Americans Living in Europe: Expectations vs Reality
We recorded this episode to talk about the expectations we had before living in Europe and how those ideas compare to real life once you spend real time here. We cover the topics that come up most often, including safety, taxes, food, travel, and the cultural moments that feel very different when you are no longer visiting as a tourist. We share what surprised us the most, what felt natural right away, and how some expectations have changed after years of living abroad.
Episode Summary
Living in Europe long term changes the way you notice everyday things. Some differences feel small at first, like grocery shopping, apartment layouts or how often you walk instead of drive. Others show up over time, especially when it comes to paperwork, healthcare systems and how people approach work and time off. These are the details that do not usually come up on short trips but shape daily life once you settle in.
We also talk about how travel changes when Europe is home instead of a destination. Weekend trips feel easier and more spontaneous but they also become more selective. Instead of trying to see everything, we tend to return to places we already know we like or choose destinations that fit into real schedules, school calendars and everyday routines. Travel becomes less about checking boxes and more about what actually works.
Food culture is another area where expectations often shift. Eating out feels different when it is part of normal life rather than a vacation splurge. We talk about portion sizes, grocery quality and how cooking at home becomes a bigger part of daily rhythm, even in countries known for dining out. These habits slowly change how you think about food and cost without feeling restrictive.
This episode also touches on the emotional side of living abroad. The excitement of moving overseas eventually settles into something quieter and more grounded. Some things feel easier than expected. Others take longer to adjust to than you might think. We talk honestly about what has surprised us years later and what still feels different even after building a life here.
If you are considering a move to Europe or are simply curious about what life actually looks like beyond the highlight reel, this episode offers a realistic look at the in between moments that define long term living.
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