We hope you enjoy our light hearted view of cultural differences around the world! 😊 John and Bev retirementtravelers.com/

We lived in Germany for 4 years and it is custom for the wait staff to leave you alone after eating, as meals are seen as a time for non-rushed gathering and conversation. Dinner is seen as a 2-3 hour event with friends and family. Here in the US, its the “Get those table turned”, mentality, so they can rotate more customers through and make more money.

@RetirementTravelers

Жыл бұрын

You’re right, different experience and mentality. Isn’t that a great thing about travel? John & Bev

@ronpizur2627

Жыл бұрын

Agreed, we lived in the Netherlands for 15 years. We started off annoyed at the way servers ignored us. But then we realized that no one was expecting us to leave our table and we could stick around and enjoy the evening. When we are ready to leave we just get up and pay the bill. I actually enjoy the ability to relax and chat with my dining companions uninterrupted.

@220volt74

Жыл бұрын

I'm gonna echo what others have said. I hate when servers in the US interrupt me every 5 minutes while in the middle of a bite of conversation. Leave me to eat in peace, please. I much prefer European stand-offish but professional staff. Another thing is, in the US servers are not paid so restaurant owners can have an essentially free workforce, as many as they like. We, customers, pay them. And most of the time those servers are hired off the street, without any formal training. Even tho they might be friendly, most often they are slow and not that professional.

@karenborowinski825

Жыл бұрын

@@RetirementTravelers I think you were being killed with kindness in the US as the servers there are dependent on tips to survive. I would have thought you would have remembered that? That need to turn over the tables and get people through to make money. :-(

@Monas99

Жыл бұрын

So true, I was so bothered by this greedy practice in the US restaurants. It's hard to enjoy a meal when the waiter rushes you out of the restaurant.

I have lived around the world for 9 years. I can only stay in the U.S. for two weeks, visiting family and friends. The first experience landing in a U.S. airport, is the bad attitudes. And, Customs and Border Patrol asking why I am entering the country, last time I looked, I was still a U.S. citizen! Then there is also the Police State atmosphere, higher costs of everything, crime, homelessness, constant political and negative news reports, polarization by race and politics etc.

@matthewgonano636

Жыл бұрын

Same as in Canada. I was literally born there and I felt like an outsider entering my own country

@brucesnyder690

Жыл бұрын

Yup. Expat living in Thailand full time. Visit family in the US a few times each year. Can't wail to get out of the US and back to Thailand.

@asinglewomanontheloose5590

Жыл бұрын

My best friend married a Brit and they have lived in England for years. The last time she came back to the US to visit family, the immigration officer demanded to know why she lived abroad & then wanted to know what was wrong with the US that she wasn’t living here. My European friends all tell me that of all the places they travel, the US has the nastiest immigration officers.

@brucesnyder690

Жыл бұрын

Three weeks in the US is my limit. ENOUGH!!

@bcnishiaz5883

Жыл бұрын

I did extensive international travel for business often staying 3-4 weeks at a time and did 2 expat assignments in Japan 20 years apart. Although I missed some of the things you mentioned I really appreciated good affordable healthcare/insurance, the way people respected rules, kept public spaces clean and people cared for each other but I didn’t like their taxes. What I find disappointing here in the US is the daily shootings, having to worry about crime, people driving like they own the road and the general me, me, ME attitude.

I like this! I spent 25 years as a diplomat and every time I returned from a tour of duty, I was shocked by the excess in the U.S. Excess stuff, shopping as the national sport, people drive everywhere, stores are mammoth, and people eat way too much. It's sad (but true) about the self-storage places. I've been to about 70 countries and never seen them anywhere else. Now I'm back home but downsizing so I can travel more. It's fun to visit the U.S., but I really enjoy being on the road for long periods. Glad you've enjoyed spending time with family and friends!

@RetirementTravelers

Жыл бұрын

Thanks so much and hope you are enjoying our channel. We never dreamed we would love our extreme downsizing so much, but it is so liberating. Safe travels, John and Bev

@conn7125

10 ай бұрын

You might not see the self storage but they are everywhere in Europe you just have to look for them. We use them in Denmark when we move abroad and we’re already found several in Spain as we’re moving there soon.

America is a country of huge waste of resources and unnecessary comfort and little moderation. It leads to all kinds of physical ailments and huge imbalances. Life is much healthier abroad. Most of your comparisons are very much in line with these facts. Thanks a lot!

@RetirementTravelers

Жыл бұрын

Glad you enjoyed it. We have had many eye opening experiences the past few years. John and Bev retirementtravelers.com/

@kitwong4033

Жыл бұрын

Processed food and lack of exercise are the leading cause of diabetes and high cholesterol. By just walking twice a day to/from the stations would give one good exercise.

We have a health care system that is based on maximizing profits for the health plans and drug makers…..not on patient health. That is a big difference between the US and other countries.

@RetirementTravelers

Жыл бұрын

Agree John and Bev retirementtravelers.com/

@jeanettenaumiec7784

10 ай бұрын

As the minister of health in Taiwan said in a PBS Frontline documentary about healthcare around the world, The U.S. doesn’t have a healthcare system they have a healthcare market.

Fun video! When I returned to America when living overseas the two things I always appreciated were space and convenience. Regarding the restaurant checks, it is considered rude in many countries to bring a restaurant customer a bill without them seeking it out because it can be interpreted as rushing the customer.

@RetirementTravelers

Жыл бұрын

Great point and we suspected that. It is just a cultural difference. No right or wrong! John and Bev retirementtravelers.com

@ilipence406

11 ай бұрын

Rushing you with bringing the bill in a restaurant anointing me the most in the US. Thats we go to Mexican restaurant, usually that have the culture of the rest of the world

You two are always so positive, even if you have something a little bit negative to say. I'm always in a good mood after watching your videos.

@RetirementTravelers

Жыл бұрын

Thanks. We love to make smiles and inspire! 😊 John and Bev retirementtravelers.com

Great topic to discuss. When we visited Nepal it was a shock to see how little they have, but yet are some of the kindest and most content people we have ever met. I think people in the US should experience places and people like that to have a greater appreciation for what we have. Because of some of our travels we find it interesting how Americas will complain about some of the most basic things that have really no consequential value.

@RetirementTravelers

Жыл бұрын

We agree. It’s amazing what people who have so little value. It’s family, friends, and survival. They want a chance to get ahead so they can provide for their families. It’s worth keeping in mind when you travel and remember that experience when you come home. Thanks for the reminder! John & Bev

@irenestrmnss4496

10 ай бұрын

Toilet papers here in Norway are very soft and very white, but all sorts can be bought in the grocery stores. Making it very soft needs alot of chemicals and it s not good for the enviroment. Strict rules in Europe and Scandinavia about chemicals in food and other stuff. US use so much chemicals in everything. Health care and medical care here is covered by taxes, so if in hospital sick you dont get a big bill going home. Free health care for all children in all Scandinavia and north Europe. Think in whole EU and UK too. Even free dental care for all children from 0-19. Covered by taxes and goverment/state. Safe. Very good welfare system here in Scandinavia. As travelers you need travel insurance of course. Of course you need a duve here. 😂😂😂sheets no good in winter😅

The food is local in other countries. I love knowing the food didn’t come from halfway around the world - that local people grew it. And if you’re in a restaurant, they quite often tailor their menu to what’s in season locally.

@RetirementTravelers

Жыл бұрын

Thanks for sharing. We've had some amazing food around the world! John and Bev retirementtravelers.com/

@jamesc2899

Жыл бұрын

The problem is that local food is not always healthy. Western countries have a good transportation system, and farms are usually located far from industrial areas, so farmland pollution is minimal or nonexistent. But in undeveloped parts of the world, like China for example, the transportation system is poor, farmers are poor too, and most farms tend to be located close to industrial areas which leads to high levels of pollution in the land and implicitly in the fruit/vegetables people consume. But... if we travel to parts of the world, like Vietnam or China, it seems that our choices are limited.

@irenestrmnss4496

10 ай бұрын

​@@RetirementTravelers toilets in restaurants and cafes and shopping malls etc is free here in Norway. Think in big capital cities like Paris, London etc public toilets at train stations etc costs some dollar cause it s to pay the employee to keep it clean. You can use cards here all over the place, digital paying. Pay with Visa, Mastercard, Credit cards. No one use cash here anymore, almost none. Only children and very old folks maybe. 🌍🙋‍♀️Greetings from Norway. We are a modern society here. Ask locals for the best , real facts and info. 😊☕🌞🌤🌨☔🌦🍓🍒🥑🥕🥦🍎🥝🥐🍞🧀🥖🥞🍔🍟🥓🍗🍕🌭🥪🌮🍳🥗🍤🍫🍩🍰☕🍨🍦🍽🍷🍺🍹

I only know the United States as a tourist, leaving aside the social aspects, such as the lack of a public health system, paid vacations, ... what has caught my attention the most about the United States was the large portions, the sugary foods, the amount of sauces, the lack of good public transportation and how difficult it is to walk, except in NY, the impossible mission it is to find real bread and the great social inequality

@RetirementTravelers

10 ай бұрын

Thanks for sharing your observations with us. Safe travels, John and Bev retirementtravelers.com/

It is little ironic that the best sidewalks in the world are where nobody walks… 😂 Car dependancy is my biggest culture shock. Driving a F-150 to get a pint of milk or to go meeting friends at Dunking Donuts is mind bugling. No trains connecting NY to main airports. Never ending suburbs view when landing… Guns (security). Another thing that hit me in the US. A « no gun » sign on building entrance… Overall, same same but different. I did experienced the never ending laundry cycles in Eur and Asia but then again nobody used the dryers (which is not good for many reasons…).

@RetirementTravelers

Жыл бұрын

LOVE the sidewalk comment. 🤣 That's awesome. Thanks for sharing. John and Bev retirementtravelers.com/

@leapintothewild

Жыл бұрын

The reason we have good sidewalks is because of the fear of lawsuits if someone trips...

@PhillipDavison-iy2gh

7 ай бұрын

We were on holiday in Houston leaving motel the restaurant we were going to was just across the rd literally 30 yards so we walked over, the server in restaurant saw us told us off said we could have been mugged and told us never to do that again it was dangerous

People doesn’t know how clean the air is in America I have lived in Thailand for 11 years I miss clean air,

@RetirementTravelers

Жыл бұрын

Great point. Thanks for sharing. John and Bev retirementtravelers.com

Love all the stories and information you put out there. Thank you guys!

@RetirementTravelers

Жыл бұрын

Our pleasure! Thanks for watching. John and Bev retirementtravelers.com

Loved this video and all your insight. You guys were cracking me up!

@RetirementTravelers

Жыл бұрын

Thank you! We crack ourselves up most of the time, but we never know if anyone else will think we’re funny! 🤣 John & Bev

Great video for an upcoming retiree. Topics were definitely mentioned that I had never put to thought. Thanks, and safe travels.

@RetirementTravelers

Жыл бұрын

Thanks so much. Good luck on your retirement and hope you enjoy our channel. John and Bev retirementtravelers.com/

The reason waiting staff in most countries don’t rush you is 1) they get paid a living wage, so it makes no difference how many people they serve, and 2) dining out is meant to be a way to relax, and spend time with the people you are eating with. I have only been to 46 countries, but really enjoyed learning at least a few sentences in the predominant language of the country. It really does help. TBH. I have really scaled back the use of Amazon in favour of visiting local stores. As Amazon is contributing to the failure of our high streets.

@RetirementTravelers

11 ай бұрын

Thanks for sharing your perspective. John and Bev retirementtravelers.com/

Interesting comments about washing machines! In the UK and Europe all new machines will have an ‘eco’ mode which uses less power. Ironically these wash cycles take much longer, but the clothes are washed at a lower temperature with less motor action or slower but longer spins, to save electricity. They still come out just as clean, but are also more environmentally sound that an high energy, faster wash.

@RetirementTravelers

Жыл бұрын

That is good to know. Thanks. John and Bev retirementtravelers.com/

Fascinating observations ,thanks for your video collection .

@RetirementTravelers

Жыл бұрын

Glad you enjoyed it. John and Bev retirementtravelers.com/

I have GREATLY enjoyed your videos! I am so looking forward to my trip and your input has both helped equip me and give me confidence as well!

@RetirementTravelers

Жыл бұрын

Thanks and we are so glad our channel is helping you. Safe travels and many blessings, John and Bev retirementtravelers.com/

I accidentally stumbled across to one of your videos yesterday,and loved it so much ,that by now I probably watched 10 more from your channel and became your subscriber! Thank you very much for sharing your experience and tips on living abroad! Your story is very inspiring and you give a lot of useful tips and information! Your love of travel is contagious, but it’s also so wonderful to see such a strong connection between two of you- this is really the most important thing you have! Wishing you many more years of amazing adventures and always to have that spark in your eyes!

@RetirementTravelers

Жыл бұрын

Thanks so much for the kind words. We are truly blessed. Safe travels and many blessings to you. John and Bev retirementtravelers.com

Five years ago I retired at 59. Since then we travel abroad 8 months per year. How is it? We never want to return! We travel mostly in Europe and Africa, but we stopped Africa last year, where we spent three months each year photographing and observing wildlife. Now it's just Europe, and only the safe parts of Europe with the concentration on Austria, Croatia and Poland. Our favorite is Austria, without a doubt the best country in the world. We have an an apartment in Europe, a car, doctors, dentist and a bank. We used savings to buy these. So, we're like natives! Everything is better in Europe: climate, food, accommodations, safety, attractions, culture. What we like in America, are the national parks and Florida's winter weather where we try to spend our winters. All this on small money. We don't make enough in SS benefits to pay taxes. We are just smart with our money. Our recommendation: be a minimalist, save your money, keep cash, and learn languages. I can communicate well in four of them. Good luck! Thank you for the video!!

@RetirementTravelers

Жыл бұрын

Thanks for sharing your story. It is a great life isn't it. John and Bev retirementtravelers.com/

I’m glad you mentioned a lot of the positive aspects like toilet paper, sidewalks, large grocery stores, ice and customer service. It’s a reminder of how nice things are in the USA. I always have to reconsider these things when I think of living overseas.

@RetirementTravelers

3 ай бұрын

Thanks for sharing!! Happy journeys, John and Bev retirementtravelers.com/

Thank you so much for sharing all of this. The U.S. is 4% of the world's population but we consume sooooooo much more than every other country. Traveling shows you that so much of what we do is just unnecessary and wasteful.

@RetirementTravelers

Жыл бұрын

We are so happy to be rid of our stuff! Glad you enjoyed the video. John and Bev retirementtravelers.com

What a great fun video! Thnx

@RetirementTravelers

Жыл бұрын

Thanks. Glad you enjoyed it. John and Bev retirementtravelers.com

Ive been living in Germany for 6 years (first 3 years in the army and now an immigrant living in germany) I visited family for a week in florida. My wife and I had the biggest culture shock about how dirty everything was. I remember it being bad but not this bad coming back after all these years. We were driving from Atlanta to Pensacola and the highway is just full of flat tires and plastic bottles laying on the side. Ironically seeing signs suddenly saying " keep it clean georgia" or "keep alabama the beautiful." It fails on every single level and they try scaring people with those expensive fines to pay if you litter but they still manage to litter😂

@RetirementTravelers

9 ай бұрын

Litter is a problem all around the world, US included. We talk about it all the time. What frustrates us is there is such an emphasis on plastic straws polluting the oceans when it’s litter that washes into streams, rivers, and then oceans. It’s not straws that are doing the damage, it’s the act of littering that is causing it. Thanks for pointing this out! John & Bev

@michiganstad

7 ай бұрын

Ron De Satan would call it The FREE market ... yep the republicans

Fun look at the differences! Thanks.

@RetirementTravelers

Жыл бұрын

Glad you enjoyed it. John and Bev retirementtravelers.com/

This is so spot on! Oh and my dishwasher just broke, so I channeled my OUS experience and starting washing the dishes after every meal. I really enjoy doing the dishes by hand.

@RetirementTravelers

Жыл бұрын

Thanks for sharing. Hope you enjoy our content. John and Bev retirementtravelers.com

😊👍 Nice channel with happy hosts. Thanks for sharing your experience. 💕

@RetirementTravelers

Жыл бұрын

Thanks so much. Glad you are enjoying our channel. John and Bev retirementtravelers.com

Love your channel, you guys are an inspiration indeed...

@RetirementTravelers

Жыл бұрын

Thanks so much! Glad you are enjoying our channel. John and Bev retirementtravelers.com/

Great review and very helpful with your wonderful sense of humor 😂😂🎉🎉

@RetirementTravelers

Жыл бұрын

Glad you enjoyed it! John and Bev

This was your best ever video. Funny, off the cuff and right on! We have been traveling only a year but your list is so exact!

@RetirementTravelers

Жыл бұрын

Thanks so much. Glad you enjoyed it! We like to inspire and make smiles. 😊 John and Bev retirementtravelers.com

The two things that shock me the most upon reentry to the US: billboards and how loud people talk. I remember standing in line at customs after a month in France. A woman ahead of me was talking to her companion at the top of her voice about an incredibly private family scandal. I was so embarrassed. One of the things I love about the US is our space. Large yards, large swaths of wilderness. Many countries (obviously not all) just don't have the luxury of all that land.

@RetirementTravelers

Жыл бұрын

Those are two good ones. Thanks for sharing. John and Bev retirementtravelers.com

Great content, thank you! My wife and I thoroughly enjoy your channel!

@RetirementTravelers

Жыл бұрын

Awesome! Thank you! So glad you are enjoying our channel and hope it gives you much inspiration. Safe travels, John and Bev retirementtravelers.com/

Love it 😄 You are both great.

@RetirementTravelers

Жыл бұрын

Thanks for the kind words 😊 John and Bev retirementtravelers.com

Love your channel- we retirees need tons of real life stories like yours! Every aspect of living please.

@RetirementTravelers

10 ай бұрын

Thanks so much for following along with us. John and Bev retirementtravelers.com

So true and so fun ! Thanks.

@RetirementTravelers

Жыл бұрын

Thanks. Glad you enjoyed it. John and Bev retirementtravelers.com

I like your videos. My husband and I are retired too, but we take 2-4 trips each year, some domestic, some international. We're taking a cruise to the Canary Islands in the fall and will go to Florida in November. When you want a check in another country, sometimes you need to catch the server's eye, raise your left hand horizontally, and pretend you're writing a check with your right hand. It usually works. Safe travels!

@RetirementTravelers

Жыл бұрын

Thanks. We’ve actually used this technique! Safe travels, John and Bev retirementtravelers.com

Fun video! My husband and I went on our very first overseas trip together last month. (He had been overseas while in the Navy, but in 28 years, we had never gone across the Atlantic together! So the opposite of you two! lol) We decided to only visit England this time, but saw many parts of it. And yes, I agree with all of the differences you mentioned. We live in the NW, and it's not usually as friendly as folks down south where you're from (we visited Tennessee last year and loved it!) so we found the people in England generally more friendly than our neck of the woods. But yep, I was not prepared for all the smokers everywhere! Also, I'd add that AC (or air con, as they say) is not common in many places, especially hotel rooms. We were there during a very unusually hot and humid time, and it was tough to sleep at night. And no washer and dryer in either the hotel or airbnb we stayed at, so had to find a laundromat during our12 day stay, since we only took carry-on. All in all, we had a fabulous time, though, and it was fascinating to see the difference in culture, even in another English speaking country!

@RetirementTravelers

Жыл бұрын

Thanks and keep exploring the world. There are so many interesting cultures around the world. Hope you enjoy our channel and can join us on our journey. John and Bev retirementtravelers.com

Great video Beverly!

@RetirementTravelers

Жыл бұрын

Thanks so much. John and Bev retirementtravelers.com/

Excellent intel!!!❤

@RetirementTravelers

Жыл бұрын

Thanks so much. John and Bev retirementtravelers.com

I did watch a number of your videos before and didn’t really realize that I haven’t subscribed to your channel. Thanks for the reminder, I just did it.

@RetirementTravelers

Жыл бұрын

Awesome! Thank you! That put a big smile on our faces. Hope you enjoy our channel. John and Bev retirementtravelers.com/

Excellent video John & Bev! Answers so many questions that folks probably wonder about. We’ve experienced some of the same issues and had to laugh with you. After our last year traveling in Mexico, your comments about sidewalks is spot on!

@RetirementTravelers

Жыл бұрын

Thanks for sharing! Glad you enjoyed the video. John and Bev retirementtravelers.com/

This video was AWESOME!! So much insight and humor too. The toilet paper thing is serious! Lol

@RetirementTravelers

11 ай бұрын

Thanks. Glad you enjoyed it. 🤣 John and Bev retirementtravelers.com/

So awesome to hear yalls same obstacles and various things between US and other countries. #❤from Portugal

@RetirementTravelers

Жыл бұрын

Thanks. BTW, we loved our time in Portugal 🇵🇹 John and Bev retirementtravelers.com

Good luck, stay safe n enjoy your retirement life!

@RetirementTravelers

Жыл бұрын

Thank you! Will do! Safe travels. John and Bev retirementtravelers.com

I really like the smaller grocery stores in Europe. Fewer choices is a bonus in my eyes.

@RetirementTravelers

Жыл бұрын

We do enjoy the different experiences of grocery stores around the world. John and Bev retirementtravelers.com/

@zaram131

Жыл бұрын

Same here! I also love all the fresh take-away foods the grocery stores have.

Interesting comparisons!! I guess you don't realize until you've experienced as many countries as you guys have. Thanks!!

@RetirementTravelers

Жыл бұрын

Very true! Thanks for watching. John and Bev retirementtravelers.com

We just did a road trip from Los Angeles to Lake Tahoe and saw so many storage places! Even in what seemed like “the middle of nowhere”. It was shocking. Loved all the positives you mentioned about Europe, which we also enjoyed: metro stops, walking, trains, lack of fast food chains, also the architecture and history. You made a lot of good points!

@RetirementTravelers

10 ай бұрын

Thanks for watching and hope you enjoy our channel. Safe travels, John and Bev retirementtravelers.com/

You realixe how much better yhe food quality is in other parts in the world. Everything in north america is like Frankenstein food

@RetirementTravelers

Жыл бұрын

Thanks for sharing. There is a lot of highly processed food in the US! John and Bev retirementtravelers.com

@garytongate4389

Жыл бұрын

I must disagree. I traveled all over the world for 30 years and the food was sometimes barely edible. I never get sick from food in the United States. Not so elsewhere.

@lilybee_

Жыл бұрын

I guess it depends on what and where you eat. We buy locally raised meats and have some great farmer's markets. We have access to grains, spices and delicacies from all over the world. We can eat "frankenfood" but we choose not to.

@matthewgonano636

Жыл бұрын

Even grocery store veggies and fruit is full of pesticides

@lilybee_

Жыл бұрын

@@matthewgonano636 absolutely. That's exactly why we take advantage of fresh local, and organic. I'm just saying that good quality food is available in the U.S. and everything in N. America isn't Frankenstein food. Not even close. Some choose not to buy healthy food and unfortunately, some can't afford it. Which is also a worldwide problem.

Thanks for sharing your thoughts on this! I've actually come to find it quite rude the way that the servers in the US bring you your check in a restaurant before you're even done eating. That just doesn't happen in other countries, and I've gotten used to it and prefer it that way. I also find the tipping culture in the US to be totally out of control. I don't miss it when I'm outside the US. One thing that shocks me coming back to the US is how behind we are with being able to tap your credit card to pay for things. For several years now, most countries around the world have had this technology, but I'm amazed by how often you still have to stick in or swipe your credit card at stores, restaurants, etc. in the US, rather than tapping (which is the most secure way to pay with a card). Something else I noticed when I came back to the US this time is how there aren't many employees working in stores and other businesses. There seems to be a shortage of people to help you everywhere you go. By contrast, throughout Southeast Asia it seemed like there were employees in abundance in all situations, eager to help you. Another interesting thing: You mentioned how nice it is to have toilet paper in the US. Having just spent 5 months in Southeast Asia, I've become hooked on using a bidet. I love it! That's now something I miss when in the US.

@RetirementTravelers

Жыл бұрын

Thanks for sharing your experience and perspective. John and Bev retirementtravelers.com

@irenestrmnss4496

10 ай бұрын

​@@RetirementTravelers we have dryers here too of course😊😅 Lots. And lots of big modern washing machines. Most homes in Norway have their own washing and drying machines. But not so many public laundries in our towns. Dry cleaners of course, but people wash at home. Machines at home. My machine wash for around one hour and twenty minutes on the hotest. Cause I want it clean. Many kilos at a time. But many different programs to choose between. 2 hours must be old machines😅

@irenestrmnss4496

10 ай бұрын

​@@RetirementTravelers Lots of selfstorage units in my town and neighbour towns

@michiganstad

7 ай бұрын

@@irenestrmnss4496 nuff said

@michiganstad

7 ай бұрын

fully agree with you to begin with and to mention the shortage of people , well there is none but in america working for a nickle and a dime and no healthcare , the Hell with it . I don't blame people for sitting at home and living from the system and or parents . Another FAILURE of this Country to Provide LIVING instead of STARVING Wages .

You guys are awesome.

@RetirementTravelers

Жыл бұрын

Thanks. Glad you are enjoying our channel. John and Bev retirementtravelers.com

Love the new mics! Keep up the great content!

@RetirementTravelers

Жыл бұрын

Gosh, we’ve struggled to get it right. Finally, we think we’ve figured it out. We want very much for people to hear us clearly. Many of our viewers have hearing problems and need us to be clearer. Glad to see someone noticed. Thanks for the encouragement! John & Bev

Oh my goodness. Catching up on all your videos after I found you. This cracks me up. I totally agree and especially the toilet paper issue. When we book an Airbnb or apartment , we go buy some and carry it with us because they will only give you one roll.😂

@RetirementTravelers

4 ай бұрын

So glad you are enjoying our channel and website. Thanks for following along with us. Happy journeys, John and Bev retirementtravelers.com/

Great analysis ❤

@RetirementTravelers

11 ай бұрын

Glad you enjoyed. Hope you are enjoying our channel. John and Bev retirementtravelers.com/

Great video, and very appropriate. I am very happy to see that you both are very flexible in your travels and open to new cultures and experiences. I've seen way too often where Americans will enter another country and complain almost constantly because they are unable to get the things as they did in the States. Probably the one thing that I did miss the most when I last traveled in Europe for several weeks was the smooth sidewalks. The older areas of the European cities have a great amount of cobblestones, which does lead to some interesting treks.

@RetirementTravelers

Жыл бұрын

Thanks for sharing your experience. John and Bev retirementtravelers.com

Love this video

@RetirementTravelers

Жыл бұрын

Thanks. Glad you liked it John and Bev retirementtravelers.com

The idea of not needing a car is so appealing to me. I find it ironic that Amazon doesn't deliver to the Amazon.Thank you for the video. Happy trails!

@RetirementTravelers

Жыл бұрын

We actually love it. It has been 2 years now! Thanks for watching. John and Bev retirementtravelers.com

Great video! You really captured the differences in a fun, light-hearted way. After spending two weeks in Ukraine, I walked into a California supermarket and was shocked by the enormous amount of fresh fruits and vegetables. I just found your channel, subscribed, and looking forward to your next adventure!

@RetirementTravelers

Жыл бұрын

Glad you enjoyed it! Thanks for following along with us on our retirement journey. Safe travels and many blessings. John and Bev retirementtravelers.com/

I just uncovered you both, and you are so delightful and so funny with this video about the differences. How bout them storages? And the waiters & washing machines. You made it so accurate and funny versus blaming and negative I am in my almost mid-60s and finished going through treatment on a serious illness and realized that how much money I have to spend monthly to retire and have to work two days per week I could live much better and travel the world if I just Cash out. Thank you so much for your inspiration and your tips. I was raised in Florida, but I’ve lived in California for decades. Can’t wait to follow in your footsteps and thanks for all the great tips.

@RetirementTravelers

10 ай бұрын

So glad you found us and hope you enjoy our channel. We try to stay positive all the time. Safe travels and many blessings, John and Bev retirementtravelers.com/

Good video!

@RetirementTravelers

11 ай бұрын

Glad you enjoyed it. John and Bev retirementtravelers.com/

Just found your postings and enjoy them a lot. My culture shock: carrying luggage and medical supplies up 2-5 flights of stairs. Water with bubbles and not much water to bathe. What do I miss? Little gelato or ice cream shops on a nearby corner. Willingness to provide directions. Respectful attire in public (including places of worship). Safe travels.

@RetirementTravelers

Жыл бұрын

Great additions. Thanks. John and Bev retirementtravelers.com

I live in Switzerland and living and being a tourist is very different 😊 I think as a resident you get much better things than if you just travel

@RetirementTravelers

Жыл бұрын

Thanks for sharing your perspective! John and Bev retirementtravelers.com

@zaram131

Жыл бұрын

I love Switzerland ❤️

You guys rock! Thanks, I ‘m still in Italy and all of this is so true!😂 thanks for the confirmation on living abroad/ reverse culture shock we got about 9 months to go before going back stateside. Lol!😊enjoyed your positive attitude 😊

@RetirementTravelers

8 ай бұрын

Thanks and so glad you are enjoying our channel. Safe travels and have fun in Italy. John and Bev retirementtravelers.com/

Great video! A couple of days I watched a video by a European who spent 6 months in the states. It is interesting how many of the things she mentioned, you also mentioned.

@RetirementTravelers

Жыл бұрын

Interesting! Thanks for sharing. John and Bev retirementtravelers.com/

We've only traveled internationally in the summer because I am a teacher and still working. We are also from the south and LOVE our air conditioning. We always make sure to book hotels and apartments with ac. In Germany, we found out that they have some sort of energy conservation laws/rules about how low you can set the ac, so while the hotel in Munich did have ac, it did not get the room cool. Turns out they kept an entire storage room with big stand-up fans for wimpy Americans like us and they brought one up! Oh! And you are soooo right about toilet paper-- America definitely does it best!!! Thick, two ply, and soft!!! In Jordan, we were in that situation with none one time, so we started carrying some little packs of tissues with us!!

@RetirementTravelers

5 ай бұрын

Thanks for sharing and following along with us. Happy journeys, John and Bev retirementtravelers.com/

Thx, very nice to know

@RetirementTravelers

11 ай бұрын

Our pleasure! John and Bev retirementtravelers.com/

I appreciate your humor in this video! I see the things you like about the USA don't change your mind about continuing to be "Retirement Travelers," however!! 😊

@RetirementTravelers

Жыл бұрын

Thanks. We love traveling the world 🌎 John and Bev retirementtravelers.com

Super thank's ❤❤❤

@RetirementTravelers

Жыл бұрын

Welcome 😊 Thanks for watching and hope you like our channel. John and Bev retirementtravelers.com/

In my situation, having spent most of my life here in the U.S. although raised overseas and previously accustomed to the cultures and norms over there, now find it challenging to switch back to something I've let go more than 50 years ago! It's a full circle and am re-learning things I am used to when travelling to the region of my birth...

@RetirementTravelers

Жыл бұрын

We love everywhere we go, even when it’s not the usual standard we are accustomed to. Thanks for sharing! John & Bev

welcome back to US. now get back out there! you guys inspire me to get back out there too ;) your videos are motivational and inspirational for everyone to get out there. and also full of practical tips and info. thanks and keep on truckin' !

@RetirementTravelers

11 ай бұрын

Thanks and we are back out. We are loving our time in Europe now. Thanks for following along. John and Bev retirementtravelers.com/

Thanks for this great video. We retired and moved to Spain last November from NY. We love living here because of the culture, food and not having to drive. Also healthcare is fantastic and affordable here. That doesn't mean we don't love the US and we're proud Americans and plan on visiting each year. Regarding washing machines, we just bought one and there is a 30 minute session that we use and it's pretty big. I think that depends on the country though. Looking forward to watching more videos!

@RetirementTravelers

Жыл бұрын

Thanks and glad you enjoyed the video. We spent about a month in Spain last year and loved it. What town did you move to? John and Bev retirementtravelers.com/

@lizcoleman5229

Жыл бұрын

@@RetirementTravelers we live in Madrid. Glad you enjoyed Spain!

Bev and John, so wonderful to have you on the tour from Jasper to Banff, Alberta, Canada. I winced when I viewed the 'Tips' portion, but to be frank with you, Banff has become so expensive ($17 hotdogs!), we just can't make it without them - and so many visitors come from countries that don't have tipping as part of their culture. Anyhow, so good to meet you on the tour!

@RetirementTravelers

Жыл бұрын

Our pleasure! It was certainly wonderful to meet you and we loved your funny and informative style. Thanks so much. Completely understand about the tips! If you ever meet other travelers that might enjoy our content, please pass our name along. Safe travels and many blessings, John and Bev retirementtravelers.com/

The USA spends the most on health care, but is lower on the list for outcomes. We spend more and get less.

@RetirementTravelers

11 ай бұрын

Health care is very expensive in the US. We have found some good choices overseas. John and Bev retirementtravelers.com/

Awesome perspective. Reminded me of ducking into bars and restaurants in Italy to use their facilities for free. Hotels were usually good for that too. I love learning the language. When we land in Finland soon I’m ready for the genuine smiles I’ll get! Keep up the fab channel!

@gruncletim

Жыл бұрын

I did the same when I needed to use the toilet. I would walk into a bar as if I were looking for someone, and casually walk towards the back, use the facilities, and casually walk back out. Of course, it works better if the bar has a few customers in it already. However, I did encounter one in Berlin that charged 50 cents (euro) for the facilities, even to the customers of the bar. Oh well. 😁

@RetirementTravelers

Жыл бұрын

Thanks so much. Glad you are enjoying our channel. John and Bev

@susiestaton5544

Жыл бұрын

Also want to make sure to ask for Toileta not bathroom 😊

@gruncletim

Жыл бұрын

@@susiestaton5544 Yes, very good distinction in other countries. And for those who have yet to travel to other countries, you often find them labeled as WC (water closet). 😁

Terrific video! I’ve been to 40 countries and totally agree with you on everything. I remember learning how to use a “semi automatic washer“ in Costa Rica and Mexico. They are a pain. I always miss it when I can’t flush the toilet paper in other countries and free drinking fountains. I usually get sick from the water in other countries. It’s difficult to find enough drinking water bottled sometimes and I can’t lift those heavy 5 gallon jugs to put in the dispenser. You’ll be happy to know that my father invented Charmin toilet paper, pampers, puffs and other paper products. He grew up on a farm during the depression and had to use the Sears roebuck catalog pages for TP. He vowed to invent soft toilet paper after he graduated from Syracuse University with a degree in chemical engineering after World War II . You were so right about the smoothest sidewalks in the US. I hate the cobblestones in Mexico and sprained my ankle on one last year. The USA and possibly Canada are the only two countries I’ve ever seen that are wheelchair friendly. I think the processed food here in the USA is killing us all And has caused the obesity epidemic. I wish we could fix it. Happy travels!

@RetirementTravelers

Жыл бұрын

That’s the best news ever! Your dad did an awesome job! You must have smiled big on our number one mention!!! Great info! Thanks for watching! John & Bev

@leapintothewild

Жыл бұрын

@@RetirementTravelers Which includes a number two mention... teehee

I love you guys! I'm so glad I'm done traveling and yes the U S hands down is the bomb. I'm only 60 but I'm the happiest in my kitchen baking organic pies and treats for family and friends. I also love dancing to music in my own environment. I decided to invest my happiness in a music studio which brings me sounds of joy. Thank you for sharing. I watch you sometimes. You're a wonderful couple ♥️♥️

@RetirementTravelers

Жыл бұрын

Wow! You are an inspiration! Bringing joy to others while you are joyful is awesome! Wish the world had more loving and grateful people like you. Did we say, pie is our favorite food??? Coconut Cream and Sweet Potato are two of our favorites. Wish we could stop in for a slice! Thanks for watching! John & Bev

Fun video 🙌 I subscribed

@RetirementTravelers

Жыл бұрын

Thanks. Glad you enjoyed it. John and Bev retirementtravelers.com

@RetirementTravelers

Жыл бұрын

Thanks. Glad you enjoyed it. John and Bev retirementtravelers.com

Y’all are so cute!!❤

@RetirementTravelers

Жыл бұрын

Thanks for the kind words. 😊 John and Bev retirementtravelers.com/

Well done! I recently spent 3 weeks traveling in Europe and it is so true we are spoiled in the US.

@RetirementTravelers

Жыл бұрын

Thanks and glad you enjoyed the video. Traveling certainly changes your perspectives on things. John and Bev retirementtravelers.com/

Toilet paper and side walks. Thanks for reminding me that there are some good things about the US! And I love eating at Cracker Barrel when we visit relatives. This was a good laugh for a fellow long-term traveler. 🌺 Heidi

@RetirementTravelers

Жыл бұрын

Thanks. Glad you enjoyed it and got a laugh. Best of luck with your travels. John and Bev retirementtravelers.com/

You make some great points. I just have a few points of confusion: 1. You say you like the walkable cities of Europe that don't require you to use a car and are filled with more interesting (mom and pop) businesses. But you are supportive of giant grocery mega stores. These will almost always have big parking lots that destroy a community's walkability, just like drive thrus always do. I have found that Americans prefer the unique, walkable cities of Europe and Asia, but then they come back home and insist on things that prevent us from having walkable cities here in the US. 2. Grocery Bags: Why would you wait until "they charge for grocery bags" before you begin bringing your own? I feel frustration that Americans must be charged money for something before they will make the responsible decisions on their own. We have far too much single use plastic in this world, and much of it unfortunately ends up in the ocean. Yet when I go to the grocery store, I find that almost everyone mindlessly gets plastic bags rather than bringing their own. I don't get it. Such a simple thing to do.

@RetirementTravelers

10 ай бұрын

Thanks for sharing your points. We were trying to highlight some of the differences. We do love the walkable cities in Europe and have been without a car for 2 years. It becomes very difficult when we return to the USA without a vehicle, and the "superstores" are then actually helpful to us. Not saying one way is right or wrong, only different. John and Bev

@charlesunderwood6334

7 ай бұрын

My thoughts exactly

Thanks guys, very informative video. I'm married to a wonderful Colombian gal and plan on moving to Colombia or other South America country in 3-5 years so your videos are really helpful. I'm chomping at the bit, can't wait. Thanks again

@RetirementTravelers

8 ай бұрын

We love Colombia! It’s truly one of our favorites! I’m sure you’ll love it too! John & Bev

Thank you guys for not getting political. It would be great perspective if more Americans traveled abroad to recognize those things that are wonderful about the US and things that are wonderful about other countries and locations. Nice work and keep up the fun!

@RetirementTravelers

Жыл бұрын

Thank you! We love our country, but absolutely know that no place is perfect. Thank you for the comment. John and Bev www.retirementtravelers.com

I so agree on the washer/dryers 🤣 It’s the thing makes me doubt myself on moving back to Scotland 😂 Will I be able to adjust to having clothes draped on radiators around the house? 🙄😜

@RetirementTravelers

Жыл бұрын

We hang many clothes during our travels, but we just look at it as part of the adventure. Safe travels, John and Bev retirementtravelers.com/

Great video and you are both "spot on" with these observations- just needed to add the near non existence of "paper products" (tissues and enough toilet paper) when traveling abroad. I always need to buy more or carry it with me- also the death defying driving in foreign countries, particularly places like India and Africa where driving on sidewalks and driving head on cause me to see my life flash before my eyes a hundred times- magical places... just a bit nail biting but I wouldn't trade these experiences for anything. Just have a greater appreciation for where I come from- love your videos!

@RetirementTravelers

Жыл бұрын

Thanks so much. Glad you are enjoying our channel. John and Bev retirementtravelers.com/

Totally agree about the smoking!! We are spending the summer in Portugal and it's really our only disappointment.

@RetirementTravelers

Жыл бұрын

There is good and bad everywhere, but this is definitely one we don't care for. John and Bev retirementtravelers.com/

Thank you for making me appreciate the USA again! Still love to visit other places, but love coming home to America!

@RetirementTravelers

Жыл бұрын

Our pleasure! We enjoy traveling and coming back home as well. Safe travels, John and Bev retirementtravelers.com/

@RetirementTravelers

Жыл бұрын

Our pleasure! We enjoy traveling and coming back home as well. Safe travels, John and Bev retirementtravelers.com/

@tenniskinsella7768

11 ай бұрын

What impresses you about home. Great countryside I agree but no maternity leave. Short vacations very long hours of work everyone having guns. 12 children killed a day or was it a week from attacks in schools and loads injured are y proud of that

In response to one of your comments about hotels not providing washcloths, we were told many years ago on a trip to Germany that washcloths were considered too “personal” an item to provide and that they always pack their own washcloths.

@SomewhatRetired

Жыл бұрын

That was my biggest frustration on our 8 weeks in Greece…no washcloths. I did pack one but should have packed two to allow for using the clean one while washing the dirty one. No toilet paper thrown in toilets: no problem; I adjusted. Loved that the server at restaurants brought the machine to run my credit card at the table instead of disappearing with it like they do here in the states!

@RetirementTravelers

Жыл бұрын

Thanks for sharing. John and Bev

@surlespasdondine

11 ай бұрын

most Europeans don't use washcloths unless it's a day where you skip the shower and just have a quick wash at the sink.

That was fun! Thank you. Okay...here goes... I remember being abroad with a dire need to pee. I managed to find a place in bushes semi obscure. We were not in a city, mind you. In the US I'd fear getting ticketed...but not where we were.😮😊

@RetirementTravelers

Жыл бұрын

Sometimes you just have to....🤣 Thanks for sharing. Safe travels John and Bev retirementtravelers.com/

Sold my home & every thing in it like you. Has been 6 months of traveling so far & still not tired of it. Positives, a cut & color in Zagreb for 60 euros, better tasting bread everywhere, wine & beer for 2-3 euros in Austria & Czech Republic, walkability of cities, better & cheaper trains & buses, safer cities & interesting architecture, history. Negatives, loved Turkey but cigarette butts everywhere, tedious washing machines, no dryers, insistent vendors, squat toilets & no hair conditioner or wash cloths in most hotels. Lucked out in my current location, Split & have a top sheet!

@RetirementTravelers

Жыл бұрын

Awesome information! Thanks for sharing! John & Bev

Thank you so much for your videos. My husband and I will have the privilege of retiring soon and your information has been inspiring and so helpful (Swedish Death Cleaning, here we come!) But having been raised in both England and the US, your insights were many I agree with except tipping where servers here are dependent on making customers happy, which has a history of post Civil War "hiring" of former slaves where congress permitted owners to bypass wages so that servers had to try to survive on tips. Our sidewalks may be nice when we have them, but are related to the drivethrough issue you also mentioned: our nation converted to a car-centric design post world-war and never looked back. The result is that without a car, most people cannot get to jobs, grocery stores or schools. We have neglected mass transportation in favor of highways which means poorer people have no options to get around except in large urban areas. We silo people into communities of haves and have-nots (think suburbia) by way of car-accessible-only community design. But a movement to redesign for pedestrian and biking is underway as Americans see the benefits to mental, physical and even societal health modeled by the walkable cities and villages in Europe. Imagine--living in a house or apartment where you can walk to all the needed aspects of life! Instead, we zone for residential only and keep car-distant grocery stores, hospitals and schools far away. I hope we change...

@RetirementTravelers

10 ай бұрын

Thanks. Glad you are enjoying our videos. We have been without a car for the past 2 years and we don't need a car at all, EXCEPT it is tough in the US. We do enjoy the walkable and livable towns of Europe. Safe travels, John and Bev retirementtravelers.com/

Hey John and Bev - great video (as usual), thanks so much for keeping us dreaming and motivated in retirement! Off topic question: we are going to be doing SE Asia starting early October beginning in Thailand. We've figured out we should get proof of onward travel when entering Thailand, but question for you: When we cross over to Vietnam will they require proof of onward travel as a condition of our e-visa? Thanks so much and all the best! PS: We met you briefly last October at a train station while traveling Europe and began following your KZread site then...Dan & Melody Bartholomew

@RetirementTravelers

Жыл бұрын

Thanks for reaching out. Do you remember what train station we talked with you? Regarding Vietnam, we don't remember getting asked, but it was perhaps a question on the eVisa. We had a confirmed ticket on to Cambodia, so we probably didn't give this much thought. The only place we had a problem was in Costa Rica. They have a fly in/must fly out rule. Safe travels, John and Bev retirementtravelers.com/

Nice video, some of them though, I wasn’t clear at first if you weee saying which ones were pros and cons…maybe just me, I’ll watch again. Nice video though! ❤

@RetirementTravelers

10 ай бұрын

Thanks so much. John and Bev retirementtravelers.com/

Renting a storage unit is the biggest indicator of having too much stuff. What is the purpose of having things locked away and paying exorbitant fees to keep stuff you never see. I’ll never understand that.

@RetirementTravelers

Жыл бұрын

Agree. We are so happy to be free from “stuff” John and Bev retirementtravelers.com

@jimknarr

Жыл бұрын

It's because people that downsize from their McMansion don't know what to do with their keepsakes (stuff) or want to kick the can down the road.

Another great video…Toilets/restrooms/bathrooms…are so different around the world! 😅

@RetirementTravelers

Жыл бұрын

Thanks. We love the fact that things are different around the world! Makes travel interesting. John and Bev retirementtravelers.com

are you done traveling?? Love your videos :)

@RetirementTravelers

Жыл бұрын

Nope! On the road again. Currently in Northern Ireland and having so much fun! Thanks for watching! John and Bev

Beware of ice in a place where the water may not be pure, and you end up with a gastrointestinal problem for a few days😂😂

@RetirementTravelers

Жыл бұрын

Good point. If you can’t drink the water, you can’t drink with ice! That’s why God gave us beer. 🤣 John and Bev retirementtravelers.com

@fogrunr5075

Жыл бұрын

@@RetirementTravelers Yaah😂😂

Restaurant service is something I have noticed as well when going from one country to another. I never noticed the whole drive through things - I guess because I don't use them myself.

@RetirementTravelers

Жыл бұрын

We use them too much in the states! John and Bev retirementtravelers.com

This video tickled me. The TOILET PAPER!!! Yes and yes to plentiful, soft, strong USA TP. Brings back memories of one of my first trips I made out of country. Backpacking through the Yucatán in the 80s with my best friend (2 college girls on summer break). This was before all of the awful development that has ruined my beautiful beloved Yucatan. It was one of the BEST trips of my life. We were told we would be killed, raped, kidnapped, get diseases, etc. Our families were so scared (remember Pre-cell phone and internet when parents worried about traveling kids?) met the kindest, loveliest most generous spirited people there. We paid about $2 for a fresh lobster dinner grilled on the beach by local family. The next day we caught a local bus…think super third world with livestock outnumbering people inside the bus and no banos. The gas station charge the equivalent of .50 to use the toilet and a DIME for each tiny square of single ply toilet paper. The woman who sold the toilet paper wouldn’t sell a strip of 10 squares. Nope, not happening. She had her stack of squares and you had to make it work. So I bribed her and begged her to give me an actual strip of toilet paper for an American dollar. Lobster dinner or a small strip toilet paper in the filthiest bathroom I have ever been. Perspective giver on supply and demand economics.

@RetirementTravelers

Жыл бұрын

Love this story! Thanks for sharing!!! John & Bev www.retirementtravelers.com