Have you ever lived in another country?

[Scotslass]

For me the USA and Spain

[Ameriscot]

I'm American and 12 years ago my permanent home became Scotland. We also lived in Uganda for 2 years as volunteers.

[tarragon]

Originally Posted by jeffpv

I've lived in four countries for a year or longer, and one country for under a year.
I think living abroad definitely helps people gain perspective on themselves, their 'motherland', and the state of the world. I would recommend trying to live abroad for most everyone.

I can agree with you that living abroad certainly does help one gain perspective on themself and their home country. I am currently living in a Balkan country and it is so different than the USA. In many ways we are so lucky to live in the U.S., however, there are things here that I truly admire that we don't see or have lost in the U.S. A.

I hate the rudeness of the drivers here, very rarely do you see a common courtesy to allow someone in line. The drivers ride your butt, toot their horns on end to the point where it is annoying, they crowd in front of you when you are actually first at a stop light. They drive so dangerously on the roads. I've done plenty of shopping here and the cashiers in the store are mostly not friendly. In USA, it is expected that you be friendly to the customer! Eating out in a restaurant, you wait forever for a waiter (never seen any waitresses). I've noticed a great deal of litter around the countryside, whereas in the U.S. littering is prohibited.

What I truly admire, is there doesn't seem to be many shortcuts with the cooking. Most things are made from scratch and the food is delicious (unfortunately high in sodium) and just beautiful to look at. They do not nearly have as many food staples to choose from as we do. Most of the people I have seen always try to maintain a neat appearance whether it be grocery shopping or out for a walk. I love to see folks greet one another with a kiss on the cheek and a hug (very rare now in U.S.). The folks here seem to really appreciate their family and friends and maintain that closeness. This is what I personally have observed whether it be actual or not!

[irish_bob]

australia and new zealand

the former is a better country than my own , the latter is worse

[danielsa1775]

I spent just on 4 years living in the uk. I could have stayed on and become a citizen if I wanted.