What I tell Europeans about moving to USA!

[@JoviesHome]

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[@bmw803]

Remember, guns have always been around in America and was NEVER a problem until the last 20 years. Don't blame this on the 2nd amendment. As you said it yourself, IT'S A SOCIO - ECONOMIC problem. American governments are very oppressive and oppressive people go nuts and do all sorts of bad things.

[@gailalbers1430]

Are you getting a divorce, because your husband wants to move back to the US ??

[@whattheflyingfuck...]

get a better microphone, honey. it is kind of difficult to understand you.

[@Christina-gz3ex]

My husband, my daughter and I moved to the Netherlands from the US earlier this year and plan to stay here forever. Gun violence, hate (racism, transphobia, even hate between political parties), threatened democracy were our main reasons. We were going to come next year but after the Uvalde shooting I told my husband that we would not be putting our daughter back in public school in the US so the options were move sooner or homeschool. And after doing homeschool during the pandemic, we didn't want to go that route. So... here we are in Den Helder!! and LOVING IT

[@janrobertbos]

......if you like DEN HELDER.......................you must REALLY like the Netherlands....................lollol😂

[@helenooft9664]

Well done, and also Welcome in the Netherlands, and enjoy life.

[@jackthebassman1]

European people in general feel the same about America.

[@dicknr1]

glad you choose a smart option: to not move to the touristic or popular cities. They are the worst and you pay insanely for the worst too. Also dont bring in your past cultural issues to this place. It aint america so dont compare american values if you see something its likely done in a much better and humane way than americans can ever achieve. Sadly we also got that stupid trend from USA here where they try to act like blacks or females are oppressed, but it doesnt slide so much here. only the cities completely stuffed with anything but dutch culture think that way. examples are Amsterdam, rotterdam, utrecht and so on. completely ruined cities. Since you choose a actual normal city that isnt infested with rediculous foreigners who import their cultural hate and race issues to the country you should be good. So stay away from the bigger cities unless you need something from there. And welcome to the Netherlands.

[@ufob]

Make sure to visit Alkmaar 😉

[@TimDC711]

I'm also an American expat living in the Netherlands. I've been here 27 years. Met my spouse here, have a great job (not corporate), homeowner, ride a bike 365 and just have a better life all around.

[@Columbiana212]

Same story here ! I’ve been living here in NL since 1998 , never regent it.

[@bertjesklotepino]

why do you call yourself an expat? Why do we change words, or find new words for things that already have a word to describe it? In dutch we would call it: Arbeidsmigrant. But i guess the word Migrant is loaded these days, and so we find new terms for everything. Shellshock? Too harsh. Let's invent a new one. PTSD sounds a lot less horrible. So what you are is simple: An American working in the Netherlands. Migrant worker, gastarbeider. I know why the word Expat is being used. Skincolour seems to have to do with it. We call the whities Expats and the rest we call migrant workers or other such loaded terms. Btw, if you live here for 27 years, you can hardly be called an expat.

[@Mrbrbusby]

@@bertjesklotepino Gee thanks agent orange for enlightening us. “Human rights for all” Crown Princess Mary of 🇩🇰. Remember Anne Frank - as well as all the worthless collaborators who turned her in.

[@bertjesklotepino]

@@Mrbrbusby stop snorting coke pls What does Anne Frank have to do with the above? Nothing. But an expat normally does not live in a country for 27 years. Plus: Why not just call yourself a migrant worker???? There is nothing wrong with that term. It has been loaded not by me, but by others. And going by what you just responded with, it has done its job. Stop snorting coke pls.

[@bertjesklotepino]

@@Mrbrbusby ps: look up the definition of Expat. 27 years in a country and still an expat? Sorry, but i think that is just nonsense, agent Coke

[@alfiyamityukova4947]

I moved to USA from Russia in 2005. I'm very grateful to US. I am a single mom and work as a nurse, but I live very comfortable life in Texas with one income. I would never be able to do that in Russia. However, lately I started thinking of moving again, to Europe because of all the reasons you stated in your video. I am not as brave at 38 as I was when I was 21 though.

[@uranus348]

Germany is looking for many nurses and other personnel. Give it a try.

[@littleprincess8526]

Move to Belgium. We have a huge shortage of nurses, an amazing healthcare system, great schools.

[@teniente_snafu]

Don't listen to those guys. WE need the nurses here in Austria. Beautiful country, great food, super peaceful :)

[@GHWMR]

Forget the other commenters, listen to Jovie, go to The Netherlands, huge demand for nurses!

[@ChrisLubba]

Nurse shortage in Netherlands as well. :) 38 still young, you got this! If you were single and no kids I would say maybe ride out the USA and save as much $$ as you can then move here. But, with children, Jovie is right. The school system for kids here is amazing. I don't have kids but, all the children I talk to are very polite and can hold a meaningful conversation with an adult.

[@hollyjoboerse3945]

I'm an American who has been living 42 years in Germany and The Netherlands...I won't give up my nationality, but I am never going back...I'm retired now, I love Europe!

[@Tangocita444]

Jovie, you hit the nail right on the head with every single point you made. I am from the US and am actively working towards moving to Europe for the exact same reasons. I do not have children, but I couldn't imagine sending my children to school in the US where they have to have active shooter drills and bulletproof backpacks. I can't imagine getting a catastrophic illness in the US - even with insurance - it's insane here. The divisiveness, politically, financially, etc. is just disgusting. I can't take it anymore and I want out.

[@dudoklasovity2093]

good thinking, it has been the same with me. So I quit my job and I am moving to Europe this month I just bought my plane ticket😀

[@JohnHollands]

An Australian Prime Minister at one time talked about what he called "the social wage". His point was that, despite wanting tax cuts, despite wanting higher wages and lower costs, we ALL needed and benefited from common things: good roads, clean air, clean water, adequate housing, a safe environment. Good public transport, equitable labour policy with safeguards for health. These things, largely supplied or controlled by Governments were important to all people.

[@Rottnwoman]

And are still important to most Australians - the USA can have the very few who don't value these things.

[@vanessaheesen8154]

As someone who just moved to the Netherlands after 18 years living with my Dutch husband in the United States, you articulated every reason why I made the decision that I wanted to move. Thank you for this video.

[@timeijs12]

I was never proud of the Netherlands until I visited the United States.

[@Kevin15047]

That should be our tourism slogan. "Come feel better about your own country."

[@martthesling]

@@Kevin15047 Without America there would be no Netherlands 🤨 🇩🇪

[@spilln01]

@@martthesling yes. we indeed we are very happy we bin liberated. by the Canadians!!

[@Kevin15047]

@@martthesling Here we go. The American idiot Green Day was talking about, who thinks having a big bad military makes us a decent country. Seriously, it's like having a state-of-the-art security system for rusted broken down trailer with nothing of value inside . Makes no goddamn sense.

[@ageoflove1980]

@@martthesling You mean because of WWII ? Yeah ok fair enough. However, president Roosevelt was of course Dutch and the most important city in the US was founded by the Netherlands, New Amsterdam. Lets just appreciate the historic bond and friendship the US and the Dutch have. It is without a doubt that the US and their military support is invaluable in its support of Western Europe and many people over here perhaps forget that our privileged lifestyle is at least partially made possible by the hard work and sacrifice of the American people. So at least from me as a Dutchy: Thanks for being our reliable friend and ally!

[@jackthebassman1]

I am a proud Brit but I also love The Netherlands and the Dutch people, I’m also extremely frustrated and upset that Britain chose to distance ourselves from our nearest natural neighbours. I was offered the opportunity to move to America some years ago, looking in now I breath a sigh of relief that I opted not to.

[@daxcoco1229]

I am also a proud Brit!! love EUROPE!!! It's the European Union That piss us off.

[@greattobeadub]

Why are you worried about the EU. The UK isn't a member and won't be let back in. I'm proudly Irish and also proud of the EU.

[@jackthebassman1]

@@greattobeadub The day we voted to leave was the day Britain committed political and financial suicide. I am a proud Brit but also a European, I’m no financial genius but I’m capable of realising that there would be implications of leaving the world’s biggest trading partner.

[@jackthebassman1]

@@greattobeadub The day we voted to leave was the day Britain committed political and financial suicide. I am a proud Brit but also a European, I’m no financial genius but I’m capable of realising that there would be implications of leaving the world’s biggest trading partner.

[@josephturner7569]

It is really a confederation. If it were a true union, you would not have been able to leave. Any way. You won. Get over it.

[@cshrlh]

As an American who has recently returned from a lengthy trip to Ireland, you nailed every single reason why I didn't want to come home. The anxiety (or lack thereof when in Ireland) felt in a public environment was a difference I hadn't thought about at the time, good video thank you.

[@peggygraham6129]

Moved to Ireland from Michigan a number of years ago.There is no going back! Visiting recently I was dismayed by all the negative feelings I had about what life is like there.

[@YourFellowRNRSisterFan98]

I’d love to visit Ireland , I bet it’s beautiful !

[@rebeccar4312]

Peggy-how, as a US citizen were you allowed to live in Ireland-what costly and time consuming hoops did you have to hassle through?

[@Ellinillard]

@@rebeccar4312not much different than the hoops you would have to go through if you wanted to resettle in the USA,moving from Europe.

[@ashleighsparkle8810]

Try it, you will return home. I guarantee it. You will see how good you have it. Or move states. I speak from experience,

[@jjsmallpiece9234]

I'm a Brit. Despite our stupidity of leaving the EU I have never felt any desire to live in the USA for just about all of the reasons you have given.

[@DP-tf7qb]

I'm British too and the UK is such an embarrassment for all sorts of reasons, but the USA always makes me feel better about the state of our country...

[@MrBurtonshaw]

Agreed, it's such a shame that the British people consistently return a political Party to power in the UK that wish to mimic the situation in the US.

[@jackthebassman1]

I totally agree.

[@ageoflove1980]

Hello! Just a word of support from your friendly neighbour next door in The Netherlands! Just vote for Labour next time around, Keir Starmer seems alright. Have another referendum and rejoin the club, no hard feelings! Historically and culturally the Dutch and Brits have been on the same page for centuries so im sure we can work something out here. Just lock Bojo away in some fridge beforehand please.

[@jackthebassman1]

@@ageoflove1980 If we were ever allowed in again i for one would be overjoyed.

[@gloofisearch]

Hi Jovie, great video. As a German and American, I must say, all the points are spot on. In addition to the inability for children to become independent, the school system is so bad that what they learn is not even close to what I learned 40-50 years ago in Germany. Schools here have cameras, no windows and you need to present your ID when you want to go in and get a visitors pass like you go to prison. The school that I went to in Germany still to this day, anybody can just walk in and go to any classroom with no camera or guard or anything and still, nothing is happening. My wife and I are planning to move to Spain in the next 2-3 years as living in the US is just not worth it any longer. Strangely enough, the people themselves are the problem not wanting to see that the system is failing big time. We pay taxes and still the infrastructure is so old and no public transport and bad schools, I do not even know what we pay taxes for?!?

[@crazymonkeyVII]

Well that's quite easy of course, you pay taxes to finance having a military that's better funded than that of China, Russia, India, UK, France, Germany, Saudi Arabia, Japan and South Korea combined...

[@garryferrington811]

You're supporting the suburbs. Suburbs are a tremendous drain on the economy. See NotJustBikes.

[@Mayagick]

Have a look at military spending. And university cross funding college football.

[@sassy0010]

In addition to military spending, we're paying big time for billionaire tax breaks.

[@jpthiran]

@@sassy0010 ...mainly that!...and almost no corporate taxrs!

[@mogon721]

I think you need only two words to describe what's wrong with America. *Bulletproof backpack*

[@fionafiona1146]

I am sure military staff could benefit from that "Bullet proof kindergarten backpack" however get's unwieldy

[@ashleighsparkle8810]

Your chances of being in a school shooting in US is comparable to winning the powerball so play accordingly and grow up.

[@eddys.3524]

Hi Jovie, thanks for the video. On food additives, my percention is, that in the EU the general rule is that the additive has to be proven to be not poisenous or detrimental to health to be allowed, when in the USA you can only get a ban on an additive when it's a proven (severe) health risk and the producer hasn't bribed Congress.

[@tigna7548]

yes, you are right. In Europe an additive cannot be commercialised unless proven safe; in the US an additive cannot be forbidden unless proven harmful.

[@dudoklasovity2093]

this is absolutely correct

[@winmachielse1233]

The Netherlands is your home now. Welcome home Jovie. C’mon in, kick off your shoes and relax.

[@lauraramsey9000]

I feel the same. I'm American, lived in Belgium for 10 years and have now lived in Canada for about a year. It would take a lot of convincing for me to move back to the US for all the same reasons you mentioned. Don't feel safe there, guns, politics, health care, education system, etc.

[@LK-pc4sq]

I left Canada in 2016 and it was a bad choice I made. Now its been 6 years after I left and the expats in Canada say very little chance for me to go back as now im over 50! The cost of living in Vancouver was insane. Where did you settle to in Canada? I live south of Seattle and the housing crisis is real, inflation is bad and im not being hired in IT because the market is flooded with graduates. Where did you move to?

[@michaelnoardo3315]

I would leave Europe to move to Canada, I might be wrong but seems to me we would kind have the best of both EU+USA in Canada , the Entertainement of America plus the Culture of Europe

[@sweetpixiesmile]

@@LK-pc4sq There are lots of affordable places to live in Canada. Tech is a bit weak in Vancouver, and the housing market there is insane. Tech in Ontario is great, but with it comes US style commuting if you want remotely affordable home ownership... although most tech companies are remote work from home (I've been permanently work from home since March 20, 2019 with the first covid lockdown.) Alberta is starting to be decent for tech work, and housing there is pretty affordable, but they are kind of like the US of Canada (Freedom convoy movement started there, and they have a lot of covid deniers and anti-maskers). I wouldn't recommend living in Saskatchewan or Manitoba for tech. For the most European lifestyle, but a lot of French soverigntests, Quebec is pretty relaxed. East coast is best if you want rural style pace and living. Canada being what it is (2nd largest country in the world with only 38 million population) a car is essential unless you live downtown, or in Vancouver proper; my brother rides his e-bike everywhere and lives in Vancouver West end.

[@bmw803]

Why are people always blaming guns? Guns have been part of our society since colonization. The problem isn't guns, it's socio-economics that are TERRIBLE in this country. And people are losing their minds because of that. We are a very oppressive country, and that's why we have all this violence.

[@bianca00591]

Hi Laura, I want to move to Belgium. I studied abroad last year there and would love to move there for work. Do you have advice on getting a job in Belgium as an American. I know Americans have to have a work visa in order to work in Belgium.

[@baklava6138]

I’m originally from Bosnia and Herzegovina and came to the states in 1998, but have been going back to BiH more frequently lately and I feel soo much safer, the food is much healthier, better and easier access to better food, social life and the people are great! Sarajevo feels wealthy and developed to me and I compare it often to the states. Sadly, the high life in the states is not reachable for 80% of the people here, in Bosnia it is more reachable and way more affordable. For 200k$ i can buy a house and start a business debt free. While in the states you can’t do much with 200k.. maybe a down payment for debt.

[@anastasiakuryatenko9500]

I am an American living in Austria now for 6 years, and when people ask me if I see myself coming back to the USA...I always say no! Because I really agree with all of your points!

[@debrachavira4598]

You are spot-on my dear! SPOT-ON. I lived in Italy and Croatia last year for four months and I felt and feel every single one of your sentiments. I could write a one hundred page response but I won't. In short, I will say this...while living in Europe I always felt safe, my tummy was always happy due to the pure, clean food and I noticed not one single person walked around angry or volatile. The cost of living was 1/3 of what I pay here, people were warm and interested. I could walk everywhere (I lost 10 lbs. just from walking) and I could take a clean train or bus to another country for $8-$40 bucks and there were nice, clean, normal people on board. As a foreigner trying to communicate in Italian people were kind and encouraging to me, never impatient or rude because I didn't speak their language. I was constantly surrounded by beauty, history, art and an energy of collective thoughtfulness. It was extraordinary! Whenever I landed in Italy or crossed over the border from another country, a huge smile would emanate from deep within my soul until it shone on my face. An absolute breathe of fresh air in a world where businesses and coffee shops are diverse and rarely the same. It was everything I thought it would be and much, much, more. I have wanted to live in Italy since I was 16 and I finally made it happen at 53. I spent my 54th birthday and Thanksgiving in Venezia (Venice) (my most favorite place on earth). How fortunate we are to have had the opportunity to see that other countries can offer amazing experiences in living. My goal is to get back there asap and eventually retire in Italy. I'll see you in the E.U. someday! THANK YOU for voicing everything I feel without even knowing me. U R AWESOME JOVIE!!

[@barrysteven5964]

Your comments about the twinkly shoes really hit home. My little girl has some and she loves them. The idea that it would even enter someone's head that a small kid in twinkly shoes could be in danger from a man with a gun hunting her down makes me feel physically sick. That's not freedom.

[@rebeccawang-leonard6493]

Exactly!! My daughter loves those shoes. I feel for all the moms back home who have to think like that to protect their babies. It is not ok.

[@gaurigatha]

Everything you say is so true. We moved from Germany to the US about 20 years ago. The Anxiety level I feel here is hard to take. As soon as I fly to europe I am much more relaxed also with my daughter.

[@Rottnwoman]

Yet you stay there?

[@gaurigatha]

@@Rottnwoman yes we do- there are many benefits for us as we are self employed and have a business that needs space and that is something we can not have in europe

[@NightinGal89]

Why, because guns?

[@gaurigatha]

@@NightinGal89 not necessarily. There is just an overall feel of fear and anxiety here. It is all about the fear of something. Whatever that something might be

[@ChrisLubba]

@@NightinGal89 The anxiety Mara may be talking about comes in many forms in the USA. I lived in Los Angeles for 48 years. 1. Long commutes in heavy traffic. People cut you off, pass on the shoulder, right your bumper etc. And I had a big diesel truck so, I had it good and it was still nerve racking. 2. High health insurance costs plus deductible that is high. 3. Always looking over your shoulder and surroundings. I guess as an ex police officer that was my survival instinct at work and just being in LA and CA. Don't ever think of it in the NL. 4. Bankruptcy due to medical costs. Loss of a job. No safety net. Not sure these cover them all. The guns thing has gotten out of hand in my opinion. USA has 1.2 guns per capita. NL has 1.2 bikes per capita. So, when I see how many bikes are all over this country, I just think in the USA those are all guns. I would rather live in a society with more bikes. Guns have their place, but to think get a drivers license is harder in the USA vs a gun or you can just buy a gun at a gun show is a problem. I was extensively trained to use a gun and as a very, very last resort. USA citizens can have a gun and no training. That is nuts to me. Also, no mental health check!!!! I had an extensive background done me and a shrink saw me a few times to make sure I could carry a gun. As Jovi said, I won't move back.

[@Mash4096]

Hi Jovie, you can get semi-automatic guns in the Netherlands (by the way, most guns are semi-automatic, and almost all handguns are semi-automatic). It is very well regulated indeed, but the biggest difference with the states is, that you can not own a gun for defense or self-defense. The only valid reasons for owning a gun in the Netherlands are Sport Shooting, Hunting and Collecting. Those are 3 separate kinds of permits with each their corresponding regulations. Getting a gun license just for the sake of having a gun (like in the U.S.), is not possible in the Netherlands. You have to have a reason for it, and i think that's a good thing.

[@leonardell-bon7104]

Most importantly is to eradicate the culture. In Europe there is no such culture. Guns are for cinema and carnival.

[@Mash4096]

@@leonardell-bon7104 Wait, what? Only for cinema and carnival? What about hunting, military and Law enforcement?

[@NightinGal89]

Which means that if someone breaks into your home, and attacks you, you cannot legally use a weapon to defend yourself?

[@Mash4096]

@@NightinGal89 Yes, that is correct. In this country, citizens are not allowed to fire at humans under any circumstance. Only military and law enforcement are allowed to use such deadly force.

[@markp448]

Criminals, terrorists and gangs do not obey any laws.

[@crazymonkeyVII]

I think part of the problem why the US is going backwards is that Patriotism seems off the charts there. From the Pledge of Allegiance to the insistence that the US is the best in everything (healthcare, freedom, democracy, etc). If you are convinced that you're living in a system that's the best at everything it's hard to push for improvements. I've always found it ironic how in "The land of the Free and the home of the Brave", people seem to live in a constant state of fear (partially because of the over dramatized sensationalized news). Fear of losing your job, healthcare, possessions, your life, becoming a parent at an inopportune time, poor people, people with other political views or religions, communism, socialism, and the government. Meanwhile you live in an openly corrupt "democracy" that ranks 26th place worldwide (you call it Sponsoring and Donating, I call it Bribery).

[@ChrisLubba]

100%

[@mirpanda1]

Brutally wrong. Patriotism has been in heavy decline for years now, as have traditional family values and a commonly accepted morality for society. That's where you should be looking. It's not even about the typical vanilla conservative cultural points, but the lack of unity. Combine that with an over-the-top corrupt corporate oligarchy, that's how we've ended up here and it will get worse if things don't change.

[@HladniSjeverniVjetar]

Exactly... if people were more patriotic they would care more about the place they live in....blaming something they call "patriotism" for the problems is a really crappy take. I think most of Europeans are highly patriotic.... @@mirpanda1

[@Ellinillard]

There’s a point though : look at the US dollar on the back, there is an unfinished pyramid. It was meant to symbolize that the USA are an ideal that is never finished, that should be improved constantly. The tendency to excessive patriotism prevents the country from implementing this permanent and remarkable self improvement drive

[@Arthur_Foxache]

Off the charts 'patriotism' has a name. I'm pretty sure you know what it is.

[@ladystefanigebo5697]

Every. Single. One. Of these reasons are the reasons we are working so very very hard to move OUT of the USA. We have 18 months left we are saving and trying very hard to figure out HOW to leave and make it in The Netherlands.

[@Postcard_Perfect]

Same here. I am originally from Eastern Europe, came in US in 2001 and I never got comfortable… 2-3 years in I wanted to go back because I did not want to have kids in this society 😕. Our son is almost done with high school and I have been planning leaving US for over 10 years. Like you, we are 18 months away from it 🎉 Can’t wait for him to do college in Europe and experience real healthy living! 🙏🏻 Good luck with your move … sending good vibes your way 🤗

[@ladystefanigebo5697]

@@Postcard_Perfect My daughter will also be going to school in the Netherlands which was our excuse to get out. Researching so much but we are sooooo excited.

[@Rottnwoman]

Great idea - because the Netherlands is the ONLY place that has those things! 😂😂😂😂

[@TheBrazilRules]

And I am figuring out how to get IN. If it was as bad as you guys say, it would not be so difficult to get a green card

[@ashleighsparkle8810]

lol. Just wait for the culture shock. You will be back with a newfound appreciation unless you live in an awful red state

[@snam85]

I currently live in Vienna, Austria, and the idea of having such reliable public transportation systems in this country is a huge relief compared to the states. In both Berlin and Vienna, the subway (U-bahn) stations are open to the public and have no turnstiles like in NYC. Controllers only check once in a blue moon because they have a trust system here and most people abide by the rules.

[@lszujo73]

it's the same here in Hungary...controllers once in a ....wait...😁

[@elisabethdorrer4831]

When I visited LA and other parts of California in 2008 I was absolutely shocked at the homeless, the dirt and poverty, the poor state of the roads and the stark contrast to millionaire homes or certain neighbourhoods in Beverly Hills. Belgium is more like the Netherlands. People live more modestly but still comfortably here. There are not nearly as many poor and homeless people. Childcare, schools, colleges, healthcare are cheap or nearly free. 800€ per YEAR pays college. I have never felt u safe or worried about guns here and Brussels is a pretty big city by our standards.

[@LK-pc4sq]

in 2016 the society of civil engineers gave the united states a D- and yes that was for the ENTIRE country! it has slightly improved to a D+ but yes, California has now 40% of the entire population in the country. Sanfrancisico has the largest exodus of people leaving the city. The haul trucks cost much more because none are coming back and the company needs to send one employee by flight to that city and then drive it back. That is alot of labor and flight time and possibly one or two days of hotel cost.

[@viderethevaccinatorfromhol7536]

"Being human with eachother" is what makes me proud to be Dutch or to live in the Netherlands. I love to pay my taxes for especially that.

[@ruudvdwerf]

Spot on video, Jovie. I've been in a long distance relationship with an American partner who lived in Orlando, Florida. In the 3 years that this relationship lasted I spent a lot of time there. At first I thought that moving there to live with my partner was someting to concider, but after a while realised that I would loose a lot of things that are valuable to me. I didn't want to give up the things mentioned in the video, plus even more. One of the things that Jovie doesn't mention but I noticed everywhere around me, is how competative that country is. That starts at a very young age at school. It's all about being the best. The teacher even announces who is the best at this and that. In front of the whole class. Lovely for the individual kid who is often the best at something, but what does that do to the kids who are a little bit less fortunate? The nieces and nephews of my partner were always talking about who was the best and who wasn't. This non stop comparing.... Then I also saw that this competition and comparing was going on everywhere in society. And even beyond that.

[@cobynonamegiven842]

Agree. I think we are very used to having to work together with just about everything. Whether you actually like the others or you do not. It does not matter, because you can not achieve anything alone. So there is more attention on how to work together, not a great price in how to excell. Americans do understand that in some points, like in "leaving no man behind". But the winner-loser and winner gets all! seems to be there a lot of the time. The political system seems to make this worse.

[@dudoklasovity2093]

I absolutely relate to this. One time, I went to a party where the DJ stopped music and shouted: "Those who make more than 100,000 dollars/year, jump now! I am from Europe and I was like" "WTF" What kind of society belittles some people who came to have fun just because they make less money? Does that make them worse people? Worse friends? Less honest or caring? I don't know, but in my eyes American hustling culture is so distant from my heart and it's even sick, I'd say. It was such weird experience:-( My friends from Germany were also shocked....

[@mishkakish5337]

Great points, Jovie. I am from Eastern Europe living in the States, in a mid sized town on the West Coast. Not CA. I am amazed at the state of the roads. They are worst than in my home country. I don't understand why people refuse to pay taxes to repair roads and other basic services. We are paying in our car maintenance for sure. Also the guns. Every time there is a loud noise outside, firecrackers, etc, my local reddit page is full of questions whether it's gunshots. In Europe, this never even entered my mind. I hate to live like this. I also work at a community college and we are constantly aware of safe places to hide, where to run, which rooms have windows, which rooms are lockable in case there's an active shooter on campus. Life feels unsafe here and I'm exploring how to move back to Europe.

[@christopherbranski1720]

Regarding taxes, oftentimes folks agree to pay more to repair roads, upgrade schools, etc. but nothing more happens save for that same government body coming back and saying they need more money. Of course sometimes it’s greed and wanting something for nothing, but other times people just get tired of constant gaslighting and say no

[@robertpeterson1497]

Same, same, same. Except being from Eastern Europe. I was born and raised here, but it is time to leave

[@baklava6138]

Eastern Europe is now 1st world developed. The Czech Republic, Slovenia, Poland, Slovakia and Hungary all are super developed when I visited. I consider them to be part of the west now.

[@nairbvel]

Publc transport: My family is in the Maryland suburbs of Washington, DC. Shortly after moving to the area in 1970, we became a 2-car family because it was the *only* way for my parents to be able to have jobs & do what they needed to do for themselves and the family. When I got older, we became a 3-car family out of absolute necessity. Now with my parents' failing health (neither can drive anymore), they are basically prisoners in their own house due to the sparseness (and often lack of personal safety) of public transportation and cost of various ride-providing options. When my folks lived in Den Haag, Dad's hours at work were extremely varied & often very late, so he had a (small) car. Mom got around during the week exclusively via public transportation and literally *never* had a problem either with shopping or exploring or engaging in social activities. Gun laws: We already have over 300 people killed or wounded in mass shooting events just in November this year, and for some reason that's perfectly acceptable. I'd explain if i could, but I can't -- and probably will be too busy ducking & running to find out why for myself.

[@mrsiz218]

I’m not far from you and I totally agree!!!

[@Tangocita444]

This is sadly the same story many times over in the US - I feel the anxiety, too. It's awful here and I want out!

[@womenfrom0202]

Follow and support “the Lincoln project” and you will get a pov of the reasons why and how.

[@martypoll]

I am an American expat living in Bangkok, Thailand. I agree with you about the feeling of safety and calm outside the US. I feel safer here than the US and I’ve never met an expat here, European or American, that didn’t feel the same. Something about the social/cultural atmosphere in the US is just not right.

[@Kelsea-2002]

I envy the Dutch for 3 things; Flood protection, bike culture, and Floor Jansen.Why not for more? I live in Germany and here the conditions are very similar.Good video as always,Best regards,Kelsea

[@Bastet__0]

Yes Floor is a national treasure 🥰

[@Kelsea-2002]

@@Bastet__0 🤘🤘

[@HYDROCARBON_XD]

They have one of the best flood protection in the world because if that wasn’t true,a good part of Netherlands would no longer exist lol

[@hvermout4248]

I envy the Germans for one thing: that they have such nice neighbours!

[@ashleighsparkle8810]

lol it’s expected that Amsterdam will be underwater by 2050 😂

[@expatfamilylive9041]

Thank you for your video, Jovi! People also ask if we want to get back to Russia. But our answer is obviously no....

[@0utcastAussie]

Uk dude here. Exact opposite for me. Mariupol is going to be amazing when the troubles are over. I'd love to be there. unfortunately I really, REALLY don't dig the cold. I probably shouldn't have a job that involves standing around in the yard all night !!

[@jatonkilinc7498]

Jovie, you are spot on about the energy in the US! There is a very negative energy in the air, and it permeates society here. It was something I didn't notice either until I left. I agree, it's really difficult to explain unless you've spent time in the US and then you leave and return.

[@peggygraham6129]

I have all the same feelings after moving to Ireland.

[@mrsiz218]

I’m currently in the US and looking forward to leaving and let me tell you I don’t need to leave and come back to notice the negativity. I feel it like a tightening noise around my neck. Working on becoming self sufficient with my writing to rescue my husband, son, daughter in law and grandbaby from the bleakest future I’ve ever seen for this country. Good on you for leaving! ❤

[@renttreznor5035]

Where do you live?

[@Rottnwoman]

We have spent time in the USA, come home to Australia and returned for another, longer holiday. I didn't feel partularly unsafe - just bemused at the weird, self destructive attitudes and crumbled infrastructure. We were going to San Diego in 2024 UNTIL I worked out there would be a presidential election about then. NO WAY! We are going to Europe instead!

[@renttreznor5035]

@@Rottnwoman What self destructive attitudes?

[@jlily8909]

I'm a Brit living in MN, I recently lost my job and had to spend time without health insurance, finding health insurance was a nightmare. My husband had cancer, twice, so it was terrifying to be without it. I never intended to settle here, but I have found myself to be quite stuck. I couldn't agree more with what you have said. I wish people would understand, and I'm glad you can explain it because I find it exhausting.

[@sassy0010]

I'm sorry to hear that, JLily. I too am stuck here for the time being. I'm an American living in Pa., single senior woman still working a full-time job and exhausted by it, but I'm trapped in a year's lease and I won't be free to go anywhere until late next year at the earliest. I also have Social Security so finally I can (barely) pay this rent until then. I hope I'm still in good health by then. :-)

[@judithhope8970]

I think you make such good points here. I'm English and have seen a number of Americans trying to justify the health system and being unwilling to pay into a system that benefits everyone, even people they don't like! We generally feel the same as you, that we don't want anyone to suffer for their health or go into serious debt. Many seem to confuse a social system as communism and it scares them. Mind manipulation or what?. Bizarre!

[@Rottnwoman]

Australians feel as you do. Anyone who supports the US health system deserves it! I am in the process of having both eyes lenses replaced and both my hips as well! Imay also need to have my thyroid removed. Total cost will be about $US 500 for the lot. Can Americans tell me what that would cost in the USA? I have NO medical insurance and don't pay through taxes because I don't work. It is pretty much FREE in Australia.

[@judithhope8970]

@@Rottnwoman Hu Sue, I had my cataracts fixed a few years ago. My eyesight was shocking before but it is now brilliant. I also had a big medical procedure five years ago now but didn't receive a bill. I was working then but the amount I paid monthly was tiny compared to US health insurance. I am now retired so I don't pay anymore. I get all my prescriptions for free too. I would hate the worry of the American system. Its the last thing you need when you're ill. I think perhaps Australians are similar in the way they pull together at times of strife and don't want to see countrymen suffer.

[@GHWMR]

I am Dutch but have lived in the US (and the UK for that matter) and liked it a lot. This was when I was young, I could cycle in the mountains and health insurance was somewhat affordable. I had friends to drive me to the bigger shops l if I really needed to go there but mostly I went to the small dollar store which I could still get to without getting killed by angry drivers. I loved my time there but I cannot imagine living there now, being a bit older, less fit and especially with a family.

[@blotski]

Wow, I just got to you talking about feeling nervous in the USA and had to make a comment. I recently watched a video made by an American girl who had lived a couple of years in Scotland and had just moved back to the States and she was talking about 'reverse culture shock'. One of the most interesting things she said was that she realised now to what extent people in America live in a state of nervous anxiety. There is a constant fear that something bad is just about to happen. Always thinking ahead, wondering what risks you might be running if you do certain things or go to certain places. She realised that in Europe people just don't seem to have this constant fear they are about to be the victim of a crime. What was fascinating was that she said she lived in a place in the USA where the crime rate was actually pretty low and in reality the people there were no more likely to be robbed or mugged than in Scotland but it is was still high up in their consciousness and people worried about it more than in Europe. It's all about perceptions.

[@Hana-hl6cd]

it’s the type of news that Americans watch. American news is so polarized that it has people convinced that they’re going to be the victim of a crime at any random point. if you told people that 2022 New York City has less crime and less gun violence than 1990s New York City, they wouldn’t believe you. people in the U.S. constantly consume media that tells us that this country is terrible and going downhill fast (the exact same type of media non-Americans consume when they bash America) and that crime is taking over, so they feel anxiety over nothing. the saddest thing is, you cannot change people’s personal feelings. so they will keep being anxious and hate-filled because the media they’re consuming is telling them to be that way.

[@womenfrom0202]

Just compare the crime coverage in the news in the US vs Europe. In the EU just facts, initials of the criminal, eyes are completely covered. Only when there is a really large thread or risk, the full name and photo will be published but as soon as that person is taken in, it’s all initials and eyes covered, again. This way the family is protected because they are just family, they have done nothing wrong. Now compare this to the news coverage in the US, it’s all out there. Also police is highly trained in actual police schools for at least two years,

[@unicornbaby6500]

It'll happen in Europe too. Multiracial societies always produce extremely brutal violence. Look at Brazil, South Africa or the US or Russia. All extremely brutal multi-racial societies. Western Europe (Paris, Malmo and London) is heading the same direction. It is basically at the stage that the US was in the 80s.

[@KESipples]

@Bob do you have the link to that video plse?

[@williamgeardener2509]

@@womenfrom0202 To become a US-cop you are trained for a max of 600 hours with the emphasis on the use of deadly force. In civilised countries the training takes up to 3500 hours and more, with the emphasis on de-escalating a situation. Also when in the US a cop is fired for inappropriate behaviour like racism, sexism, homophobia or plain being unfit for the job, they can apply with a neighbouring police force and chances are that they will be hired. In civilised countries you are fired from the police force and there's no way that you'll ever be a police officer again. I'm not saying that all US cops are bad, but the existence of crooked cops proves that corruption in the American police forces is an existing and on-going problem. As long as the "Blue code of silence" exists, you cant really claim that the US police forces have got nothing to hide.

[@BrazenNL]

I've studied and worked in the US from about '92 to '97. With regards to the unease, it's not just the guns, it's violence in general. If people freak out, there's a chance they'll _really_ freak out. I was so looking forward to living in the US, but looking back, it was a huge waste of my time.

[@garryferrington811]

Not a waste if you observed conditions there and work to prevent them where you are.

[@notme1048]

As someone living in the US I can say that all the fears and concerns you have are not only accurate but it's worse than you are imagining and it's not getting any better.

[@soze1078]

hi topeka ks here im dutch, im heren sins 2002 its so bad that i have to park my car close to the entrance off the store i work so i can go home safe , i work at walmart , it still supersizes me how propel accept it all and not stand up

[@makevet6531]

Kindly elaborate - how so?

[@williamgeardener2509]

@@makevet6531 Even people in Europe are informed by the national news from the US. The majority of the news is about armed idiots shooting people, insane law changes by the Republicans setting the US back 200 years and US police killing unarmed civilians just because the heck of it. I'm not even mentioning the increasing number of poor and homeless people and the poor and suffering American economy. Americans fleeing the US to live the American dream in another country is a harsh reality.Americans are moving to "third world countries" because there they have all the things that Americans haven't got. Like adequate, affordable and accessible medical care.

[@ay.maripoxa]

I am currently visiting family back in LA,the constant state of anxiety is something that is so overwhelming. People are just not happy and the culture is just at a point of turmoil and high stress, nobody seems to be in harmony collectively. I feel a sense of calm back in the Netherlands especially my kids.

[@williamgeardener2509]

Would like to know if you ever discussed your feelings with your family. Did they acknowledge your impressions or were they denying their anxiety and stress? Would be interesting to know.

[@TheBrazilRules]

Living in LA is definitely a mistake

[@gerbentvandeveen]

I have some friends in America. And they don't believe that health care is so cheap here. And still have a job if you are home sick for a long time. I myself have had my foot under a wheel of a forklift truck. 9 weeks ago, and still home sick. But I still have my job and just get paid 100%. Next year I will have been working for the same employer for 25 years. And, yes, I get 208 hours of vacation time per year and still ADV days. Greetings from Spakenburg, the Netherlands.

[@williamgautreaux5545]

I've been contemplating moving to Europe (Portugal) for the past year. I think your video may have pushed me over the edge! :) You articulated so well many of the points that I've been considering as reasons to leave the US. ... It seems that your overall theme is the sense of security you feel living there as opposed to the feeling of dread and anxiety you have when you live in the States. Thanks for such a fantastic video!

[@jpchristy422]

Moving to Portugal will be a wonderful adventure. Enjoy! I have visited there twice since I moved to northern Spain in 2016 after retiring, and everything Jovie says about living in the Netherlands is true for Spain as well. My sister has lived in England for more than 20 years, and even with all of the problems there since Brexit, my sister has no interest in returning to the states either.

[@spiritualanarchist8162]

I guess the U.S has always been good at marketting itself . Most people don't visit the real U.S. They maybe go a weekend to New York, but that's about it. They do however see movies and TV series all their lives. Those paint an image of the majority of people living in huge houses in beautiful suburbs (without showing how boring and isolated they are ), cozy apartments in the city center (no one can afford ) or rustic American towns (that hardly exist anymore) . My experience in America was interesting , but it was completely different than i thought it would be.

[@bluesky9002]

I think you’re right. My wife and I live in the USA for a long time and now we live in Portugal and we absolutely love it.

[@hologram1211]

Very interesting video. Speaking as a Brit who campaigned for remaining in the EU, I feel our country is also very much "going backwards" and our society has become fractured in a way I've never known in my (50yr) lifetime. Britain is broken and I am so sad/angry at how our current government seems to want to follow the divisive economic and social politics of the US, rather than being open, forward looking and inclusive. My whole family are now planning to leave the UK to start a new life in France in search of a better quality of life before its too late.

[@michellemaine2719]

As someone who left the states for the UK 4 years ago, I find it is still LOADS better here than in the US. I wish you all the best in France.

[@josephturner7569]

I retired here before the unpleasantness. You won't regret it.

[@YourFellowRNRSisterFan98]

My mom came to the USA from Scotland in the 70’s and I’m wanting to go to either Australia or the Netherlands ? My family when I say that to them? Looks at me like I have 3 heads. It’s like I don’t hate America ? I will never hate America I just don’t feel safe here, and I wanna explore the world and feel safe. And I agree with a lot of what Jovie said. I do agree with the gun control thing? I was raised by a cop so I knew how to shoot from a young age . I agree with more sensible gun control . I’m not a crazy person tho I wouldn’t go into a school and hurt anyone that’s just utterly horrible to even consider. I’ve got a mild form of autism nobody knows I’ve got it til I tell them. But I still wanna see the world and maybe settle down in the Netherlands or Australia .

[@YourFellowRNRSisterFan98]

I meant to add I just have to get my seizures under control before I head out of the USA clearly. That’s not gonna stop me as a strong willed woman? Nothing can stop me! Lol I’m still young I’m only in my 20’s I,got years to worry about it. And I meant to add? I love Jovie’s home. She’s smart and so honest. She’s the American equivalent of my mother I just wish my mom did KZbin.

[@drivehard2395]

Recently for giggles I found a site that calculates average salaries and what you get as take home. In the USA the take home from $50,000 would be $39,000. Germany, the take home would be $30,000. So, $9K more in taxes in Germany. My family owns a business. The business pays about $10,200 annually for my insurance alone. My deductible is about $2,800. I have paid out of pocket this year just under $8,000 for co-pays, meds, CT Scan, MRI, PT, and lab work. $21,000. Then you discuss Euro quality of life stuff like balance of work/home life, vacation time off, education, feeling safer, better food, better public transportation, nice roads, and it all becomes quite clear as to why people would choose to stay in the Netherlands, Germany, etc..

[@christopherbranski1720]

I’m an American living in Mexico City, and a couple of things stick out to me regarding the U.S.. The first thing is that the country as a whole can’t seem to keep their temper in check. And the second is that in the U.S. you pay 5-star prices for 2-star crap, whether it’s for a private or government service. You mentioned in the video potholes on streets in Los Angeles and how there’s no money to fix them. I guarantee they have the money to remedy that, it just gets pissed away in bureaucratic black holes

[@Daph909]

A guy I used to work with was recently offered a job in the US. He will definitely be declining the offer, as moving to the US would immediately lower his and his kids' living standards compared to their current lives in the Netherlands.

[@DerkJanKarrenbeld]

Dutch employer here! The 20 days off is INCLUDING the public holidays, and is defined as 4x the amount of hours your work a week. This means that effectively you always have 4 weeks off, regardless if you work 2, 3, 4, or 5 days a week. Public holidays here aren't mandatory free / bank holidays like in other countries. However, many companies choose to just give people some of all of the public holidays off as well ;) Doesn't change any of the points, but do want to let you know that it's slightly less favourable than people think. I don't think you'll ever go back given the many videos I've watched and we're happy to have you!

[@JesuisIamEstoyyoSonoIoIchbin]

As a canadian I used to visit the US but since 9/11 I stoped, I only went back under Obama’s administration. I do not understand where they are going and what their values are anymore. Fear is destroying this society, it,s as if they are planing an implosion. It saddens me to see that. Here in Canada specially in Quebec we relate more and more with Europe.

[@karrien.7649]

My husband and I are American and have spent vacations in Europe. We definitely know all the benefits of living there! We dream of moving to a country like the Netherlands, but we are older Americans and don't want to leave our families at this point. My son is moving back to the U.S. from Japan after 4 years living there, with his new Japanese wife in tow. I'm terrified she won't like the states and will want to return to Japan, where people are kind, respectful, and there is almost no gun violence, political contentiousness, etc.

[@RozaMP]

I was born and raised in Poland, but am living in US for over 24 years now, and I must admit that you NAILED IT.

[@rebeccar4312]

RozaMP-why are you living in the US? Kocham Polska! I want to be living in Poland, but it is too complicated since I was born in USA

[@RozaMP]

@@rebeccar4312 the first time I visited US , I was only 15 years old. Back then I had this vision of American dream. My plan was to finish college and get a good job, which would eventually lead to a good life. So I did go through the process of getting university degree, and by now my life is here. Poland is not an easy country to live in. Maybe I'll go back one day.

[@rebeccar4312]

RozaMP-What city in the US do you live in? What city in Poland are you from? I am interested as to why you feel that Poland is a hard country to live in. I lived there briefly and loved it. I would like to hear what you consider to be hard, especially if you are there with USD, which makes the cost not an issue. Or in general, I envy that you could live anywhere in Europe, but are choosing the US, in spite of saying "You nailed it" to all the woes.

[@RozaMP]

@@rebeccar4312 I was writing that living in Poland is pretty hard if you don't earn dollars. If you earn American salary it's not that bad, but I'm writing about the real experience, which I assume I'd get when I ever go back. Even getting paid once a month would be a challenge for average American. It's just a different world. Costs of home loans are crazy when compared to the US. Gas prices are also higher. Country itself is beautiful, but I'd have to build my life all over again. I'm a little old for that now. And to answer your other questions, I was born and raised on the South of Poland. The biggest city around us was Cracow. And now I live in Connecticut, Hartford county.

[@rebeccar4312]

@RozaMP thanks for responding. I miss Poland so much. Most of my time there was spent in Krakow. It has changed dramatically since when you grew up in the area. To me, housing and gas priced would not matter, as I would rent and use public transport-one of the joys of Europe is that car ownership is not necessary. I hear you about being older. I too, am up there in years. I live in Oregon. The pandemic stopped me in my tracks. But my ancestral roots and my heart are in Poland

[@KiffinGish]

Nice video (as usual). I came to The Netherlands from sunny California way back in 1981, and I have never regretted my decision to stay here. The quality of life here is a hundred times better, and as you explained very well, the government takes good care of you if you need proper healthcare. For some reason, my fellow Americans have an aversion to so-called socialized medical care. This is illogical when one compares the obvious advantages. Whenever I visit the States, I do feel comfortable with the familiar culture and using my mother tongue is a nice relief. However, too much has changed since the good old days of childhood. I feel like a stranger to the extremist mindset, having to be proud all the time and acting successful (whatever that means). The accelerated world of working too hard at the expense of enjoying the important things in life is not for me. Life in Holland is where I prefer to be. It is the best of the two worlds by a long shot.

[@Columbiana212]

Same here , iam from sunny SD, and been living here in NL since 1998, I feel exactly the same as you e described once I visit my family back home, feeling relieved when among my family & good old friends BUT I don’t feel safe when out & about!

[@mrsiz218]

I’m in the States and I don’t understand the aversion to socialized healthcare either. They’d rather have a dictatorship where the government has total control. And they don’t mind that the major food companies and drug companies are allowed to feed us bs that has been banned in other countries! I can’t with this place! Leaving as soon as I can

[@janzzen9095]

You turned into a communist! You just want to have a good, decent life! How dare you!

[@mrsiz218]

@@janzzen9095 I know right?! 😂

[@sassy0010]

Kiffin, that aversion you mentioned is built up over a lifetime of indoctrination, but I imagine and have heard in both of the other countries I've lived in that this can dissipate over time.

[@jandejong1122]

Loved your video as always. So glad you feel home here. Being Dutch I used to visit friends/relatives in the US, but now longer due to the toxic atmosphere on so many levels.

[@ageoflove1980]

What I like to tell Europeans about moving to the USA... Earlier this year I went to New York City as a tourist. I stayed at a nice hotel in Long Island City. In that area a lot of pretty generic looking condo buildings were advertising one bedroom rentals. I looked them up just out of curiosity... $5.500/mo.... O.o

[@M3OverSeas]

I completely agree with the overwhelming feeling of constant anxiety here in the States… Going to the store, movie theater, school, church, etc… is super stressful… I currently Homeschool my kids and am in the process of scouting places outside of the US to expatriate to.

[@kirstinevad347]

Hi, I'm from Denmark. I follow some americans that has mowed to Denmark. Perhaps tjek it out? Travelin' Young My new danish life Robe trotting It's an american family, an american woman who married a dane in the states and have been living here for some years and two males. I think you would have to get a job offer to come here if you're not otherwise connected to Denmark. These people know "the drill" you know and I think they even sometimes give people a bit of advise beond (further?) than their videos. Robe trotting live in our capital Copenhagen.. The families live in Jutland, as I do. We have almost no unemployment currently in Denmark.(and it is a good place to raise kids! 😀) No matter what you do, I wish you the best! 💕🌲💞 I'm danish and I was a single mom after a divorce, but now my daughters are 17 and 19.

[@mattia8327]

I have lived in italy and sweden. But i loved new york and washington when i visited, i would love to live there between 25-40 years old.

[@tinagarcia3571]

I have always liked the European idea of enough.

[@Binus_]

Hi Jovie! Great video. I started watching your videos to understand the US a little better, since back then, we (husband and I, both Dutch) just moved to the San Francisco bay area for my husband's job. Now, 4 years later, we have decided to move back to the UK (where we've lived before>same employer) for all the reasons you mention. It's just so bumpy here and even though our life is going pretty well, we don't feel like we could call this "our place" any time soon.

[@FlyingKarl01]

Another great video, Spot on ! I have been working on moving to The Netherlands for 2 years and in January I will put in my residency paperwork in. My family there has been so shocked by what I have told them about living in the states. Things are getting worse by the year. I have forwarded a few of your videos to them so they can hear it from someone who has been in both worlds Looking forward to moving to the Maastricht area this spring

[@nairbvel]

Health insurance in the US: It's more than just tied to your job, it's a for-profit industry that's very good at what it does. My job was eliminated as a cost-cutting measure, and I could have gotten the same insurance thru COBRA (the special 12-month program) at a cost of almost $950/month. I instead chose the state-run system that got me a very similar plan for about $830/month. When that came up for renewal, I checked the provider's website and got the IDENTICAL plan direct from them (instead of using the state's "discount" program through the Affordable Care Act) for $725/month. Meanwhile, my sister -- who works in Healthcare! -- had a major medical emergency in April this year while insured with a fairly expensive plan through her employer... So now we're running a GoFundMe campaign to get help paying off the nearly $70,000 out-of-pocket bills that her expensive insurance feared wold hurt their profit margins and won't cover. Speaking as someone who worked in the Healthcare field for over a decade, I can tell you our system here is truly insane -- the money goes to the insurance company first, the pharmacy companies second, the employers (if they get a cut) 3rd, and then the medical providers get what might be left over at the end while the public has to worry about going bankrupt. (According to AARP, approximately 65% of *all* non-corporate bankruptcies in the US are directly linked to medical costs.)

[@user-kn8zw5yn5q]

I have an American friend who would love to move to Europe. But the lower salaries here are holding him back for now because he has to pay off his student loans. He'd agree with a lot you mentioned, though. (another plus of living here: less insane student debt 😅)

[@-_YouMayFind_-]

yea studying there will imprison yourself because you have to pay it off.

[@DerTolleIgel]

What do you mean by "student debt"? I got paid to study.. 😇😋

[@Tangocita444]

There's added benefit to moving to Europe rather than salaries. The cost of living is usually a bit lower (except housing - housing is expensive everywhere in the world these days). You don't have to worry about losing everything by contracting a catastrophic illness or accident. Many European countries offer free study programs for foreigners.

[@leonrodenburg]

I am Dutch and living in the Netherlands. I used to work for fairly large American chemical company for 25 years. We regularly had expats from the US here. Quite often with teenage kids. I always warned them that they would have fights at home when the time came to go back to the US: the kids refuse to go back to the US. Without exception, my colleagues asked how I knew it would happen. My reply was simple: it always happens. The reason is obvious, kids have a lot more freedom here. The can walk or take their bike to go to school, go to friends, to go to their sports clubs……without their parents involvement. They are free and that’s priceless.

[@dudoklasovity2093]

You are very nice, soft-spoken, articulate and smart woman. As a European living in USA now, I agree with everything you say in this video. In example, I quit my job here in LA after 5 years (toxic corporate political company, terrible life-work balance) and the shit storm that happened after I lost my insurance, the mess, the incompetent benefit advisors, the plethora of insurance companies and health plans, the prices, the services, terrible! I had so much stress due to traffic, riots, I got gun pointed in my face while waiting on red light on car, I got my bike stolen, I like to walk on streets once someone called police on me just for walking. I was not trespassing I was on public side walk and I had to explain myself to police like some kind of criminal. If you don't chose to drive car here but want to walk to stay healthy, people look down on you like you are insect or something that gets in a way of the traffic,...people are nice on surface but no one really cares about other then himself....so I am moving back to Prague this year and I am so excited to have a piece of calm mind.

[@laurajames723]

What you mentioned about feeling anxiety whenever you go to the US, I can relate to it. As a Canadian, whenever I cross the border, my stomach goes into this tight knot of dread and anxiety that just wouldn't loosen until I'm safely back home on Canadian soil. So yes, it really is a "thing".. As a result, I don't go to the US anymore, although I have family there. They usually come north to visit instead. As it is right now, you CAN'T pay me to go there anymore.

[@drusmith6463]

Kudos to your video! so on point!! as an expat living in EU for several years, I experience exactly the same issues. ( it is so calming when off a fllght back from the US-- that you re not greeted with the almost incessant sound of sirens and emergency vehicles that pollute your hearing -- without realizing - tranquility and peace of mind installs again...)

[@MrEmpireBuilder0000]

I've been trying to explain the safety aspect to others outside the USA. Especially when you're a black person. There is also the anxiety created by the general system overall. The USA is designed to relentlessly suck money out of you. And if you're poor, it's designed to keep you poor.

[@walthanas]

From December 8th 2022: There have been 47 school shootings this year that resulted in injuries or deaths, the most in a single year since Education Week began tracking such incidents in 2018. That's about one school shooting per week for the year 2022...

[@pammorton7448]

I agree with everything you say. I've lived in the Netherlands for 45!!! years and while there are things I miss about the U.S.: the space, the rugged, beautfiul nature, the friendly people, BUT I feel safer here. My daughter thanks me often for having been born in NL. And the gun thing is just insane to my mind. So glad we don't have to deal with that here. Thanks for your video, I enjoyed it.

[@ChrisLubba]

Friendly people in USA? Where? Just kidding, some are, but no always genuine, very fake and topical. That was my experience living in Los Angeles for 48 years. Being here in the NL now, people have more genuine interests in you and how you are doing. I twisted my ankle this week and EVERY single Dutch person I knew asked what groceries can I bring you. A Dutchie saw me limping and he can over and gave me info on a Dr I could see. When was the last time an American actually asked a genuine follow-up question to an answer you gave? Only think I miss in the USA are my family and Mexican food. :) Have a fijn weekend Pam. :)

[@annetteraymer3563]

I totally be agree with you on everything!!! Iam a German married to an American, we lived in Holland, Germany, Los Angeles, Seattle, Arizona and are moving back to Germany to stay. Iam happy that my oldest son has a job in Germany already and he said also that he would not go back to America. My Husband had cancer several times and had to work through chemo, imagine that! Then the last time he got very sick, got nothing from the government or employer because he was an independent contractor. It cost us a lot of our savings, just unbelievable. And yes, I hardly go out anymore, don't feel safe, lots of shootings and road rage . I could go on and on .. Looking forward to moving back and breathe relaxter again!!

[@jaysimoes3705]

Well..if a society leaves its citizens depending on themselves, they will fend for themselves and will probably not feel they actually live in a coherent society. The more he difference between the poor and the rich, the more violence there will be regardless of the society you live in. Everything else...it would be anice thing for Jovie is to have a look at the US in the 50s. Taxes were as high as 91%. That is how the American dream ws still possible, how roads were great etc. But especially in the 70s it all went down the drain. And nw you are basically gouverned by Big Corporations that have no interest in the public, just in themselves. SO your notion of things going backwards is probably true and trend that has been a constant one ever since the he 60s. The less taxes that are payed by the rich, the less there is available for society, the poor etcetc. The problem here is that your "left" is our "very right" and your rightwing is our well...it is off the map here. So whatever you chose, you will always get a party that favours multinational companies.

[@k4k253]

Maternity leave for a mother that gave birth to one child is 20 weeks :). It goes up if there are more children born at once :o. Up to 37 weeks. All this time is 100% paid.

[@KESipples]

Spot on. Excellent video! Thanks Jovie

[@yvonnebirch6026]

I relate Jodie. As a Dutch woman I would love to go back after living in Ca over 40 years. Too late now because of mobility issues and advanced age. Your points are all valid ! I am glad you love the Netherlands. I do too ! 💕🌷

[@yvonnebirch6026]

I am sorry for the error. Of course I know your name is Jovie ! My I pad took control

[@Tellz02]

@@yvonnebirch6026 On the days that you're Ipad decides it knows better than you if you go to the right of your comment you will see four dots, click on them and you will be able to edit your comment and correct any mistake thus putting you're Ipad in it's place 😁

[@jessicastroud7213]

I moved 10 years ago from Germany to the US. I’m a RN now and constantly thinking of moving back with my husband and kids. You were spot on with all your points, and those are why I want to move back. I’m also open to move to Spain. America is not for me! It’s been 10 years and I still can’t call it home

[@PurpleAmiga]

Hi, I recently passed NCLEX. I'm having a hard time deciding whether USA is for me. Money is good according to most people I know. Your statement made me scared though. 😢

[@ibelieveinjesuschrist8911]

go

[@stephenwrouton]

You mentioned the feeling of unease or anxiety in the US. I've watched a lot of other videos on KZbin where US citizens have said the same thing, and I experienced the same thing when I left the US. I realized I felt more relaxed out of the US. And then I noticed how my anxiety came back when I returned to the US for a year. I don't think it has anything to do with guns. I grew up around guns, and that doesn't bother me. I also notice how a lot of Americans are unknowingly over-anxious as well, always being on the edge. There's definitely something to it and I don't know what it is.

[@TheBrazilRules]

It is democrats creating all this polarization. In the past the parties had their opposing views. But since this Social Justice BS started, it created an us against them mentality

[@carolmerlini9971]

22 years in Italy. I agree totally. Actually, I get annoyed when Italians think I must be crazy to have left the USA and that I'm not going back. But they can be my guest and check out the USA for themselves. My only hope is that they will know sooner than later that they made a mistake by leaving Europe.

[@bgreg6069]

Another thing is environmental issues. A couple of years earlier I visited the states (Texas). Summer time, obviously very hot outside. In the big reception hall of the Houston hotel I stayed AC was set freezing cold, while the fire was on in the big fireplace in the same time. The situation was insane. Since then years passed but I still can vividly remember it. Absolutely agree with you about homelessness (San Francisco), guns, schools, public tranport, health care, money issues, etc… You should run for the election, I would vote for you 😊

[@melaniepeters6152]

amen to that. I do agree, I am a Dutchie who has lived in America. I loved it, don't get me wrong, I loved living there, I have the best memories of living there and had a real good time. this was almost 30 years ago, I've been back multiple times, and every time i got a bit more disapointed. the changes after 9-11 are downright frightening. america now feels like Europe 250 - 300 years ago, when all those European settlers left Europe to find a better place and now America has turned into just that, what they fled from. America turned into Europe from the Middle Ages, which are also called "Dark Ages". back then in Europe you where jugded by what you owned and possesd, but like I said, that was hundreds of years ago, now every life matters and every one can have a say in matters. most of all, we can be content and safe, even when a war is going on, on our doorstep. Maybe time has come for those decendants from those europeans to find their better life......... like people say, history will repeat itself.

[@tompiper9276]

More people leave the US every year than move there. You thought that wall on the Mexican border was to keep people out.... Think again!

[@robertsmit1894]

Good video and I am pleased you found a home. I am looking forward to visiting the Rotterdam area and if possible staying for an extended period. I have had the pleasure to speak to a number of Europeans living in the Rocky Mountain region and they do not seem eager to go back. So we all are fortunate with our circumstances to have some choice. Take care and happy holidays I would love to see Amsterdam at Christmas.

[@rogerschinkler6975]

You spot on. I’m European living most of my life here in the US. Time has come to move back, every time I visit my family in Stockholm I don’t want to leave. So this year I’m making the move. I will still have a place here in the States. But it’s like you say the feeling of security when in Europe that makes you feel safe.

[@wolfgangkruger1725]

I was born in Germany, but at the age of six we moved to Puerto Rico. I grew up there in the Latin culture. At 25 years of age I moved to the US. I lived in the US for 36 years. I always had this feeling that I did not belong in the US but I never had the courage to move away. Despite the fact that I had a job that had me traveling internationally, I did not make the move. When I retired seven years ago I moved to Colombia. My second wife is Colombian and my income goes much further here. I would never move back to the US. The country has gotten worse every year. I have made some trips back and I have not felt comfortable and I wanted to get out as quickly as possible. Since I do not consider myself an American, although I have a US passport, it is not difficult for me to disassociate myself from the US. I have travelled extensively in the Netherlands and I am familiar with life there. Regarding transportation, I totally agree with you. I never ever want to have a car again. Even the cities that you mentioned that have public transportation not needing a car, it is deadly to use these systems. I lived in New York City and Washington, DC where I lived without a car. Those were great systems many years ago. Today I would never use them. You can loose your life for no reason by just using the system. I was in the Washington area last April and I felt very uncomfortable and unsafe the days that I was there. The US is no longer a safe country. I lived and worked under the conditions that you pointed out. Looking back, I wonder how I ever survived living this way.

[@beccangavin]

I get that generalized anxiety about guns just being around feeling. I was telling my dad about some of the videos where people describe that feeling from their perspective as American’s living overseas - about how they jump when they hear loud bangs and then realize that it was a firecracker or a car or something - and he thought they were exaggerating. I pointed out that my mom hears a loud bang when she is working at her farm and it’s her instinct to duck because it could actually be a gun and he responded with “Well that part of Phoenix is a war zone.” It’s a war zone in an American city! Even at home in our nice pricy suburb, if we hear a loud bang, it’s probably a gun. I go to the grocery store and there’s a feeble old man with a pistol on his hip pretending to be a cowboy. There’s a man buying tacos with a gun daring people to just look at him wrong. The Starbucks on the corner by my house was robbed at gunpoint about three weeks ago. When you live here, you get used to that feeling of anxiety and unless someone points it out, it just seems normal. My son who is in college now told me they had an active shooter drill the other day and I thought it was weird until he pointed out that there have been three active shooters at local schools so the drills are actually necessary.

[@ramonaalansari]

So true. I was born and raised in Oregon. Ideal childhood in a small town. Everything is now overpopulated. Everything you said is true. We have been itching to move to Europe. Retiring in March and we are out of here. Can't wait.

[@MarijnvdSterre]

There are a lot of great things in the Netherlands, but population density is much higher then in Oregon. 4+ times as many people in 1/6 of the land area.

[@-_YouMayFind_-]

@@MarijnvdSterre Unless you chose to live in a village. Those areas are quite quiet.

[@tompiper9276]

Oregon really isn't overpopulated by European standards.

[@rebeccar4312]

@Ramona....interested as to which European country you are aiming for and how will you be able to move there as a US citizen? I too am in Oregon and before the pandemic made many trips to Europe and was always frustrated by our 90 day limit, so, pray tell, how do you plan to stay? And where?

[@jaysimoes3705]

@@MarijnvdSterre It is mostly centered in De Randstad. Zeeland, Drenthe, Groningen i.e. all rural provinces are not very crowded at all.

[@rickberglund2134]

The biggest problem in the U.S. is the cost of living keeps going up out of pace with income. Cities like Boston, NYC, Washington DC, Miami, Seattle, Denver, Austin, Chicago, all the California cities, are all so expensive that the children of the people currently living there, will no be able to stay there. People are now migrating to other areas of the country where the cost of living is cheaper, but those areas are soon discovered if the quality of life is decent, then those areas become expensive. The cost of owning a home is out of reach for many younger people.

[@michaelhovden7846]

Great video, thanks for making it! And I agree with all the points that were very well stated. I am an American who moved to Portugal a year and a half ago, and it was one of the best decisions I've made. Actually hope to never have to go back to the states again. And another mass murder (in CO) at the hands of someone carrying an assault rifle - how is that OK??? I've never felt what living a life free of anxiety, fear and non-stop propaganda was until I left the US. Best wishes on a continued great life in the Netherlands!

[@willemgrooters4958]

I once heard a story about food additives. There was an american man who went to Europe on vacation and he forgot to take his allergy medicine/drugs with him. He feared he would get very ill of eating food (like in the US) in Europe. But to much of his surprise his allergies disappeared for the time was in Europe.

[@yac1066]

Bravo, these are really thoughtful words, I am Swiss, probably the same standard of living as in the Netherlands, same tranquility, I often went to the United States and for me this country is the first state of the third world .... I'm going to India soon, poverty is less shocking there than in the States.

[@bmgmusa07]

I lived in Europe and its great in more ways than one. But i just love America. American people are like no other.

[@stephanteuscher6583]

I just came back from a vacation in the U.S.. It was a round trip through the north-east. It was of course very interesting but I was literally shocked how expensive everything has gotten since 2018 when I was there the last time. A lot of products, especially food, cost really twice the money and more than in my homeland - Germany. No sandwich in the grocery store under 9 Dollars, mostly 13 to 16 Dollars, little yoghurt over 3 Dollars, no beer in the restaurant under 7,50 Dollars, most (small!) Pizzas over 20 Dollars. If Europeans want to move there they should be able to make at least thrice the money if they want to improve their lifes. But even then they will not get a beer everywhere with dinner... I made quite a couple of interesting experiences in this field (again). Like I said - it was very interesting but on the other hand I feel a lot better in other countries, even in Romania or Serbia.

[@lszujo73]

then I suggest that you move to Romania for 6 months...please check back with me about your experience after that😀

[@stephanteuscher6583]

@@lszujo73 I was in Romania longer than in the U.S.. Now what?

[@lszujo73]

@@stephanteuscher6583 and you didn't notice any difference,did you? or you think Romania is a better place to live than the US...well done ,man,well done!

[@stephanteuscher6583]

@@lszujo73 I noticed very big differences. That's why I felt a lot better there. And I am NOT talking about living there. What's your problem, dude? Are you one of these people who think they know everything? I suggest you go visit every 53 countries that I visited. Shut your mouth and open your eyes! Look at everything very closely. Then we can have a conversation at the same level.

[@pseudonymshqipe854]

​@@lszujo73 haha

[@MikeS29]

Great video, I could not agree more! Subscribed. I have dual US and Italian citizenship, and every day my husband and I lean more and more to moving to Europe.

[@oak699]

Nice & enjoyable video, thanks.The political system inside the US is designed to resist change towards a more "European" or "socialized" style of living. Even if many people in the US feel they would want that.

[@garryferrington811]

Yes, very true.

[@mrsiz218]

You said it! Folks seem to be all about voting against they’re best interest to avoid socialism however in that process they’re choosing to run face first into authoritarianism. No thanks! I’m out ASAP!

[@RobRoordink]

That “socialized “ style of living in the Netherland is mainly designed in the 20th century bij Christian!! Democratic politicians. The Christian Democratic parties were in power for almost a century.

[@xerxescroes2281]

Thank G.d, if I wanted “European” life, I’d move to Europe.

[@gailalbers1430]

My partner is german , who has previously lived in Holland . We’re looking forward to the move to Europe. I love Holland the Best ,; Love how freethinking and open minded it is. Love the creative ways that dutchies tackle the most confounding problems with panache and creativity.

[@Dutchbelg3]

The times I visited the USA I felt save on many locations BUT the larger cities. There are too many homeless people (in deplorable daily life situations) and too many drug addicts and alcoholics in daily street life. Sure there are drunk people in Europe too but in the US they were too present (or maybe psychological bothered people). I felt uneasy in New York, Los Angeles, Atlanta, Miami, Macon, Phoenix and Denver.

[@TheBrazilRules]

I think this is the truth these people don't want to face. They all probably lived in big cities, which is not good for anyone really

[@lenyschoenmaker8224]

Dear Jovie, thank you for you nice words. It' s not 100% rosy, but rather safe to move around in the Netherlands. You must take our complaining about everything and anything for granted, though. Be happy and healthy.

[@windmill10]

Something that just sprung to mind. Everybody knows that Canada is a much better place than the US (safety, friendlyness, cost of health care etc. etc. etc.). But ... we have a tv show that is called "Boer Zoekt Vrouw". A spin off from the English tv series "Farmer Wants Wife". We had an international episode and one of the farmers was a Dutchman that emigrated to Canada to escape all the Dutch and EU rules and regulations and limiations.and set up a farm overthere. It was not explained in too much detail but this guy had a terrible problem with the food for his cows. He didn't even dare to go into the problem openly on tv. He actually felt threatened. But from what I remember his cows got sick. and some died. He then stopped giving them the food that he had to buy from a big corporation - which was American I believe. This farmer was convinced that the root cause of his problems was that this food contained pesticide residues and genetically modified corn. He started to grow his own food for his live stock for the winter and his cows didn't get sick anymore. Anyway even the food they give to their animals in North America is toxic.

[@DaniëllaKL1970]

Omg, yeah regulations are getting worse by the year. Not only Nl but also EU rules are making it hard to sustain for farmers. But from what i have seen i m glad our food safety is way better in the EU. There were cows dying because of bad food. Wow that's horrible, think of what this means for humans. 😢

[@gosmarte669]

I am a Dutch guy living in the USA since 1994. In particular the last few years there is a very rapid breakdown of society in this country. We have 2 kids and I am strongly considering moving back for the main reasons of safety and independence. We are financially in a very good place and we can buy all the education and health care we need but it's about the basic human things and quality of life that is lacking in this country. It will not be an easy transition. I just spoke to a Dutch family that moved back to the US for the 2nd time because they could not adjusted to Dutch life anymore. It's a big decision but I am leaning more and more towards moving back. Thanks for your video. Great content!

[@mE-zx7pt]

Just curious: Why is it difficult to adjust to Dutch life again?

[@olddogoddments675]

@@mE-zx7pt Overcrowding, which results in sarcasm and gibes as a default way of dealing with any slightly problematic situation. I was brought up in Scotland but can still speak and understand Dutch. The Dutch are not violent, but let's put it this way, politeness is not a top priority.

[@gosmarte669]

@@mE-zx7pt Weather, space, nature, opportunity, conveniences, service level, more choices like to which dr you go or where you send your kids to school. Also I am entrepreneur and I would rather own a business in the US then in The Netherlands. When I listen to programs like BNR radio I get the impression that everything has become so complex in the Netherlands from a bureaucracy standpoint that you can not see the trees through the forest. In general Americans are friendly people and not as confrontational like the Dutch. But there are also many advantages to The Netherlands. In the US everything is so spread out that you have to plan your time because everything takes a lot of time. And many other advantages. There is no perfect place. But thanks for asking.

[@xerxescroes2281]

All my siblings, Dutch born and bred, are moving back to the US, specifically Southern CA. They like the Netherlands but feel more at home here.

[@xerxescroes2281]

@@olddogoddments675 oh, they believe they’ve being frank or just straight to the point - they’re not…

[@martinepeters9891]

I really liked living in Orlando, Florida and never felt unsafe. But Healthcare prices drove me away.