As I watch it from my Prague living room, drinking instant coffee, I look around and see clothes on a rack above my radiator, which itself is under a window that opens two ways, and next to it is a French type electric outlet. This is so accurate that I have to light up a cigarette now.
Electric - The sockets may be different in different European countries, but they are interoperable, so there is no need for an adapter. I have traveled to many European countries and have never had any problems charging my phone or using my iron in countries marked in green, or in France or Italy. Dryers - this photo is from a barber in Turkey, it's the only place I´ve seen towels drying on a rack in the middle of the street, in barbers, it's not clothing or household clothes. Don't make Americans think that we dry our clothes in the middle of the street! Yes, there are not many dryers, we usually dry on racks, but indoors, sometimes at the window. Toilets - I see that in Istanbul you bought the tourist card, which gives you access to public transport and pee facilities! The transport card is MUCH cheaper, and can be used by two people. I travel mostly in Europe, and apart from train stations, I don't remember paying. Maybe I pee less? I use the bathrooms in restaurants, when I have lunch and dinner, or in cafes, you can use them for free, if you consume. Sundays - yes, weekly rest is mandatory in most countries. Shops are closed, supermarkets and shopping centers can be open, but if they are large, staff rotation is allowed, because people are entitled to weekly rest. In a small shop, with few staff, it is not possible to release people alternately for the MANDATORY weekly rest, so they close. transportation- we learn how to park in parallel in driving school, and in the exam we have to do it too
We always appreciate hearing different perspectives, especially when it comes to adapting to new cultures and practices! Regarding drying clothes, we did indeed see clothes drying on racks outside in Sicily, and we understand that drying indoors or at windows is common in many parts of Europe. It's important to clarify that we didn’t mean to imply people are drying their clothes in the middle of streets, but rather that outdoor drying is a common practice in some places, just as it is in many regions around the world. On the topic of toilets and restrooms, we completely agree with your point about using bathrooms in cafes or restaurants when you're a customer, which we do regularly. It's a great way to support local businesses while also accessing the necessary facilities. We’ve also noticed that public restrooms in some places may require a fee, but having a transport card like the one you mentioned can make things a lot more convenient and less expensive in a few countries. As for Sundays and the mandatory rest for employees, we absolutely respect that. It’s important for people to have time to rest, and we’ve learned to adapt to the fact that many shops close on Sundays in certain countries. We appreciate the importance of work-life balance and the necessity for staff to have time off. Finally, when it comes to driving and parallel parking, we definitely recognize that it can take a little time to adjust! But once you’ve learned the ropes, it becomes second nature. And of course, the different socket types in various countries are something to keep in mind, but as you pointed out, they are generally interoperable.
I just found your channel! Thank you for all this information! I’m living in Oregon and thinking about retiring in a European country because I simply can’t afford the USA. I went to Malta and stayed in a hotel that served breakfast every morning. It was awesome! There were ppl from different countries, therefore, all kinds of foods available to eat! Breakfast was served until noon and everyone took their time. There wasn’t any rush. Others were able to identify I was from the US because I had my cell phone on the table. My family could spend well over an hour there trying all these wonderful foods and then not eat until dinner which starts around 8pm. Ppl dress for dinner. It was nice to see. No one was rushing around. At another stop for coffee at an outdoor market, We were told to sit down and someone would get our coffee order. I think they thought we were rude but we were just used to hurry up, pay and get out. No fly screens when I traveled to Portugal. Very small parking spaces and narrow roads when in the cities. I was glad I wasn’t driving. Meals seemed to be more affordable than back home. Thank you for your channel! I’m enjoying it.
Always enjoy watching your videos as a European! But what I don't understand is how you manage to make these general statements about "Europe". This would be similar to me making a video about what life is like in "the Americas" (from Alaska to the southern tip of Chile/Argentina!). When I travel around Europe, I notice many of the same practical differences that you mention, but that is between (and sometimes even within) European countries!
My daughter recently moved to the U.S. and was shocked to discover that you can’t show minor cuts to the pharmacist to get their advice (they sit behind a reinforced plexiglass screen for one thing). She ended up having to spend $210 to attend at an ‘urgent care’ service just to get a prescription for common-or-garden penicillin!
When I came back to the US and was looking at rental apartments, many landlords stressed their studio units were very small (600SF or 55m²) but they seemed huge to me! I now rent a live/work loft space above a storefront and love it. Plus it's a walk-up with no elevator so I still get my steps in. It even has a wood beamed ceiling that reminds me of my apartment in Barcelona. But I do have window screens and a separate full-size clothes dryer!
We videoed this while we were in Scandinavia:) It wasn’t possible to name every European country on the video, so we just said “Europe “ Many of the things we highlighted have been seen throughout Europe not just Eastern Europe. The bedding has been in almost every country we have visited from Portugal to Poland to Albania and beyond. Thanks for watching 😀
In Sweden, smoking is prohibited in all public places, such as train stations, bus stations, restaurants and cafes (also outdoors), cinemas, sports centers and all hospital areas. Smokers are also not allowed to stand closer than 10 m from doors to shops, shopping centers or homes. You can be liable for compensation if you smoke in your apartment and they have to renovate. The cigarettes are also very expensive here.
I adopted the European way of bedding. When in the U.S. I NEVER use a flat sheet (hate them now) and my comforter is folded in half and on my bed like you show. Love it and never going back!
As an American traveling in Europe, we've always found it interesting how pets differ from country to country. In "general", we've found pets have much more freedom in Europe. It's very common to see strays in most countries. While crossing the Serbia/Bulgaria border/immigration, it was basically overrun with stray cats! Also it's much more common to see dogs off leash, and for the most part - very well behaved. Meanest dogs by far were in Italy. Nicest, probably every other country but Italy.
As a European what I often hear from pharmacists is : I will give you (this), but you should visit the doctor because it may be / is something more serious. Also altought some europeans are crazy about the "enviorment" Ive never heard anyone say that as an argument for walkable cities, I think that people just like to take a walk. I often walk 2 km to the local supermarket near me just because I want to even when there is public transport available.
We hear this from the pharmacist too, but it’s still a blessing to have the option for assistance. We enjoy walking too. It’s one of our favorite things about most of Europe is the walkability to things.
Yeah, instant coffee is underrated. I read somewhere that the general attitude toward it in the US goes back to before the development of the freeze drying method, but that nowadays (and for the last few decades) instant coffee is brewed under very controlled conditions before freeze drying, yielding a smoother taste with less aftertaste than what a home drip coffee maker can consistently produce. Also, I was surprised to read that cafes in Italy typically use a blend of Arabica and robusta espresso beans, given the bad rap that robusta beans have generally gotten in the US without any allowance for using them in blends.
Such an accurate video…. And the lack of dryers is probably one of things we miss the most from the U.S. We’ve even found laundromats around our stay where we’d take our clothes to dry.
I got hooked on instant coffee (3 in 1 packets) while traveling in Asia and Europe. After many years, I still order Kopiko brown coffee and BOH tea from Malaysia on Amazon and have it shipped to me in the US. I think it's actually less expensive than buying coffee in the US. The big difference in the coffee is they use brown sugar as a sweetener instead of white sugar. It gives the coffee a richer taste more like caramel.
I was in Scotland and went into a pharmacy for Aleve. They told me I had to have a prescription for it, but sold be Codeine instead. It was a low dose and they warned me to take it no more than 3 days. At the grocery store I found naproxen, so I was okay and made due. Now I never forget my Aleve when I travel to Europe.
I think you must have the flat sheet between your comforter. otherwise, you need to be washing the comforter all the time, if you have a flat sheet, you can just wash the flat sheet and fitted sheet all the time and keep the comforter clean, and only wash the comforter when needed. Not sure if the comforter will dry ever with out a dryer.
Instead of a flat sheet we have a removable duvet cover, like a pillow case but bigger. This is washed when the sheet and pillow cases are washed. It serves the same purpose as your flat sheet with less sliding down of comforter and crumpling up of flat sheet.
"Not sure if the comforter will dry ever with out a dryer." 🤣🤣🤣YES, YES, it dries well without a dryer, in a ventilated place. Do you realize that most people in the world dry their clothes, including blankets, without a dryer? What do you think we do? Do we throw them away when they are dirty?
Wow ! Such great tips ! I would not of even thought to even ask about some of these issues. Just found your site and will definitely see what other info i can get from you , in our language, thats easy to understand and doesnt add a bunch of nonsense that i dont care to waste my time listening too. Thank you so much !!
What is quite common here in Europe is that we get fed up with American tourists who will insist on setting the US as the the place where everything is done correctly and measure other ways of doing things as inferior to the "US Standard". There is a world beyond the US borders and it's been there a long time.
This is certainly not what we think. We do not think the US is superior to other countries. In this video we praise European countries for several things. We are grateful to be here.
Yes American culture is pushed by the media but most of us have no desire to push our lifestyle on anybody else. Unfortunately there will always be tourists who are arrogant and insensitive to the cultures of other people.
Do Europeans consider it insensitive to inform travelers on what to expect when they travel far from home. Why? If an American tells you to avoid New York City, it is simply giving you a good tip or good advice. Relax.
In Europe dryers and climate Units are more seldom used with regard to environmental considerations. You CAN of course buy Instant Coffee, but you can get real good Coffee everywhere in practically every european country. Maybe you should Not Take the worst you buy for Standard.
If we had the opportunity to redo the video, there are a few changes we would make. Our main goal was to educate viewers, particularly those who have never visited Europe, especially the Balkans and Central Europe. We don’t consider these experiences to be universal, but rather reflect what we’ve encountered most frequently over the years.
@@JayandSarah Hi, Jay and Sarah - Thanks for responding. I had never seen an electric kettle until I arrived in Germany last year. I hope you are having wonderful travels.
Yeah, the no screens threw me for a loop at first too! My MIL in Romania does not have a dryer either and her water heater takes an hour to produce enough hot water for a quick "shower". We love sitting out on the balcony every morning with our instant coffee! It seems to taste so much better there than what we have here. At least the cigarette smoke seems different in Europe compared to the US. Less carcinogens, maybe? This video made me chuckle because it's all true! I just consider it as being part of enjoying the local customs/cultures. Another great video! Wifey and I are headed back to Romania in 3 days for our 3rd time this year. She is from Brasov.
Here is an explanation of holes or ventilation gaps in bathroom doors in Poland. In most houses, especially older ones, hot water is heated in a gas heater usually located in the bathroom. Oxygen is needed to burn gas. If there is too little air (and therefore oxygen), incomplete combustion occurs, which means carbon monoxide is produced. There is a risk of poisoning. The legislator has therefore introduced a law that requires bathroom doors to have holes or ventilation gaps to ensure adequate air flow to the bathroom. This makes sense. Unfortunately, the legislator has not provided for exceptions. And so these holes must be there, despite the fact that the gas heater is sometimes located in another room (kitchen, basement), or even not there at all (electric heating, including heat pumps).
It is not only about gas heater. This is how an apartment ventilation system works. The air from an open window goes through the apartment and leaves through the vents in kitchen and bathroom. That is why the bathroom and kitchen doors should have the gaps - for proper air circulation.
Not sure what part of Europe you’ve been getting all the instant coffee but you mentioned Montenegro a few times so I’m guessing it’s the poorer Balkan countries? Truthfully, the last time I was offered instant coffee at a restaurant was in Greece in 1996! I live in Ireland and the places I visit most frequently would be Spain, Italy, and the UK. I’ve never been served instant there.
We have spent time all over the continent and have seen it on menus in many different countries, under the word, Nescafé Overall, the coffee is incredible throughout the continent. We especially love the cappuccinos.
Warren and Julie thank you very much for sharing your content. I keep watching many other "travel channels" and find myself coming back to your's. My wife and I are nearing retirement. At retirement, we plan to slow travel and stay within each country we're at for an extended period of time averaging a month + or - depending on how much there is to do and see. Even though I watch many travel videos, I feel that I am still confused about how to deal with accommodations while slow traveling. Meaning we should we rent a place for a month and do day trips from that one location or should we stay at hotels each time we travel to a different place within the country? Also can you please advise me if a monthly budget of $4500 (US) is enough for the two of us to cover everything including health insurance, transportation, food, accommodations and sight seeing? Notes: we would like to travel outside the US for 9 months and come back to the US for 3 months. At retirement, I will be 60 and my wife will be 55. Thanks for your response in advance!
Thanks for watching and for the support of the channel. Having a longer term accommodation (28 days or more) and traveling out from it will often save money. $4500 per month is completely doable. I encourage you to check out our expat cost of living playlist. We detail our costs in many countries. If you need a health insurance quote, please email me at warrenjulietravel@gmail.com I’ll be happy to take a look at different options for you.
Great video, everything is so true. The one thing that resonates with me is pepto bismol. We are running low and that will be the end of our supply. If you get a rumbly tummy and the squirts, there ain’t nothing here to save you at the pharmacy.
@@WarrenJulieTravel yeah it’s crazy we should have brought more. Who would have thought such a basic and helpful medication would not exist. Yet you can walk in and buy prescription pharma drugs no questions asked.
Yes the Nescafé Gold or Jacob’s Gold are both decent coffees. I like making my own Turkish Coffee because I can serve myself a good size mug 🍵 of it, the serving’s when out are too small typically.
I've been in Europe for about 2 months now and the screen thing just boggles my mind. It was really hot in Portugal but I had to close the windows at night because the mosquitos would eat me alive! And I'm allergic so I swell up and have to take antihistimines for days! (And I was on the 11th floor so yes, they fly that high lol!) No screens in Ireland, England or Wales either, although it's cooler so it's not as much of a problem. I miss opening my windows wide and allowing fresh breezes in. I don't get it. I may invest in some screening and clamps or double sided tape or something to bring with me!
@@pdk3065 In the U.S., it’s common for over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen to be sold in large quantities, such as 500-tablet bottles, for a few practical reasons. First, many Americans use ibuprofen regularly for minor aches and pains, such as headaches, muscle soreness, or chronic conditions like arthritis. It’s also often recommended for inflammation-related issues, like pleurisy, under a doctor’s guidance. Second, medications like ibuprofen typically have a long shelf life, so buying in bulk is cost-effective and reduces the need for frequent trips to the store. In the U.S., where healthcare and pharmacy systems are different from Europe, over-the-counter medications are relied upon more heavily for managing common health concerns, and bulk packaging is marketed as a convenient option for households. It might seem excessive in Europe, where packaging sizes are smaller, but for Americans, it’s just another way to save money and stay stocked up for future needs! Most homes in the US probably have a bottle with 250 tablets in their home.
@@WarrenJulieTravel I ask the same question - why do I want a bottle of 500 pills? For Americans, overmedicated (including over-the-counter medications) makes sense, and even though we have cheaper access to medical care, we won't rush to the doctor for relief for simple things. We also buy ibuprofen at the pharmacy or in the health section of supermarkets, but we don't abuse it, we're not always taking it. And despite having a long shelf life, I often have to buy a new one when I need it, because the packaging I have is past its expiration date.🤣
@@WarrenJulieTravel No :D It doesnt seem weird for us because the packages are smaller, its the other way around, it seems weird that anyone would take so much pills to even need such big packages. If I buy a little bottle of 30 ibuprofens It lasts me like maybe 2 years, I would not be afraid to say even more. I dont take them if the pain isnt really serious, its not good for your stomach and liver.
Less sugar is a good thing. Worst for cancer. And pesto bismol should b illegal due to contents....thanks for the input very great info...never knew alot of it...
I completely agree with you! I love the reduction in sugar. I truly love many European countries. The bakeries are so special. I’ve never used Pepto. Thanks for watching:)
Well that was useful/interesting! If you want the best bang for your buck in coffee, just use a French press -- they *must* have those? Apparently I'm not just lazy -- I've been using Nescafe "Dark Intense" instant coffee, added to Maxwell House premixed (powdered) French Vanilla flavored (used to be General Foods International Coffees) -- It's actually not bad at all and pretty cost effective. On parallel parking, here in North Vancouver, I'm always flaberghasted at people's *complete* inability to parallel park -- it's a downright *dangerous* / traffic hazzard to be unable to park in the already crazy traffic we have here. Also re electronics -- could you just bring a US powerbar with you and then only need one adapter for the powerbar itself? Cheers!...from North Vancouver
Oh yes, of course bring a converter for your American items, the power bar was the European style. A lot of what we have now after being in Europe so long does use the Europe plug. I also like the French press there are so many different ways to do coffee. It’s always a fun adventure to try something different. We probably also should’ve spoke about manual transmission versus automatic when we were speaking about driving and parking. Always things you think about after the project is complete
@@WarrenJulieTravel yeah so many vehicles here are manual transmission. From an ownership standpoint makes so much sense... far less to repair than to replace an automatic transmission for many thousands of currency.
Ibuprofen. Panodil. Paracetamol. Only sold in 10 or 20 pieces. But you can get a prescription for a 100 pack. It was introduced when they were used by teenagers to attempt suicide. Mhh yes again all countries in Europe are different. It is easy to get quality coffee in Denmark. And the Super Markets are open every day. The best advice is that when you travel to Europe, research which countries you are going to visit. The European countries are different both politically and culturally in terms of infrastructure. And the standard of living and financially are very different. So to say that This is how it is in Europe. Yes, maybe in that country. But it is something completely different in the neighboring country. However, one thing is probably reasonably similar. Europeans hate being put in the same box.
We do realize each country has its own unique culture etc and if we thought that an audience of people would sit down and watch a video that long about the 40+ countries we have visited and their unique differences we would certainly produce it Since we have travelled all over Europe for almost four consecutive years we understand many things. I do believe we mentioned it was several countries we visited that closed everything on Sunday but not all. The information you provided on the ibuprofen etc is very interesting. The US has certain otc meds locked up because people make illegal drugs with them Thanks for watching.
@@WarrenJulieTravel Being able to buy certain drugs in large quantities tends to make people forget how dangerous they can be. People should seek medical advice if they intend to take Ibuprofen frequently or for a long time. It is contra indicated for people with some medical conditions, should not be taken with some other medications, also now not really recommended for people above 65 without taking medical advice. If you are unable to buy a medication or can only buy a limited quantity, there is a reason for it.
You only have culture shocks when you dont do research whats going on in a country! How simple is that? Different countrys different rules and culture! You want the same like in your country? Stay home!
@@WienerVL you’re the one belittling people for researching differences they may experience, like some elitist. We aim to educate, if you know everything already move on.
![I.N "HALLUCINATION" | [Stray Kids : SKZ-PLAYER]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/n5B5q1Hwt_U/mqdefault.jpg)
As I watch it from my Prague living room, drinking instant coffee, I look around and see clothes on a rack above my radiator, which itself is under a window that opens two ways, and next to it is a French type electric outlet. This is so accurate that I have to light up a cigarette now.
So awesome! Thanks for watching and sharing:)
Electric - The sockets may be different in different European countries, but they are interoperable, so there is no need for an adapter. I have traveled to many European countries and have never had any problems charging my phone or using my iron in countries marked in green, or in France or Italy.
Dryers - this photo is from a barber in Turkey, it's the only place I´ve seen towels drying on a rack in the middle of the street, in barbers, it's not clothing or household clothes. Don't make Americans think that we dry our clothes in the middle of the street! Yes, there are not many dryers, we usually dry on racks, but indoors, sometimes at the window.
Toilets - I see that in Istanbul you bought the tourist card, which gives you access to public transport and pee facilities! The transport card is MUCH cheaper, and can be used by two people. I travel mostly in Europe, and apart from train stations, I don't remember paying. Maybe I pee less? I use the bathrooms in restaurants, when I have lunch and dinner, or in cafes, you can use them for free, if you consume.
Sundays - yes, weekly rest is mandatory in most countries. Shops are closed, supermarkets and shopping centers can be open, but if they are large, staff rotation is allowed, because people are entitled to weekly rest. In a small shop, with few staff, it is not possible to release people alternately for the MANDATORY weekly rest, so they close.
transportation- we learn how to park in parallel in driving school, and in the exam we have to do it too
We always appreciate hearing different perspectives, especially when it comes to adapting to new cultures and practices!
Regarding drying clothes, we did indeed see clothes drying on racks outside in Sicily, and we understand that drying indoors or at windows is common in many parts of Europe. It's important to clarify that we didn’t mean to imply people are drying their clothes in the middle of streets, but rather that outdoor drying is a common practice in some places, just as it is in many regions around the world.
On the topic of toilets and restrooms, we completely agree with your point about using bathrooms in cafes or restaurants when you're a customer, which we do regularly. It's a great way to support local businesses while also accessing the necessary facilities. We’ve also noticed that public restrooms in some places may require a fee, but having a transport card like the one you mentioned can make things a lot more convenient and less expensive in a few countries.
As for Sundays and the mandatory rest for employees, we absolutely respect that. It’s important for people to have time to rest, and we’ve learned to adapt to the fact that many shops close on Sundays in certain countries. We appreciate the importance of work-life balance and the necessity for staff to have time off.
Finally, when it comes to driving and parallel parking, we definitely recognize that it can take a little time to adjust! But once you’ve learned the ropes, it becomes second nature. And of course, the different socket types in various countries are something to keep in mind, but as you pointed out, they are generally interoperable.
Coffee snobs !?? Really ? The coffee i got all over US was the worst i ever had. I am from Austria and we have a long culture of coffee
You are not wrong, a lot of coffee in the US is not good.
Greetings from Germany. In Austria, you can get a Coffee from a Gas Station, and you will experience a fife Star Sensation.
I just found your channel! Thank you for all this information! I’m living in Oregon and thinking about retiring in a European country because I simply can’t afford the USA.
I went to Malta and stayed in a hotel that served breakfast every morning. It was awesome! There were ppl from different countries, therefore, all kinds of foods available to eat! Breakfast was served until noon and everyone took their time. There wasn’t any rush. Others were able to identify I was from the US because I had my cell phone on the table. My family could spend well over an hour there trying all these wonderful foods and then not eat until dinner which starts around 8pm. Ppl dress for dinner. It was nice to see.
No one was rushing around. At another stop for coffee at an outdoor market, We were told to sit down and someone would get our coffee order. I think they thought we were rude but we were just used to hurry up, pay and get out.
No fly screens when I traveled to Portugal. Very small parking spaces and narrow roads when in the cities. I was glad I wasn’t driving. Meals seemed to be more affordable than back home.
Thank you for your channel! I’m enjoying it.
We've definitely found some interesting cultural differences as well in our travels!
Thanks for watching:)
Always enjoy watching your videos as a European! But what I don't understand is how you manage to make these general statements about "Europe". This would be similar to me making a video about what life is like in "the Americas" (from Alaska to the southern tip of Chile/Argentina!). When I travel around Europe, I notice many of the same practical differences that you mention, but that is between (and sometimes even within) European countries!
I think we tried to mention that there are regional differences and didn't paint every part of Europe into the points being made.
My daughter recently moved to the U.S. and was shocked to discover that you can’t show minor cuts to the pharmacist to get their advice (they sit behind a reinforced plexiglass screen for one thing). She ended up having to spend $210 to attend at an ‘urgent care’ service just to get a prescription for common-or-garden penicillin!
This is just one reason Europe is so incredible. We love the apoteka’s, farmacie’s etc:)
Thanks for watching.
When I came back to the US and was looking at rental apartments, many landlords stressed their studio units were very small (600SF or 55m²) but they seemed huge to me! I now rent a live/work loft space above a storefront and love it. Plus it's a walk-up with no elevator so I still get my steps in. It even has a wood beamed ceiling that reminds me of my apartment in Barcelona. But I do have window screens and a separate full-size clothes dryer!
I’m sure many in America will think our two bedroom home in Montenegro is small. It’s funny how your perception and reality can change.
As a Scandinavian, I don't recognize any of this, Europe isn't a country! Appreciate the content though, this applies to southern Europe.
We videoed this while we were in Scandinavia:)
It wasn’t possible to name every European country on the video, so we just said “Europe “
Many of the things we highlighted have been seen throughout Europe not just Eastern Europe.
The bedding has been in almost every country we have visited from Portugal to Poland to Albania and beyond.
Thanks for watching 😀
What?:D you dokt recognise that plugs are different and in europe there no windows seals and no dryers lol
@agneag of course they do! They are making videos to inform Americans who are planning on visiting Europe. Lol
No, it does not at all
The smoking is the big one for me. In my daily life I rarely smell smoke. In Australia they are so highly taxed that the smoking rates are quite low.
This is also the same in the US. It’s extremely expensive to buy cigarettes there versus many European countries.
In Sweden, smoking is prohibited in all public places, such as train stations, bus stations, restaurants and cafes (also outdoors), cinemas, sports centers and all hospital areas. Smokers are also not allowed to stand closer than 10 m from doors to shops, shopping centers or homes. You can be liable for compensation if you smoke in your apartment and they have to renovate.
The cigarettes are also very expensive here.
I adopted the European way of bedding. When in the U.S. I NEVER use a flat sheet (hate them now) and my comforter is folded in half and on my bed like you show. Love it and never going back!
I actually like it, Warren has not yet grown to appreciate it. Thanks for watching.
As an American traveling in Europe, we've always found it interesting how pets differ from country to country. In "general", we've found pets have much more freedom in Europe. It's very common to see strays in most countries. While crossing the Serbia/Bulgaria border/immigration, it was basically overrun with stray cats! Also it's much more common to see dogs off leash, and for the most part - very well behaved. Meanest dogs by far were in Italy. Nicest, probably every other country but Italy.
Very true. The biggest surprise for us was Turkiye. They let our pups into so many places. We love so much about so many countries in Europe.
How often have you seen stray dogs and cats in Austria, France, Germany, Denmark, Sweden, Finland, Spain, Portugal....Do Not Generalize...Thank You.
@@marianneh9868 She said ‘in general.’ Calm tf down 🙄
@@virsapiensfortisest922 Classy!
As a European what I often hear from pharmacists is : I will give you (this), but you should visit the doctor because it may be / is something more serious. Also altought some europeans are crazy about the "enviorment" Ive never heard anyone say that as an argument for walkable cities, I think that people just like to take a walk. I often walk 2 km to the local supermarket near me just because I want to even when there is public transport available.
We hear this from the pharmacist too, but it’s still a blessing to have the option for assistance.
We enjoy walking too. It’s one of our favorite things about most of Europe is the walkability to things.
Yeah, instant coffee is underrated. I read somewhere that the general attitude toward it in the US goes back to before the development of the freeze drying method, but that nowadays (and for the last few decades) instant coffee is brewed under very controlled conditions before freeze drying, yielding a smoother taste with less aftertaste than what a home drip coffee maker can consistently produce. Also, I was surprised to read that cafes in Italy typically use a blend of Arabica and robusta espresso beans, given the bad rap that robusta beans have generally gotten in the US without any allowance for using them in blends.
I actually prefer the Crema. It’s fantastic. Interesting information. Thanks for watching.
You should visit Hungary. They don’t have the siesta nonsense and things are open on Sunday. It’s great.
We like Hungary and have been there several times.
I can appreciate siesta in the summer, just not the winter:) Thanks for watching.
Such an accurate video…. And the lack of dryers is probably one of things we miss the most from the U.S. We’ve even found laundromats around our stay where we’d take our clothes to dry.
Thanks, we appreciate hearing from you. We did our best to try to think of things outside of what others might be talking about.
I got hooked on instant coffee (3 in 1 packets) while traveling in Asia and Europe. After many years, I still order Kopiko brown coffee and BOH tea from Malaysia on Amazon and have it shipped to me in the US. I think it's actually less expensive than buying coffee in the US. The big difference in the coffee is they use brown sugar as a sweetener instead of white sugar. It gives the coffee a richer taste more like caramel.
I wouldn’t touch the instant in the US, I now have it about half my mornings.
Those 3 in 1 have very little coffee. Americano all the way 😊
I was in Scotland and went into a pharmacy for Aleve. They told me I had to have a prescription for it, but sold be Codeine instead. It was a low dose and they warned me to take it no more than 3 days. At the grocery store I found naproxen, so I was okay and made due.
Now I never forget my Aleve when I travel to Europe.
That’s pretty funny you needed a prescription for Aleve, but you can get codeine over-the-counter lol 😂
I think you must have the flat sheet between your comforter. otherwise, you need to be washing the comforter all the time, if you have a flat sheet, you can just wash the flat sheet and fitted sheet all the time and keep the comforter clean, and only wash the comforter when needed. Not sure if the comforter will dry ever with out a dryer.
I agree. I personally like the duvets as I mentioned in the video. Thanks for watching:)
Instead of a flat sheet we have a removable duvet cover, like a pillow case but bigger. This is washed when the sheet and pillow cases are washed. It serves the same purpose as your flat sheet with less sliding down of comforter and crumpling up of flat sheet.
"Not sure if the comforter will dry ever with out a dryer." 🤣🤣🤣YES, YES, it dries well without a dryer, in a ventilated place. Do you realize that most people in the world dry their clothes, including blankets, without a dryer? What do you think we do? Do we throw them away when they are dirty?
Wow ! Such great tips ! I would not of even thought to even ask about some of these issues. Just found your site and will definitely see what other info i can get from you , in our language, thats easy to understand and doesnt add a bunch of nonsense that i dont care to waste my time listening too. Thank you so much !!
Thanks for the kind reply and thanks for watching:)
What is quite common here in Europe is that we get fed up with American tourists who will insist on setting the US as the the place where everything is done correctly and measure other ways of doing things as inferior to the "US Standard". There is a world beyond the US borders and it's been there a long time.
This is certainly not what we think. We do not think the US is superior to other countries. In this video we praise European countries for several things. We are grateful to be here.
Yes American culture is pushed by the media but most of us have no desire to push our lifestyle on anybody else. Unfortunately there will always be tourists who are arrogant and insensitive to the cultures of other people.
second that
@@WarrenJulieTravel you do are pushing your culture and you don't even know to make the difference between an expresso and instant coffee
Do Europeans consider it insensitive to inform travelers on what to expect when they travel far from home. Why? If an American tells you to avoid New York City, it is simply giving you a good tip or good advice. Relax.
In Europe dryers and climate Units are more seldom used with regard to environmental considerations.
You CAN of course buy Instant Coffee, but you can get real good Coffee everywhere in practically every european country. Maybe you should Not Take the worst you buy for Standard.
If we had the opportunity to redo the video, there are a few changes we would make. Our main goal was to educate viewers, particularly those who have never visited Europe, especially the Balkans and Central Europe. We don’t consider these experiences to be universal, but rather reflect what we’ve encountered most frequently over the years.
Excellent points! And being from Louisiana I can attest that the bugs in Europe are way friendlier 😜 We’ve often laughed about that 🦟
@@BasicAmericanDadAbroad lol! Yes, these little pests are nothing compared to their kin in Louisiana.
The one thing I've learned I can't live without is the electric kettle. I never found these in the US.
Yes, they aren’t common in the US but they are common everywhere in Europe.
strange... we have always had electric kettles in Canada..
@@JayandSarah Hi, Jay and Sarah - Thanks for responding. I had never seen an electric kettle until I arrived in Germany last year. I hope you are having wonderful travels.
That’s odd? We had one in the US…
Really? I found several types in Target and at Walmart. I use mine every day.
Yes, parallel parking is a great skill to have. But like you said... just finding parking generally makes it not worth it.
It’s often better to take the train in from the outer area if not staying in the city.
So funny the shocked quick side glance Julie gave him, when he said the little curse word. 🤣
Yes, I did shock Julie with that comment. She’s such a good girl. 😁
Yeah, the no screens threw me for a loop at first too! My MIL in Romania does not have a dryer either and her water heater takes an hour to produce enough hot water for a quick "shower".
We love sitting out on the balcony every morning with our instant coffee! It seems to taste so much better there than what we have here.
At least the cigarette smoke seems different in Europe compared to the US. Less carcinogens, maybe?
This video made me chuckle because it's all true! I just consider it as being part of enjoying the local customs/cultures. Another great video!
Wifey and I are headed back to Romania in 3 days for our 3rd time this year. She is from Brasov.
We truly celebrate and embrace the differences and feel so blessed to be able to live in this beautiful continent. Thank you for watching:)
Here is an explanation of holes or ventilation gaps in bathroom doors in Poland. In most houses, especially older ones, hot water is heated in a gas heater usually located in the bathroom. Oxygen is needed to burn gas. If there is too little air (and therefore oxygen), incomplete combustion occurs, which means carbon monoxide is produced. There is a risk of poisoning. The legislator has therefore introduced a law that requires bathroom doors to have holes or ventilation gaps to ensure adequate air flow to the bathroom. This makes sense. Unfortunately, the legislator has not provided for exceptions. And so these holes must be there, despite the fact that the gas heater is sometimes located in another room (kitchen, basement), or even not there at all (electric heating, including heat pumps).
Thanks for the detailed response! Great info
Thanks for watching:)
It is not only about gas heater. This is how an apartment ventilation system works. The air from an open window goes through the apartment and leaves through the vents in kitchen and bathroom. That is why the bathroom and kitchen doors should have the gaps - for proper air circulation.
Not sure what part of Europe you’ve been getting all the instant coffee but you mentioned Montenegro a few times so I’m guessing it’s the poorer Balkan countries? Truthfully, the last time I was offered instant coffee at a restaurant was in Greece in 1996! I live in Ireland and the places I visit most frequently would be Spain, Italy, and the UK. I’ve never been served instant there.
We have spent time all over the continent and have seen it on menus in many different countries, under the word, Nescafé
Overall, the coffee is incredible throughout the continent.
We especially love the cappuccinos.
Warren and Julie thank you very much for sharing your content. I keep watching many other "travel channels" and find myself coming back to your's.
My wife and I are nearing retirement. At retirement, we plan to slow travel and stay within each country we're at for an extended period of time averaging a month + or - depending on how much there is to do and see. Even though I watch many travel videos, I feel that I am still confused about how to deal with accommodations while slow traveling. Meaning we should we rent a place for a month and do day trips from that one location or should we stay at hotels each time we travel to a different place within the country?
Also can you please advise me if a monthly budget of $4500 (US) is enough for the two of us to cover everything including health insurance, transportation, food, accommodations and sight seeing?
Notes: we would like to travel outside the US for 9 months and come back to the US for 3 months.
At retirement, I will be 60 and my wife will be 55.
Thanks for your response in advance!
Thanks for watching and for the support of the channel.
Having a longer term accommodation (28 days or more) and traveling out from it will often save money.
$4500 per month is completely doable. I encourage you to check out our expat cost of living playlist. We detail our costs in many countries.
If you need a health insurance quote, please email me at warrenjulietravel@gmail.com
I’ll be happy to take a look at different options for you.
Great video, everything is so true. The one thing that resonates with me is pepto bismol. We are running low and that will be the end of our supply. If you get a rumbly tummy and the squirts, there ain’t nothing here to save you at the pharmacy.
lol, yes the common recommendation is probiotics quite often.
@@WarrenJulieTravel yeah it’s crazy we should have brought more. Who would have thought such a basic and helpful medication would not exist. Yet you can walk in and buy prescription pharma drugs no questions asked.
True, however Ibuprofen will raise an eyebrow😂
@@WarrenJulieTravel very strange, you can walk in and buy viagra to raise more than an eyebrow!🤨
@@JayandSarah 😂
Would love to see the reverse culture shock when you come back for a visit😊
@@razkrat8803 Yeah, I’m sure we’ll be in for quite a few shocks. We go back for a while in April, we’ll see how that goes.
Instant coffee Nescafe Gold is good (regular red is no Bueno). I bit it here in the US as well :)
We make Turkish(Arabic & Armenian) coffee as well. 😂
I agree, gold is superior:)
Yes the Nescafé Gold or Jacob’s Gold are both decent coffees. I like making my own Turkish Coffee because I can serve myself a good size mug 🍵 of it, the serving’s when out are too small typically.
I've been in Europe for about 2 months now and the screen thing just boggles my mind. It was really hot in Portugal but I had to close the windows at night because the mosquitos would eat me alive! And I'm allergic so I swell up and have to take antihistimines for days! (And I was on the 11th floor so yes, they fly that high lol!) No screens in Ireland, England or Wales either, although it's cooler so it's not as much of a problem. I miss opening my windows wide and allowing fresh breezes in. I don't get it. I may invest in some screening and clamps or double sided tape or something to bring with me!
I’m so shocked that they fly that high!! Thanks for watching:)
Why do you need 1000 pils of ibuprofen?
@@pdk3065 In the U.S., it’s common for over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen to be sold in large quantities, such as 500-tablet bottles, for a few practical reasons. First, many Americans use ibuprofen regularly for minor aches and pains, such as headaches, muscle soreness, or chronic conditions like arthritis. It’s also often recommended for inflammation-related issues, like pleurisy, under a doctor’s guidance.
Second, medications like ibuprofen typically have a long shelf life, so buying in bulk is cost-effective and reduces the need for frequent trips to the store. In the U.S., where healthcare and pharmacy systems are different from Europe, over-the-counter medications are relied upon more heavily for managing common health concerns, and bulk packaging is marketed as a convenient option for households.
It might seem excessive in Europe, where packaging sizes are smaller, but for Americans, it’s just another way to save money and stay stocked up for future needs! Most homes in the US probably have a bottle with 250 tablets in their home.
@@WarrenJulieTravel I ask the same question - why do I want a bottle of 500 pills? For Americans, overmedicated (including over-the-counter medications) makes sense, and even though we have cheaper access to medical care, we won't rush to the doctor for relief for simple things. We also buy ibuprofen at the pharmacy or in the health section of supermarkets, but we don't abuse it, we're not always taking it. And despite having a long shelf life, I often have to buy a new one when I need it, because the packaging I have is past its expiration date.🤣
@@WarrenJulieTravel No :D It doesnt seem weird for us because the packages are smaller, its the other way around, it seems weird that anyone would take so much pills to even need such big packages. If I buy a little bottle of 30 ibuprofens It lasts me like maybe 2 years, I would not be afraid to say even more. I dont take them if the pain isnt really serious, its not good for your stomach and liver.
Instant Coffee in restaurants? I live 68 years in belgium and never seen that
We have seen it in so many countries. It says Nescafé on the menu.
@WarrenJulieTravel thats strange, when thy must serve nescafe in belgium restaurant,thy can close the doors
Bonjour mons amis. 🎉Hope you're having a great Saturday night ❤
@@razkrat8803 thank you, we are. ❤️ Hope you are also. 😁
Less sugar is a good thing. Worst for cancer. And pesto bismol should b illegal due to contents....thanks for the input very great info...never knew alot of it...
I completely agree with you! I love the reduction in sugar.
I truly love many European countries. The bakeries are so special.
I’ve never used Pepto.
Thanks for watching:)
Well that was useful/interesting!
If you want the best bang for your buck in coffee, just use a French press -- they *must* have those?
Apparently I'm not just lazy -- I've been using Nescafe "Dark Intense" instant coffee, added to Maxwell House premixed (powdered) French Vanilla flavored (used to be General Foods International Coffees) -- It's actually not bad at all and pretty cost effective.
On parallel parking, here in North Vancouver, I'm always flaberghasted at people's *complete* inability to parallel park -- it's a downright *dangerous* / traffic hazzard to be unable to park in the already crazy traffic we have here.
Also re electronics -- could you just bring a US powerbar with you and then only need one adapter for the powerbar itself?
Cheers!...from North Vancouver
They don't have them in many countries because most people go out to drink coffee at cafe... and beans here are usually ground to espresso grind.
Oh yes, of course bring a converter for your American items, the power bar was the European style. A lot of what we have now after being in Europe so long does use the Europe plug. I also like the French press there are so many different ways to do coffee. It’s always a fun adventure to try something different. We probably also should’ve spoke about manual transmission versus automatic when we were speaking about driving and parking. Always things you think about after the project is complete
@@WarrenJulieTravel yeah so many vehicles here are manual transmission. From an ownership standpoint makes so much sense... far less to repair than to replace an automatic transmission for many thousands of currency.
America is best country in a world (Irony ON)
Mosquitos dont enter my house as they know I ate them😅(excuse my english)
lol
Thanks for watching
Ibuprofen. Panodil. Paracetamol. Only sold in 10 or 20 pieces. But you can get a prescription for a 100 pack. It was introduced when they were used by teenagers to attempt suicide. Mhh yes again all countries in Europe are different. It is easy to get quality coffee in Denmark. And the Super Markets are open every day. The best advice is that when you travel to Europe, research which countries you are going to visit. The European countries are different both politically and culturally in terms of infrastructure. And the standard of living and financially are very different. So to say that This is how it is in Europe. Yes, maybe in that country. But it is something completely different in the neighboring country. However, one thing is probably reasonably similar. Europeans hate being put in the same box.
We do realize each country has its own unique culture etc and if we thought that an audience of people would sit down and watch a video that long about the 40+ countries we have visited and their unique differences we would certainly produce it
Since we have travelled all over Europe for almost four consecutive years we understand many things.
I do believe we mentioned it was several countries we visited that closed everything on Sunday but not all.
The information you provided on the ibuprofen etc is very interesting. The US has certain otc meds locked up because people make illegal drugs with them
Thanks for watching.
@@WarrenJulieTravel Being able to buy certain drugs in large quantities tends to make people forget how dangerous they can be. People should seek medical advice if they intend to take Ibuprofen frequently or for a long time. It is contra indicated for people with some medical conditions, should not be taken with some other medications, also now not really recommended for people above 65 without taking medical advice. If you are unable to buy a medication or can only buy a limited quantity, there is a reason for it.
LOL! never seen / heard of holes on the bathroom doors.
We have seen many of them in Poland:)
About the bugs we say- if bugs wants to eat you you had too much sugar otherwise they dont lol
lol that’s great! Thanks for watching:)
the holes are to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning,
carbon monoxide poisoning would be pretty hard anywhere in Europe. Electricity is almost the only power source in a house, not gas.
Interesting information.
@@JayandSarah What? Certainly not in cebtral and northern Europe! Heating with electricity would bankrupt us two months into winter!
You only have culture shocks when you dont do research whats going on in a country! How simple is that? Different countrys different rules and culture! You want the same like in your country? Stay home!
Ummm where do people research Einstein? RUclips Doh!
@@WarrenJulieTravel Realy you asked this?
@@WienerVL you’re the one belittling people for researching differences they may experience, like some elitist. We aim to educate, if you know everything already move on.