What's it like living in the USA as a Dutchie? 🇳🇱 🇺🇸

Pursuing the American dream. The differences between American and Dutch culture. What is great about America? What is challenging?
Paul is originally from the Netherlands and has been living in the U.S. for around 20 years. We talk about his experiences living and working in the U.S. on topics ranging from work to healthcare to capitalism and socialism.
⏰ CHAPTERS:
00:00 Intro
00:44 Paul's journey - American vs. Dutch culture
16:16 Ending
📽 OTHER VIDEOS:
🇳🇱 10 Reasons Why I love the Netherlands - • 10 Reasons Why I Love ...
🇳🇱 Dutch Culture Shocks - • What are the biggest D...
🇺🇸 USA vs. Europe - • USA vs. Europe: Live t...
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😁 WHO AM I?
I'm David, a Californian living in Amsterdam. I make videos about life in the Netherlands, hiking/traveling, and the Camino de Santiago.
🔸 If you live in the Netherlands, I'd love to hear your story and interview you.
Email: [e-mail]

[@hidavidwen]

Are you Dutch, European, or anyone who has lived or currently living in the USA? What have your experiences been like?

[@marcelmoulin3335]

Dag David, please read my comment below. My unique story will intrigue you.

[@benjamindejonge3624]

I worked there and the only thing of the states I’ve seen is the road to work, now I live in spain

[@christiano2444]

I lived in California, LA and San Francisco. For a half a year in 1978. I was 11 and I loved it. When I was 18 I wanted to go back to live with my father who was an old hippie. When I wrote him I was coming he wrote back I was not welcome. In 2018 I went back to the US to spread his ashes in a sown off Redwood tree. I stayed in Oakland and Point Arena and still feel a kind of homesick. Even though I am not from the US.

[@marcelmoulin3335]

@@christiano2444 Christiano, you must have had a difficult, sad time when your father did not want you to come live with him. What a pity. What a loss... for him.

[@bethbetsylaskowski2947]

I am an American who is living in The Netherlands for 6 years now... love it - way less pressure than the US - quality of life is richer.

[@hellmuthschreefel9392]

A Dutchman living in the United States for 60 years though I have been back to the Netherlands numerous times and lived in Amsterdam in the 1970s. I have made the same observations, and totally agree with most everything this gentleman has said. The only disagreement I have is with his comment about the American Dream. His observation that it still exists is dictated by his entry into America at a pretty high socioeconomic level. He stated he was a VP of his medium sized company after coming to America from Singapore. IOW he may already have been in the top 20% where opportunites are abundant. I live in Michigan in the Detroit area and I can honestly say that for the VAST majority of people here in the Detroit area, the American Dream is just an illusion ... as it is for the many homeless people you show in your video. As the richest country in the world it is scandalous that homeless people, many of whom are military veterans, have to live as they do. It is true that the opportunities for Dutch people to become as rich as Bill Gates or Elon Musk or Jeff Bezos is much much less, but they generally never have to worry about having to sleep in a cardboard box under a highway overpass, or dying because they can't afford their medication, or struggling through life because they can't afford a decent education. The United States IS a great country, but it is NOT perfect, and it could become a better one if it wasn't so resistent to learning how to become better from countries such as the Netherlands.

[@hidavidwen]

Thanks for sharing Hellmuth. Very valid points... Wow would love to hear your story! What made you go back to Amsterdam in the 1970s and then come back to the US?

[@hellmuthschreefel9392]

@@hidavidwen Hello David. My trip to Amsterdam in the 1970s was a year off from university to do a little travelling. Mijn Oma lived in Amsterdam Osdorp and I stayed with her when I wasn't travelling through Germany, Denmark and Belgium. But what I found was that Amsterdam was where I mostly wanted to be. It was easily one of the best times of my life and exactly what I needed in that period of my life. It was unfortunately always a temporary thing and I came back to the US and my immediate family and to go back to school. Almost 50 years later, I still miss being in Amsterdam.

[@stevedijkhof3109]

"Ditch the Dutch" this dutchman say's ,the dutch are horrible people with no patriotism or honor of any kind.

[@collateral7925]

​@Hellmuth Schreefel What made you go back to the States and not in the Netherlands if it was your favorite place to be? FYI I'm still pretty young but have been living abroad for nearing 10 years. I often feel like going back as it is pretty well organized in NL and it is also nice to be able to do everything on a bicycle.

[@DutchLabrat]

Must agree. The American Dream has a metric: Social mobility. And by that standard the USA is about as mobile as the UK, the most entrenched class society of the west.... As you say social mobility is not about going from homeless to billionaire but about going from the lowest income bracket living from pay to pay to to the point where you can create some financial security. For that you need access to professional/trade schooling and a fair labour market.

[@assasain999]

I was raised in the USA by Dutch parents , lived there for 16 years in the state of Georgia... Currently living in the Netherlands and have been for 11 years now... Both wonderful countries and have their ups and downs.. As a blue collar worker i personally prefer the Netherlands cause i have alot more peace of mind here and life feels more stable here. I have affordable healthcare , i have a car but it's not a necessity, i have plenty of free time and vacation days and when i'm sick i don't have to worry about making ends meet.

[@hidavidwen]

Thanks for sharing and glad to hear you seem to enjoy it more in the Netherlands!

[@singingLeaf123]

Wow old account I currently live in georgia state as well and my goal is to go to netherlands for further study. I am not dutch but I have always been intrigued to live there it fits with my lifestyle I love biking around in us you bike it's only in a suburban neighborhood in netherlands you can tour a whole village or two from biking with amazing biking Infrastructure

[@DidierWierdsma6335]

Welkom terug in Nederland Old Account.

[@singingLeaf123]

@@DidierWierdsma6335 I don't speak Dutch srry

[@DidierWierdsma6335]

@@singingLeaf123 I was saying in Dutch to Old Account welcome back in the Netherlands where it's so much better hell Europe in general is so much better than the so called land of the free it's not no offence. You are also more than welcome here in the Netherlands you will not regret it trust me😊

[@canelafilms2635]

Very refreshing interview. I compliment you for letting Paul speak without you interrupting him as you see so often in interviews.

[@hidavidwen]

Thanks for the kind words =)

[@tristenstaas7138]

Yes! Fully agree with you Canèlafilms

[@bertkassing8541]

Oooh, David, what a nice interview. But this man is still very Dutch. But he does give a very nice and good analysis of the difference in life in the USA and the Netherlands. And OMG I'm so glad I live in the Netherlands. I had a stroke and am 100% rejected from work, but I can just continue living with all the ups and downs that come with it. Viva Hollanda!!!!!!!

[@hidavidwen]

Thanks Bert and yea, accessible and affordable healthcare for all is and has always been a big challenge in the US :/ hope you are recovering and staying well 🙏

[@mavadelo]

You can take the Dutch out of the Netherlands, but you never get the Netherlands out of the Dutch. ;)

[@wallplus7581]

@@hidavidwen Hello nice vlog!! What I do not understand is why so mch money in the US goes to the miitary tp protect the citizens, and on the oterhand the same citizens are dying of lack of affordble health care

[@johnvanpuffelen6350]

@@mavadelo O yes you can! The Netherlands isn't The Netherlands anymore! It's more and more becoming a copy of the US. Even the ridiculous use of the word "white people" (witte mensen), while we actually do have a word for the non-whites we are in reality!

[@martinvang6352]

Hij praat poep man hahahaha, te lang weg denk ik!!! Praat met echte werker!

[@XD-cr3du]

As a Dutch person with friends in the U.S. I can say Paul gave a pretty good rundown of the differences between the U.S. and the Netherlands. I also like that you found someone who´s ´very Dutch´ in his communication style. Straight in your face ´recht voor zijn raap´ as we call it. I think if you´re really ambitious, and you want a life that´s all about work and career, then the U.S. is a better place to be with more opportunities. If you also enjoy other things outside working, you value a more egalitarian society with a stronger emphasis on work/life balance, then the Netherlands is a better pick. Both are great countries with their ups and downs though, it comes down to what kind of individual you are whether you'll prefer one over the other.

[@hidavidwen]

Thanks! Ironically, I found him on a bench in San Francisco when I was looking to talk to "Americans" about their views about the Dutch. Faith! True pros and cons of both countries

[@johandierink2578]

If you can ignore the less well off in your society who are still working their fingers to the bone and even then might end up destitute the US is an okay pick. But that doesn't make the US a great country. You need to have basic human necessities protected for your taxpayers, what use is a country if it doesn't serve as many of its people as it is able to? Great to pick if you want to make bank and live for your work, you will probably even be able to do some good. But the vast majority is living in misery for no reason but profits and politics. Not a great country for its citizens and getting worse every day.

[@professionalshittalker]

Us is never a bwtter place lol. Even if your ready to work hard and base your whole life on working, the netherlands still is better in every aspect you can inmagene😂

[@professionalshittalker]

Can work 70 hours a week in the netherlands to tho. But in diffrence, your kids still get free education and you have still a healtcare. Plus the school levels are here higher. Why you think americans dont have any basic knowledge at all? They dont even know the diffrence between the netherlands and germany😂 they know nothing about history their school level is hilarious

[@antonioiniguez1615]

@@johandierink2578The vast majority of people in the US are thriving. The people living in misery are the people who don't want to succeed. If you want to succeed, you will in the US

[@senoner90]

You're so much better at interviewing than most TV hosts or journalists. You really listen and ask good questions. Great job!

[@hidavidwen]

Aw thanks Ala. Gives me a lot of motivation to hear your kind words. Still learning lots =) David

[@Captain_Cinnamon]

Just let your guest talk😂 its that simple.

[@mizum3458]

Yea. This dude has a zen like vibe of deep wisdom and brain capacity to ask important questions and not have super ego power trips over talking the main dude nagging throughout in all of his honesty that I was curious to think about even while stoned ASF. 😒

[@mizum3458]

I wish there was a ghezzilhied place where these beaches passing out sandwiches

[@barrysteven5964]

It struck me about how he mentioned that a lot of Americans label the European system as socialist. The European system is not socialist. They are all capitalist. Even Sweden, he was wrong about that. Saab, Volvo and IKEA are not state owned corporations. It's just a different view of capitalism. In Europe they strive to see it as a team effort and for it to work each part of the team is vital and all should benefit. In America it's seen more as a gift from those at the top and the rest of the team should be grateful for any fruits that fall off the top table. If you want to benefit, you need to get your own table. European capitalism is kinder and fairer. Even European countries with conservative governments in power like the UK have welfare and health systems that Republicans would regard as socialist.

[@supernova82]

It was funny when he said Sweden has socialism. Its a free economy. Many big companies came out of Sweden. It's a really common misconception that some educated people also make.

[@Witroodwit]

Exactly, but a lot of Dutch/Europeans also think Northern European countries are socialist. They are not. As you said, capitalist with a welfare state.

[@echochamber1234]

to be fair on him, when he called sweden socialist, he was probably refering to the folkhemmet era, when the economy was quasi socialist even by european standards. of course that doesn’t apply anymore, but it was true when he was growing up

[@aydinbiber7616]

@@supernova82 Socialism can have a free economy. What you're thinking of is Communism. Europe is very socialist. It is not at all Communist.

[@MegaShrinkage]

Couldn’t agree more. European countries are also capitalist countries. The big difference is that having learned from the industrial revolution, the unregulated capitalist era, European countries increasingly, although in varying proportions, put policies into place that try to mitigate the negative consequences of unregulated capitalism. Especially for people at the lower end of society. Redistribution of money through taxiation policy is an important part in this. The government uses this for social policies and creation of a more leveled playing field for everyone; hence heavily subsidised ecucation accessible for everyone, cheaper healthcare for everyone, unemployment and disability policies, etc. For me the common theme is trying to prevent the excesses of capitalism, it’s not Socialism.

[@viclutgens7172]

Indonesian living in the Netherlands for the past 1.5 years now. Been with the same American firm for 6 years. All points here make so much sense! Can’t get over the fact how you just randomly bumped into one of the people with, dare I say, the most relevant experiences to your channel.

[@hidavidwen]

Thanks for sharing Vic. I was actually searching far and wide to find Dutch people in San Francisco...but that is not so easy to do. And so it was faith that we bumped into each other on a bench!

[@user-vv7rr3ls9i]

Can't get over the fact what you just said is completely irrelevant and still gets upvotes.. LOLL

[@stefanklerkx]

One of the plus points of us duchies, you can travel to any country or part of the world, it does not matter how remote, you will find Dutch people there for some reason.

[@hidavidwen]

@@stefanklerkx Haha so true. When I spent time traveling in 2015 around Africa/Middle East/Asia...even in the most remote places...I remember meeting Dutchies/Germans/Australians. For such a small country (relatively)...Dutch people are literally everywhere...

[@johnvanpuffelen6350]

@@stefanklerkx Because they don't like their own country ;) Most of the Dutch people I know are planning to get out of here!

[@harryderoest7910]

i love that this man is after 20 years still the biggest dutchman. puur cultuur

[@hidavidwen]

Hahahaha I immediately recognized that too.

[@paulrond5145]

Ja man, ook nog steeds duidelijk een NL accent haha

[@klaaskomvaak1816]

@@paulrond5145 links lullen rechts vullen figuur, misselijk makende liberaal.

[@Karincl7]

​@@paulrond5145nederlanders en hun talen hé, typisch toch

[@micfitchett3581]

The was phenomenal! Thank you for putting in such great work!

[@hidavidwen]

You’re welcome Micael and thanks for the kind words. He was a great interviewee and we connected serendipitously in the most random of places!

[@vanderavortdebije]

Uitstekend gesprek! Heel informatief.

[@LadySamurai88]

I’m a Dutch woman of 35 years old. I have a disability and need an electric wheelchair and other stuff (like chair for the shower etc) and i’m so happy that i can get it without any problems. The Netherlands is not perfect but i’m really glad to live here.

[@shazzshank6393]

it's a racist country full of xenophobic's !

[@chetyoubetya8565]

Why would you not be able to get any of that in the US??There is Medicaid available to all people who have low income as well as food stamps and 100s of other programs for people with low income.The man with Parkinson's could go and apply for social security disability which people in the US can do if he can not work which just having Parkinson or any other challenge doesn't necessarily expect people from not wanting to work.There are tons of scholarships his children can get or they can work and pay for school themselves.Not To mention Dutch people are beyond ridgid with just doing things unplanned it will not happen.That is a massive difference between Dutch and Americans

[@LadySamurai88]

@@chetyoubetya8565 cause i heard that you have to pay for everything you need. Like medication etc

[@LadySamurai88]

@@chetyoubetya8565 why would you think we don’t plan things?

[@Phenix1111]

​@@chetyoubetya8565 you are not real. The costs of everything compared to wages is insane.

[@chrisodell2585]

Great interview 👍

[@hidavidwen]

Thanks Chris 👍

[@frederickontour1478]

I watched the video on my tv, and I just had to log on the app to write a comment. What an amazingly good exposé about the cultural and systemic differences between these two countries. As a Dutch person this is very insightful and makes me appreciate our way of life even more then I already did. Best of luck to Paul he really captured my attention with his story. Best of luck with you’re channel too! I’d be very interested now to travel to the US and see these differences for myself. Who knows, I just might ;)

[@hidavidwen]

Thanks Frederick for the kind words-appreciate it! Hope you get to travel...I'm sure you'll see and experience something different =) Well, that is also the beauty of travel too...

[@thematriarchy2075]

Well, the outcome of a capitalistic system without the social part, can be found in every major city in the US... Skid rows.

[@theooppie9615]

Leuk interview 🙂

[@garrett3338]

Great interview! Love hearing peoples stories and different perspectives.

[@hidavidwen]

Thanks and nice to hear from ya Garrett! Take care and hope all's well

[@garrett3338]

@@hidavidwen Thanks David! I will be in The Netherlands next month. Time to experience all of your videos for real. :)

[@fiefvanrossem227]

🇨🇦 my parents immigrated to Canada separately in the late 1950's and met in Toronto. My Mom is from the Achterhoek, Gelderland (Barchem) and my Dad is from Arnhem. They became Canadian citizens as soon as they could. We kids grew up very multicultural, the Canadian way. Dutch was spoken at home, English everywhere else. I get the word 'gezelligheid'. My Dad started as a stock boy in a grocery store when he first arrived and ended his work life as a retired self employed business man. He always said that this would not have happened if he had stayed in the Netherlands and all the young men who emigrated could become anything they wanted here. The CEO dude was SPOT ON with his observations of both countries and world view. 🇨🇦 Canada is a closer model to the 🇳🇱 Netherlands in politics and social living, as well as being a very close cousin to the US 🇺🇸 in work ethic. I wish we could all live with more harmony amongst ourselves.

[@hidavidwen]

Thanks for sharing Fief. Interesting to hear your perspective as a Canadian with Dutch roots...seems like Canada is a happy medium between both the US and NL (of course every country has its pros and cons). Yes, let's hope for more harmony in the world 🙏

[@CrazyFrogsable]

amazing content thank you for sharing

[@hidavidwen]

You’re welcome and thanks for the kind words!

[@dr33tje]

Very cool interview. Well done!

[@ladok1865]

Great interview!

[@hidavidwen]

Thanks!

[@rikvdmark]

Dutch guy here. Haven’t lived or visited the US. But always love these experience videos, because they’re not biased by something others said but come from actual experience.

[@ienekevanhouten4559]

Fascinating! This was sent to me by a friend who has lived in the Netherlands for decades but who is originally from the USA. I grew up in Holland (born in 1943) and have been in Canada since 1969. This made me realise how Dutch I remain and how much Canada is something in between.

[@hidavidwen]

Thanks for sharing leneke. Oh wow 1969. I've also heard many say that Canada is sort of in between the US and Dutch culture. Curious to hear...what part of you still remains very Dutch??

[@leoc9154]

love this type of interviews. hope more countries will come.

[@hidavidwen]

Thanks, what would you like to learn more about?

[@leoc9154]

@@hidavidwen Thanks for the reply. I love videos about culture differences. For example, I always wonder if immigrants are more likely to be accepted in the US compared Canada? why research articles seems to in higher quality in Germany and Netherlands compared to the rest of the world? Although these are based on my experience and not necessarily to be true. Hope I can see some video explore the reasons behind. Thanks

[@jaewoolee2669]

I really enjoy watching your videos. Very insightful and calming. Thank you.

[@hidavidwen]

Thanks for the kind words =)

[@blafaard]

Excellent interview. As a Dutch person I travelled the US some time ago and I was amazed by the friendliness of the Americans. It seems it's more normal there to be friendly to strangers.

[@majdavojnikovic]

Not only in US, in most countries people are more friendly to strangers, and easier to make friends than Dutch people, at least those in Amsterdam ( I suppose it's different in smaller towns)

[@blafaard]

@@majdavojnikovic Definitely, I would avoid Amsterdam at all cost. If you want to make friends in The Netehrlands, join a 'vereniging'.

[@hidavidwen]

Thanks! Yeah I do like the friendly nature of American culture!

[@kayabe856]

Yes, when I’ve visited European countries I’ve had to learn not to be so friendly. I hated myself not being able to make eye contact with people and smile. They say the life in Europe is great but why people seem so upset all the time.

[@George-zv6yy]

David that was so nice to hear Paul's impression of life here as compared to the Netherlands. Paul, despite being well off financially, is very aware of how hard life is here for the average person. Healthcare and higher education costs are things even he finds shocking as well as our homelessness problem that is getting worse by the day. Most people just get by and are just one accident or illness away from losing it all. He also sees that we don't know how to come together to find solutions in a bipartisan way which is holding the U.S. back in every way. Perhaps Paul needs his own flog to spread the word how to fix issues in the U.S. the Dutch way.

[@hidavidwen]

Thanks George. It was also interesting for me to hear his view as he's had extensive experiences living/working in both the US and the Netherlands.

[@raphdroidt692]

80% of workers live paycheck to paycheck. In the richest country the earth has even seen. An enormous amount of homeless people are working people. And an income desparity that is that from the time of the Egyptian Pharaos. The US is just a brutal brutal place.

[@johnvanpuffelen6350]

Please don't! The Dutch system is collapsing!

[@johnvanpuffelen6350]

@@raphdroidt692 It's not that much different overhere! Over 70% of households can't afford to buy a new washing machine if the old one breaks down!

[@Dawkreefur]

If he started his own vlog he would be branded a communist immediately by Republican operators. And thus being condemned to Democrat circles.

[@maltesetony9030]

Excellent & informative video!

[@hidavidwen]

Thanks!

[@lally754]

Thank you so much for this video, David! It really gives a nice, useful insight 🙏🏻✨

[@hidavidwen]

You're welcome Laura, thanks for watching!

[@marielvanhees9531]

Omg the way he moves and his posture while he speaks is iconic to what my Dutch father does. Social interactions with friends or family in Nederland differs on your crowd of people. His friends there are more spontaneous. But my Dutch family and friends prefer planning ahead for visitations. Sometimes spontaneous visits are very welcomed depending on the situation, like visiting from abroad for just one cup of tea and cookie and only catching up for at most an hour. Have to be mindful of the hosts planned schedule.

[@hidavidwen]

Haha thanks Mariel! Yeah I’ve personally noticed that there is more “scheduling” here than spontaneity. True…this also depends on the crowd of people too (eg. it’s easier to be spontaneous when you’re younger)

[@captainyakitori2483]

Oh my god! I thought exactly the same, his facial mimics and gestures are very iconic to a Dutch dad. Also his social honest way of talking is very Dutch.

[@hollydingman7455]

He reminds me of my boss’s husband, who is a Disney exec. 😂 “Dutch upper management/class guy”.

[@stephenkurz4869]

If he thinks that you can spontaneously knock on someone's door and they let you in for tea the Netherlands, his country has changed immensely since he lived there.

[@hielkemulder327]

That's not what he said. He mentioned random friends and people he is familiar with

[@OprechtLetterlijkBizar]

@@hielkemulder327 still, that’s not how most people do it with their friends.

[@hidavidwen]

Hah thanks Stephen. I was thinking the same...but I guess it may be different generationally? I also think it's probably different from expats too...and the size of the city/town

[@hielkemulder327]

@@OprechtLetterlijkBizar depends on where in the country you life. Here in the north (Friesland) it is very common.

[@Harry_PP030]

@@OprechtLetterlijkBizar don't know what kind of friends you have, but in my house people i know can come whenever they want.

[@K55365]

Interesting interview 👏

[@yizhang246]

amazing work and top notch content and like many others said, better interview style than most tv shows!!!

[@hidavidwen]

Thanks for the kind words!

[@ageoflove1980]

Very interesting and it sounds like a really fair assessment by Paul.

[@hidavidwen]

Thanks Sander. Indeed. Paul comes with a lot of experience. Of course, he has his own opinion, but I also appreciated how objective he was

[@ulihxx]

Great interview and very interesting interview partner! Love the Netherlands, but also the U.S. I‘ve been to both countries and I had fantastic colleagues from both places. Greetings from Hamburg.

[@hidavidwen]

Thanks Uli! Yeah I also love both countries. Greetings from Amsterdam

[@lizoconnor2752]

What a delightful conversation!

[@hidavidwen]

It was, I had a great and insightful time chatting with Paul

[@malligueb4159]

David, great interview. Thanks!

[@hidavidwen]

Thanks and thanks for watching! What did you take away from it?

[@malligueb4159]

@@hidavidwen I have been living in the Netherlands for almost 10 years, also studied at Maastricht university. It was interesting to learn some differences between the NL and US. I loved that in the US it does not matter what your background is. If they believe you are capable you can get a job and there are a lot of opportunities. That failure is not seen as really bad. The language can indeed be a barrier finding a job in European countries. Paul said it was not so hard adjusting in the US because he already had a lot of work experience. I want to move to another country in a couple of years and based on what he said I conclude moving to another country will be less scary after I get some more years work experience. Also based on what he said I believe racism is way worse in the US compared to the NL.

[@NisseOhlsen]

For me as a European (I'm Danish) I found the US the most friendly country you could ever hope to go to for an immigrant. I could as easy live in the US (I lived in LA for 3 years) as I live here in Denmark. But all things considered I find conversation here to be more profound and the social fabric to be deeper. Not to speak of art and culture for which nothing compares to Europe.

[@hidavidwen]

Thanks for sharing Niels. I get what you're saying

[@NisseOhlsen]

@@hidavidwen Cool stuff. Are you taking advantage ? Have you been to Musée D'Orsay ? Or, closer to you, Van Gogh Museum ?

[@hidavidwen]

@@NisseOhlsen yes the museumkaart is the best investment!

[@Herobox-ju4zd]

I'm Dutch and never worked or lived in the US but I know some people who have and the main thing I heard is that managers in the US are way more involved in promoting their workers to better positions. Like if some manager had someone working for them who had a good talent for something, they would look if they could find opportunities for them within the company to get a better position. In the Netherlands that's not the case at all. They are happy to have you and they won't blame you if you go looking elsewhere, but your manager will do nothing to help you. And I think that's really something we Dutch people should improve on.

[@KoenKooi]

The flip side of that is corporate america is very focused on awards, I have a whole shelf of awards that were basically awarded for doing my job. Not for being excellent, just for doing what I was hired for. Since that was the norm, you needed a lot of those awards to move up the career ladder. I agree that in the Netherlands we should celebrate excellence a lot more, but not award every time someone remembers to breathe.

[@serge6598]

Wow both so lovely to listen to. Enjoyed every second of this.

[@Nibr07]

Nice conversation!

[@heatherfeather1293]

Some of the reasons he mentioned about work as well as work/life balance are why I am moving to Europe later this year

[@hidavidwen]

Where are you moving to Heather? Hope you enjoy your new journey!

[@heatherfeather1293]

@@hidavidwen Prague! I can't wait and thank you

[@cfam117]

Wonderful interview!

[@hidavidwen]

Thanks!

[@sidewinder1639]

What an interesting and nice interview!

[@hidavidwen]

Thanks!

[@sb1206]

Great conversation. Your interviewee had a very nuanced perspective even on something that he doesn't experience--racism in America. Keep doing these!

[@hidavidwen]

Thanks, he is very insightful!

[@duukm]

Gezelligheid is truly a word that can not be translated into English, no word can describe the complex meaning of it

[@hidavidwen]

I understand. It's a beautiful thing!

[@nanashipersonne4151]

Geselligkeit in German I guess.

[@lcdemack]

This was one of the best, and I think more accurate reflections on the subject than I've seen in most any similar video I've watched. Nice job David! ...and tell Paul we said Thank You.

[@hidavidwen]

Thanks Lawrence! Appreciate it. Paul has a lot to share so it was really easy for me to just listen :) But it was fate that we randomly bumped into each other on a bench!

[@koenliem2017]

Hallo Pail vanuit Amsterdam een dankwoord voor je uiteenzetting. Ik heb zelf 5 jaar in de States gewoond (2000-2005). Dat stukje Amerika dat je aangaf is daarom heel herkenbaar voor mij. Nogmaals geweldige presentatie om de verschillen (Amerika/Nederland) helder en duidelijk aan te hebben gegeven. Dank hartelijke groet Koen

[@joeyhouben3270]

The Netherlands are bigger then Amsterdam. That is a very important thing to understand. In the “smaller” city’s and villages you just go to friends and go for coffee, lunch etc… Amsterdam and Rotterdam are know as “business city’s. But in the smaller parts (north, south and east) are the start for the business parts of the Netherlands.. and I always call it the Netherlands. Holland are just 2 provincies of the Netherlands (noord “north” and zuid “south” Nederland)

[@johnvanpuffelen6350]

The way he describes the Netherlands, I feel he's describing the Netherlands of about 30, 40 years ago. I grew up in a country where the doors were always open and the carkeys in the ignition. Even of expensive cars. Nowadays all doors are closed and nice cars need very sophisticated alarm systems and tracking. Otherwise you won't even be able to get an insurance.

[@legendmen7024]

I rather work to the top than working to a comfort zone like the Netherlands and yes in the Netherlands everything is going to closed shops/food industries it bothers me very much, Netherlands is a no go land for me

[@Wielie0305]

@@legendmen7024 It depends. Times change indeed, but I have nothing to complain about. If your focus is on making money and a career then Netherlands might not be the best place. If not (like me) than NL is a great country to live in. In the end it’s all about personal preferences and how you look at things. I’m happy here, but my daughter is more international minded and wants to travel the globe and maybe emigrate. Again it’s her personal ambition and it’s ok.

[@wvd07]

Man do I miss the 'touwtje door de brievenbus om de deur te openen' era😢

[@Lilygirl283]

​@legendmen7024 that is everywhere in the world, I live in Australia, the criminality is out of control...

[@HigherQualityUploads]

Consequences of immigration.

[@cadciel]

Incredibly interesting interview! Thank you. So much to ponder on.

[@hidavidwen]

Thanks! I'm curious...what are you pondering about? =)

[@ladlcb3611]

Dear Pilgrim Mate, very nice video with interesting nuances and points. Nice interview. Keep it up!

[@hidavidwen]

Thanks so much! =)

[@zhenli2345]

I'm surprised at his comment that people rarely invite other people to their houses in the US. My experience living here has been the complete opposite: Americans are quick to invite strangers to backyard barbecues, Christmas parties, Thanksgiving dinners, and what not. In addition, based on what I have learned from the internet, Dutch people are anything but spontaneous. A meetup requires an appointment, often set weeks in advance. Perhaps his experience is different because he was talking about meeting with his friends?

[@hidavidwen]

Thanks Zhen. Yeah from my experience, the Dutch tend to be less spontaneous (they plan everything). He was talking about his friends

[@brexistentialism7628]

I think the reason why he feels so might be that his circle of friends are very business minded and always busy in other words people don't seem to prioritise making time for friends and are rather hooked up to their work schedule routines. I can imagine this to be the case in the Bay area.

[@user-ci7vu7eo9w]

That is not true in all western countries.everybody living own life.only invited are parents and siblings

[@christiano2444]

Some people are like that, pretty formally. But a lot are nice and inviting.

[@Lara-rm3gs]

It also really depends on the region of the Netherlands you are in. People in the very north and very south tend to be more spontaneous than people in bigger cities.😊

[@johanv4668]

I am from Holland... ( dutch ), have to say this is a real intresting interview.

[@hidavidwen]

Thanks Johan!

[@corner559]

Thank you for not interrupting the guy you're interviewing unlike many other channels and news interviews.

[@hidavidwen]

You're welcome and thanks for the kind words!

[@jurgenolivieira1878]

One of the best analysis I've heard...

[@enricio]

What a nice and learnful conversation (with a Dutch guy who has something to say). 🥳👌🤸😎. I've lived in US back in 1987. It was exactly the same as this man is telling; one lives to work. The social context is from Dutch perspective weak.

[@hidavidwen]

Thanks and you’re welcome :) Curious…what was your experience like?

[@enricio]

@@hidavidwen The experience was learnful. I would advise every youngsters in their teens or twenties to work abroad for a while and get to know another culture. 🤔. I lived in Spain for some years and would rather move south (of The Netherlands) than west. 🤔

[@SpoonSpoonSpoonSpoon]

As a Dutchman, I recognize so much from all of this having lived in Austin, Texas for 5 years. While Austin is very democratic, I also got to experience the republican viewpoints w.r.t. foreigners coming to US for work. Culturally there are many differences, but I feel they’re close enough to overcome them. My family and I are now back in NL for 1,5 years and while we are in fact coping with the reversed culture shock, we do hope we can enjoy another exploration to US someday. Very insightful video, thanks for posting! Love to hear more!

[@hidavidwen]

Thanks René! Yeah it’s been an experience to experience different cultures of the world. Very enlightening. Best wishes to you and your family!

[@valhalla7567]

Je kan beter in Nederland wonen als ik het zo hoor. Amerika is leuk als je geld hebt en alles goed voor elkaat en vooral gezond bent en blijft. Even in Amerika wonen is best leuk maar als je voordelen van Nederland hoort dan kan je niet ontkennen dat het leven over het algemeen beter is geregeld dan in the USA.

[@greenytaddict]

Aww you are living in my hometown, I spent a few months in the Netherlands and miss it a lot. Currently learning Dutch too and enjoying it.

[@jllerk]

Great interview David, Kind regards from the NL!

[@hidavidwen]

Thanks! =)

[@Geert_Wilders_]

Very nice interview.

[@hidavidwen]

Thanks!

[@courtney-annevantoor4370]

Love this. I think grit and freedom can be found in both places. The Dutch polder model system should be introduced in US in my opinion! As an American born in Louisiana and met my Dutch man in Houston in 2009, we have moved three times back and forth. I am still exhausted 😅With a Hurricane living TX and pandemic living in Zoetermeer, it has been a hard call. After pandemic life, it’s people over place for me. The Southern hospitality. But interestingly enough after 13 years, I have discovered that NL and small state and culture of Louisiana are most similar! Beignets to olliebollen! But it’s heartbreaking and embracing to see that both are awesome but it’s how you were brought up and how you went to school that sets the basis on every comparison here in Holland. It’s a 6 month living in USA and 6 month in Europe and that is a winning combo for life and educating others on both sides of the pond. Or a Pangea. 😊The US can learn from the Dutch on their biking infrastructure, polder model, Deltaworks and the Dutch can learn from Americans on their spontaneity and ambition and “shine”, taking compliments. It’s okay to desire the stand out mentality that is taught in US schools. Thanks for your channel as I just subscribed! Proost! 🎉

[@hidavidwen]

Thanks Courtney-Anne! Wow 3x back and forth...moving takes up so much energy-especially between countries. I'm exhausted just thinking about it haha. I do miss the American ambition. I love the cycling culture here. And I do agree there's a lot we can learn from both sides. I guess the nice thing...is we can try to take what we like from both sides and try to apply it wherever we are? I do miss family/friends...so.6 months in the US and 6 months in NL-that's my dream!

[@courtney-annevantoor4370]

@@hidavidwen absolutely agree! Have a good day! Thanks again for your wonderful insights!

[@mariskab.9106]

well said!

[@spdelco]

I have lived in Amsterdam, and I am American . I have very similar opinion about the difference as your Dutch guest. Would love to talk with you about it.

[@mihalybrenzovics2769]

Interesting interview , without interrupting.

[@hidavidwen]

Thanks 🙏

[@NiekloLaarman]

echt een geweldige video

[@MarkBiesheuvel]

Great interview. I'm living in the Netherlands and working for an American company. I think that's the best of both worlds. You get the work ethics and work recognition like the US, but with the social structure from the Netherlands.

[@TheBooty28]

Yeah I also loved working for US companies in Europe. I like that they accept you for ability or potential more than education and the technology at work is always innovative.

[@KoenKooi]

Same here, it’s a pretty good deal! Just make sure your contract states exactly that, it makes things like layoffs and sick leave a lot less stressful.

[@SALVATl0N]

Absolutely fantastic interview David! Would have loved to hear his view on racism expanded, but a perfect interview besides that. My take away is that if you have talent and live a life without tragedy or struggles, America is the perfect place to be. But, if you don’t have the top talent or if you have any obstacles pop up in your life, America is much more difficult.

[@hidavidwen]

Yeah the American dream is still there…though it is only for a select few…those who are top talent, work their asses off, and are lucky. I mean personally for me growing up in the US, it is very true. Where you live. Your parents. The school you get into. And of course your individual traits. All of these factors have a big influence on your future success.

[@tom.k1547]

America is and will never be the place to be. Imagine a country so divided, the rich and the poor.

[@pimscholten7249]

Great vid 👌

[@hidavidwen]

Thanks Pim!

[@tygo9967]

Love your channel, I have been binging your videos lately

[@hidavidwen]

Thanks! Let me know if you have suggestions/ideas for future videos

[@Eener1000]

My experience with work is that in the Netherlands, we work less hours, but during those hours we work hard and efficient. We have a very strict "on the clock, off the clock" mode and if you are on the clock, you focus on your work. We also schedule everything and we are very strict about being on time and using our time efficiently.

[@fukkitful]

I wish my job was that way. I remember a time when being caught on your phone was a write up. Now, these younger ppl can't go 5 mins without checking their phone. Earbuds are an issue too.

[@MarionBrandsen6204]

He should come back for a year or so. So much has changed in The Netherlands.

[@hidavidwen]

Haha I bet! He does go back yearly, but I guess there is a difference between visiting and living in a place for (like a year)

[@guusheijmans4848]

Great video, absolutely love it. Lived for 8 years in Long Beach,CA and moved back to the Netherlands to go back to my roots. The guy made a great analysis, thank you for sharing

[@hidavidwen]

Thanks Guus. I hope you had a nice time in California. Enjoy spring!

[@cyrielbraams7190]

Ow yeah :) Good Stuff; Really nice video (being from the Netherlands, living in Holland parts are totally recognisable, and nice to hear some perspectives / experiences on living in the US too )

[@ltmcolen]

I am European. Belgian to be specific. And I agree largely with what he says. Indeed we have to worry less and life is more about living which is effectively the reason of our existence. On the other hand, your testimony perfectly exemplifies that the US has an attraction for people who are very productive because they want the opportunity to build something. While our system is highly attractive for people who might not want to undertake such a high risk and are looking for certainty and protection from the state. Obviously, current geopolitical alliances create a defensive umbrella over Europe with the strong American army backing us but when things get real it might become clear that Europe has traded her security for her wellbeing. This is wonderful in times of peace but might be counterproductive in wartime.

[@quentin2578]

Great remarks. What you propose is what it comes down to at the end of the day.

[@hidavidwen]

Thanks for sharing Jeroen. Yeah, the US is great for a certain type of personality (perhaps for Type A's like Paul mentioned). But Europe is great for other types.

[@BobbiPhantom]

We did indeed trade our security for wellbeing, even online.

[@atedejong5620]

My kids now both studying in the States, I am a dutch guy, living the last 20+ years abroad, of which 10 in the caribbean and 10 in Manila Phils. Since 2 years I live half of the time in Nashville, TN and half Manila. Love the TN place, reminds me off how it was in the Netherlands when I was a kid. Only good experiences sofar. Friendly talkative people in the state of Tennessee. Good food too!

[@hidavidwen]

Great to hear Ate! Sounds like a very rich experience you and the family have had-a very global experience.

[@atedejong5620]

@@hidavidwen thank you 🙂

[@TheBooty28]

Funny u say this. I have family also that live in Tennessee and my Dutch Husband also loves it there🤗.... Yes southern people are very chatty. But there is also alot of racism there. I think they are just more polite there culturally. Like anywhere else depends who u meet though. I do notice that Americans are not as racist to black people that grew up outside the US. I would notice that people would be more friendly to me as a black person when they hear me speak with a foreign accent.!!

[@atedejong5620]

@@TheBooty28 lovely to hear. Yes I love it there too!!

[@elkrutarth]

Example of the dutch directness. Really enjoyed conversation. thanks David

[@hidavidwen]

Thanks for watching and the kind words Krutarth!

[@jeswer9]

Really interesting video!

[@hidavidwen]

Thanks!

[@MrFWStoner]

Never been to the USA but I worked with people from there. The culture difference is shocking, especially when it comes to communicating. These people take their time to get to the point they're really want to make. We Dutchies are more direct, like in an extreme way. They call it blunt, I call it proper time management.

[@nanny8675309]

I am an American born and raised and I’ve always been known to be very blunt for the same reason you say, it’s a waste of time to dance around.

[@Centurion101B3C]

As with your guest in this report, I hail from Utrecht and mostly the Alblasserwaard and it so appears that we both spent similar amounts of time living in the US. Your guest apparently has adapted and adjusted to life in the US and I haven't and have, very happily so, returned to NL. I lived in the US from 1993 to 2015, having had varied employment, but mostly in the IT and consulting spheres. For me it was not a huge priority to live in the US, since I already was employed in a very international environment and I had worldwide experience in what I was working with, which was (Air)freight logistics and its IT aspects. My American wife got homesick, so we decided to relocate from NL to US, but I had my own misgivings, doubts and scepticism about this move. I must say that I found it extremely hard to adapt to the US lifestyle where I particularly had an aversion with the prevalent know-nothing, ignorance is bliss attitudes. On top of that, the almost universally expressed hubris and the rocksteady (but false and near cultlike) belief in American exceptionalism never failed to create feelings of deep disdain and aversion in me. Having worked with law-enforcement and nationwide telecommunication safety and security, I have found the US an on many levels deeply flawed society which expresses itself in the pervasive violence and anger at most every level, but where the burden in pain and damage expresses itself in inequity, senseless violence and backwardness and finds itself increasingly projected on the least resilient part of US society. The best that I can describe it is that I find that the US finds itself in a continuing cycle of (constructive or not) destruction in which the vast collateral damage of operating such is measured in the devastated fortunes and lives of the least capable and most socially vulnerable parts of US society. US Life expectancy and academic performance is decreasing and inequity is rising and that does not bode well for the future. After my kids were done with hight-school, I ended up moving back to the Netherlands (where in the meantime a lot, as in a heck of a lot) things had changed and not all for the better, but here I feel at home and at ease. There is currently nothing that I miss about the over 2 decades in the US and I have the distinct notion that the US has nothing meaningful to offer to Europe than that what we as Europe, cannot provide for in a better, more responsible and above all more affordable and socially responsible fashion.

[@hidavidwen]

Thanks for sharing your experience Corvus, especially as you have also experienced 20+ years in the US. Well, if anything, hopefully it was a good experience to live abroad (that most will never experience) and sounded like it gave you some more perspective. And hope you and your family are doing well now!

[@mariekekappers6504]

Heel interessant!

[@valentijntempels3416]

I think you're a good interviewer. You really let Paul do his word. I have been to U.S. several times. and even though I have never lived or worked there, I do recognize some things. I once stayed with a family for a week and I felt welcome, but they didn't have much time for me because they had to work ;-)

[@hidavidwen]

Thanks for the kind words…yeah it’s a different lifestyle over there :)

[@jefa_]

cultural differences are always so interesting to watch

[@hidavidwen]

Haha thanks Jeffrey - I also enjoy cultural differences

[@GohanSSJZ]

Never been in the US, but I had a lot of chats with Americans, and have a friend (from the UK) who lives there. Unlike Paul, my friend didn't come there with a valued skillset, Paul, like he said, came in at management level already, he basically started in the US at the top 3 or 5% already, moving up from there. My friend got a job at a Burger King, because his experience wasn't valued as much, nor did he have any top level experience. He went there for love (she had a child, so moving to the UK was not an option for them) and just found a job to pay the bills. The American dream is real, but it will always be a dream for most people. People also dream about winning the lottery, but you shouldn't be focused on that your whole life either. But sure people can work towards that dream, and people make it. However even if there were enough top paying jobs, loads of people can't make it either. Not everyone is born the same, not everyone has the intellect to make it. On top of that plenty of people don't want those jobs. They want the money, but not the job. I'm a youthworker, it's what I want to be, I've been working in this line of work for 15 years, and I have no financial worries. I live comfortably, got good savings, and will have a similar income when I get my pension at 67. Oh and I work 36 hours a week, got 6 weeks of vacation a year and lots of securities. So yes if you can get to the top paying jobs, the US will be financially better for you. For everyone else, the Netherlands will beat it every single day.

[@hidavidwen]

Thanks for sharing. Yeah, America can be great for those in the top 5%. But that's a select few. And one could argue...if you are in that top 5% and ambitious about your career or making a big difference, the American dream can be real. Also, it depends on where you come from too. If you come from a third-world country, it could offer a lot of opportunities to make money (to send home) or for your (future) kids. I do like to believe there is a grind/mindset that certain immigrant families possess as a result of coming from nothing...that could fit the American work culture. But for most, it's not easy. If you work at Burger King in the US...that's not a sustainable career in the US.

[@picardy7488]

I think it's really about finding skills that are needed. For example, plumbing and air conditioning repair is much in demand . And you can start small but then grow your business. And UPS (delivery service) drivers can make $100K with benefits.

[@f.jgouda810]

Nice conversation. ! Best wishes from Gouda, The Netherlands. 🌷🌷🌷🇳🇱

[@hidavidwen]

Thanks!

[@Whatsyournarrative]

I'm planning to move to the US, too! Will be interested to see more content like that.

[@shaquedelilicss7849]

Grown up in Holland as a foreigner, has been a bit hard. You get labeled one of the 3 labels: Expat, Allochton or East European. (I know, they are all allochton) On the bases of this label dictates *your chances who your friends will become or what kind of opportunities you will be presented by in your life. Having been in UK, Australia, NZ and US it felt very liberating to be judged on my skills rather on what my name is.

[@hidavidwen]

Thanks for sharing your experience

[@igorabasjidze1194]

That's so true, bro!) I live in Holland since my 16th (I get labelled as Eastern European) ..funny thing is that in the summer when I do spend some time under the poor Dutch sun and get some colour on my face Dutch people think that I'm one of them and start speaking to me in Dutch without asking any questions. But in the winter when my skin is getting more bleak and white, Dutchys unmistakably sensing a foreigner in me and I get addressed in English only and then they switch in Dutch)))

[@igorabasjidze1194]

I'm sorry for my poor English))

[@Karincl7]

They call it blunt, I call it racism

[@KsenijaCelner]

So true… I live in the NL for over a decade and their racism and discrimination is rampant although they show it in very insidious ways.

[@nikolatasev4948]

A great interview, I really loved that it was far more than bashing one side or the other, it was mentioning advantages and advantages of both. An honest, objective take, not simply pushing an agenda. I agree with almost everything said. My only note is that there are no Socialist nations in Europe. My country, Bulgaria, was Socialist - this meant the means of production were owned by the State - all the farms, factories, mines, shops - everything. And there was only one Party, of course. Perhaps Cuba is the only nation that is Socialist, I'm not sure, but in Europe we don't have them any more. Taking care of the people is Social Democracy, not Socialism.

[@hidavidwen]

Thanks Nikola! Yeah he was very insightful with an extensive background in both the Netherlands and the US (has also lived across the world in Asia, Europe, and the uS)

[@RishabhMazumdar]

Absolutely love this video, thanks a lot for making it and thanks to Paul too for giving European and American life perspective ❤

[@hidavidwen]

Thanks!

[@MDelorean]

Very interesting video and Paul made some very nice observations. Sometimes you need an outside view to really appreciate the living standards around you. You're a very good listener and I like you gave him space to elaborate on his view. Good luck with your channel, it gives a very nice perspective on finding balance in your life.

[@hidavidwen]

Thanks, yeah Paul has an interesting (life) perspective to share. Happy holidays 🎉

[@joostverra9130]

This is very interesting, always curious about the differences between our two countries. I do wonder what the perspective is from someone who doesn't have such a high paying position though, it seems like the experience for someone with an average job would be pretty different.

[@hidavidwen]

Thanks Joost. Yeah I think for those "expats" who are actually ABLE to move to the US or the Netherlands...they are usually highly educated with higher paying positions. Which is unfortunate.

[@SALVATl0N]

Thank you! been waiting for this type of view. i’d love to hear from more dutchies that have chosen to live somewhere else. i don’t understand why they move away

[@hidavidwen]

You’re welcome! Yes I am also interested :)

[@flyingsuitcase5275]

Very good interview.

[@hidavidwen]

Thanks!

[@Senneeeuh]

Wonderful guy. Through and through Dutch. Feel like I could listen to him for hours

[@antje8303]

I'm a German living in France for the last 13 years where basic health insurance is completely free! This removes so much pressure !! (On the downside, you have to wait a very long time for medical appointments). I lived two years in the US but as an au pair girl so that doesn't really count as I wasn't able to see what real work /adult life looks like. However I saw how much my host parents worked and how little time off the got. I wonder how so many people tolerate this system.. I would be burned out all the time...

[@picardy7488]

I have a friend who had two au pairs so that they could take shifts without working too many hours each - that's how much the parents worked. Unfortunately young children appear when careers are taking off. Too bad we can't have children when we're old and retired.

[@igoodkid334]

Great interview. Was his profession when he first came in Private Equity ? He obviously started with a high income when he came to the U.S. so sure, his American dream became reality. By the way if he came at almost 50 and he’s been here almost 20 years, he looks great for his age. Bike riding sure keeps you healthier ;)

[@hidavidwen]

Thanks for sharing. I think he was a corporate executive when he came

[@SriPerangur]

Cheers David & Paul, this was so insightful! Btw I know exactly where you two were sitting for this interview, its my favourite sunset spot! I'm an Indian-European living in San Francisco for the past ~4 years, I resonated a lot with the experiences shared by Paul. The social structure in SF is too shocking, I just can't get over how many smart entrepreneurial people live in the Bay area and yet there is so much homelessness and drug problems in SF. Its heart breaking. A community and social structure is very important to me, for that reason I even tempted to living in Oakland, which has a great community, but the gun crime is too real! I miss Europe and I certainly resonate more with the Dutch cultural values, my word for the day is "Gezelligheid" ( thanks Paul) .. I think it is time I go explore Amsterdam.

[@hidavidwen]

Haha yes the Embarcadero! Secret sunset spot indeed-it's pretty quiet over there in the back =) Where in Europe are you from? Assuming you moved to SF for work? I'm enjoying my time here, but I do miss many parts of SF and California though. I also hope you've enjoyed your time in SF too (despite half of it being during COVID which is unfortunate-I know, me too)

[@JJ-ct4eu]

Top quality video

[@chickenfishhybrid44]

This should be titled "What its like living in San Francisco* as a Dutchie". Obviously alot of the same basic things will apply through alot of the US but alot of this is particularly acute in SF or even alot of California.

[@hidavidwen]

Thanks for sharing, context is important

[@kyraatchason]

I’ve been living in Amsterdam for almost 1 year now and it’s been extremely difficult for me adjusting to everything here… It took 8 months to get a visa, i’ve made only 1 friend and I still have not gotten hired by a company and have been unemployed for almost 10 months. I would definitely say America is more welcoming and easier to find a job than here being labeled as an expat. The cost of living is cheaper but also until you find friends, land a good job and secure a nice apartment life here is tough…. I love it here otherwise, how easy life is and how people are less stressed but as an expat moving here is very difficult in my opinion and I am someone who normally adapts really easily to new places and environments

[@boudibergh-hv2tj]

Amsterdam is the worst city in the Netherlands to live in. It is full with touristy and Expats, the original Amsterdammer can’t afford to live in Amsterdam anymore. The western part of the Netherlands is too crowded, and the fact that you state that the cost of living is cheaper .. I can not agree with. But I hope you will find a job soon and manny friends, Give it a try in some of the university cities or more East or South, where people have more time for each other.

[@kyraatchason]

@@boudibergh-hv2tj thats what I've been grasping! I've visited other cities outside of Amsterdam; they all seemed nicer and easier to live in. Thank you so much for your kind words

[@Jessedegans]

Hi what did you study/ what kind of job are you looking for. I think one of the best ways to find new friends and work at the same time is to start working a couple of days a week in restaurants/bars its really fun :)

[@hidavidwen]

Hi Kyra - oh didn't see this until now. I can understand how difficult it is to adjust to a new country...I moved to Amsterdam a few months before...COVID! And to be honest, I'm still trying to build a "community" here-it's not easy and you're not alone in this. And I can imagine it to be even more difficult without a job. I don't know what kind of work you're looking for...but I hope you find something. Meetup is also popular here to find activities/groups. You're not alone Kyra! And hope you get through it David

[@kyraatchason]

@@Jessedegans hi!! yes that sounds like a great idea but not saying i’m too old but the reason I finished my Masters when I was 22 was so I could start working and making money so I don’t really want to keep working hospitality jobs especially in a country where tipping is not mandatory but I appreciate it ❤️

[@henkvancapelleveen9910]

Great interview! Love to hear from people from outside the USA about living in tje USA.

[@hidavidwen]

Thanks Henk. Yeah I also learned a lot...and am even more curious now about other people's experiences!

[@nas4apps]

Excellent interview - and speaking as a dual citizen us/nl. This guy nailed it. This type of interviews have some real value: what can we learn from another culture, also 'western', not too far off from the other, it seems. That counts to whichever 'we' you may belong to. Enjoyed it, related to it, makes some stuff conscious - and therein lies the learning: growing consciousness. (born in the USA - live in NL - moved across the Atlantic several times ;) ).

[@hidavidwen]

Thanks for sharing and the kind words. Paul has a lot of insightful things to say (with his experience too)