As an American who has spent the last six years residing in Europe, I’ve developed a fresh perspective on various aspects of life that I once took for granted in the U.S. Growing up in a family where travel was limited to vacations, making the leap to live in another country was both thrilling and challenging. My journey began at 22 when I fell in love, got married, and became a mother. Now, as I navigate motherhood, I find myself reflecting on some stark contrasts between life here and in America.
1. Universal Healthcare is Essential.
Living in Europe, it’s become second nature to expect that my family won’t incur out-of-pocket expenses when visiting the doctor. This realization hits hard when I return to the U.S. and confront exorbitant medical bills – like the staggering $866 charge for a simple UTI.
2. Paid Maternity Leave Should Be Standard.
How can the U.S. be one of the world’s most developed nations yet still require women to return to work shortly after childbirth? It seems inhumane to force a choice between nurturing a newborn and meeting financial obligations. Here, women typically enjoy around 19 weeks of leave, often supplemented by paid vacation time (see #7), which, while still insufficient, is far better than what American mothers experience. Also, why are childcare costs in the U.S. so astronomical?
3. Student Debt Shouldn’t Be a Norm.
In my time abroad, I’ve completed two master’s degrees and am pursuing a doctorate, all without accumulating debt. The notion of spending over $30,000 annually on a college education, like the journalism program at USC, feels absurd in contrast to the educational opportunities available here.
4. Raising Children in America is Costly.
Refer to points #1, #2, and #3. The cumulative financial burden of healthcare, maternity leave, and education makes parenting in the U.S. a daunting challenge.
5. Lunch is the Main Meal.
Having struggled with my weight from adolescence until I moved to Spain, I’ve found that the local eating habits significantly contribute to better health. The primary meal of the day is lunch, often consisting of multiple courses, while dinner tends to be lighter fare. This change in dietary routine has greatly improved my well-being and is likely a factor in my newfound balance.
6. Children Thrive with Freedom.
In Europe, children are expected to socialize and entertain themselves without the distraction of devices. There are no babysitters; rather, kids are integrated into family outings and social events. This fosters creativity and stronger family bonds, resulting in better behavior.
7. Work-Life Balance is Key.
Here, a minimum of three weeks of paid vacation is standard, along with lengthy lunch breaks where eating at a desk is unheard of. This encourages a healthier lifestyle and a more relaxed approach to work, starkly contrasting the hustle culture prevalent in the U.S.
While I cherish my American roots and eagerly anticipate visits back home, I appreciate the opportunities my children have here, where we can live a healthier, less stressful life. For those interested in exploring the topic of home insemination, check out our post on home insemination kits. For more resources on pregnancy, visit CDC’s page on infertility, which provides excellent information on this subject. And if you’re looking for a fun summer activity, don’t miss this article on how to pedal your way through summer.
In summary, living abroad has reshaped my views on healthcare, education, parenting, and work-life balance, highlighting significant differences from American life.