When it comes to certain aspects of life, Europeans seem to have it all figured out, leaving their American counterparts in awe. From extended vacations to affordable education, Europeans enjoy a range of luxuries that many Americans can only dream of. Get ready to discover these ten European delights an online community shares, and perhaps allow yourself to daydream about the possibilities across the pond.
1. Long Vacations
Many members confess their envy toward the European work culture. Vacations longer than two weeks sound like a dream to many Americans. One person says that while someone in Switzerland has a 3-week long skiing trip, they’re here losing their wits when taking time off more than three days in a row.
2. No Exploitation
As if the paid holidays weren’t enough of a shocker, one person shares how their American friend was “gobsmacked” knowing they are a well-paid head of the department. What’s more shocking is that a good salary doesn’t mean you’ll be working unpaid overtime. All this, plus 33 paid holiday days a year with eight days of public holiday, is incredible!
3. Beer on the Go
Among odd luxuries is the ability to walk around town with a beer. This is particularly true for Germany, where they have Wegbier, which is quite literally a beer you drink while walking. It’s absurd yet awesome that such a concept exists!
4. Public Transportation
European public transport is famous all across the globe, and rightfully so. Many users find it incredible that such a readily available and reliable system exists even for smaller towns, not just metropolitan areas. Even if you’re in the middle of nowhere, you’re never too far from a train station.
5. Gapless Bathroom Stalls
It may seem mundane, but many American users are shocked that European bathroom stalls go all the way to the floor. One person commented they don’t need to know what shoes the guy next to them has on. “And let’s not even talk about polished floors that allow you to see the other person’s reflection while you both do your business!” they lament.
6. An Ongoing Lunch Break
One member shared how they were in Italy for school, and what caught their attention was how there was no rush or hustle of constantly going somewhere. People took their time to the point that the village they were staying in shut down for a few hours just so the shopkeepers could have lunch!
7. Affordable Education
Imagine a world where paying for college didn’t mean a decade of debt. If you’re in Europe, then you don’t have to imagine. One person shares how their daughter is attending university in Scotland, the affordability of which shocks their American friends. The cost is half that of attending a US college; if you’re Scottish, it’s completely free!
8. Walkable Communities
Europe is notorious for its picturesque cities, such as Amsterdam. With its stunning neighborhoods and numerous historical sites, Europe has countless walkable communities, which many users seem to adore.
9. Healthcare Hassle
Perhaps the significant difference between the European and American lifestyles concerns healthcare. American healthcare is known for its exorbitant cost and horrific insurance policies. Hence, Europe’s regulated health insurance and subsidized healthcare seem like a distant dream to many.
10. The Battle of Breads
One member mentions how American bread, by default, has “the sugar content of a cake.” While it’s possible to find unsweetened variants, they aren’t the norm. They add that Europe has readily available unprocessed food, which contrasts the American sugary staples.
Source: Reddit.
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