WHY I LEFT THE USA 🇺🇸 | Life in Europe (2022)

✨ Today, I am answering one of the most frequently asked questions I receive, “Why did you leave the USA?” I am sharing some of my insights on why I decided to leave America and move to the continent of Europe. While this video gives important general reasons on why I decided to move abroad, this is a complex topic that I could talk about for hours!
📣 Have any questions or opinions about what I said? Let me know in the comments below.
💃🏾 ABOUT ME
I’m Kendra, an American girl traveling the globe and sharing my life abroad through stories, lifestyle, and travel. After living in England, Germany, Italy and Macao, I will be relocating to Switzerland soon this year in 2021.
🎥 SUBSCRIBE to my YT channel for more interesting content about life abroad: / kendraabroad
📸 FOLLOW ME on Instagram to see what I do on the daily: / kendra_abroad
🇺🇸🇬🇧🇮🇹🇲🇴🇩🇪🇨🇭

[@pittarak1]

The US used to be a good place to visit, but not to live. Now, it's not even a good place to visit due to the anger, violence and hatred there. The self proclaimed mantra that it is the 'greatest country in the world' is just so bizarre.

[@safe-keeper1042]

Yeah, not setting foot there again. It's just way too dysfuctilnal and hostile at the moment.

[@KendraAbroad]

You said it’s, not me 🙃

[@RockStarOscarStern634]

@@safe-keeper1042 I hope they improve the USA

[@Dutch1961]

In Europe we work to live, we don't live to work.

[@KendraAbroad]

And that’s just the way I like it. 😉

[@Dutch1961]

@mila everlay no, it isn't. It's the most powerfull country in the world but it certainly isn't the best country. worldpopulationreview.com/country-rankings/best-countries-to-live-in

[@opaitaon5230]

Wich is really sad, in most european countries the minimum salary vs the life quality and conditions is really bad. Only in Uk, Germany, France, Luxembourg, Switzerland, you can have some quality with an ok job.

[@Dutch1961]

@@opaitaon5230 I don't know where you get your information from but I'm living in the Netherlands and in general were doing fine overhere. We have the happiest kids in the world, one of the better healthcare systems in the world, affordable schooling and very low crime rates. I'm very happy to live here even though I'm in the 49.5 percent tax scheme because of the height of my income.

[@opaitaon5230]

@@Dutch1961 netherlands is ok, not the best neither the worst to live in Europe. I live in Europe mate dont neet to search for info when i already got it by living here.

[@td4611]

Unless you have lived in every single country on the planet, how can you know the US is the greatest country? I’m planning to leave the US and look forward to new adventures.

[@KendraAbroad]

I agree. Good luck with planning your new adventure!

[@l.e.brentwood3137]

@@KendraAbroad I saw how and what you did there... Some people don't understand sarcasm.

[@qjtvaddict]

You want to live in a civilized country with a functional government

[@dariamorgendorffer1530]

@@qjtvaddict Sounds like you are subscribing to us what America is all about

[@Brozius2512]

I think she was being sarcastic about the US being the "greatest" country in the world.

[@caballoloco100]

Workaholism is unhealthy, but many people in the US are unaware of it. it is important to strike the right work-life balance. Good countries to live in are Germany, Denmark, The Netherlands, Belgium, etc. Bear in mind that healthcare is not free, but paid through taxation, so if you are unwilling to contribute to pay other people's healthcare costs, then stay in the US because Europeans are proud of it. Everybody is entitled to free healthcare at the point of need, and everybody need free healthcare during your stay on earth. And that has nothing to do with comunism or socialism as most people in Europe hold (right or left) liberal views.

[@KendraAbroad]

👏🏽

[@mothermovementa]

Including health care americas get taxed 43% of their income. Europe 28/ average tax

[@RestingonHope]

@@mothermovementa I get taxed at about 45% of my income here in the UK. So if i earn theoretically £100000 which in the UK is considered an amazing salary (after cost of living here its not that amazing) you will take home 5,050.01 a month or £60,600.10 a year after tax. On top of that you pay for council tax which is between 1000 and £3000 p/y depending on the street you live in. If you travel into the city by train from london then that will cost you about £2000 p/y or more. Its not cheap here. Yes you get health care but even now the UK gov is considering going the US route because the Health care system here is too expensive.

[@anirprasadd]

Every person in the history of mankind has been sick and injured atleast a few times in their life. Healthcare is a basic human requirement like food, water, and air

[@RestingonHope]

@@anirprasadd yes but why should I pay for your health care. I'm not your slave. You don't own me therefore how can health care be a human right. That's makes my labour a slave to that right. Screw that mate.

[@JayStephan]

I dropped out of my masters program at Pepperdine, because I realized the cost was ridiculous...it was 60K. It took me a while to realize that "The greatest country in the world" is not so great after all ... ;) California is nice, we live here part of the year, but my heart feels at home in Germany :)

[@KendraAbroad]

That is really expensive. After seeing the other side of life and university costs in Europe, it really makes it hard to justify such a high price tag! Are you from Germany or did you live there? 🙂

[@JayStephan]

@@KendraAbroad I grew up in California and now married to a German. We moved to Germany last year. Our primary home is now Germany and we live in California part of the year. :)

[@checkthemikecrophone9050]

I want to move Germany also thx for posting this how hard is it for someone in America to get job and language barrier in Germany?

[@arnodobler1096]

@@JayStephan 🙋‍♂🙋‍♂

[@JayStephan]

@@arnodobler1096 Hello :)

[@gybx4094]

As a retired American, I can agree that college tuition is outrageous and the working hours are ridiculous. There are factories that work young people 12 hours per day, 7 days per week until they quit. That's just pure evil. That's not what this nation was like when I was a kid in the early 1960's. Corporate greed and Big Government greed are destroying the lives of young people.

[@KendraAbroad]

So sad… that’s no way to live

[@areguapiri]

Which factories in specific?

[@janniapalmer5975]

Thank YOU

[@sharpmindschannel]

​@@eddiem2211 You do need school and in the US you can chose to study at home or attend a private or public school. Remember ypu can leave if you're not happy here. You're free😁

[@FirStub]

"factories that work young people 12 hours a day? 7 days a week", WHO? and WHERE? what the hell are you talking about!?

[@ragingkiwi]

Fully agree! Spent time living abroad before the pandemic sent me home. Now I'm plotting my way back to Europe.

[@KendraAbroad]

Things seem to be getting better. I hope you get to return soon! 🤞🏾

[@areguapiri]

Faked.emic.

[@sharpmindschannel]

Goodbye!

[@cmichole]

Leaving the US was the best decision I made. New York was/is too damn expensive. Korea has its own set of issues but I never felt broke here. I was able to save much more than I could back in the states. That’s one huge stress off of my back.

[@nikoid3631]

Not only expensive, but gun violence, lots of mental illness in the subway, dirty, homeless, physical violence, drugs and it's not safe to walk at night.

[@KendraAbroad]

Financial security truly makes life less stressful thanks for watching!

[@30dk09]

The thing I like the most about Europe is diversity. You can travel from Portugal to Estonia without visas and enjoy different experiences in each country.

[@KendraAbroad]

And each country is so different from the next! It’s amazing

[@deadstock82]

@@KendraAbroad they are different countries after all. I guess this concept is a bit difficult to grasp for americans that never left their bubble before.

[@KendraAbroad]

@@deadstock82 cute, but I’ve left my “bubble” many times. I commented that each country is so different because many are small in size and close together. Maybe that’s difficult for you to grasp 🙃

[@DorFra3]

Good points. I remember in elementary school my teacher saying that Europe had more holidays than the U.S. I thought the U.S. would have corrected that by the time I entered the workforce, but nooooooo. It’s definitely good for the mind, body and soul to be able to travel and take a break periodically.

[@KendraAbroad]

I think the US is quite set in its ways. But hopefully there can still be some improvements in the upcoming years. 🤞🏾thanks for watching!

[@ourworldfinallyelaine]

I don’t think América wants Americans seeing how other countries do it. Don’t want them getting any ideas. 😂

[@antonioramos8804]

@@KendraAbroad we don't change because our nationalism gets in the way. We're, (some... not all) as my friend says "pigheaded". The old "it's my way or the highway ". Let's not forget the "Love it or leave it" group. Yep, some are leaving. Because nothing really changes. By the way I'm a Marine veteran.... so please don't tell me "you're so un-American, go back to where you're from". I did my time.

[@OriginalLuffe]

Hello from Finland 🇫🇮 You are doing great job 😊👍

[@leegreen3391]

Currently in Portugal and have no plans to go back either. Decided to go back after 5 years abroad, NEVER AGAIN. Lesson learned.

[@KendraAbroad]

After five years abroad, I can imagine that it is not so easy to go back. 😅 i am glad that Portugal makes you happy!

[@leegreen3391]

@@KendraAbroad I don’t even drink much but had to have a bottle every night there 😅.

[@calebroman8184]

I moved to Japan and I'm a proud American but we still have a long road ahead of us to be called the greatest country in the world.

[@JBSpecialMusic]

Awesome! We’ve got Portugal on our minds for next year as a retirement destination. Looking forward to a new life.

[@KendraAbroad]

Good luck with your move! The weather in Portugal should be amazing. ☀️

[@andersholt4653]

Portugal is a very popular destination for retirees, as the cost of living is rather low but you still have a fantastic public healthcare.😁

[@aceboogisback9946]

I hear you, sister. I'm black American and have been working abroad for about 11 years around Asia and am considering a permanent leave. Thanks to you, I'll look further into finding a school in Germany or elsewhere in Europe to make it easier to settle down with my foreign-born fiance. Our government is unwilling to properly invest in its people, and that includes their education, infrastructure, and accessibility to public transit, as you mentioned. I think a lot of it stems from too much bureaucracy and misguided priorities. It's exhausting just to think about it. Plus, I have more international friends and acquaintances than I do in the states at this point. Best of luck to you!

[@KendraAbroad]

Best of luck to you, too!

[@peteryang5380]

I was in Europe for a month last month. I am from Los Angeles; born and raised. Back to the hustle and bustle. Im ready to make my way back to Europe(Spain/Portugal) next year hopefully to live.

[@KendraAbroad]

Happy planning! 😃

[@heatherfeather1293]

I dream of leaving the US and I hope it will happen one day. It just looks like it is so hard to get out unless you are a doctor, engineer, and have a lot of money

[@janniapalmer5975]

Heather this is the deception America wants to make you believe! I left America with $1,000 in my pocket to join my husband in Egypt for one year while we waited for our visa guess what I did! I worked remotely for an American company and we lived WELL for that entire year! It’s the cost of living that makes this easier. You have to be a doctor in America because everything is so damn expensive!

[@desiremanda6665]

Welcome to the country called the warm heart of Africa, lol

[@KendraAbroad]

Yes, please don't be deceived to think you need a lot of money to move abroad! I moved first as an exchange student, then as a regular student (both times with limited means and with majorly my own earned internship money). I only worked and brought in what most would consider a decent income after my studies were over

[@Matthew-lx9ne]

You're telling yourself that you're too poor to leave and therefore preventing yourself from doing so. That's the barrier that is holding you back. Sometimes you just need to abandon that destructive thinking and work towards the goal to attain it.

[@berndhofmann752]

Thank you for this feedback! I like visiting USA but not to live there. I'm German living in Spain. ❤❤❤

[@webefab]

I share your sentiments. I left Canada for Iceland 10 years ago next month and it was one of the best decision I made! YES, the vacation days are a plus!!

[@KendraAbroad]

Wow, Iceland! Now that’s an experience 🙂

[@GuillermoLG552]

I left San Francisco 38 years ago for Europe, I will not knock the US, there are some great things about it, however, one must see and experience the world, your views on the US will change as will your views on the world.

[@KendraAbroad]

That is very true. Thanks for commenting and watching

[@killystalkie]

You made incredibly sound observations and points here. Have been debating heavily these past few years w/ when exactly I should start investing in leaving this country (esp on top of the rising cost of living, poor healthcare and quality of life here as an African American). I want to leave so badly and discover a quality of life that’s actually worth living and working for in comparison. Thank you for your input and insight. Hoping to get out myself.

[@alexbrooks7158]

Hi Kendra! Great video and you made incredible points. I work for the City of Indianapolis and we get 22 days of vacation a year AND its use it or lose it. No days can transfer over. Also, getting my Master's degree cost almost as much as my undergraduate degree. It is SUCH a broken system. Goodluck on your move!

[@KendraAbroad]

Hey, Alex! Thanks for watching and for sharing more info. about your life. It's always interesting to hear about other people's work/education situation. Thank you for the well wishes! Let me know if there is anything else you'd like to see.

[@sandrathompson1277]

Do you get paid when you take a holiday….most counties do…

[@jesusloveisthegreatestpower]

Hello, I don't mean to be rude but must say you come across as very sweet and a very kind person compared to so many Americans I am seeing online. it is like the USA is going insane. Good thing you got out, you deserve to be happy.

[@KendraAbroad]

Thank you for the compliment 🙂

[@Italiangirlnj747]

Yes

[@Italiangirlnj747]

​@@KendraAbroadluv u❤

[@bobbybingle1662]

I moved to the UK from the USA over 10 years ago and will never return. Racism is still rampant and gun laws are crazy. I feel safe here. Good luck.

[@KendraAbroad]

I also feel safe and comfortable here. Not sure when I’ll go back!

[@janniapalmer5975]

Thank you

[@alejandrobustamante7964]

@@KendraAbroadBe smart, do NOT ever go back to the USA, I am a USA expat living in Central America, I know…

[@kiwifrog8878]

I am planning on moving to Mexico soon. I love the food and the people there.

[@KendraAbroad]

Have a great time in Mexico!

[@cmichole]

Same. Moving end of summer

[@godschild5587]

Not good idea, don't move over there because of food and people those are not the most important things to look for.

[@omimash8476]

I’m from Saudia Arabia and would like to told yiu I’m totally agree with you 👍🏻 I’m planning to complete my studies in zurich and this video really help me 😘🇸🇦

[@KendraAbroad]

Good luck with your studies and thanks for watching!

[@mrj3986]

Im from saudi arabia too, I will go to live in the UK after 2 years... unfortunate that the us was my dream country one day

[@deadstock82]

Zürich sucks.

[@ThrivingNotDying]

These are all good points! I left California because it felt like a bubble. I went to Asia but Europe is hopefully next on my list.

[@KendraAbroad]

Thank you for watching! I can understand. Where are you currently in Asia?

[@ThrivingNotDying]

@@KendraAbroad I was in Mainland China near Shanghai. 2020 really put a damper on my plans but I will head back out eventually.

[@ThePhillkillv2]

I'm thinking about moving to Germany after graduating. I'll have at least a year of rent saved up, so I hope I can make something happen.

[@KendraAbroad]

Plan it out and make your move! 😃 Good luck with everything

[@karstenvoigt7280]

@@KendraAbroad Good advice. Plan it - because that's what is expected from you in Germany. And make your move - because that will make you stand out... ;)

[@andersholt4653]

Good for you. Best of luck. You'll find that life is more human in Europe.😁👍

[@robbybroon4904]

As a Brit who recently moved to the US, another huge difference is the cost of owning a home. For my example I just worked up numbers for two equivalent houses, my current 4 bedroom house on the edge of London in a good area vs an equivalent sized and priced condo in a good area of North Chicago. Here are the numbers for ongoing costs, excluding mortgage. Sample 4-bed “nice” House £500,000/$700,000 UK Council tax £162/mo, £1947/year ($2575) total, all-in US Property Tax $1,239/mo, $14,868/year (£11,240) US HOA $883/mo, $10,596/year (£8,010) US Total $2,122/mo $25,464/year (£19,251) 9.9x the cost! And mortgage rate 1.59% in UK and in US you are lucky to get under 2.5%

[@saadiaarslanturk2850]

And after all the taxation you still have no healthcare unless your job provides it.

[@KendraAbroad]

I think it depends on the city where you want to move in the USA, but I get what you are saying! I am from Texas and I would probably move back there if I went back. I find the housing prices here insane for the size and amount of land … but I am from Texas. Haha

[@aickoyvesschumann3400]

@@saadiaarslanturk2850 and once you get sick, you have several thousand dollars deductible. When you are really sick, you get fired and loose even this shitty healthcare plan.

[@robbybroon4904]

And your UK council tax covers street cleaning, snow clearance, trash collection, etc. you get something for it. In US this stuff is extra. And in the UK when I rent my house out, my tenants pay the council tax direct, whoever lives in the property pays it, not the owner. And there is a 50% discount if you are a single person, and it is waived if you are on low income.

[@mischelle9530]

Wow I pay tax in Virginia North Virginia, and they run me $3000 a year starting this year. Are you lying are you serious no one pays property tax every month? Also, pounds are worth less than dollars so $500,000 would be 613,000 in pounds. You need to exchange that money correctly. HOA is just a couple hundred a month if that for my house and I live in a 7-bedroom 4 bath home. Wow don't think that is even possible you better go back to Britain. LOOOLs

[@cindygarshong2091]

This video gives me so much peace ❤

[@colinbrown7305]

I live in the UK. If I had holidays built up and didn't use them, my employer would make me take them. You are almost forced to take paid time off.

[@JennyAmponsah]

Yep agreed with this! You’re supposed to take your holidays otherwise you lose your entitlement to them

[@paulm2467]

@@JennyAmponsah in my business if you don’t take your holidays in that year you have to take them before the beginning of the next tax year in April so the company will book the days off and force you to take them. It’s way more sensible to book them for your convenience, the company prefers it that way as they don’t have the hassle of trying to fit everyone into a short time in winter.

[@JennyAmponsah]

@@paulm2467 absolutely! I agree with you!

[@KendraAbroad]

And that’s such a great thing. Rest is so important. I wish others could understand that

[@arwelp]

My employers insist you take all your time off - I’ve known people who were made to take nearly the whole of December off, because they’d not taken much time off earlier in the year. Last week I booked the first week of August off, and I’ve still got 3 weeks to take off by the end of the year (not counting Christmas/New Year week which was booked automatically!). Next year I’m intending to retire at the end of May, but I’ll have to work out how much leave I’ll have to take first before I discover when I’ll actually stop working!

[@kubu79]

My COA is $50,000 per year. The US is a country founded on Capitalism and altough it is called a Democracy it is actually a PROFITOCRACY

[@gunthergebauer7321]

Even worse, i is founded on Calvinism!

[@foragingfleur]

Plutocratic corporate oligarchy.

[@akkros707]

The United States is not a constitutional republic, or a democracy. It's a corporate dictatorship.

[@Italiangirlnj747]

Yes

[@wout123100]

heeh funny, but sad.

[@davidalons0]

US citizens!! Come and join Europe!! Healthcare, university are free!!! I'm from Spain, and we are not perfect, but i feel that all of us have the same opportunities to be whatever we want without thinking how rich you are.

[@phoenix-xu9xj]

No. Because The whole world will become like America.

[@janniapalmer5975]

We are coming! Was in Spain for one day loved it! But my husband is Arab so most likely we will settle with Dubai :)

[@janniapalmer5975]

@@phoenix-xu9xj omggg haha valid 😂😂

[@deadstock82]

that's why the economy is so bad in spain ;)

[@deadstock82]

@@janniapalmer5975 dubai is hell on earth. most fake place ever.

[@robertjamesstove]

A fact-filled and enjoyable video. Public transportation is extremely important to me; it probably forms the main reason for Europe's attractiveness. Illness prevents me from driving, and here in Australia the perils of non-car-ownership are rapidly becoming as severe as they have long been in the USA.

[@Norell88]

Welcome to Europe! Hopefully, you will be able to visit us up north in Sweden too.

[@KendraAbroad]

Thank you (I’ve actually been here for quite a while 😉)! I would love to go to Sweden again one day soon.

[@Norell88]

@@KendraAbroad 😌🙏😊

[@clearlake3492]

What I find interesting is that I can't imagine so many people wanting to leave the US 40 years ago. Back then, the US was - at least in the vast majority of citizens' eyes - the greatest country on earth (despite the fact that most Americans had never traveled abroad). Things have clearly changed big-time in America.

[@Keno0355]

This is because 40 years ago there was no internet and no KZbin. Now many people can get much better information and access the experiences of others

[@KendraAbroad]

I think people are also more open about sharing their opinions, as previously stated. Not only that, but more people are able to travel to different countries and see where they fit in best

[@rosab8026]

...no había Internet...😂😂

[@rosab8026]

@Moon Shine si piensas que no es tan malo....es que conoces poco, la verdad. o no quieres conocer...Me alegro que te vaya bien ...o que ya tuvieras unas circunstancias que hacen que te vaya bien.....ojalá nunca estés en situaciones como las que pasan otros, sin más culpa que enfermarse, tener un accidente o no haber venido de una familia "con posibles " que les permita acceder a la línea del bienestar, como tú....

[@melsmithmel]

@Moon Shine Roe V Wade..My friends are tired..The brain drain has begin..It's become a backward country.God Bless America but democracy is dead.

[@ndtgroup]

100 percent agree with you

[@sydneyfugere7023]

You are so AMAZING!!! Thank you for this great video. So informative, fun, and engaging.

[@XrizzTina]

Omg I can’t stand that people are proud of not taking vacations

[@KendraAbroad]

Me neither. Go out and do something else other than being in this office

[@andersholt4653]

That's what happens when you're brainwashed into thinking that working=life! In Europe we work to live, not live to work.

[@chelciedaniel6963]

I want to leave the US so bad but money is always in the way 😢 I fucking hate it here.

[@KendraAbroad]

Try to save up for a short vacation first to visit potential places you think you may want to live, if you can. It may take a lot of research but deals can always be found. Good luck to you!

[@kereniofiel3729]

Me too.

[@user-name159]

100% agree with you Kendra. I'm a European from Ukraine but used to live in Germany and 2 years in the UK at the moment moved to Florida. So in my perspective, I feel EU better for myself. As you said education, public transport, vacation, multicultural...100% agree but can add: 1)Ability to walk in the EU. In the US you can not just open the door and be in the middle of smth. You have to drive to the park or walking area in 90% of cases. 2)Cheap flights in Europe. Ryanair or Wizzair could cost 10-20 euros...in US 100-150$+ 3)Medical care!!! IT'S PURE MADNESS!!! And the funniest thing for me is that in the UK it was no direct medical tax and free medicine. In Florida, it's medical tax 1.7% of income and no free medicine XD 4)I will put the last one very personal so it's could not be related to you at all. Cheese: I can't find good cheese at any supermarket in Jacksonville :( I found 5-7 kinds in Costco...so it's extremely a few + price 4 times higher, comparing to Germany or UK. So as a resume I can say if your goal is to found Google, Amazon, or other massive company - go to the USA. If you want to live your life and be good but not reach (I mean to be a multimillionaire) - Europe. Enjoy your life in Germany. I feel to go back to Europe in a couple of years too:)

[@KendraAbroad]

Amazing points!! The point about the cheese is hilarious and I know I would be able to relate if I go back to the US 😂

[@aickoyvesschumann3400]

I second the cheese and add baked goods. Simply non-existing and terrible.

[@user-name159]

@@aickoyvesschumann3400 true

[@ahmadtharwat2670]

I am from Egypt and I was planning to move to America 🇺🇸 but after watching your video I may change my mind and go to Europe..! What do you think.?

[@lerryperry]

Don't go to USA. It is full of crap.

[@checkthemikecrophone9050]

Let’s switch. People outside USA here all this hype about USA until they get here and get a reality check especially with racism being very bad here

[@ahmadtharwat2670]

@@checkthemikecrophone9050 racism is very scary in America 🇺🇸 It is a nightmare

[@KendraAbroad]

Review your personal situation and see what is best for you in terms of finances, job prospects, vacation days, etc. i am sure you will make the right decision 😄

[@checkthemikecrophone9050]

@@ahmadtharwat2670 I hope you find happiness brother whatever you decide 🙌🏾

[@yogisurfrunner1925]

Hay girl hey - shout out from Austin, Texas with plans to move to France!! Good on you for movin on outta here to Western Europe. You did a great video: straightforward, well-spoken, to the point! I’d love to hear your thoughts on the most annoying ‘little things’ like washer/dryer, adjusting to metric system, etc

[@KendraAbroad]

I definitely have to give that update as well! Haha thanks for watching!

[@simonpowell2559]

Are they your only problems? Let me help. Metric is in tens. Washer dryer are available anywhere. See problems solved.

[@sandrathompson1277]

Do you think they do not have front load washing machines and dryers..which century do you think the rest of the world live in…..

[@naimapeukert8575]

Das Leben in Deutschland ist wunderschön,ich kann es mir nicht vorstellen wo anders zu leben ❤

[@squidcaps4308]

Here not only education is free, you get monthly student and housing benefit, and you can take government backed loan on top of it, it is meant to pay for things you need for your first apartment, maybe buy a cheap used car, a bike etc. Of course some use it for partying, that is their prerogative and at least i don't care at all if they waste it; it is in the time of humans life where social life is very important, you can get stuff later but you are young only once.

[@KendraAbroad]

Well, it is “free” because of the taxes here - but I believe everyone should have the right to education 🙂

[@cat56789]

I think it’s absolutely sad especially with the education system and the cost of college tuition and housing and more but I feel like it was created that way for only a certain class of people (upper/rich) I’m from 🇺🇸 and l plan on going to college here but that’s why I’m gonna apply for and get as many scholarships as I can so I’m not stressed about thousands of dollars to pay for school we honestly shouldn’t have to pay for our education, it’s sad

[@KendraAbroad]

It is definitely a sad situation. Good luck with your scholarship search and thanks for watching!

[@KendraAbroad]

It is definitely a sad situation. Good luck with your scholarship search and thanks for watching!

[@mischelle9530]

Who do you expect to pay for it do you want teachers to teach for free and builders to work for free well if you expect education to be free then you must want to work for free. No paycheck for you no not for you. I understand it is overpriced but our taxes are for those scholarship's they cost us yearly we the workers divide the cost and pay for them the government doesn't give them out for free from their wallets they do it after stealing it from the workers me another words. Shame on you for expecting my family to pay for your school when we can't afford to go, nor do we qualify for a scholarship. You know Europe isn't far it would make my country better for me if you went and lived there. Thanks in advance!

[@solbutton1611]

I'm gonna be going back to live in the UK in 8 months.......... 8........ long and grueling months that I have to wait for. I can't wait!

[@KendraAbroad]

Have a nice move!

[@sarakelleher3590]

Very good points resonated with me. I'm embarrassed with our transportation after seeing the bullet trains in Europe. I also worked 6 days a week 60 hrs and we are supposed to be proud on missing out on our kids functions and not taking time off etc. Too much greed and the politicians not giving a care about us. Not to mention what is going on with Healthcare. It's totally gone down hill.

[@KendraAbroad]

I do really love the transportation system here. I hope you have found a better life balance now

[@sandrathompson1277]

That’s sounds so hard…life is more than work isn’t it….

[@MFYouTube683]

Welcome 🇨🇭 you are much appreciated.

[@KendraAbroad]

Thanks 🇨🇭

[@andersholt4653]

Could it be that the "American Dream" has turned into the "American Nightmare"?

[@himosaid146]

I'm German and I've been to the USA twice I would honestly say that I didn't feel comfortable in US USA is nice for a vacation but not for life Europe is safer and more beautiful and multicultural and the cities are very clean Germany has the best health system in the world we haven't talked about switzerland yet (the best country to live in the world) i would also like to say that the americans are very nice and helpful people but unfortunately they don't have much time, they work all the time

[@banburypandora]

Im a dual national and thankfully i have an out, im moving back to the uk this year yea me!

[@KendraAbroad]

Good luck with your move !

[@Jurmyhyle12]

You can make happiness anywhere. I've traveled to many places and honestly if I'm in the U.S, Europe, or Asia I can't say that any place is better in totality. I've seen perfectly happy people in all three. I feel like when people make videos like this it can give people a false impression that just because you move somewhere you're going to be happy and that's not necessarily the case.

[@jacquelynsaenz2111]

I'm leaving the US because I don't feel safe here anymore I feel scared terrified And I don't have a job or a life here I'm going to become a filmmaker I want to make my films in Asia where they have better dramas And care about the life we have All I'm saying is I want to leave the United States to start a better life I don't feel safe here anymore where I feel safe is around Asia

[@KendraAbroad]

At least you have recognized where you feel safe and at your best. I think that is an essential part of the journey in choosing to stay on your homeland or move abroad. All the best to you!

[@TazIWonder]

$500 a year for a full course-load in Germany? Am I hearing that right? That's about the cost of 1 month of 1 summer course in New York!

[@pashvonderc381]

She’s not far off the mark..

[@KendraAbroad]

Depends on your exact location in Germany, but essentially, yes. Obviously doesn’t cover housing though!

[@karannavani7554]

I was planning to move Usa but cancelled

[@alejandrobustamante7964]

Smart decision you made.

[@harrycooper5231]

Wowzers, great video. Keep up the great work.

[@KendraAbroad]

Thanks for watching!

[@marvelharris9540]

Fantastic... love to see stuff like this!

[@KendraAbroad]

Thanks for watching!

[@bigskypioneer1898]

Vacation Days in the U.S.A. and the peer pressure NOT to use them. Or the pressure to work 10-20 hours of OT each week. I have never understood this and I was freaking born here! I don't get slaving for a boss - sacrificing your life to provide for your family - and then just before your employer has to pay you those retirement benefits or even partially pay you for them as stated in your employment contract (if you were lucky enough to negotiate a decent one) they lay you off. This happens SO often here - and the majority of states in the US are "right to work" states - which basically means you can be let go for almost any reason. I think of that line from _The Devil Wears Prada_ about if you're doing well at work, your social/private life sucks and vice versa. The American Dream is a myth for most folks - even those entrepreneurs that slave away for years. Most don't make it. The ones that do are famous and house hold names BECAUSE making it like that IS so rare. The whole "work hard" to get ahead doesn't apply if you don't already "know" someone or are somehow in the "club" with the upper management. The average entry-level worker has a greater chance of walking on water than working 80 hours a week and becoming the CEO of a major corporation, golden parachute and all, based SOLELY on merit. Most people work themselves into the ground for no reason for an employer that only sees them as a number that affects in their margins and stock value. Now to the inevitable "whataboutism" responding to my comment.... I _know_ there are people that this does happen for. But the list is short of good, honest, hard working people that got promoted for all of the right reasons and not because they are the bosses nephew or in the same college fraternity as the boss. (And yes, the fraternity/sorority thing happens more than Americans think it does... again... it's not what you know - it's who you know.

[@janniapalmer5975]

Omggg I’m screen shooting your comment because it was perfectly versed and point proven better than I could ever explain it. Showing everyone this. Gals were talking about this at work, getting out of this American nightmare

[@KendraAbroad]

Great statement! I agree with everything you said. That is unfortunately exactly how it is.

[@sandrathompson1277]

Besides all the yearly holidays….in Australia you get 3 months paid leave after 15 years

[@luisfelipeespiritusanto2994]

I been to Europe twice and I love it, right now I’m doing more research to see if I’d like to stay in the US, or move somewhere in Europe.

[@KendraAbroad]

Good luck with your research!

[@akagami3859]

Now this is it..i turn down my green card and choose finland to live peacefully and comfortably

[@charlenelegerton6288]

Thank you for all your information.

[@KendraAbroad]

No problem! I can’t wait to share more soon.

[@KendraAbroad]

Thanks for watching!

[@berndgaal7689]

for european people it looks great on your cv when you have studied in the US. The other way around the same. The european people rather not interested in multi culture when studying in the US. But I hear ya what you mean. Hollidays is a big issue of course!! I cannot imagin just have 10 days of vaccation per year.

[@KendraAbroad]

Yes 😃. Thanks for your comment and for watching!

[@jameelahedwards8550]

Newly subscribed and I'm super excited for more videos 😃

[@KendraAbroad]

Thanks for subscribing 😄. New video coming soon

[@minifoodies9448]

So interesting I enjoyed ur videos 👍 Happy to see u friend and good luck

[@KendraAbroad]

Thank you for watching!

[@bigskypioneer1898]

Most awesome intro EVER!!!!

[@bigdog44pc]

Plus they treat you like an adult in Europe.

[@jimjungle1397]

I am American and lived as a student in Belgium for 4 years. One year language study and 3 years undergrad degree. That was $300 a year in tuition. For masters and phd degrees, which are available in English there, they actually pay the student a small amount if under age 35 and call it, "working", not studying. Lots of days off sound nice, but living in Europe as an American was exhausting. It was funny people go to work on Friday, but instead of catching up or reviewing the week, actually nothing gets done on Friday. Everybody kicks back on Friday and no appointments can be made on a Friday. So there are actually 4 week days to get any kind of office services needed. Transportation works on Friday, but they also strike on Fridays, to get attention by messing up people's weekends.

[@andersholt4653]

Please compare your life is the US vs life in Europe. Isn't disruptions in the public transport system better than being shot by an enraged gunman?

[@KendraAbroad]

You have had an interesting experience. Hm, I have always worked at offices that approached Friday like a true and productive day. I know there are limited office hours for select services but I have never had an issue. I also did research my in advance about when they would be open and very rarely have to go to places like that. Also, it probably depends on the country in Europe you live in, but I can’t remember the last time I was affected by a transportation strike. Interesting how countries can vary! It is a big continent with a lot of countries though

[@funkmachine9094]

in europe we walk. i tried to explain that to my american friends and they were like "sure we walk to" i'm like no,not the way we walk in europe haha. like you said in the u.s "everybody" is dependent on their cars

[@KendraAbroad]

It's like a REAL walk here in Europe. haha I agree. Hitting 10 miles a day by pure accident.

[@choosetoshine2610]

Excellent content and informative! New subscriber. ❤️

[@pharxahghxst3654]

It's like you cannot win here in America

[@an0nym0uz0me]

I moved from san diego to Belgium, but im originally from Houston. I can completely relate, except for the college part I used my GI bill but I know its not cheap.

[@KendraAbroad]

I hope you are enjoying your time in Belgium!

[@an0nym0uz0me]

@@KendraAbroad I love it here, it’s pretty much centred to where I get to travel all over. Mostly I drive, but I took a Ryanair flight to Italy and it wasn’t as bad as people make it out to be….. better than flying on southwest out of Houston hobby airport

[@ezhwt8fq]

@@an0nym0uz0me please tell me, people in Italy are not very racist/xenophobic towards foreigners? I am frightened by the rise of right-wing parties in Italy

[@an0nym0uz0me]

@@ezhwt8fq no, I wouldn’t say that. Ultimately they can be over all rude because you don’t speak Italian. And due to African immigrants the police tend to pull you over sooner than later

[@RockStarOscarStern634]

I really wish you'd eventually come back to the USA one day

[@newvision101]

Because you're smart. Period.

[@pedrocavalcante5822]

I would like to live in Europe, I live in a very poor country in South America and around here I don't see any prospects for living and working. I'm saving money to get a resident or student visa.

[@KendraAbroad]

Good luck with moving to Europe!

[@kvwuppkvwupp834]

Welcome to Europe!

[@KendraAbroad]

Been here for white a while, but thank you!

[@kellyflores4931]

Washington state also is a good state for international living. 🙂 also thank you for this video.

[@KendraAbroad]

I will have to visit soon! 😄

[@ari-jv]

Finland is even better when it comes to vacation days. One of the best in the world

[@michaelgrabner8977]

Focus on socalled "Fenstertage/Window days"..meaning for instance a state vacation day is on a Thursday than the Friday is the socalled "Fenstertag/Window day" in relation to the weekend..where you can take 1 day of your working vacation days for that Friday and you expand your "freetime" from Thursday till Sunday having 4 days to for instance take a trip by loosing just 1 of the 35 working vacation days...or the state vacation day is a Tuesday then the "Fenstertag/Windowday" would be the Monday and you expand your "freetime" from Saturday till Tuesday by loosing just 1 working vacation day...just a tip if you didn´t noticed it already..with doing this you expand your holidays to over 35 days because you had 2 vacationdays (1 state vacation + 1 working vacation day) but actually 4 days in a row off... presumed you don´t have a job where you have to work at the weekend as well but a Monday till Friday job which most office jobs are.

[@KendraAbroad]

This is true! I have done this in the past. I didn’t get so specific because we in the US most of our holidays are “glued together” with the weekend. These “window days” are something I only experienced since moving here - and I’m very happy about it! Haha Thanks for tuning in

[@magslee6288]

"Fenstertage"? Very interesting. Never heard the term🤔Where are you from? We call it "Brückentage" in Niedersachsen🤗

[@michaelgrabner8977]

@@magslee6288 Mancherorts heißt es Brückentage oder Zwickeltage oder eben Fenstertage..Ich bin aus Österreich und da sagt man dazu Fenstertage.

[@magslee6288]

@@michaelgrabner8977 Das macht Sinn😁 Hab ich noch was Neues gelernt. Obwohl ich oft in Österreich bin, ist mir das entgangen. Schöne Grüße 😊

[@Hannah-wz1si]

I’m almost done with my associates here in this US and I am thinking about finishing my bachelors abroad. I’ve been asking everyone what they think because I don’t know if it’s a crazy idea. I love Costa Rica and would love to earn my bachelors there. It’s way cheaper to just independently study instead of doing a “study abroad” program. My concern is that, if I wanted to come back to the States and work, would employers accept a bachelor’s from Costa Rica? I think the quality of education is the same (or better) in many other countries, but I don’t know how US employers would view that. Great video!

[@KendraAbroad]

Hannah - sorry, I wrote a reply a while ago and didn’t realize I didn’t send it through! I will not lie. I am very, very happy I have the basis of my Bachelor’s degree from the USA because if I ever want to return, I have an easily recognizable form of education. But the international experience is invaluable. If you find it a little more secure, perhaps you could transfer and finish your bachelor’s degree in the USA and do a study abroad instead. Maybe look for work or do a language course after you are finished with your degree? I am just throwing out ideas here. Haha

[@EdvardOmdahl-if3md]

I don’t have a car and I’m used to walking everywhere. Hi, my name is Eddie.

[@TammyTamuno]

I love your videos. Can you share the software you use for your video edits 😍😍😍. So crisp and clean

[@KendraAbroad]

Hi Tammy. Thanks for watching! I use Premiere Pro.

[@stefthepef]

Oh, I live in Austin now-our public transit is okaaaayish but still mostly bus-based. NIMBYs push back on expanding trains that would get around the horrorshow that is our road traffic, so yeah. Compared to say, the train network in Germany? It's night and day. Given that most of my train experience is in NYC because cities just don't expand their rail networks here, I still marvel over every train car that *doesn't smell like pee* in Europe. I lost a sandal after stubbing my toe on one in Stuttgart and didn't feel like I needed a round of every kind of shot including ebola, tetanus, COVID, tequila and some undiscovered diseases only found in bears from just walking across the floor missing a shoe. Public transit can be clean? Pleasant? Well-lit? Well-monitored, with helpful staff? Not sticky? Can we please show this to the NIMBYs who keep voting against investing more in it here?

[@qjtvaddict]

The USA needs to straight up ban NIMBYS

[@KendraAbroad]

This comment is iconic. I don’t even know to respond. 😂 I’ll just put a clapping emoji because I totally agree. 👏🏽 haha thanks for watching!

[@djperryboy]

Okay.. We can discuss all day what country is better or worse. USA is a great country in many aspects. Science & military being two of them. If you like fast food you will probably love US for it's prices and for it's big portions. Houses are big, cars are big. New york city have lots of people and much to do. Schools and sports feels alive. Great parks. People seem very sensitive but they also have unique personalities. This is based on what I catched up during my lifetime though I have never been to USA so you can always correct me if you think that I'm wrong. Also you have the lovely forests in the north towards Canada. Asia have a unique Culture. While USA and Canada seems to share a lot of culture, Asian countried seems to have alot mor differences. Even though some cultures are shared through the whole Asian region as far as I know, like rice as one example, the countries seems to differ alot in culture. Thailand is very unique country as well as India, Japan and the Philippines. Now their locations are also very different from each other. Thailand is a Buddhism country with lots of Buddah statues and elephants. It's a country ruled by their King. They are known for their TukTuks and their food is worldwide famous with meals like Pad Thai, Tom Yum and Khao Soi. Also some sports like Thai boxing comes from here. Philippines have a president and have cultures from USA, Spain, China, Japan, India, Italy and much more, and most important their own Native culture and is Basically a Catholic Christianity country. They have a hugh selection of foods such as Adobo, Bulalo, Kare-Kare, Lechon, Kaldereta and Bangus to name a few. Some of the biggest malls in the world including the worlds biggest IKEA can be found here. Their Jeepney is a very unique and well known vehicle in the Philippines. Some of Philippines biggest sports are Basketball and Boxing. India have a very unique style of music that is easy to recognize. They also have a big range of instruments mostly used in India. They are also very famous for their foods with Rice & Curry, Tikka Masala, Tandoori and Biryani. Hinduism is the main religion here. They are very famous for their bread. India also have India Mall which is one of the biggest malls in the world. Yoga was invented here. Japan have culture of being extremely polite and for their Bonsai, Sakura, Sumo Culture, Cleanliness and for their video game industry. They are also a big player when it comes to robots and wending machines. Japanese most popular food got to be the Sushi. Other famous foods from Japan are Tofu, Tempura, Ramen, Sashimi, Wagyu & Nihonshu. The fighting sport Karate comes from Japan. China is very big for making and exporting clothes, cars, toys and much more to all over the world. They are also very famous for their porcelain and their emperors. They have alot of different religions in their country. China has probably got the most widespread food in the world. Some of them are Dumplings, Dim Sum, Spring Rolls and Jian Dui. China is also popular for the Kung Fu fighting sport. South Korea is very well known for tech and electronic companies. They are also very famous for their boy bands and girl bands. When it comes to food they have some famous dishes like Bibimbap, Kimchi, Bulgogi and Samgyeopsal. South Korea have the most plastic surgery in the world. So this is just a few countries on this earth that are so different. And the only thing that can make a better country is your own mindset of what you like. They all have good sides and bad sides. I tried to focus on the good sides here. Please come with peace. *Bless You Everyone*

[@joriskemper5392]

Actually if you combine taxes with all the health- and other insurance premiums to get your total deduction from your income, US citizens generally give up double of what Europeans give up. Europe contribution +- 26% US +-47%

[@AfroMillennialMomma]

You had me at vacation days!!

[@KendraAbroad]

Plus national holidays and it really is a balanced life… worth living! 😌

[@milenkopaljic8372]

You are lucky 🍀 🌍 just stay there for the rest of your life, and never ever to think of back to America 🇺🇸 !!! God bless you...

[@saadiaarslanturk2850]

Taxes are higher but you have a quality healthcare.

[@jeremyhubble7174]

My sister just moved there she loves it

[@KendraAbroad]

I am glad she is doing well over here!

[@thepearlswirl]

2:34 oh wow I live in Texas now you’re so right.. I can’t wait to get rid of my car ✈️

[@charlenelegerton6288]

I want to move to Germany. I am very educated and how can I find a job?

[@KendraAbroad]

Hi Charlene! The ease of finding a job in Germany will depend on many things like your field, language ability, and past work experience. I can’t easily answer that question, unfortunately. I can say that I think Germany is very open to international people who are interested in the culture, but who also want to bring their international flair. :-)

[@jasonmoquin9245]

I totally agree with vacations.

[@KendraAbroad]

They are a vital part of work-life balance and taking a break mentally. 👏🏽

[@jasonmoquin9245]

@@KendraAbroad I lived in the Neatherlands for 3 years. I loved their way of life, and time off from their profession was very important. It was also encouraged to do so. I plan on returning to Europe in the next few years. The USA is way to fear based oriented for me. Thank you kindly for the video.

[@FirStub]

America is the greatest country to live in. We have our problems for sure. But no other country can defend itself like America.

[@you-to-beornot-to-be9629]

Come vacation or live in Portugal, we would love to have you and all good people.

[@KendraAbroad]

Portugal is still on my list!

[@zazlar4228]

One thing with Europe, you stay in the same job making the same salary your entire life and they don’t pay well at all aside from certain countries. The US, you have choice and progression and the option to really make money.

[@JTFuller]

I want to leave here to Kendra.. I can't stand this place.. I am in Florida.. I understand.. I have some people over in London and out that way and want to go over there.

[@KendraAbroad]

I hope you get to make it over the Atlantic sometime soon. Thanks for watching!

[@JTFuller]

@@KendraAbroad me too.. your message was very well said. Thank you.

[@lerryperry]

Florida is bad. You have a terrible Governor and Pres#43 lives there 😱😱😱

[@markellwilliams3594]

Hi Kendra! What if you’re from the US and want to move to France because you have French blood would it be hard for me to do? I’m originally from Louisiana but live in Katy texas now but I’m tired of this US life. I’ve lived abroad in Germany before when my dad was in the service but I’d love to move to France

[@KendraAbroad]

Hi Markell, To be honest, I am not sure about the ability to move to France based on blood relationships. Just because I have never researched moving to France - but perhaps something does indeed exist! Good luck with planning your potential move

[@markellwilliams3594]

@@KendraAbroad hi darling.. thanks for the input and info on this. I hope you have a blessed week ahead. 🙏🏽♥️

[@zenstudiosla8614]

Don’t move to LA unless you wanna pay $2500 for a studio.. and you might have a homeless person sleeping outside your building.

[@Nami66148]

I’m 56 and have been working for banks and real estate closings and I hope to retire away from the USA (chicago). I wanted to ask you did you research how your job skills carried over there ? I don’t like driving either 😅

[@MrLynch-ei4dc]

Cant spell sexy without ...WOW! LOL. Its cool you are open minded about leaving, im on the same boat. I love the US...but i really need to get my finances straight. Love the videos. New subscruber here.

[@KendraAbroad]

Best wishes on saving and then moving over!