protester “do you support gay marriage?” What an idiot. You remind me of him!

[@johnmcnulty4425]

I lived abroad in the 80's and 90's and moved back to Pennsylvania after leaving a good teaching job in Japan. I came home because my parents were getting older and home is home after all. I didn't want to come back but life goes on and I found happiness and reasonable stability anyway. I'm glad that I did my duty and have a different perspective than most of my contemporaries.

[@baklava6138]

I moved to the US in 1998 as a 9 year old with my parents. Now, 25 years later I am preparing to move back to Europe via my company 🙏! I am excited to leave this place, I have “been there done that” and never really liked it. I dislike the cities, the dependence on cars, the lack of individual data privacy rights, lack of employment rights, healthcare and universities run like a business, prisons for profit owned by corporations and stakeholders, lack of public transport and the cities that do have it like NYC it’s dirty, old and dangerous, rules and limits on normal things like having a beer by the river, or hanging out at a park with friend past 8pm (considered trespassing) or can’t buy a beer until 21, but they let you drive at 16 and go to war at 18, predatory sales practices, cheaply made homes, oversized cars, lack of modernity with green energy, lack of fashion (sweatpants in the store), politics is a show and it’s all fake, ignorant people who think having a pickup and driving around is unique freedom ordained to them by God, too many christian sects and crazies, too many pills for everything and everyone, Pharma for profit.. the list goes on and on.

[@reneburger4317]

More illiteracy in USA than in Europe, or even China.

[@stephenbaker3680]

Hey "baklava" you mean "BEHEEEEEEAMOTH!! pickup trucks of course...😂😢😢

[@rosanneallen-hewlett9973]

Oh, Man... did you get THIS! One more... Colleges and Universities turned over as businesses and corporations by Bush. :[ And the low interest student loans? Oh they were given to his buddies on Wall Street to torture students with high interest rates. Look it up (if you can find it). 😡 Better always vote Blue. We'll need lots of time to turn all this back to "normal". Blue or else... 💙🇺🇸💙🏛💙⚖️👠

[@loriwerle4895]

Pretty much spot on

[@baklava6138]

@bevvaor2320 actually I would have gotten the same education in Europe for nearly FREE.

[@pjfreeman4789]

Steve, I imagine that you have been told a number of times that your wonderful voice could earn you money.

[@zhenli2345]

Chinese here. Moved to the US 27 years ago. This country gave me opportunities I could only dream of. People are friendly and welcoming. Life is convenient and comfortable. The national park system is the best thing since sliced bread. Don't get me wrong: I had a comfortable life in China teaching English. Still, the rampant corruption, pickpocketing, and CRAZY crowds were enough to drive me out of the country and never look back. Do I want to live in Asia again? No, thank you. Europe? Nah. The US is not perfect, but then is there a perfect country? I like the positive attitude, ample opportunities, open-mindedness, dazzling nature, amazing wildlife, and a welcoming populace. I will visit other countries but always be happy to return to my adopted home.

[@JohnnyRico8]

Also you can breathe the air in America. In most Asian countries it's highly polluted

[@zhenli2345]

And too densely populated. I like having personal space.

[@dalepxp8963]

And…. If enough of the Citizens move out of the USA they can all disappear in the same month.

[@dorisaffissio1649]

You got me at crazy crowds.

[@keeleycarrigan]

The good things about the US are totally irrelevant to the arguments given in the video.

[@scotti3863]

I think you are justified in expressing these opinions because you are walking the talk. Well done guys. You have our respect. We're just starting our international housesitting travel lifestyle in our mid-fifties this year. I hope we cross paths at some stage.

[@Twocantravel]

Thanks so much, we appreciate the feedback. Congratulations on starting your international house sitting journey. That's very exciting! Hopefully our paths will cross somewhere in the world :)

[@Am_Manasa]

So true

[@jannettecollazo7128]

Hi 👋 and congrats on your new lifestyle! I would be interested in housesitting but where do I even start looking? Mid fifties here as well!

[@Twocantravel]

@@jannettecollazo7128 We find house sits all over the world through the website Trusted Housesitters. We talk more about it in this video if you're interested: kzbin.info/www/bejne/d6q0aWWwebOgZqMsi=Uhfj2Za0MdOONy4E

[@jannettecollazo7128]

@@Twocantravel Thank you! Will do 🙏🤗

[@joeawk]

I like the line, " we can live with very little". This is very true.

[@richardscathouse]

Most American women can't 😂

[@WilliamFluery]

@@richardscathouse I’m glad you said “Most.” My mother was very frugal. Grew up in the projects.

[@dudoklasovity2093]

yes frugal life is rewarding life

[@brianentz2785]

Thanks for the great video. I grew up in Brazil, but I lived in America since then. I’m 60 now and as a consequence of this video. I’ve decided that when I retire, I will retire abroad.

[@Jasper_the_Cat]

I'm curious - would you consider going back to Brazil? As a musician, I love the music (MPB, samba, choro, etc ), so that's a huge draw for me. I've visited a few times - I felt especially comfortable in the beautiful towns of Minas Gerais. But I think Brazil also has a lot of the same problems the US has, which is sad.

[@pattyblevins2765]

I am 69 and live in Central Kentucky, USA. I have always loved Kentucky! It’s my home. We go to the Smoky Mountains several times a year. We are 4 hours away. We love the Smokies. I like the 4 seasons we have. We go to Kentucky Lake. I am never going to be a world traveler. We have been to Florida several times. Texas a few times and some other states. We have seen the Grand Canyon. I am happy where we are. There are lots of people in America choosing to do Mobile Dwelling. Lots of people converting school buses to live in and travel. There is the tiny and small home movement. I love watching videos of the mobile dwellings and tiny homes. I love their creativity. For older people who sell their bigger homes and go tiny it gives them income to travel. Less space to have to keep clean. More time for other things they want to do. The mobile dwelling people are always traveling. They all seem very happy. I watch that guy Bryce in Australia. Also that woman Kirsten she travels all around. I love seeing people’s creativity.

[@LeoDragon34]

I’ve always been an international traveller which has enabled me to live in a number of countries, mostly in Asia. But a good friend of mine in the UK, who was a highly qualified lawyer, couldn’t imagine moving more than 30 miles from where he grew up. So much depends on your DNA and upbringing. One is no better than the other - we are all different. Thanks for sharing your insights. America is a beautiful country and I have made many American friends over the years, and it saddens me greatly to see the deep divisions that I guess were always there but which have bubbled to the surface in the last decade.

[@lisaadams6753]

in a small Midwestern town that I live in people are retiring and building huge houses with their retirement money, which I do not understand at all

[@Jerry-zd8gd]

Greetings from Louisville!

[@chicagofineart9546]

Here's the point. We must each find our own way. If you're comfortable following a crowd, please follow. If you must make your own path then you have no other choice. I have such fond memories of my hometown where I grew up (in the midwest) but it's expensive to live there now and it's not immune to a lot of the problems plaguing the U.S. these past two decades. America has always been a problematic place depending upon who you are and the kind of money you can make but it seems particularly fraught since 2001. IMHO. Is anyplace for sure better? I like Europe and I can speak three languages fairly fluently but in each case you run into Germans, French and Spanish. Italians are about the only people, (and Polish) that I really like but I don't speak those languages (yet).

[@stevenbigbee1766]

So well presented. Calm, logical, and hit all the bases. Thankyou for time and work pulling thst together.

[@SillySpanish]

Statistical uncultured American and shallow

[@leec6707]

Nice to see intelligent, calm Americans. Hopefully, they will improve their English - 'addicting'!

[@rw9207]

I'm a Brit who has just returned to Europe after 13 years in the US.... And although I do miss some of my great friends there, It's honestly so great to be out!

[@ABbb-e9t]

Very helpful video.... Quite motivating.... Being a trucker here you see a lot of prospectives and the games the industry plays these days practically try to control you by listening in your truck and letting you know what you say n taking it out on your route or truck.... Your statements are very accurate and motivating... Hope to gain strong wings to soar here soon!

[@proudliberal24-sv1wo]

I got a very bad case of the flu while living in in Japan. I got an IV, hospital stay, saw 2 specialists and medication for $120. I had no Japanese medical insurance. A few years ago, I had one mole removed from my skin in the USA. It involved two $40 co-pays, and about $180 for a biopsy = $260 for my portion. The doctor did a 3 minute surgery and charged the insurance about $1100. The $260 for my part was on top of the $600/month I pay for insurance.

[@peter58peter]

all american ' systems' r anything but good.

[@Hanna_z1]

Holy shit! $600/month, that's way more than I pay in taxes on my wage/month living in a high taxed country like Sweden. I'm always a bit surprised when people from the US say that they would never want to pay a higher tax to get free health care and now I'm even more surprised if what you're paying is a normal cost for health insurance.

[@Rockvsstone]

​@@Hanna_z1in my experience and according to many studies, universal healthcare is extremely slow. They lack access to the latest technologies and have trouble attracting good doctors & staff. I'd rather pay a higher price to get treated so I won't die or get worse by waiting and waiting. My employer insurance is really good and that procedure you commented on would have cost me $25. There's a reason why a lion share of medical break throughs, research, and technology comes from the US and not countries with universal healthcare.

[@grantt4691]

@@Rockvsstone I just had a partial nephrectomy in Australia. Small tumour discovered after I was taken for free by an ambulance to a hospital ER. I had numerous tests. Bloods, cat scan, ultrasound, an overnight stay in hospital. After several free consultations with the Specialist along with more CT imaging to ensure the cancer had not spread elsewhere, I had free laparoscopic surgery performed by a highly skilled surgical team. I was in a private room. Was well cared for by the whole medical team and went home 3 days after surgery. All this was performed in a timely manner with no out of pocket expenses but covered by a 2% levy on my taxable income. Americans are fools for trusting in private medical insurance companies. Insurance companies all over the world are some of the biggest rip off merchants you’ll ever encounter.

[@Rockvsstone]

@@grantt4691 your medical care is not free. You pay for it through your taxes, which on average is more than what I pay for my medical care/monthly insurance premiums. My 13 month old daughter has a partial nephrectomy. With insurance, my out of pocket expenses for her 5 night stay at a hospital was $250usd. We could have scheduled it in the same week, but opted to schedule her surgery in the following week so we had time to prepare. There is a recent study that revealed Australia has the second longest healthcare waiting time in the OECD. Australians and Canadians have traveled to my city in the US to get surgeries. Never heard of the reverse. My sister lived in Japan, a country with universal healthcare, and the hospital would refuse to treat foreigners. That does not happen in the US. I visited my friend in Northern Ireland, a universal healthcare country, and she was telling me it took her 1.5 years to finally see an ENT doctor. My friend in London waited 4 months to get surgery. I went to the emergency room in Scotland at a 4.4-star rated hospital. The place was so dated. There weren't enough rooms/beds for everyone so people were lined out on stretchers in the hallways. The service was slow and I felt like the workers had unfriendly demeanors similar to the government workers at the US license office workers. Cheap, good, and fast - pick 2 because I don't think all 3 exist.

[@tmmckee]

I agree! I moved abroad to work as an English teacher in 2011. I eventually returned to the US about 1.5 yrs ago because my parents are older and I want to take care of them in their old age. But I don't plan on growing old here if I can help it. I got over the US a long time ago. It's sad to see that it's become. :(

[@jlcgu11]

I'm touched and happy that you want to look after your aged parents. May they enjoy their late years well.

[@alancranford2024]

Today, growing old in the good ole USA is down right DANGEROUS... politicians want to gut SSA, pensions, specially SSA, fall behind inflation until our older citizens eat cat food as it is cheaper than tuna! Then scammers seek to profit from us "older" citizens... and the government cut and guts needed assistance programs... I have been living OUTSIDE of the USA for over 20 years... and now I am going father away and STAY AWAY!

[@ellinorglorioso2247]

Sad to see what its become and keeps getting worse.

[@Kimkim22647]

Your perspective is very enlightening. I'm an African-American who's traveled extensively throughout the USA: from the Midwest, the deep South, east coast, west coast, western states, SW, New England and to 9 countries. Travel has broaden my world view. I have a good friend who felt the way you guys do. She recently relocated to Central America. What stops me from moving away is leaving my family & loved ones behind. I can't imagine living without my family in the same country even though I realize other countries are safer & the locals are kind. Lastly, someone mentioned the terrible flavorless food we have in the US. That's so true & another reason why I look forward to my travels abroad. I long to taste natural food that isn't overly preserved & processed.

[@heidixxx2454]

I don't understand. One can cook one's own food however one likes.

[@Kimkim22647]

@@heidixxx2454 True but when it's bland to start with - such as fruits and vegetables sold in USA grocery stores because they're picked too early or have been gassed to look ripe but really aren't such as bananas, then they're still bland, no natural flavor. I don't want to have to load natural foods with salt & sugar just to add "flavor" like what's done to processed food & fast food.

[@heidixxx2454]

@@Kimkim22647 True. I buy organic and/or local farmer's market or a farmer's stand. There are USA grocery stores that sell organic that's been harvested the day before in my area, but I certainly can't speak for conditions for all of USA.

[@fmfdocbotl4358]

​@@heidixxx2454try watching the beginning of the video when they talk about food deserts, some areas of the country people buy their food at convenient stores. By your comment i can tell you're a privileged white woman

[@ontheruntonowhere]

@@heidixxx2454 Most people in the US can't afford organic food...if it's even organic and not a marketing scheme.

[@christinethorps7054]

Me and my family have been living in South Korea for12 years now and love it!

[@totonow6955]

I lived in Kenya for 5 years. I can vouch for every single thing said here. I can especially relate to the part about making friends back in the US. When I came back no one EVER asked me about any experience I might have had and the glazed eye look is absolutely real.

[@diydiva3190]

Maybe no one cared.

[@zeviono4562]

@@diydiva3190 There's america right there... the attitude.

[@jlcgu11]

The phrase "good for you" probably fits here. If other people are not interested in your interests, why should they ask. I understand this. Besides, everybody these days have been to other places or done other things so may not be too excited to hear.

[@Hanna_z1]

That's sad, what a missed opportunity for your friends and family to learn about something completely new a different.

[@totonow6955]

@@jlcgu11 My "interests" hum....oh, you mean my marriage, the birth of my son, his whole birth place, my divorce, any and everything a family or friends would know about someone that they care for if they actually cared. P.s. I know these things and ask about these things for them. Now you on the other hand, yes I agree, I'd suppose your interesting things that you've done can be kept in a dark closet. Guess I'll see you there.

[@kilipaki87oritahiti]

As a Norwegian I can’t relate, but this may be one of the best videos I’ve ever seen on this topic made by any American besides the “why America treats its citizens so poorly” video which talk about similar things in comparison to the rest of the world using actual facts like statistics and numbers.

[@richardscathouse]

It's just the American way. 😢

[@Kevin6059]

I would love to be a Norwegian (just visited for the first time this year and loved it), but unfortunately they'd never let me in. I'm too old and have nothing to offer that would get me into a permanent resident situation.

[@vilebrequin6923]

Completely agree. A very balanced, well-argued video. Leaving obviously gave this enlightened couple a broad vision and perspective.

[@richardscathouse]

@@Kevin6059 I can relate. I'd really like to move to the Russian Federation but between age 60. and multiple disabilities 🧑‍🦽 I know I don't qualify. This saddens me

[@alapaticornell4391]

What F r u talking about. This is the greatest country on earth bar-non. Land of the Free & home of the brave. Let freedom ring around the globe🎉

[@backyardprovence]

I have lived outside of the USA for more than 13 years and have only been back 1 time since leaving. I never want to go back. I tell eveyone that there is no way I would ever live there again. The thought of even going for a visit stresses me out. The funny thing is, I meet so many foreigners that can't believe I left because it's their dream to live there!

[@DubboU]

It's called the American dream, because you have to be asleep to believe it.

[@szk4023]

LOL, I've been gone for 7 years straight. I'm going home next month for a quick visit. My French wife is excited but I'm stressing out. I prefer when it's my relatives that come over for a visit.

[@Photojouralist123]

your right the thought of going back just to visit is stressful so Pass!

[@richardlo4867]

I grew up in the U.S. as an immigrant. I love the country, and there are many, many nice parts where life's okay if you can afford it. But is the U.S. a good place for most people? I don't think so. Most Americans will disagree, but from what they say it's kind of like the battered spouse syndrome, forever thinking it's not that bad or that it's even good (when objectively it is not) and/or things will improve. I can safely say since the 80s while some things have improved a whole lot has deteriorated. But we are what we are good at, Marketing. And many outside of America buys into what we're selling, and TBF I believe if you are from a poor third world country where eating regularly may not be an option, hard (literally) work and initiative will more likely to improve your station in life in America more readily than most other countries

[@andre1987eph]

The USA, particularly the West, offers things not available anywhere else in world such as covering great distances by car.

[@MarcelleMuller]

Thanks for your honesty and directness. I've lived out of the US for 18 years, in Belize and Ecuador, and agree with your every word.

[@dn5239]

I am an American and I have been living in Europe since 1973😊 Never want to return for all the reasons you stated! Totally, Totally Agree! Thank you for this video. Hopefully it may inspire more Americans to look beyond their borders for real freedom and a balanced life.

[@joeawk]

Don't you think you should change the way of the USA?

[@andre1987eph]

How did you support yourself in Eurooe?

[@CaliSteve169]

You mean the new Africa.

[@dn5239]

I worked in different international organizations until I retired. Along the way I married 🙂

[@dobedobedooo]

Scandinavia is by far the best option.

[@timrupp4219]

Great video. So true. I taught English in South America for 3 years and wasn't planning to return to the US but had a short term change of plans. After Ecuador I spent a lot of time in the Philippines. I just bought a home in Cebu and will be moving there soon. This time I won't look back.

[@GuillermoLG552]

I too have a degree in Political Science and I have lived outside of the US for 40 years, however I have never regretted my choice of a degree. First of all, it came in very handy in Law School, second, I appreciate knowing how politics works, both at home and where I live now. My degree has given me an insight into how little the public knows about how their own government works. Will I ever move back to the US? NO!

[@whatthepick]

Agree while political science is not the best degree it's quite flexible, where is shines however it is insanely practical for real life understanding of a lot of the modern world, throw in a bit of economy with it like a traditional political economy and your understanding of the world system is years ahead literally.

[@chicagofineart9546]

I agree. I took a lot of P.S. initially in college because I thought I'd be going to law school (but didn't) yet i don't regret having a deeper understanding of how laws are made and administered not just in the U.S. but in latin (Napoleonic code) countries too. And when I see how ignorant Americans are today about their government it truly frightens me. Image voting for your president based on the cost of gasoline any given month. Only idiots think this way.

[@jennettesurnoskie7884]

I'm Canadian and my husband and I totally agree with everything you said! Canada is really no better than USA and we plan on retiring early and traveling abroad FYI we have friends in Peru and have traveled there a lot and love it! Best of luck to you both

[@bratis99]

I live in South Korea, and the infrastructure is amazing... best decision. These guys are spot on, what they present here is exactly true... 14 years in Eastern Europe, 6 six years in Asia... I'm truly free... and the mindset after leaving the States requires training, practice, and patience with yourself... Achieve this and you're free

[@JohnnyRico8]

There's a lot more people leaving South Korea for the US than are moving to South Korea.

[@usx06240]

The reason for the infrastructure is the boom of Capitalism. Also, it is all relatively new. They have done well. Even the cars they first built have become as good as most others

[@bratis99]

it's truly amazing what S. Korea has achieved over the last thirty years... what's interesting the Korean people haven't gone off the social deep end with their newly found success... still warm, friendly, and generous with their contributions to life@@usx06240

[@RandallMoore-x4k]

@@JohnnyRico8 and?? typical knee jerk "patrioitic" BS

[@RandallMoore-x4k]

you have a source for those millions of SK citizens just yearning to be FUHREEE???

[@mangimages5]

I lived in Estonia my 1st 4 years, then escaped to Germany during WW2 for 6 years, then made it to America for the next 73 years. I have traveled to many other countries in those years, but this place still has the best quality of life I have experienced so far...

[@francoislechanceux5818]

Bro, I am French. I can tell you that the overwhelming majority of these people talking and bashing America are not Americans. Take it from me. They do same in French sites but in French.

[@denise3885]

Escape to Germany during ww2?

[@cbjones2212]

That's what I'm wondering as well @@denise3885

[@mangimages5]

Rusia was pushing Germany back and coming thru Estonia.We missed our boat to Sweden, so to get away from the Russians, we followed the Germans, and stayed between the 2 countries until we ended up in Berlin. We got away from there to the Brit side of Berlin, then on to many DP camps. For this 4 year old, the whole thing was a big adventure, because we survived... @@denise3885

[@agn855]

@@denise3885 - yep, ie. Königsberg (East Prussia, nowadays Kaliningrad) was quite near to the Baltic states, and those have been occupied by Germany until 1944/45. So, if you didn’t want to become Russian for the next 45yrs you ran away.

[@TheTrock121]

I'm glad we paid off our house a few years ago. The crazy thing now is that Health Insurance costs twice what our mortgage used to.

[@dr.dfargo2921]

Because of eligo aliens drive in up the cost

[@edwardgabriel5281]

You haven't mentioned taxes and house insurance and food etc etc.

[@TheTrock121]

@@edwardgabriel5281 If at all possible, start to grow some of your own food. At least learn to buy and process bushels of fruits and vegetables.

[@chrisgross2043]

Our two car insurances is now bigger than our mortgage 😳 The USA is a sh*thole and we're retiring to Mexico in 2 years and we won't look back!

[@TheTrock121]

@@chrisgross2043 Things aren't that bad in Central PA yet. But that could change if the next election is stolen. Best of luck w/ everything.

[@kerri5595]

I agree with everything you've stated here. Well done.

[@ericab8705]

Very calmly presented video, thanks. I grew up in SF in the late 70s - 90s so walking everywhere and taking the bus was the norm. I moved to cities outside of SF and was/am irritated by the need to drive everywhere. The US has changed so much and is hard to navigate for me. I don’t align with the hustle/money/power/materialism culture and never have. I have traveled a lot but have been wanting to live abroad for years but did not how to do it and be financially sound. I will check out your site. Thanks.

[@nanealdiamond28]

I have been living in the Philippines for the last 6 years now. I'm 51 years old retired military and can live very comfortably here financially. You can visit the Philippines for 3 years using your passport then simply fly out and fly back in and restart your 3 years all over again. You can become a permanent resident here if you marry a Philippino or your ex military and atleast 50 years old. The Philippines is the only place that has a Social security office and VA Hospital for veterans in Manila

[@OptionSpreadProfits]

Hi where in the PH are u at, Manila? What part of the city?

[@dogastrophic7]

Gross. I'm sure the local population are so happy you're there...

[@Zelaznogsiul-63]

No one knows what the future holds, but the fact that the V A is in Manila and social security office is also there, makes it a very interesting place to look at after retirement.

[@MikeS29]

Just discovered your channel and subscribed! We are moving to Spain later this year (2024) and never looking back. I'm fortunate to have dual citizenship (U.S. and Italy), allowing us the right to live anywhere within the E.U. and travel from there. Thanks for showing that it's possible to be a "free range american."

[@AlexDeChristian6323]

Good luck to you and your whole family, it's always been my dream to live in Spain Barcelona to be exact.

[@Stop.różności]

What about coming war? Safer in Europe?😂😂😂

[@MikeS29]

@@Stop.różności- wow that’s hilarious 🙄 - and spoken like someone who is afraid to leave home.

[@loripalmieri1205]

How did you go about getting your dual citizenship? My 2 daughters should be eligible but are finding it's terribly expensive. Any suggestions?

[@windrago]

we are about to do the same and with the same circumstances!

[@bertanelson8062]

Yes, I'm living outside USA & loving it. Meeting nomads who travel through SE Asia, hearing all the wonderful experiences. I made myself a map of the world so I can remind myself where places are. I feel like I'm learning more about life now than I did in USA.

[@kayflip2233]

SE Asia is the best!

[@Viconius]

Probably because you changed your life and not just your location.

[@goharikjones7387]

Everything you said about USA is absolutely correct unfortunately... I respect your very balanced and honest opinion about America.

[@JamesMcCoy-dv9px]

Just enjoyed your video. I’m a 60 year old canadian that has been travelling for 38 years. You are 100% correct on everything you guys sent.

[@ArturNigma-d2i]

Hello from Russia. Even me Russian citizen believed in freedom and etc. Good advertising

[@MonarchOfIrvine]

Yeah and even canadians are more likely to move to US than the other way around, partly because incomes are lower in canada and housing prices are higher in canada as well. In general, north american cities have bland architecture and lack the old world charm that some other places have

[@Urgurl514]

This has to be one of the most fact based and unbiased video on you tube right now

[@lindathalman3506]

Well, this clip has been totally refreshing. Having lived out of the US permanently since 1978 and worked, traveled and studied in Europe since 1970 you've made all the points I wish I would have posted. Very informative and pretty darn accurate! Thank you guys! So glad I'm now a French citizen. Local markets are still, (for how long?) well and alive all around France. Enjoyed this very, very much. Merci.

[@MonarchOfIrvine]

France ranks noticeably lower than the States on the Happiness Index. Also, French citizens are statistically less educated than Muricans as well, which is sad lol

[@susancarter9351]

Did you give up your US citizenship?

[@juliepowell2414]

Great video! Thank you for articulating each point so well. I agree!

[@berndhofmann752]

I'm German And i live now in Cameroun. Before i lived in Spain, ivory coast and Switzerland. I am a former consultant and my insurance, german and spanish. It is wonderful! ❤❤❤❤❤

[@Rozhinnnn]

What do you think about living in Germany? I'm in the process of moving to the US but my partner is in Germany and wants me to move there and I'm conflicted, would love to hear your thoughts! Vielen Dank❤

[@berndhofmann752]

A good idea! Much better than in US if you have a good education! Here are videos from Americans living in Germany! These are quite informative!

[@Rozhinnnn]

@@berndhofmann752 I'm still doing my research and hope I can find the right answer for me... Tysm

[@berndhofmann752]

@@Rozhinnnn I like the Videos of an American couple living with 4 Kids in Bavaria!

[@Rozhinnnn]

@@berndhofmann752 I'm currently watching videos of Americans explaining why they left America and it's quite eye opening because living in America is such a huge dream for people of my country, you'd be crazy to not want it, and I'm sure a lot of other third world countries feel like that... I realized it's mainly because how America has made it seem like a fairytale land to immigrants while the reality is much more different... I'll make sure to check the video you mentioned!

[@brendaogara2543]

I been out of the USA 22 yrs . I do go back to visit. But your correct about USA

[@HodgeChris]

Most Americans find it hard to retire comfortably amid economy downtrend. Some have close to nothing going into retirement, my question is, will you pay off mortgage as a near-retiree, or spread money for cashflow, to afford lifestyle after retirement?

[@Justinmeyer1000]

Agreed the role of advisors can only be overlooked, but not denied. I remember in early 2020, during covid-outbreak, my portfolio worth around $300k took a slight fall, apparently due to the pandemic crash, at once I consulted an advisor in order to avoid panic-selling. As of today, my account has yielded big fat yields, and leverages on 7-figure, only cos I delegate my excesses right.

[@Justinmeyer1000]

Certainly, there are a handful of experts in the field. I've experimented with a few over the past years, but I've stuck with ‘’AILEEN GERTRUDE TIPPY” for about five years now, and her performance has been consistently impressive.She’s quite known in her field, look-her up.

[@leesam7147]

have live in england and western europe its much more civilized better transportation, medical treatment, and community events. us abuses their own citizens for narcissistic CEOs

[@RobertEskew]

@@Justinmeyer1000 Scam

[@sophiachavez3377]

One important point no one has mentioned in their replies is the cost of the advisor. Most charge 2% of your total portfolio every year. 2% of $100, 000 is $2,000 per year; 2% of $200,000 is $4,000 per year. If you need an advisor, you should not be in individual stocks, but in ETFs or mutual funds. Investing in Vanguard’s Total Stock Market ETF or fund, S&P 500 ETF or fund and about 10% in their Total Bond Market ETF or fund is all you need. Invest and forget. This way you pay the lowest fees and you are even with the Market. This way you will do better than anything most advisors will do. Do you really want to pay someone $2,000 per $100,000 a year for 30 years? That’s $60,000 per $100,000! Do the math!

[@davidhaley8542]

I experienced little happiness living in the U.S. Then I visited Europe for the first time. During the first day of my visit, it shocked me to realize that Europeans walk around in public, often in very close proximity, without apprehension. Upon my return to the U.S., "little happiness" turned into deep dissatisfaction since I now had other places to which I could compare the U.S. It took me four years, but I finally left the U.S. for a MUCH better life in Europe. Now, when I return to visit family and friends, I long to leave and return to my adopted home after two to three days.

[@barb8452]

Where in Europe did you move too? I want to move. Not sure where?

[@Beady-ys7et]

You could basically choose anywhere in Europe, it’s all different but all better.

[@alapaticornell4391]

Stay away. U r not needed here😢

[@barb8452]

@@alapaticornell4391 thank you for your kind words. Do you think Jesus would say that to you when you die. No matter what the elites will not save you. You will die just like everyone else.

[@barb8452]

@@thisisanewchannel-wd7jl you're full of 💩

[@darremcmillan3230]

interesting perspective...i have lived out of the country in Southeast Asia before and now live back in the U.S. While some of your points are factual i think it depends on a great number of factors and what an individual may want. My experience in SE Asia was generally very good in many ways and matches the positive experiences you have mentioned. I do think its interesting that while so many find faults in the U.S. it still has a net income of migrants than outflow. My spouse is originally from SE Asia and prefers living in the U.S. as she points out the U.S. generally has better infrastructure, decent drinking water, availability, good sewage treatment, electric grid, job opportunities, availability to good health care, dental etc. I would add that the U.S. also provides opportunities to all races of people much easier than most other countries. Car culture...ok sure its car centric outside of major cities though some of that is starting to change. i.e. Florida and California high speed trains. The U.S. is also very very large compared to most nations so to have mass transportation everywhere would be nice but not practical. Gun Violence...yeah i dont understand why the U.S. cannot solve this...other countries who have alot of guns have figured it out... I have not been near any mass shooting or know of anyone who has. Though i have been held up with a gun many years ago. Tipping: yes, for some reason its now out of control but on the otherhand bribing to get things done in SE Asia is the norm (so a different form of tipping there). Worker protections: Depends on the state, some states have much better protections then others. At the same time, as labor costs increase jobs will move to other states or overseas then you have no job. Living in SE Asia there are little workers rights...good luck on that one. I have a laundry list of items that can counter many of the points you here eventhough they are generally accurate. So i think it really depends on what you want and looking for. I do think there should almost be a requirement for younger folks to travel the world and especially to less developed countries. It will likely change them for the positive. Living overseas in another country. Living by their rules and system will change how your see the world and the U.S. for both its faults and positives.

[@jrivera6343]

@darrenmcmillan3230 well said!

[@alapaticornell4391]

We still have nearly à million in bound every year. That's alot people from around the world that want to b here. God blessed the U.S.A.🎉

[@dianeschuloff3836]

Wonderful while they are young,but what happens when the babies come?

[@Balligat]

/cited/" .. the U.S. generally has better infrastructure, decent drinking water, availability, good sewage treatment, electric grid .. "/end/ than where else? Drinking water? → FLINT, poisoned with lead, just one example, Infrastructure? → for cars, everything else is a life threatening intention or non-existent (public transport outside the big cities) Electric grid → Texas, a few years ago lines broken because not maintained properly, or in the aftermath of tornadoes no electricity for weeks because all the power lines are on poles, not in the ground. Sorry (but not sorry!) it seems you have successfully been brainwashed ...

[@abdullahaanawaleh]

I generally agree with the counter points you've brought up but I'll have to disagree on the public transportation not being practical comment. America is a massive country for sure but most people live in cities and most of their journeys are under 10 miles. American cities used to have great public transport a century ago but its been gutted and destroyed in most cities. Only NYC and a handful of others still have decent public transport (albeit mismanaged and still below european/asian standards). Designing american cities with walkability and public transport in mind in the coming decades will be important, densify cities and improve public transport. Its possible and it'll bring many benefits.

[@SherryStaggs-nb1xx]

Having lived abroad I relate to everything you have said.

[@mcfly2410]

After living abroad on and off, I decided not to return to the US. My home is now in France since 2013. Now, I live to work and not work to live, as I did in the US. I enjoy 4 months of paid vacation with shorter working hours, and the quality of life has definitely improved for me. France provides numerous social benefits that are unavailable in the US. Additionally, my diet is healthier, and I am more active due to pedestrian-friendly and walkable European cities. When I return to the US to visit family and friends, I always get travel insurance covering medical, accidents, and emergencies. It only costs me just over €100 for a 5-week stay.

[@LU-jo2jz]

4 months?

[@grandwonder5858]

Damn! Most Americans are lucky to get 4 day paid vacation!

[@Casimir2811]

​​​@@LU-jo2jzas a French dude, I can tell that this person either wanted to say 4 weeks instead of months, or they are a teacher. Teachers obviously get the same vacations as kids because, well, schools are closed. And over the year, this goes around 4 months indeed. But this is the only job that gets so much paid vacations. Most workers in France get 4 to 5 weeks paid vacation a year.

[@23Petios]

What part of France you live? One dude from my country told me after you turn 60 you don’t pay electrical bill and water. One French guy told me France is the best country for poor people because everything is free for them. Solidarity !

[@gingernightmare9152]

@@23Petios I'm in the UK and retired over 65 gets so many extra payments to cover heat and electricity it's almost free.

[@lenardz]

As a person who grew up in the American education system and love the country, this was hard to watch. BUT! It’s all so very true. When I immigrated to Canada, I never went to the hospital whenever I was sick for fear of how much it would cost me. Then it wasn’t until a few years down later when my friend said it’s all free that I went and got a family doctor. I would work through my ailment, since yes…Americans take pride in work and being busy. Whenever I house sat for a friend in the suburbs, I’d look for points of entry because of fear of potential home invasion. It’s all habits I learned growing up in American society. We are indeed taught that America is the best. While deep down in my heart I still believe it…my brain knows it’s not and I know you’ve pointed out most of the flaws of American society. It does hurt, but the truth hurts.

[@manniefresh3425]

If you think the fact that just being American citizens alone, who worked and probably saved money in the US isn’t why their life isn’t so much easier living in cheaper countries than you are delusional. The things they are bringing up are kinda ridiculous. Also they are from California, the most expensive state in the US. Pretty much can sum it up to I live in a dense horrible state, probably never lived in another state, and I can be bothered to learn that you can live other ways cause I’m too gullible lol.

[@Maria-bd2mm]

@@manniefresh3425 You are wrong. They plain and simply stated they live better in cheaper countries, and the things they brough up aren't riduculous at all, if you read the other commments here, almost everybody agrees with them. They didn't realize they felt like that about how life was in California until after they cam home and found ther eyes had been opened to a better kind of life.

[@MonarchOfIrvine]

canada is also worse since income is lower for professionals and other costs like housing are also higher than in the States. also, the weather is worse. if you're a professional, it's worse to be in canada

[@MonarchOfIrvine]

Also, US cities like Irvine CA are safer, smarter, more diverse, and have nicer weather than all canadian cities lol

[@manniefresh3425]

@@MonarchOfIrvine how much do you think it cost to live in Irvine? Lol

[@dreadogastusf3548]

In general, nothing you have talked about is surprising. The difference between your video and other "foreign travel" content is that you two have lived and worked in many cultures. What you say comes from experience. Thank you for a fresh view of the world.

[@istvanglock7445]

But we don't actually know where their income comes from. If they're working remotely for US companies/customers and being paid in US dollars, it's not surprising they find everywhere so cheap.

[@TheEricthefruitbat]

This is one of the best videos I have ever watched. The US looks very different from the outside.

[@chipdale490]

I'm an old Dutch guy who went to flightschool in the US in the late '80s. Back then everything was much, much cheaper than in the EU. How things have changed. Until somewhere in the 2000's my family would spend quite a few holidays in the US. No longer.. 😢

[@henrimatisse4768]

i agree. last time we went to the usa was in 2000. all things were normal price, often even much cheaper than in europe. now the prices are rocket high and it is not clear why. something must have gone terribly wrong over there within the last 25 years that it could come to this. what is it ?

[@dampergoldenrod4156]

@@henrimatisse4768 endless wars and a toxic legal system and an unwillingness to build homes for 335 million people

[@dr.dfargo2921]

USA is expensive because of a 33 trillions in the hole

[@brucenator]

En in Nederland hebben jullie bijna overal ondergrondse elektriciteitskabels. In Amerika hebben we nog overal bovengrondse elektriciteitspalen die we nog "telephone poles" noemen. Amerika loopt achter op Nederland.

[@perfumelover777]

I completely agree with this couple, if you travel outside the US you will realize and understand everything they’re saying is true.

[@jrstf]

For the last 70 years living in the US I've not had a car, or a license, not a problem. And I've never feared being shot. In the US, you have a choice of where you want to live, a lot of these negatives can be avoided.

[@edschultheis9537]

The two people in this video are professional complainers. Most of the negative things that they find about living in the US can be avoided or greatly mitigated if they were to simply change their lifestyle and location. Also, in my 59 years, I can't think of a single time that I had a fear of being shot.

[@Sheilawisz]

What? You mean that being American does not magically force you to eat McDonald’s all the time and get sick and shoot everyone? I had no idea!

[@channeling764]

@@edschultheis9537healthcare and employment are misery in the US.

[@woodspriteful]

​​​@@edschultheis9537 You are over age 45. Most people under 45 have attended an event where there was a mass shooting or know someone who did. There was a mass shooting at my university and I've worked in several schools where the kids must do drills twice a year for shootings. Still the shootings are often successful and the drills are traumatizing themselves. Politicians fight for teachers to have guns but none of the teachers want them. There's a mega disconnect between some people's lived experience and politicized ideology.

[@nycbearff]

Well, no, you can only live where you can afford to live. When I lived in Manhattan, I had a good salary and didn't need a car. I'm retired on a small fixed income now, and there's no way I could live in the very few US cities and neighborhoods where you don't need a car. It sounds like you have been very lucky - and think that somehow everyone else can live where you live and enjoy its benefits. Nope.

[@thomasparker9638]

Sometimes, I think of the U.S. as being the largest "island in the world" because of its attitude towards itself and the rest of the world.

[@theresamcclure7333]

Watching from Australia it was very refreshing listening to your commonsense approach to life and the quality of your life ❤

[@tina-g8p]

You only get excited when an American talks negative about their country. These two clowns said some really dumb things. Americans are not friendly because we are worried someone has a gun. We don't walk down the street fearing our neighbor or coworker will shoot us if we don't smile or say hello.

[@andrewmiller9207]

Just left Sydney as housing was unaffordable...bought a nice detached house within 3 months after arriving in US..

[@samshort365]

I'm not American, but I have associated with enough Americans to know that something isn't quite right. I lived in Europe for about 12 years and both myself and an English friend of mine bought our own apartments. Our American friends lived in shared rooms with up to 7 in one apartment in order to afford the rent. Then we realised why, all of them had over $100,000 in student loans in the mid 1980s, which was more than I paid for my home. My education was totally free. Subsequently, I learned that 40 million Americans didn't have health care. That was twice the population of Australia at the time. Mind boggling figures! Recently, an American friend has decided to renounce her US citizenship. After 20 plus years married and living abroad she still keeps a US accountant and pays US State and Federal Taxes. This still blows my mind!!! So, I fully understand your choices and I hope you have a great life.

[@MonarchOfIrvine]

disposable income is lower in europe for those that work in professional fields, so that negates factors such as cost of education (also, rent is low in many areas). european nations are also less diverse and more racist than parts of US as well

[@earlysda]

"free". that's funny. Wake up soon.

[@samshort365]

@@earlysda I know, right! And I'm having the last laugh.

[@earlysda]

@@samshort365sam, so sorry you have laughed your last. . Look up to Jesus, he is the only one who can heal your heart and give you eternal life in glory with him.

[@michaelmckenna9022]

Americans support the world. We would be rich if we didn't send all our money overseas. Many countries have national health care because America provides their military defense.

[@hilltopmoringafarms6764]

Kudos to you guys. In July I'll begin my 38th year in the Philippines where I've visited more than half of the 82 provinces. My home is on a hilltop facing the central mountains of the island that has been home since 2014. This story continues.

[@DowntownsUptown]

Sounds like an advertisement. That’s expensive anywhere. This whole thing is an advertisement.

[@patland1762]

@@DowntownsUptown Nope not there. In the Philippines I just built what would be a $400,000-$500,000 home in a middle cost US city for $66,000. In a city so more expensive building there.

[@DaveThomspon]

I am happy to be a Canadian and carry a passport that opens doors. Great video thanks.

[@MrWaterbugdesign]

A person can say they will never move back to the US but it doesn't seem many people understand things change. I watched people say that about Ecuador, Venezuela, Columbia (before drug cartels), Burma when it was Burma, etc... Remember Portugal being nirvana just a few years ago? Now people saying "too expensive", tired of tiring to learn Portuguese. If you travel around often then every place is new and exciting. A vacation. Go on a vacation to any place in the US and it will be fun and exciting. When boredom starts you move to the next new place. Nothing wrong with that. I've lived in many places and planning a move in 2025 to SE Asia. But I think it's foolish to think I would never move back to the US. I'm not planning to move back, but I understand areas change. Sometimes very fast. This comment is to myself to try and not fall into the trap of thinking I can predict the future. It's a struggle.

[@KatieMerritt-s3h]

My husband and I left the US 8 months ago and have no intention of moving back. I go back to visit family and agree it's everything you said about the culture shock going back. We are blessed that my speech pathology job is online so I can work from anywhere in the world. I have never been so relaxed with work in my entire 30 yr career. The change in work life balance has been the best! We are healthier with the improved quality of food and have settled into shopping more frequently. We enjoy eating out at local restaurants and not spending a fortune. We find the people through the world much happier and friendly. Also I don't miss owning a car! So glad we made the move.

[@Tryng2bgodly]

Where do you live now?

[@KatieMerritt-s3h]

@@Tryng2bgodly we are currently in Colombia but moving back to Europe in the Spring

[@demri123]

I left the US at 23. Still in Asia now, 15 years later. In short, America makes things much more expensive, difficult, dangerous and slow than they need to be.

[@BestdaughtereverEver]

It depends on what city you reside in. USA is not bad yet where I live. But I don’t like the current politics in USA, favoring the illegal immigrants with open borders and using taxpayers money for it and for wars not necessary and dictating we have mandatory vaccinations specially for kids and the recent covid19 plandemic😊. There’s too much govt interference in our private lives.

[@demri123]

@@BestdaughtereverEver absolutely

[@earlysda]

American salaries are among the highest in the world.

[@atlanticrf]

It depends on where you live.

[@chicagofineart9546]

@@earlysda American cost of living is among the highest too. So there's that.

[@jayembee2109]

I'm an American, and lived overseas for twenty years. This all absolutely true

[@extraincomesuz]

I've lived in Malaysia for the past 15 years. I'm a US citizen. I agree with everything that you say in this video. I love living in Malaysia and I love the fact that I don't have to worry about guns or health insurance, my house is paid for, and and you're right food is easy to buy and it's cheap. My Malay husband and I own a small car and we each have a scooter, all of them paid for, but I often ride my bike to the local market to buy vegetables to eat... we raise our own chickens. Because of the cost savings, I was able to retire early at 50. And I didn't finish the entire video (sorry), but one other thing that's important to me are my neighbors, in our village, they're so nice and charitable toward each other, and to us. It's an important part of the culture here. Unfortunately, being neighbourly seems to have been lost in many parts of the US. Thank you for making this video and reminding me what a great decision that I made moving here.❤😂🎉

[@winall9]

I take it you have converted to Islam, just curious

[@decTac]

Good choice, Malaysia is laid back and chill to live.. it's a peaceful country.