REVERSE CULTURE SHOCK - Returning to the USA from Europe
After years of traveling in Europe - we've experienced some level of culture shock each time we return to the USA. Join us as we explore the unique challenges of returning to the USA after an extended period of travel in Europe. From the subtle nuances in daily life to the cultural differences that become apparent upon our return, we delve into the unexpected aspects of readjusting to the familiar yet changed surroundings. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or preparing for your own international adventure, this video offers insights, tips, and reflections on navigating reverse culture shock.
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Have you had any similar experiences while traveling in Europe and then returning to the States? We'd love to hear your views, be sure to leave them below. Plus, did you see our new "It's Two Thirsty" gear Brian is Sporting? You can check it out here: brian-and-carrie.myspreadshop.com/
Yes, my husband and I are just in Portugal now. Did not realize the a face cloth is considered a personal item. We had to buy a few cleaning cloths to use. 😂
Where is Bellingham Washington?
After eating bread when I lived in Germany, I couldn’t eat bread anymore. When I return the United States. It just tasted so bland. Also, when I went back to Germany for a short visit, I couldn’t help exclaiming to my friends how delicious the food was, whether it was a sandwich bread, cheese, vegetables, anything I just had more taste !!!! Maybe that’s why American eat more they just don’t have the taste satisfaction and they keep eating more.
I've always seen Europe, Canada, NZ, Australia and the US as the same, almost identical. I've had cultue shock returning to the US many times from Africa or Asia, but never the others listed above. This was interesting and I do agree. All those subtle differences that one does (subconsciously in my case) notice. 😂
I’m gonna find out in another week. I was living in St. Croix, USVI for 13 years prior to my year in Sicily. Other than food quality, (not good in USVI), and restaurant prices,(much higher in USVI), I don’t think I’m gonna find too much of a culture shock….though I’m gonna miss my bidet. It’s much the same as Sicily……not 3rd world, more like 2.5…in infrastructure, bureaucracy. Hell, we still have two Kmarts in St. Croix. It’s are mens only department/clothing stores, that aren’t hip-hop style. I did see the video where Brian is ‘sporting’ a ‘it’s two thirsty’ shirt.
Biggest difference is that Europe is not a country but almost 50 countries each with their own language culture food styles etc.
To Brmfly: The "50" countries are so close that they provide fascination to learn and explore them in various ways. Nations don't look down upon each other. They have pride -- but never exalting themselves over every single country like the US often does -- yet so many people are scared and unhappy.
yes, Europe has many countries, yet people get along and there's much less violence and separation that you see in the US.
Traveling between the countries along the borders like Italy, Austria and France you get an interesting blend of the cultures. The food, language and architecture is often a blend of the countries.
@@eddyvideostarso where has your knowledge been regarding European culture for at least 2000 years. What with Romans, Vikings, Ottomans and more recently with counties like Ukraine, Yugoslavia/Checkz/Slovaks and Empires like the British and wannabe Hitler? The point is Europe is full countries from history and now trying to control someone or another. Get your rose-tinted glasses off.
The U.S consists of 50+ States as well. Some of them were individual countries. The future of the EU is to to become a single country with many nations.
The bed/mattress issue is more of an airbnb issue. Most airbnbs across Europe are furnished from IKEA, so you get the cheap bed and cheap mattress. In people’s houses, you usually get something more similar to what you’d be used to in the US
Agree! We’ve stayed in some other places where the beds are soooo comfy
Yes, Ikea Ikea Ikea....everywhere. I did experience harder mattresses this last trip in both Air B n Bs and hotels which is very nice for those of us who need or prefer a firmer mattress.
It is clear from the comments that folks who have travelled and spent time in Europe have a new most positive perspective on qualities, balances and fulfillment of living.
That's totally been my experience, too. More enjoyment of life.
The mental issues are going unaddress because the ACLU shut down mental hospitals decades ago. The violence is bad in Democrat control cities because they are lax on enforcing the law and letting people off on little to no bail plus sentencing people for a few months at most. A lot of conservative areas enforce the laws strictly and make criminals stay behind bars for years.
The US is going through a wierd phase since Biden came into power. Alot of media is lying to people by telling and cutting alot of content out to fit their narrative. Also this weird transgender thing going on and taking over girl sports. That is taking scholarships away from girls, plus some have been physically hurt by them. Biden administration hurt the economy by limiting oil drilling leases for a green agenda. This affects transportation costs and things made of plastic. This makes all goods and services to go up in price. Conservative voices are being censored by most media under vaugue community polices. The Democrats seem proud of dividing people by race, religion and everything else instead of uniting a country. Seems like the US tax payers are having to funds every other countries war when our country's debt is getting worst by reckless spending. The US needs to reunite itself on common interests and stop pandering to fringe groups to get it back together.
In Europe, I love all the outdoor cafes and restaurants with tables and chairs set out in the plaza, and with people of all ages strolling by. In the US, restaurant patios are almost all enclosed with fences and gates, no dogs allowed, no drinks beyond this point, ect. We sure love our barriers.
AND, they usually overlook a parking lot, not a sidewalk or square where you can people watch 😂
cuz crime i suppose 🤔
Our 1st trip to Europe was in 2023 and I came back saying I felt safer in Germany than I do here in US and this year we’re headed to Italy🎉 and we walked and ate and enjoyed every minute without gaining a pound. I actually lost a few lb’s
One of the things we love is we don't have to worry much about what we eat because we are so active 😊
100% agree tipping is out of control!
Seriously!! Cheers to that!! 🍻
I believe it began when slaves were freed but couldn't get paid work so they worked for tips. Here in Australia, it's the bosses job to pay staff a living wage not the customers job. It's my job to pay for the meal or the drink. The rest is the boss's responsibility.
Back in 2016 we travel to NYC. There was flight delay to return home. So we need to eat something in JFK. That bistro type (americans call it restaraunt) has bad,bad,bad, to be true- terrible service. We waited for americano and sandwich more than 30 min. We just said- no, there will be no tipping. So the waiter and manager blocked entrance and yelled at us "You need to tip! It's America". As it was our last hour in NY, we just said " sorry, but NO". It is so shocking for european, that you get no service, but you still must tip and if you don't, they make you feel like garbage. Sorry- but if you do your job bad, you don't get extra, that's how we do it in Europe.
Even Starbucks drive-thru in America expects you to tip and makes you feel bad about not tipping when they send you a reminder on your app that you forgot to tip. 😓
If you’re living in a country in Europe, you’re going to know the bus and won’t have to navigate because you’re usually taking the same route over and over or walking the same way over and over, you even know the Shortcuts. Also, I find walking a pleasure in Europe, and when I visited there after I’ve been back to the United States, I came back weighing 10 pounds less even though I ate things like delicious cheese and chocolate croissants, simply because I walked and bicycled places, and this happened in less than three weeks !! Many Americans find at convenient to drive the car here and there, but in someways, I find it stressful because you need to navigate construction, navigate around poor drivers who change lanes without putting their signal on, watch for people driving while on their phone etc. so I found it relaxing when I could take a train or bus and just relax with my e-book or chat with my friend
I believe you might have lost weight because you were not eating processed food.
yes ! you are right about the stress of driving in the US , Absolutely ! A lot of times i don't go places or go to the store because it just isn't worth all that stress ... and i drive a truck for a living , 🤔 go figure 😐
The smoking thing in europe is country dependant. Certain countries have smoking in closed spaces completely forbidden unless they have a separate area properly isolated and ventilated just for smokin -basically glass cages for smokers.
As a person who resides in both Canada and Europe I agree with your observations completely. Quite honestly, when in Europe I enjoy the life style more. There is a world perspective in Europe where as in NA it is me, me, me. In NA "bigger is better" is what people want, where as in Europe people reside in smaller places but travel more. I thoroughly enjoy your travels and videos. Please keep it up and safe travels.
We agree, completely! We used to be fully ingrained that the bigger is better culture and now appreciate the more minimalist style of living, smaller spaces, less stuff, and more experiences. We appreciate you watching and following along - Cheers!!
Hi there. My wife and I started slow traveling (about a month in each place) about a year ago. We noticed the same thing. We appreciate the words used when describing the food in the USA(I would use the word garbage to describe it). If we have to consider organic for fruits and vegetables, something is wrong. In three weeks, we gained more than 10 lbs. over the holidays. It was not the cookies and cake! Now. Expected tipping is out of control in the USA. We will not tip if we are picking our own food at the counter and expecting to clean after ourselves. If McDonald's, Chili's, and other places don't care to provide a living wage, why do we need to? 10 % was expected in the past, keeping up with GOOD service. Now 20 and even 30%? Health insurance/care and politics are topics that I'm not even going to touch. Sad. Thanks for doing what you are doing. It inspired us to do slow traveling. We also sold everything: house and cars etc. We also started in Portugal. We've been to Spain, Belgium, Italy, Albania and Montenegro. We are back in Portugal and staying 3 months. We'll see after that 😊
@ritalangelfelds: you are actually wrong. some european countries traveled (like Germany and around) in the 20. century while most did not (france spain etc.). like always,. many europeans dont know their own history or behavior,, just generalze brainless. the GENERAL fluctuation in the 21. century between countries in Europe is quite similar to the (already older) higher mobility within the US. the main difference here is only that the US is a whole country while in Europe you jump over countries like in the US over states. the feeling of more traveling is only because of that - but since here are not that many different small countries in the US (but one huge nation) this has only something to do with the circumstances, not a general difference regarding mobility. for similar reasons the language situation is different. this also has for most people just pragmatic reasons, not any special intentional ones. and in the US you need this less (at one side with Canada it continues to be mostly spoken English) ...
@@publicminx Sorry, I am not clear on all of your message... I get the in Europe you can jump over countries and that is very true ... that is what make Europeans more travelled, plus the cost of cheaper travel vs Canada, U.S., where distances are what adds up in cost. Also, many Europeans are multi-lingual which is not what the U.S. has. They have their native tongue and often speak English. Although in Canada people should be bilingual (English, French) most are not, but since there are so many immigrants most maintain their mother tongue. All I can say is that I thoroughly enjoy my time in the EU and have travelled to many of the countries contained within. In Canada I enjoy nature and the beauty it has to offer. But as for beautiful architecture that is lacking....
Well, you also get big houses and place a in Europe too! In his cities apartments are smaller but I’ve always lived in Europe in gib places and in the US smaller.. I’m European and the sick and mentally unstable people it’s what makes me feel so sad about this country and it’s hard to trust anyone.. Im married to an American but I can’t wait to go back home to Europe
Totally with you on this. We just went to Europe couple months ago for just 12 days. When we came back to the states we really felt down and sad. We miss the layback and walk ability everywhere. Going back in April to Spain to continue our search for our early retirement spot.
Spain is amazing! We are looking forward to heading back to Turkey in March, This cold weather in the PNW is killing us!! 😂
welcome to Europe ( hopefully) from Denmark....
When you will move,the experience will be different of a visiting tourist. 20 years ago i moved to Spain because of the job, to a village in the North of Madrid. I was able to speak some spanish,not much,but enouth to be able to have a conversation. The day i moved,i went to a bar and in couple of hours i knew half of the village people,who's who husband,wife,brothers,sisters,cousins,parents,etc . By weekend already got invited to barbeques, birthdays,etc.
Check out Malaga in Spain. The winters hear are super mild and sunny, average temp is 65. Cost of living very low. Great grocery food at super low prices. Good luck.
I experienced the same thing after visiting Japan. Looking forward to another round soon..
This really resonated with me. My husband and I have been traveling full time for a year and recently came back to the states for the holidays. I agree with you on several points. The number of mentally ill and addicted people on the streets in the US is truly tragic, and low level crimes seem to be everywhere (shoplifting, car theft). We never looked over our shoulder while walking in Europe, but in the US we do. The restaurant prices are insane and the expected 20% tip makes it even worse. Not to mention that tips are now expected everywhere, for every service. We could get a full, delicious cafe meal in France for the price of a pizza and sandwich here in the states. And we had the same experience you did of having a server refuse a tip in Europe. We head back overseas in 6 weeks (Italy, UK, Norway) and I cannot wait. Thanks for your helpful videos!
It really is unfortunate, and truly makes us appreciate our time in Europe for these points alone. Enjoy your upcoming travels, sounds wonderful ☺. Thanks so much for watching - Cheers!!
Tips are not because of employees, but employers who are allowed to pay less than minimum wages and zero benefits.
@whyme5024 The employees wage is rhe Employer's responsability to pay out of the revenues they handsomely harvest from us, their clients, not still the client's responsability to pay even more. Tipping is a culture self-created by North Americans out of a hugely misguided sense of false compassion and entitlement. This changes the core fabric of society one lives in.
What cities do you recommend to live in France?
How do you pay for your travels?
Thank you for that video. I cannot speak for the rest of Europe but smoking has been prohibited by law in virtually all enclosed and substantially enclosed workplaces and public places throughout the UK since July 2007.
Also don't have to pay to use the loo
Good to know!! We will be visiting the UK someday soon!! Thank you for watching and commenting!! Cheers!!🍻
I found a smoke free map online, it shows that about half of Europe has banned indoor smoking while the other half hasn't. I don't think I've ever been in an indoor space where someone was smoking in Finland.
It is kind of refreshing to see a mainstreamer take on the distinctions between the US and Europe. It drives all the more home my joy of having moved back to Europe and enjoy the daily blessing of living here instead of in mainstream US.
You guys totally hit the nail on the head . Our society and culture here has become so dysfunctional , food over processed and artificial and us constantly being pushed to buy buy buy. There is a lot to be said for living abroad these days if one can make it work .I totally agree about the insane tipping culture here in the US. Grew up in South Africa and one tipped (and still do based on my trip this past Dec) 10% for outstanding service and its entirely optional . There is no expectation. Whereas here , you are expected to tip for a haircut, Starbucks coffee, using an Uber, handling your luggage at the airport, pouring you a beer at a bar and the list goes on. Time to Stop unnecessary tipping
I've been in Germany and Ireland many times over the last 5 decades up to 2 years at a time not to mention visits to most of the rest of the EU, I love it. However, the only thing I see is that the US dysfunction is due to consumerism, crime and government overreach just like it is in the EU. The cultural shifts like tipping are stupid oddities but changing all the time. There was time when Europe didn't get American or other EU countries popular music for months after it was available. There were pay phones in both places too. The hatred for McDs in France and Germany is epic... yet there they are doing well; schadenfreude. I used to think that the Irish talked too fast and they still do, but I understand them now. Culture shock isn't about better or worse, it's difference and usually just opinion. Even the difference in small-ish countries like Italy are different within itself... me, me, me of Lombardy vs. the slow pace of Sicily. The US is huge and I notice people coming back to the US from other countries seem to actually forget that. Did I just pass through Luxemburg? Yes, I did.
For that we would have to increase the tipping Minimum wage
just sitting here in Malaga Spain watching you.. we are agreeing with all your observations… we love living in Europe for reasons you mentioned … . Enjoy your time with family as you recharge for your next adventure ❤
We've been to Malaga a number of times and LOVE it. We were just there in July, and will be back next month, also. We have been scouting where to live, and have narrowed it from El Palo to Los Boliches. So happy to have a E.U. passport!
@@MikeS29How did you qualify for your EU passport? One of my goals.😊
@@sledgehamner Italian by descent... took a lot of gathering of paperwork, and I worked with an Italian attorney well versed in citizenship. Italians consider you a citizen if you have an Italian ancestor with no break in the citizenship. If your ancestor naturalized before you were born, then the chain is broken. If you were born to them while they were still a citizen, then you are, by Italian law, also a citizen. There isn't a generational limit, just a need to prove that connection all the way back to the original Italian.
I've lived abroad for 25 years and totally agree on all your points. The currency issue , you forgot to mention everywhere you go in the States the listed price usually isn't the price you pay at the register, since taxes are added on, plus tip if it's a restaurant at the end. In Europe whether it's listed on the menu or on a a grocery store shelf, the taxes are already included. No need to figure it out at the till when you pay....Though the political stuff does exist, not as much as in the US, but it's there. However, it's easier not to pay attention, because it's usually in another language lol..Don't miss life there at all. I only go back to visit family, if it wasn't for family and banking reasons, I'd never go back...
There are things that we really do appreciate about the US, but we wouldn't be back twice a year if it wasn't for, like you say, family and friends. Thank you for watching and commenting! Cheers!!🍻
Where do you live?
@@daphneschuring5810I think their house is in Bellingham Washington
Bellingham Washington?? I don't have clue what that is@@birdlover7776
We are from Bellingham WA. USA about 75 km north of Seattle. We sold our house and belongings 2.5 years ago to travel.
I am surprised that you did not see dryers in a laundry shop. We have almost everywhere dryers in the laundry, as well in many homes. Sometimes even within the same machine
Totally. I also have a combination washer/dryer. I think I only know one person who doesn’t have a dryer.
I do have a combined washer/dryer, too - but I hardly ever use the dryer. So much electricity when I can just hang things up and let them dry.
@@franhunne8929 I only use it for larger items like bedclothes, also towels, but not for items of clothing. Like you said, too much electricity.
@@patriciamillin1977 You see, everyone lives in different conditions, has different needs and I do not damn anybody who uses a dryer. It is just that here in Germany people use a dryer less often and still hang their washing, if they get a chance to. We are cheap like that.
@@franhunne8929 I know, I live in Germany, lol. Joking aside, though, I just find it also better for the environment. That being said, it's up to everyone to decide for themselves. I know my brother always uses a dryer because he's afraid of mould in the flat if he hangs his washing up to dry in the flat.
I'm Canadian and returned home (not my choice) a few weeks ago. We lived in a small Tuscan hill village south of Siena. Bliss. I love Canada,but the quality of life in Europe is superior in many ways. As a foodie I know that food in gerneral is of far higher quality and cheaper in Italy. I'm off to Portugal and Spain in a few weeks. I may not come back.
Please vote for Democrats and you can get Európe in the US
@@jaysimoes3705 Yeah, what Europe does better. As an European, believe me, we had our share of neoliberalism and weakened social democracy that you don't have because you have a two party system
Europe is a very diverse place. As a Norwegian I can say, most of us have heater for drying clothes. Tug in sheets and public smoking was banned back in 2003. I have experienced that quality on Airbnb various allot. Awsome video. US is a great country to, just small differences ☺️
Thank you! We're learning we need to get to Northern Europe, sounds like we would really like it. Cheers!!
We were in Italy in 2017 and they were still smoking in restaurants. Not sure about inside, we sat outside and it wasn't pleasant sitting near a smoker 😢
I am from Norway, and I feel like norweginans feel a certain type of humiliation about working for tips. It is allowed to tip in Norway, but it is not expected. Especially now with only card payments we don't even round up to the closest 10, allthough some give you the option on the payment machine. To avoid the humiliating feeling about tips, and to make it a more communal thing, tips are collected in one bucket and shared between all floor level employees as an extra little encouragement on top of your already pretty good wage compared to most countries. About public bathrooms in Norway; some are free and some charge a fee, but you can always pay with credit card or other electronic payment. Last time i checked norwegian restaurants and cafees are not allowed to deny you use of their bathrooms, even if you are not a customer. They may not prefer it, but they can't deny you, and i think this was an act to prevent public urination, especially on weekends.
As a Dane, raised in Denmark, an also lived in Sweden for a few years, i agree wot a lot of what you are talking about, so I will focus on where my experince differ. Yes we dry the cloth on a clothing line, if the wether is nice, and we have time, it is better for the cloth, but we have always had a dryer, in the 35+ years I can remember, both in Denmark and Sweeden. In Denmark we have an excellent electrical grid, and I newer think about what aplainces i turn on.
We are hearing so many great things about Denmark - we need to get there to visit. Thanks for watching, Cheers!!
Just remember that Denmark is extremely expensive and there is no way you can go out to eat cheap. But the food is extremely good and often organic , not filled with a lot of E numbers. If you go to Denmark I would recommend in August as there’s more changes to see Copenhagen in semi warm weather as to the winter it gets completely dark at 3:30 in the day and it’s very cold and damp.
I am from Finland and just about everyone I now has a dryer. We are using ours really only for towels and down jackets and like that we want soft and fluffy. We prefer to line dry our clothes. Also, a 95C (203F) program on out Miele Professional washing machine with both hot and cold water connection and 400V3P electrical supply takes less than an hour. The shortest cycle on our dishwasher in 15 minutes. I do not know where you guys have camped, but it is not representative of all of Europe.
@@conn7125 Denmark is expensive, that's true, but not necessarily that expensive. If you stay and eat in Nørrebro in Copenhagen, your expenses will be similar to Southern Europe. And the same goes if you visit some of the less touristy, but still beautiful provincial towns. I'm a huge fan of both Nakskov and Tønder where you get great value for money. There are several really interesting places in Northern Jutland just a few kilometers off of the tourist attractions. Ålbæk is 20 km from famous Skagen and has several excellent restaurants and living options. You can get to the famous museums with public transportation, and then sleep and eat at more reasonable prices at great value. Thisted is less known, but absolutely gorgeous. I could go on all over the country, but the point is that the standard tourist routes are not always the best way to experience a country.
First time commenting here....love your personalities and laughed out loud a couple times. I've lived in Portugal since 2019, lived in Belgium for 3 years, and in France for a few months. I think visiting verses living here is quite different. I've never paid to use a bathroom. The washing machine...if it's going for 2 and half hours that's a setting issue. Mine is usually 30 minutes. Most places do not have a dryer, true. But we use drying racks and of course in Portugal the sun is always shining. Yes, we have memory foam mattresses and pillows. I stayed in a BnB for six months once and ended up going to Ikea for a memory foam mattress topper. BnB owners can be cheap. Water is valuable, that's why you pay for it. At campsites you can always tell when someone from one of the Scandinavian countries is showering beside you...1, the whole family is in the stall and 2.they turn the water off to lather up and then on again to rinse. Once you actually live here it's just part of your life to adjust and I certainly do love the pace. I visited the US in 2021 and had a stomach ache everyday after eating, people seem angry, my sister thought I was odd because I chose to walk places she would drive to lol, and I always used my own cloth shopping bags. The US citizen is taught that social programs are wrong, when here everyone has the same abilities to prosper. If you're not thinking about health insurance your mind set definitely changes. The minimum wage here and in the States is basically the same, but my God, the difference in being valued is so obvious. I don't miss the States. I did for about a year, but I wouldn't move back for anything. I can walk alone at night and swim alone at night as well. I do avoid Saturday hikes since the hunters are out, and I'd prefer not to be mistaken for dinner. Enjoy your travels and next time you are in Portugal I'll buy you a coffee!
We look forward to visiting Belgium one day, we've heard wonderful things. I wish the washer thing was a setting issue, unfortunately this has been accross the board and they just take forever. Of course here in the states, we have the setting you're talking about that takes about 30 min which is great. Maybe the Airbnb's just cut some corners and buy a inexpensive model. Thanks so much for watching! Cheers
@BrianandCarrie I, too, am an American in the Algarve and most machines here have BOTH the longer settings and the 30 minute setting...it's just not in English. My UK partner says the same about his home country. When I rented long-term in southern Europe, I always looked for, and found, a place with a dryer. 90% of all long-term expats I know (from Europe and the US) have and use cars and live in US-sized homes. But totally agree about the average bed and how some rental owners don't invest in their rentals, especially if it's an apartment. And the comment above about the hunters is hilarious...and true!
@@BrianandCarrie Memory foam is really crappy. I would never sleep on a plastic foam mattress. I prefer a proper mattress with individual pocket coils/springs. You do need top mattress, preferably filled with natural fibres, such as cotton, wool and horse hair with an additional mattress protector again made with natural fibres. I run an Airbnb as well and we have proper individual spring mattresses (2x90cm/35,4") with a top mattress and protector and individual duvets. The beds in my Airbnb are usually locked together with a gap filler, but can be separated if needed. Two separate bed frames means that the movements of the person sleeping next to you do not disturb your sleep. As for electrical systems. The US with 110/240V is waaay inferior to what we have. Continental Europe typically has 240V single phase / 400V 3 phase. The UK is different and older buildings in central and southern Europe may have outdated wiring inside the buildings for modern requirements. Furthermore, in Northern Europe you never have an individual boiler to heat hot water. The apartment buildings have district heating with a flow through heat exchange unit that provides hot water for the whole property in addition to heat. My dishwasher and washing machine run on 400V3P. The dishwasher has a 15 minute short cycle and a 95C (203F) cycle on my washing machine takes less than an hour. There is no way you can get this short cycles in a domestic setting in the US. The dishwasher in my Airbnb has an eco-program, but I have advised against not using it as it is slow. My induction hob cooks 1L of water in one minute. It is much faster than a kettle. Again 400V3P, 14 kW (48K BTU) in total for four induction burners and additionally two 6 kW gas burners (2x 20K BTU). There is no way I could get this kind of electrical power in the US without an industrial grade power supply. I have a large house with 3x80A main breakers, 2x20kW geothermal heat pump with underfloor heating everywhere, district heating for hot water and bathroom heating. My heated volume is over 2800 m3 (that is around 100 000 cubic feet) and I live at 60 degrees north, that is Alaska for you guys. US is really backward when it comes to energy efficient buildings, electrical or heating systems.
Carrie, your hair looks amazing: flattering color & cut.
Thank you so much ♥
In the interest of equality… Brian my man, what a great head of hair !
Finally!!!!!! Thank you!! 🤣
What Chantal wrote, Carrie! 💇🏻♀️ Love your hair! And to add to what Roos wrote, you too, Brian! 😁
Thank you!!
Europe is amazing and healthy! Mentally stable people and great life style! I can’t wait to get back
I guess there is a difference between traveling and living in Europe or anywhere else for that matter. A lot of people live in big houses and have good size yards in Europe too. Beds, bathrooms and washrooms are also available in houses with a reasonable size. I do agree with what you are saying though and traveling using Air BnB can be a dicey. If I want a good bed when traveling I choose to stay in hotels. They typically have a much more uniform standard and ensures a good sleep. Good video. Thank you!
Its not good beds when you order arbnb in USA too. You cant compare arbnb and home beds!
I was coming here to say the same thing!
Because you said you want to hear, as both a traveler and a partner of a restaurant employee in the US, I understand the discussion about tips and think the statement that in some states the wages are close to living wage is not accurate. Here in NYC, servers, busser, bartenders are paid slightly over $10/hour which is no where near a living wage. Even if there are states where servera are paid minimum wage, it is shown over and over that people can not pay their bills with minimum wage, it is no where a living wage. I agree the whole tipping system in the US needs to change and it starts with paying an actual living wage to all staff and almost certainly raising the prices even more for the items (but maybe they can reduce the portion sizes some to help offset costs).
We would agree 100% on what you are saying, Christin. Here in WA. state the minimum wage went up to $16 an hour. At the same time the price for chips, beer, rent, a meal at a restaurant, and almost everything else. What didn't go up was the average blue-caller employee wage, like us. We are now paying more and expected to give another 20%? Maybe 10%? Whatever you feel is enough. It's the expectation. We just can't afford it. Thank you for your comments and for watching! ❤
@@BrianandCarriewhy customers need to pay wage for waiters? Why owners make just profit without expenses?
I agree the whole system's crazy. Also, eateries I know of schedule everyone for just under 30 hrs/wk to avoid having to offer health insurance or other benefits (which leaves workers scrambling to supplement with other work), and chronically understaff to save money so it's exhausting work. The system's completely messed up, but I'd rather not take it out on the employees.
Customers should not be responsible for making a living for service ppl. It is your employer‘s responsibility. 😊 no other industry guilt trips the customer to pay more than the initial agreement. You don’t board a flight being expected to tip flight attendants, you don’t go to hospital being expected to tip the nurses., you don’t tip your waste collector for collecting your waste every week. You won’t tip ur children school teacher because the cost of living is high…. And many other professions that we are all aware are working for very little money. Some how you go to grab a burger in a self service restaurant and they are guilt tripping you to pay 30% above your initial agreement. Not cool. 😊
We certainly DO have fitted sheets here in Great Britain!!! And we use top sheets!!!
We are avid vacation travelers who are launching into FT Nomad (SLOmad) travel in September. I can absolutely resonate with all of your observations. What I find as my own explanation is that in other areas of the world, even in huge cities, the lifestyle is still local community driven - taking transportation with your neighbors, local shops with neighbors, walking the area seeing the same people and having familiarity with them. Here in the US, I rarely see the people who live 50 ft from me, because I get in my car, I order online, I have items and food brought to me. I’m looking forward to slowing down, eating more healthfully, spending less and being a consumer of experiences instead of goods. Thx for a great video! PS- I like the hair update you’re both sporting!!!!
Thank you so much ♥. We really do love the slower pace of life, feeling much healthier by being active - so many things. Thanks so much for watching - Cheers!!
That’s a good phrase that outside the United States things and food is still often local community driven.
So much of this is hitting home with us. We were traveling in Europe for 6 weeks, and loved it. The food was great, never gaining weight, no stomach issues. We walked everywhere, and used public transportation. There was always something to see and do. Even if it was just to walk around and admire the beautiful architecture. We retired early due to a disability, so we aren't able to travel full time due to financial restrictions, and some limitations. But that being said, we are trying to work out a way to travel for 3-4 months of the year. We have a home that we can age in place, but it is in a northern climate, which we would like to escape from. We have a solar hybrid system that currently requires attention to its batteries every 7 weeks, which also limits time away. Some choices you make in life...can limit your choices later.😊
Love your ending quote!!! Thank you so much for all the comments and for watching our channel, Elizabeth. ❤
Outside the US the custom is to shop for a few food items more frequently. The idea that you would make a big batch of food and eat it over several days and/or store some in the freezer is asomewhat strange idea outside the US. They eat food when they make it or maybe the next morning. Consequently grocery stores and fresh markets are available everywhere.
I really appreciate that way of living... although really appreciate some good leftovers 😉
Love Your Videos - Welcome Back! I am heading back too after 14 months (10 countries). And I am jumping back into my RV and hitting the road again, visiting places in the U.S. again with a very different perspective. I think I am much more open minded being around so many different cultures this last year+!!
Hello guys :) I had the chance to work a couple of months in the US (for a client, IT stuff) and the most unpleasant thing I found out right away was the lack of pedestrian sidewalks or walkways... Even if you had to walk like 5 minutes to a neighboring place, you needed a car because there are no walkways... at least in the places I visited on the Western coast... So having a car is not optional like here in Europe. Another thing that I found weird was the smiling culture, and the overall customer service. When eating out the staff came to present themselves, and then they continuously checked on us to see if we need anything else.. it was awkward for me to say the least :)... Now regarding your cons about Europe. The fact that you can hop in the car and go whenever you want in the US, the reverse is not true for Europe. I have a car, most people I know have cars.. I can hop in and go whenever I want...the difference is that I don't have to, for instance if the weather is bad and I don't feel like driving, I can take the bus. So it's just the fact that you are travelers, if you live here you can definitely get a car. Regarding smoking, you must have referred to a non-EU country, because in Romania and as far as I know in all the EU smoking inside is forbidden anywhere, including in service cars. Smoking is only allowed outside. Regarding the mattress and beds, the same, because you stay in hotels you won't get the best options unless you pay a fortune for luxury hotels. But at home we can buy whatever we want, dubiously. There are lots, I mean LOTS of different mattresses and beds available for purchase. Regarding the power, that's really strange, considering that the US is 110V and Europe is 230V. I never worry about the power like that, and I live in in older apartment. But maybe in other places there are problems. And about paid toilets, they are usually paid only for non-commercial places, like in a park for instance. If there's a business attached it's free. Like in a restaurant, gas station, theater, mall, movie place, cafes, etc, the toilet is free. Overall your comparison looks more like a tourist versus at home situation. Anyways, good video as usual from you guys, and although I'm not commenting often nowadays I watch your travels whenever I have time :) Cheers! 🍻🍻
Very great points! We are for sure coming from a tourist stand point and I'm sure for those living in Europe, especially out the city, they would see things quite differently. Thanks so much for continueing to watch and follow along ☺
@@BrianandCarrie You are more than welcome! I wish you good luck with this project in the future, although from what I see you are handling it very well, not much luck needed :) cheers!
They are right : as it was said in Europe there are many countries with different organization systems mainly according to their efficiency needs. Unfortunately many are not respecting the rules and regulations of the EU regarding smoking. They keep smoking because a compulsive addiction or simply for efficiency reasons : they are not taking a pause for smoking as they are used for generations to smoke while working. It may be that there are separate places for smokers and non smokers in a restaurant, club or bar, mainly outside thus it's better to precisely ask the personnel about smoking and if they have places for non smokers. Indeed there are older houses where decades ago it have been used lower quality materials for the electrical network which is no longer at the present required standards. And for sure they were initially not meant to supply so many electric devices in the system in the same time. You may have even some electrical sockets burned. I heard some house owners very nervous about the need of replacing their internal electrical networks. Now I can't remember exactly where the paid toilets are but I think they have them in Italy in public places. For sure in Germany many tank stations and even businesses have paid toilets even offering a voucher because they must be kept clean and in service and this costs money. Many supermarkets don't have toilets. The difference to the unpaid toilets in the rest place on the highway is shocking and I don't recommend it to you.
Thank you for adding this to the channel!! Very well said!! ❤
I lived most of my life in Chicago and never felt afraid. I have been pick pocketed twice in my life - both times in Paris! I have lived in Germany, and visited my German relatives often over the last 60 years. I choose to live here, presently in Portland, Oregon.
We loved the option of a quiet train car. It was so nice, we could catch a nap, relax and it was respected by all.
That's so funny - first time we were put on a quiet train car, we had no idea there was such a thing and thought it was odd. Now, we prefer them for the peace and quiet and no one talking on their phone loudly. Cheers!!
I spent last winter in Portugal, Spain and Italy. I literally ate and drank my way though a two month trip. I found the same thing as you, the foods that did not agree with me suddenly were a pleasure to eat. The walking and exploring allowed me to enjoy a true life experience and ended up loosing 8 pounds while there. You are also right about returning home, it seemed worst than when I left. More homeless, more unhappy people. I was in a coffee shop in Albuferia, Portugal 8 months and a local came up to me and asked me why Americans were fighting among themselves, they could not understand why in the Great Country of America we were not all happy to be there. I am heading back soon. Thank you for your content.
We had that same experience in Cabanas Tavira. People still believe in the American dream. Sadly, that dream is deuterating fast. With that being said, we still love comming home for short stays. Thank you for watching and safe travels!!❤
We had a similar experience in Italy where a couple of people expressed surprise that Americans wanted to travel there when many Italians dream of living in America. It is still viewed as the best place to make money. A bar server in Marsala discussed literature with us, and said he would love to be in America which he said would make it easier to be in a creative community (he wanted to make films). I think he might have a point in that situation.
The same experience with me, I ate more rich foods, and walked more, but yet I still lost weight in Germany
@@HH-fo9sgthe Italian was a jew one. Otherwise he would know that no chance in the American mouvie industry.... 😅
I lived in Europe all my life, different countries and I never had the problem with the electric system that you mentioned in the video. My guess is that, as you know, in Europe electricity is very expensive compared with the wages, the Airbnb hosts just limits the tourist Watts consumption somehow. The simplest way is to maintain on purpose weak electricity wires that don't support a bigger consumption other may have installed some kind of device that limits your energy consumption, things like that. Doing this, they win a bigger profit in their renting apartments to tourists business.
This very well could be! Thank you for watching and commenting! Cheers!!🍻
I grew up in London and Stockholm. And have visited friends in central Europe. And oh man, in older houses. You have to keep in mind what's on when you turn the kettle on. Or remember not to turn the toaster on before the kettle has boiled etc. Owning your own home isn't as important and you have to adjust to the standard in your apartment building. So yeah, it depends.
Thank you for watching and adding to the conversation! Cheers!
Lived in Italy for 3 yrs. The wiring in old houses can't cope. Had to turn TV off when vacuuming. Had washer and dryer but couldn't run both at the same time. It happens.
Another GREAT video! And while I almost never post superficial commentary... Carrie, your hair looks super! You really hit home talking about food allergies and reactions. I had to go gluten free a decade ago because I had developed such sensitivity (baked loads of bread in my youth), and after research have come to realize that the reason more and more Americans are developing gluten intolerances is because of big agriculture using glyphosate (Round Up) on all grains here, which basically means that we're all eating Round Up daily. Encouraged to think that when my travels begin and I get out of the US, I'll be able to enjoy baked goods again!
Thank you so much ♥ It is a real eye opener the difference in what is allowed in our foods here in the States and what they won't even allow on the shelves in Europe. I really appreciate the feeling that in general, most of what we eat while traveling is just better for us. Cheers!!
You guys have done a really great job summarizing my experiences abroad. And yes in the end there are advantages and challenges everywhere. We have looked at moving abroad and the family reactions especially those who have done little or no travel is interesting. No real information and yet the most hardened opinions. The feeling of safety in most countries is noticeable. Costs in North America are very high.
I needed to hear this video. The differences between US and Europe confirms my disappointment in the corporate strangle on EVERYTHING...if we can't pay for it, we don't get it. This from the richest, most democratic (meaning "opportunity for all") country in the world where SO much more could be provided. Heartbreaking.
It is all about money and greed. It is sad. When we decided to sell everything and drastically downsize it felt amazing! Thank you for watching and commenting!! Cheers!!🍻
We pay for everything, except public bathrooms and a glass of water at a restaurant!
How can a country that DOESN'T provide "free" ( tax paid) education for all its citizens and "free" healthcare ( partly state controlled, partly private, partly mandatory etc etc) call itself " the most democratic" ??? Puzzled European here who does live in a democracy, too !!
I lived in Europe in the mid 80's for 3 yrs, honestly I did NOT want to come back to the states. It's about everything you mentioned, safety while going a walk, and transporation. What I really hated while there was seeing the U.S. shopping influence, i.e. McDonalds, Malls, etc. When I landed back in the states you could feel it, BOOM!! Billbords everywhere, the pulse and the marketing and the greed. Just having a conversation with an American is so different and difficult.
A strange contrdiction: In 'Murica there is SO much space that is influences your entire culture, yet you have to tear down potentially historic buildings to make room for new stuff, while in Europe they have much less space, yet manage to preserve their historic stuff. Regarding European health care in general: The biggest difference is simply that in Europe, price-gouging is NOT ALLOWED! You have an accident and need an ambulance? Affordable, if not free in most European countries. Drugs? Same applies, the national universal health care systems negotiate drug prices, Big Pharma does not get away with the exploitation they do in 'Murica.
I tend to programme washing overnight so that the spin cycle ends in time for breakfast. I do have a dryer but when the weather's right, you can't beat outdoor drying
Great idea!
How dare you challenge the 30% tip on already inflated meal prices. 😀😀😀 I remember craving a Big Mac when my family returned to the U.S. from our time living in Greece when I was a kid. Definitely pros and cons for each. I think a lot of the differences are related to one of my favorite sayings, "In the U.S., 100 years is a long time; in Europe, 100 miles is a long distance." Insightful stuff as always, thanks!
Love the quote, Doug! I'm going to steal that! 😁 Thank you again for all your support! Cheers!!🍻
This tips sags is ridiculous
totally agree about the tipping! and now our local bakery is automatically charging a "credit card surcharge" even when paying with cash!! Cooking and eating at home is really the best for many, many reasons, not only for the price but knowing exactly what is in your food. Love your videos.....so well done.
That is so frustrating - the auto charges drive me nuts! We eat in about 90% of the time for the reasons you mentioned. Cheers!!
How can a bakery charge a credit card surcharge when you’re paying with cash if they did that to me I’d refuse to go there. Seems like they’re committing some kind of fraud. !!
No extra charge if you pay in cash.
Excellent points and a must watch video for those who fantasize living in USA. The moment Brian said the word fastfood, KZhead inserted an ad for chillies, "bottom less bowl of chips and soda", very healthy for big chain restaurants and pharmaceutical industries. Angry, poor, sick and sad society living in the richest country.
Thats funny!! it's like they are listening. 😂 Cheers!!🍻
@@BrianandCarrie They are listening. I guess it’s the algorithm. I noticed whatever KZhead video I see the next ad comes to whatever words are in the KZhead video such as if it mentions medicine then in the next ad it will be about a medicine even though I don’t take any medicine.
Loved this video. Reminded me of my experiences traveling in Europe with students, but also coming back from my 2 year stay in Cape Town, SouthAfrica. I too was stunned at how much better the fruit and vegetables tasted outside of the U.S. I think we need to go back to farming practices of the past. We’re depleting our soil of nutrients, and flavor. -Elizabeth
I found that true in Germany, when I was visiting my friends, the fruits and vegetables, and even the bread tasted so much better! It must be because of the preservatives, or some reason was truly astounding. The fruits and vegetables were so much cheaper than in the United States, and so much more flavorful, I was exclaiming many times how much how much delicious it was and I don’t usually am so emotional over vegetables !!!
@@enjoystraveling Did you become addicted to Brötchen for breakfast? My students and I certainly loved them.
100% agree! Unless we can buy at a farmers market here and in season, it's just flavorless. Cheers!!
We’re on our 6th slow travel location thru Europe, and can relate to many of your experiences.. However, we’ve rarely encountered electrical issues, and internet has overall been good. Also, we haven’t experienced grocery store closings on Sunday, in fact, the Lisbon Pingo Doce was a Sunday mad house! A thing we love are the European style windows and blinds. Safe travels!
We are always amazed about how great the Wi-Fi is in other countries at half the price here. Enjoy your travels and thank you for watching and commenting!! Cheers!!🍻
Europe is not one country! Americans remember this!
Grocery shops are closed on Sundays in only about 8 countries in Europe (Spain, Germany, Poland, Norway, Greece being the biggest). In most countries supermarkets are opened on Sundays, usually closing a bit earlier in the evenings. But locally owned smaller stores like bakeries, pharmacies, etc might be closed.
@@BrianandCarrie You can't really beat the internet in Romania, I pay 40 lei monthly ($8.75) for unlimited 1Gbps fiber optic speed. Hard to beat really :))
@@RaduRadonys Not only their internet, but in Romania, our U.S. T-Mobile data plan worked the best out of all the European countries we've visited so far.. It was almost like being in the States..
@2:05 correction: infrastructure in the US was bulldozed and _re_built for cars. The US used to have walkable cities and one of the best and highly integrated public transit networks in the world, until it was deliberately destroyed in the 50s and 60s.
Great video! We are currently in Europe and have been here for the last 3 months. We agree with so many of the things that you pointed out. Coming from Canada, we have much of the same, Costco, drive thru, rat race culture as well and we find Europe so much slower, relaxing and although it is an adjustment, we really appreciate the vibe here. We were so happy to hear you comment on the pasta/bread situation (we find cheese doesn't bother us either like it does at home) . We feel the same and thought we may be crazy. But there is definitely a difference in their food processing. We also notice and love the fresh and in season veggie and fruit selections. Nothing much seems to be imported - so refreshing. Have a great time back home and we can't wait to see where your travels take you next! Cheers!!
Easy to find rat race culture in every capital city in the world.
So many things that we truly appreciate when we are in Europe and the lack of food sensitivities is a huge one. Thanks for watching....were excited for our upcoming plans.
This is so spot on and makes me want to go on the road again. Hope your viewers are open to hearing this.
Some agree and others don't. We are just going off our experiences. Thank you for watching us and your support! Cheers!
This was a very pleasant video that I enjoyed watching contrasting the many cultural things between a European versus an American lifestyle. I felt your comments using your own personal experiences was fair, valid and balanced and added to me staying engaged throughout. As a viewer from the UK, I wish you guys many more pleasant and happy experiences on your travels. Best wishes....
We travel a lot too. It’s sad that a lot of Americans don’t get the privilege to travel. If they did, they’d realize we are being bamboozled. Free health care (better quality too), free education (better quality as well), better life/work balance, and a more global outlook so you aren’t fooled into thinking you’re the best… just a few things that many countries are better at (including some “developing” countries). The Americans telling you to leave are the same ones who have not left the country and are still in their fantasy world. Most people do not own a gun, aren’t anxious or depressed and don’t use drugs.. are very happy outside of America.
" free_" health care and education are never actually free but funded by the taxpayers. And we do have to pay health insurance because social security doesn't take charge of many types of cures and medicines. Only illegal migrants enjoy totally free healthcare in my country.
@@lioneldemun6033 nothing in life is free free but if you ever lived in America you’d know what I mean. We pay thousands for insurance only to pay more when we actually use our insurance and then our premiums go up.
@@momplaygroupfouz4946 ....but when in Europe you still have a higher standard of living than most of us there....
Love this video! We've been in Europe for about 7 weeks and agree with everything you said.
Thanks so much for watching - Cheers!!
7 weeks its not enough to know everything!
Hi, I'm French, currently in the UK. Shops closing on Sunday (or Monday) is true, but they can be open in the morning, or with shorter working hours (at least in France). In bigger cities you can find more shops open during Sundays About grocery, I disagree about small groceries. Yes we do go there more, and buy for 1 day or 2 (sometimes more) therefor we have fresher food and with less additive. I do plan what I'm going to cook in advance and just buy what I need for the meal. I do that to control my grocery budget. Also I don't like big crowd. Also it's possible to get "tyrenol" (paracetamol) from groceries. At least that's true in the UK (also in France but I forgot). Don't forgot we find groceries not too far away from a pharmacy (usually), so we plan our journey. We do have have dryers. Usually the washing machine can also dry the clothes. I do prefer just let my clothes dry from the hanger during sunny days (because drying can be expensive). If I'm in the hurry, I can do wash and dry in about 2h for a small quantity of clothes. About smoking, I can understand it's bothering but also they people who are smoking are in there right. However the bus driver who smoked in the bus, that's wrong and illegal. I hope he wasn't driving while smoking for you. About water in restaurants, it's actually free (at least in France/UK and other countries in Europe I've visited). You just have to precise that you want tap water. otherwise they will bring a bottle of water (like mineral water) and will charge you for it. In France tap water is usually in a glass bottle/jar. In the UK they usually bring you a glass of water (which you can ask to refill). Personally I prefer smaller living spaces. Less junks to sort out, easier to clean, more energy efficient than a big house for just 1 family. At least in France ,1 family home in the countryside are not "huge" but have a nice garden. In Europe the currency is mostly Euro, so the conversion is easy as you just have to remember 1 formula add 10% on the price you see to get it in USD. In that situation you don't have to be precise and get the right value, but rather have an idea. I do that all the time between Euro and Pounds. I can understand that it's nice to come back to your country speaking your language, but I my opinion it's also good to try to learn a bit of the language of the country you are visiting so you can communicate more easily with the locals (swearing words must be learnt first ^^).
We are so excited for our trip to Portugal in April! Loved your video topic!
LOVE Portugal ♥
We wanted to leave a comment for a few reasons: We are enjoying your videos tremendously, we can relate to much of what you both said in this video, we've found pretty much the same except we rarely, if ever, turn the TV on in European rooms. The last reason to make a comment is that we recently posted some of our adventures in Spain & Portugal and really enjoyed reading the comments people made. We just wanted you to know your observations and information about your travels are very interesting and inspiring.
Terrific video that as a Canadian, hits the nail bang on! The transformation from our days growing up has radically changed and NOT for the better! Not to be completely negative (as I’m sure common sense and decency prevails still in much of NA), we are seriously concerned with current trends and directions (media coverage, the political behaviours, crime , attitudes etc.). Thanks guys!
Canadians here. We don't travel to the US anymore because we need to rent a car upon arrival with very few exceptions. We don't even think about car rentals in the Caribbean or Europe. Great video.
Thanks so much for watching 😊
This was a fun video to watch. I totally agree with everything you said. I've spent time in Europe, Asia and S. Africa and I feel like there is a lot we could learn from their slower pace of life.
I have been residing in Eastern Europe for about 3 years now and must say that you are spot on. I have returned to the U.S. twice and for a brief period and I feel myself getting homesick and ready to return to Europe.
Nothing like home and all the things you're used to. Thanks so much for watching - Cheers!!
Great video guys 🎉 I agree with you on all points ❤
Thanks so much ♥. Cheers!!
My first time in the US it felt like I was the company accountant. The customer has to figure out the taxes and the workers pay, sometimes there is a surcharge or airport taxes. Just make the price the price.
I am an expat the City, NYer retired now and living in Japan. Both of you are right on about seasonal veggies and fruits, and not buying bulk.
FYI Bulgaria and Romania will be part of the Schengen area from 31 March. Travelers without EU citizenship are advised to remember that stays in Bulgaria and Romania count towards time spent in the Schengen zone, which cannot be longer than 90 days in 180 days.
Yes, I heard that. It's unfortunate mainly cause the area people can travel out of the Schengen just keeps getting smaller and smaller. Thanks so much for watching 😊
@@BrianandCarrie Depends if you are an EU citizen or not 😁. Thanks anyway for showing me yet again that being European is not so bad after all.
❤
That rule doesn't apply for illegal migrants though...
I am totally in agreement with you both. I was so happy with my first trip to Europe last year. We loved how much healthier even food in the store is less processed. Food was cheaper and better. Tipping in the US is RIDICULOUS. They even ask for tips at the drive through fast food Mexican restaurant near me, AND I am sorry but Tipping to pick up your coffee in a drive through??? I am driving to YOU??? It's awful and you feel like a pariah when you don't tip here.
It is funny how you can feel guilty for not tipping....but then ask the question like you said - wait, i came to you? Thanks so much for watching - Cheers!!
In my turisty city in Romania,a smart guy opened a coffe shop and decided to add a 20% tip automatically on the bill. He opened at morning and by noon he already got a visit of an inspector from the Consummer Protection Office (OPC) who had retired his license +a huge fine, for charging different prices of the prices displayed . According to the romanian law,the displayed price is the price to be payed,all taxes included.
When a self-service checkout asks for a tip, you know that the US has really lost the plot
We are widely travelled ( having visited over 60 countries). We agree many of the things you mentioned. The US tipping culture is out of hand. The price displayed is not the final price as you add taxes after. Meal sizes are far too big. As a result, we choose to NOT have holidays in the US anymore.
Yes. I came back from Spain in September. In the US,except for NYC or other city downtowns, the walking goes way down because the infrastructure was never built for walkers outside of cities. And it almost feels like being a US citizen=being a consumer. It didn’t used to feel like it does now. Especially the consumer culture. It also feels drastically less social these days-especially compared to Spain. I wish it could change.
Watch the videos for example, by, Strong towns, I’ve gotten addicted to watching it since it talks about improvements to Townsend cities and the United States and what can be done to help make the more walkable, etc.
It is unfortunate, not sure if we will ever see that change.
Awesome sweatshirt 🎉! Love the hair Carrie (you look great too Brian 😊). This really resonates with me as well. Thank you for sharing your thoughts and travels. Really enjoy your videos!
Thank you so much ❤️
We TOTALLY AGREE with you about the tipping!! It is SOOOOOO out of control here in the US and have thought it for quite some time! Loved this video. Such excellent info and my husband and I agree with your take on the “reverse culture shock”. We feel there are so many more positives being in Europe.
Thank you for watching and for the support!! This video struck a chord on both sides of the pond and that surely wasn't our goal! 😂 Cheers!!🍻
I am Norwegian and visited the USA in 2017. The restaurant visits were a provocative experience. I was told I had to tip a lot extra because the employees were paid so poorly. If that’t true, it’s incredibly rude! It is not my responsibility to pay the employees! Does no one own the reataurants in the USA? «Yes, of course it is». Oh well, but it is the owner’s responsibility /duty to pay the employees, not us who are guests!
We agree!! Some states pay the employees a decent wage and the expectation is still 20% or more. We don't mind tipping a resendable amount. Cheers!!🍻
When we lived in Germany in the very late 90’s, I remember we could order popcorn and beer while we watched the very first Matrix movie sitting in very nice recliners. Also when we lived in New York City, we went to a very well known comedy club and this waitress asked us if there was something wrong with her service. She asked us why we gave her lower than 20% tip - and this was in 1998!
So frustrating! Makes you not want to go out, which then hurts everyone. Thanks so much for watching - Cheers!!
Hi to you both, great explanation on the diffrence on Europe and USA.Great balance on your experience,and the beneffits on both sides!Just to back you up on tips,I could not agree with you more 20% tip is some times too much to be expected in advance,but if someone does deserve it I do not mind paying it but not to be mandatory...Thanks to you both, well done. Great video.
So happy you enjoyed it! And totally agree, deserved is totally different than required 😊. Cheers!!
My daughter and I visited the UK years ago while I was vegan. I had many gut issues which caused me to cut out a lot of types of food but while we were traveling I gambled and had ramen. It was the best ramen I had and it did not give me a stomachache. The taste of the food was so much better and I didn't suffer from my gut issues which helped me to enjoy the food more. We walked to grocery stores, and pharmacies and to shop for clothes. I love to walk whether it's for leisure or with intention and I really missed it once we returned home.
Just UK?! So you had the worst food experience possible in Europe. I'm in London and I hardly find a good food. I'm from Romania/east Europe and we even have a joke about the British food :- It is real that the British food is the worst in the world?! -If cooked properly, yes! Otherwise in general the Europeans are more restrictive in terms of foods standards.
That is so great it didn't bother you either....I've heard that from so many people.
it’s true, at least in Germany and some other countries they close all the groceries and stores on Sunday you just plan in advance and if you really need something on Sunday, then what I do is go to the main train station because the grocery and a bookstore is usually open there. If I’m desperate, of course it cost a little more.
Thanks so much for watching ☺
I have been enjoying your vlogs while planning trips to SE Asia from Australia. This has led me to subscribe to you guys. As a mature traveller, it is refreshing to get the brief from someone other than a 20 y.o Instagrammer. I really like your straight info style and international take rather than US centric. Thanks and I look forward to watching your travels further.
Thank you so much for watching and subscribing! We don't always understand how 20-somethings can afford to travel full-time. We worked full-time jobs for 30+ years and still need to be on a budget!! 😂 Cheers!!🍻
Thank you for all your information you provide.
100% agree on all points. I left Washington state in 2017. I'm headed back in June for a month to visit the kids but I would never live there again by choice. Have been living in Mexico but making the move to Thailand next year. And THAT hair! Fantastic.
Just got back from the Netherlands where tipping was not expected ! So we ended up not tipping which was perfectly ok. We will be re evaluating our tipping practice here in the US. Also: the service is often better in Europe!
We have the Netherlands on our shortlist!! Thank you for watching!! Cheers!!🍻
Love your videos…thank you, very informative.
Excellent video! Thanks for sharing.
Thank you for watching, Stacie!! ❤
When I was in my teens, a visit to the U.S. (and there were many) was about the most exciting event in my life. I loved NYC for all its faults because it had such a energetic vibe. Sadly, all that’s gone now so I’ve no desire to go anymore. Of course there are still great places in the States but it’s just not for me now.
There are a lot of amazing places in the US, but it is hard to escape many of the problems that we have no matter where you go. Thank you for watching and commenting!! Cheers!!🍻
People partly shoppso often because the food is fresher that way and some of my friends go to this Saturday market to buy food strictly from the farmers or the cheese maker, etc.
Nice comments! Like your open mind and reflections :) In general, Europe has nearly as many countries, as states in the USA. Difference, many more languages and cultural differences compared to the relative homogeneous USA, except of course of some regional/dialect/habits/approaches! In other words, please keep up the good work for keeping an open mind, this is really admirable! take care on your travels!
We just returned from a river cruise from Budapest to Munich. Love the culture. Incredibly safe and beautiful. Almost makes you look at the USA with disappointment over housing construction, community development, and so much more. I first had this experience when visiting Costa Rica. Incredible people. The USA is built around consumerism. It struggles without it now. Exploring the world is such a wonderful and enlightening experience.
Absolutely agree! Until our travels around the world, we didn't see so many of the things we do now when visiting home. Thanks for watching - Cheers!!
Pharmaceutical ads on tv in the USA really shocked me. It actually gave me anxiety!!
Yes, agree so much! And, i'm sure you saw them show a drug ad for that 😂
I totally agree on tipping. They even want to tip now for take-out! It's getting crazy.
Isn't that just crazy - I just always ask myself for what??? Cheers!!
The only reason to tip a takeaway is to thank them no spitting in your food/drink.
@@ionelghiorghita688 true but they wouldn't know till after I picked up (unless I was a regular). The lowest tip amount was 20% for pick-up the last time I went!
Send you love again from Romania❤. So happy to see you. All the best to you❤
Thank you, Clara!! Hope you are well. ❤
Love your hoodie! I agree with everything you said about the better things in Europe vs. US.
We now have gear!! Thank you for noticing!! Cheers!!🍻
Hi guys, Interesting video. You were spot on with your differences. You are 100% right about the tipping culture. it's out of control! I actually prefer the daily shopping for food. Not only is it fresh and has fewer preservatives, but it also supports local businesses and not large multinationals. As for walking everywhere, it's far healthier. After shipping my car from New Jersey to Spain, I soon realized that I did not need it. Now I use public transport and walk. Because I am over 60, a bus pass for unlimited travel in the city where I live costs 30€ per year. I also get 40% off Renfe train fares. You are correct about apartments being smaller than what people are used to in the US, but most of them come with a storage room either on the roof or in the basement. Regarding the electricity, most plans have different levels of kilowatt delivery. My guess is that Airbnbs always select the cheapest. Also, many old buildings have too many things connected to the same circuit. If you have, say the AC and oven going at the same time, it will trip the circuit. Before buying a place, I rented for a year, and when finally buying an apartment, the first thing I did was rewire the electrics with a separate circuit for the AC. Again, in Airbnbs, you will not have a dryer and, most likely, slow Internet as the owners buy the cheapest plan. When clicking on the video, the first thing I noticed was Brian's sweatshirt. Do you have an EU distributer? If not, I would have to pay 20% VAT on import duty. Anyway, good job. I will look forward to next weeks video.
That is so true, as mainly in Airbnbs they are going to cut corners where they can. We would totally upgrade many of the things we discussed if we were to buy or rent long term. Thanks so much for watching - Cheers!!
Some points that do not apply to France on the "not as good as US". At the restaurant you can ask for tape water which will not be charge. nobody can smoke in restaurants, shops, public buildings and offices. For shopping there are super and hyper markets in each town over 2000 people. They are huge with a lot's of choices, with fish place, butcher place, baker place, cheese place, parapharmacy where you can by stuff off the shelf, these are one stop hypermarkets where you can do all your grocery shopping, by 75 inch TV, rent power tools and many more. There are as well Amazon or other delivery company lockers...
Same in the UK. If you want a free jug of tap water just ask for it (it isn't hygienic to leave a jug on the table when there are no customers). No smoking indoors in public spaces.
Love your travel vlogs, subscribed to your awesome channel.... Love & respect from Bangladesh
Thank you so much - so happy to have you hear and following along ☺. Cheers!!
That’s really interesting and helpful. We head to Europe in 2 months! Thanks
Safe travels, Leeanne!! ❤
Thank you for another great video. We are getting ready to become full time travelers and find your channel so informative. lol...we often talk about how we will get over not having Costco membership 😄
Thank you! We are so happy you are finding our videos helpful ☺. I went into a Costco for the first time in 3 years, it was fun but now I wonder....why did I ever need that much of something at one time 😂 . Thanks so much for watching - Cheers!!
Lol, you can go to Costco in France and Spain though. I only go there when I want Hershey kisses and fatty bacon! Nestle has a hold on the chocolate in most places here so I sometimes miss Hersheys.
I guess I’m an unAmerican since I’m not into going to Costco at all. A neighbor of mine during Covid, bought there a great many toilet paper rolls that they stored in their garage and offered some to me if I needed any because she had a lot left over. I didn’t need any, I had enough, and I didn’t over buy
What better reason to go to Costco then for Hershey kisses and fatty bacon!!! 😀
Completely agree about the tipping in the USA. Visiting from the UK I was shocked when at the bottom of the bill it says suggested gratuity 20%, 22%, 25% etc!!
Now they are starting to add 20% to the bill! We check the menu before ordering to make sure it's not automatic. 🙄
@@BrianandCarrie Automatic tips?? Without even asking? That's really pushing it.... I mean I knew about the tipping culture in the US when I went there so I didn't comment when I saw the smallest option 20%, but at least it still felt somehow benevolent lol ... not straight up automatically added :))
@@RaduRadonys if you’re in the United States and pay by credit card and the lowest tip comes up 20% look a little further there’s a way to choose the tip you want and you have to type it in.
@@enjoystraveling Thanks for the tip, I didn't know that, it will be useful for my next trip to the US.
You both nailed it!!! I come from Europe and lived in US for several years. Tipping is most certainly out of control. I have taken control on this. Giving when its earned 👍 I love going home to experience exactly what you outlined and vice versa for USA. Subscribed 👍👊🍷
That's a great way to do it... give it when earned! That's how it used to be and somewhere things changed. Thanks so much for watching and hope we have other content you enjoy 😊. Cheers!!
Hi guys! Great video as always. Carrie your hair looks great!! Even my husband noticed and that’s huge (he never notices things like that).
Thank you so much... That's very kind 😊
I have not traveled extensively as you have but I can certainly relate on a number of items that are different between Europe and the USA. Regarding not having a clothes dryer, one benefit of hang drying is clothes lasting longer vs being dried in a dyer each time. The lint cleaned out of the dryer represents deterioration. And I regularly tell friends and family how much more expensive it is to eat out overall in the USA compared to Europe. And the tipping - I don’t tip here when ordering and picking up my food at the counter.
Some hotels have heated towel racks.
Most homes in the UK have heated towel racks too! It's pretty great.
Everything you have described is spot on. We are headed back to Spain next month (we were there in July also); we are continuing our scouting of the Malaga area for our eventual move (late 2024, likely). However, I won't miss anything about the United States 😀
We hope to make it to Malaga soon. Happy scouting!! Cheers
I love your hair, Carrie! I agree with everything you said on this Video.
Thank you so much! Thanks so much for watching - Cheers!!
Great video and so true. Carrie - love your hair!
Thank you!! ❤