I'm Much Happier Living In Belgium Than In The U.S. - Here's How Much It Costs

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  • Опубліковано 22 гру 2024

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  • @thomasbdl
    @thomasbdl 6 місяців тому +587

    Belgian here.
    I feel like this video, while really nice, paints an ideal and somewhat unrealistic picture of what it’s like to live in Belgium. Hardly anyone could ever afford to have a $3k/month mortgage, and only a tiny minority of people could buy a $600k flat. It’s pretty clear that Jessica’s husband has an extremely high paying job with tons of benefits.
    To put things in perspective: in 2023, the median net salary in Belgium was €2200, or $2350. A couple with median salaries couldn’t even dream of getting a loan to buy their flat.

    • @twnfaem
      @twnfaem 6 місяців тому +12

      'Belgian' here. Median net salary per family unit or per person? most families have two working people (or 1,5) - additionally, you could get a mortgage for a flat (or - more commonly - a house), but not for a 600k one :D in Brussels (which is by far not the most liveable place in Belgium). Anyway, happy you're happy.

    • @LustraGaming
      @LustraGaming 6 місяців тому +15

      With 2 wages of 2200€ net you could afford a 3k mortgage though.
      But you are right most Belgians won't be able to afford a 600K flat. BUT a normal size flat that is in good condition is around 450K in most of Belgium.
      Most houses in my street are valued around 400K and they are all around 1800sqft and they are all less than 11 years old so up to current standards.
      Chances are that they are living near Brussels where prices for housing are way higher but wages are also a lot higher than in most of Belgium.
      If I would go and work in Brussels (I'm in IT) I would almost get 50% more wage for the same job I do in Limburg (which has lower pay in my sector)

    • @thomasbdl
      @thomasbdl 6 місяців тому +19

      @@twnfaem Your comment sounds like you wanted to prove me wrong, but you actually agree with me? Oo
      That’s exactly what I said: 2 people who both earn the median Belgian salary could never buy a $600k house or flat, just like they could never afford to have a $3k/m mortgage. You have to be in the top 2% of earners to do that. This video makes it seem like the life Jessica has with her husband is what most everyone could have in Belgium. It’s not.

    • @LustraGaming
      @LustraGaming 6 місяців тому +3

      @thomasbdl house value and wages are very dependent on the region you live in. Brussels can have 50% higher prices and wages than other regions.
      Brussels wages bring the average up by quite a bit, but it's a small region.

    • @joaocorreiamedia
      @joaocorreiamedia 5 місяців тому +3

      Oh no. 2200€ median net salary? Portugal is the 5th EU country with the lowest salary. Our average salary is around 1040€. Our minimum wage is below 800€.
      I'd give my right arm to make 2200€ per month consistently throughout the year. I'd be living the best life ever.

  • @DanniChan_Worldwide
    @DanniChan_Worldwide 7 місяців тому +519

    I’ve known Jess for over 20 years and she’s the REAL DEAL. We served in the Marine Corps together all over the globe, and she’s literally part of my family. Enjoy your success, Jessica!!! #SemperFi

    • @byoken
      @byoken 7 місяців тому

      You should both move back to africa. Enrich africa with the diversity you bring.

    • @jeanbiroute
      @jeanbiroute 7 місяців тому +12

      Wow she's a certified badass!

    • @T-wi3mq1jw6h
      @T-wi3mq1jw6h 7 місяців тому +1

      I'd like to see ur videos!!

    • @Bambotb
      @Bambotb 7 місяців тому +8

      Another one making high US salary and thinking thats how the locals live where she goes lol belgium salaries are poor and taxes high

    • @thedappercook
      @thedappercook 6 місяців тому +10

      ​@@BambotbI wouldn't be so sure of that, this is a wealthy part of Europe. Don't make assumptions out of envy.

  • @Thingsthatmakemehappy
    @Thingsthatmakemehappy 3 місяці тому +18

    I am a Belgian that lived in the US for 8 years. I’m moving back to Belgium as a single mom because our quality of life in America is very low and we struggle a lot. I am thankful to be able to move back after years of struggle. This is my perspective, not speaking for anybody else.

    • @rajasaifkiani3240
      @rajasaifkiani3240 23 дні тому

      So you mean life in Belgium is easy ?

    • @Jabafish
      @Jabafish 13 днів тому

      ​@@rajasaifkiani3240 Depends where you live. If you're broke in Brussels, then you're life is miserable lol

    • @rajasaifkiani3240
      @rajasaifkiani3240 12 днів тому

      @Jabafish yes if i am broke where can i live for little stable life ?

  • @wanneske1969
    @wanneske1969 6 місяців тому +168

    About health care : last weekend I got very ill and went to the hospital at a saturday evening. The consult cost me 6 €. Went to the pharmacy on call on a saturday evening and my meds cost 1.4 € ... Ok, we pay a lot of taxes in Belgium but we get good health care for it !

    • @leto1n0u
      @leto1n0u 5 місяців тому +8

      It's a good thing that social security does the minimum... when we are taxed at over 50% so that the majority of these are not put to good use as is often the case in the Nordic countries...

    • @DrengrByHeart
      @DrengrByHeart 5 місяців тому +2

      ​@leto1n0u well yeah, that's true. But hey atleast we are safe. Sometimes we need to put it into perspective. Ofcourse it can be better. And we must always strive for it. But hey, it's very good here.
      A lot of job opportunities, good and cheap education, good and cheap health care.
      Although we are in a dip atm, and there are a lot of uncertainties, if we keep working together, we will make it.
      At least were the elections a positive outcome right now. Let’s see what formation they bring, and what then politicians can do!
      Hang in there!

    • @murdoch201
      @murdoch201 5 місяців тому

      Last January I got seriously sick. I couldn't work, and wasn't elligible for social security sickness payments. I got rejected by the hospital. My Belgian health insurance apparently kicked me out of their books due to an "administrative error". I was left with serious health issues for months. They still subtracted money from my bank account, and they still charged me 61% personal income tax. The government owns everything, so you're basically powerless. Finally someone helped me after months after I begged them.
      This is socialism. This is public healthcare. STAY AWAY FROM IT.

    • @gillesdejeneffe4938
      @gillesdejeneffe4938 5 місяців тому +4

      "Belgian health insurance" ? You mean mutuelle ? Usually when they screw up, and if you're in the right they are fairly fast to react. Had to deal multiple times with them and everything went good at the end. Pulbic Healtcare is a good thing. Private insurance companies are bad and they become more and more greedy. "A l'americaine". If you do your homework properly, Belgian health care system is one of the best the world. Also Ask your doctor for a "DMG". This could save you more money, especially if you ahve kids. Payng 4 euro a simple consultation is great.

    • @murdoch201
      @murdoch201 5 місяців тому

      @@gillesdejeneffe4938 Yes, "ziekenfonds". They cover your health expenses in exchange for a static fee. In other countries better known as "health insurance".
      When they screwed up, they were ridicilously SLOW to react. In fact, just as slow as every government administration usually reacts.
      Public healthcare is a bad thing. I have to pay 61% income tax, mandatory social taxes, disability taxes, and health insurance coverage (or "ziekenfondsbijdrage") for... being in perfect health. Yes that's right. If your neighbor is a drug addict and he goes 3 times to the doctor a day, you get to pay his bill while he barely pays a dime. That's public healthcare!
      And when the time comes you actually need them for once, they kick you out of the hospital and leave you to rot, because some government worker messes up. Good luck trying to sue the government in Europe!
      I've had my experience with Belgian healthcare. I still remember having to explain the nurse how an infuse works. "Best healthcare in the world". That's not homework, that's propaganda. Paying huge amounts of money for barely being covered, is one of the worst things in the world.

  • @asha8443
    @asha8443 7 місяців тому +359

    Her situation doesn’t apply to most Americans..she’s apparently married to a dutch guy and gets a lot of benefits through her husbands job

    • @wanneske1969
      @wanneske1969 7 місяців тому +74

      True ! I also don't know any Belgian couple that can pay 3000 € a month for a mortgage.

    • @pixiet7321
      @pixiet7321 6 місяців тому +29

      Then marry a European man, she did and so did I 20 years ago and I couldn't be happier :)

    • @potato1084
      @potato1084 6 місяців тому +10

      She’s also an influencer and they make a lot of money

    • @alr6111
      @alr6111 6 місяців тому +13

      ​@@pixiet7321 can I marry a polar bear?

    • @maxcyber
      @maxcyber 6 місяців тому +26

      @@wanneske1969 1.5k per person in a couple is not that uncomon in Belgium. You have to undertand that 15 years later, you're a owner. politically you can't touch too much to the access to house ownership in Blegium : we have "une brique dans le ventre". This american way of living with "panache and debt", we just don't understand that. We understand it is hard to make it big here but we expect a good life in return. this is how we live in Belgium

  • @MyCamilla1989
    @MyCamilla1989 7 місяців тому +236

    Every time an American speaks about how much they love living in Europe, comment sections get flooded with people either attempting to bash Europe with cookie cutter statements or try to convince the internet how great America is.

    • @sauloncall
      @sauloncall 7 місяців тому +80

      Problem with all these videos from Americans is that they are all privileged high earning individuals or had high paying jobs back in US and now they are just enjoying the cost arbitrage between the US and Europe. I have yet to see some Americans moving to Europe and living on a below average salary and singing praise of Europe. The fact is all the privileges they have is because they were born in the US and made money in the US which at the end helped them to take advantage of the cost arbitrage.

    • @amremnant
      @amremnant 7 місяців тому +14

      @@sauloncall Good point. I also think it would help if the Americans just talk about what they like about their new countires without disparaging the USA. One could say, "I like the easy way of life here." Full stop. The part about people yelling at each other is unnecessary. I too am looking to move out of the US with my husband, but this country has a lot of great qualities that could be highlighted and I chose to focus on that. We hear enough about what's wrong with it.

    • @kauemoura
      @kauemoura 7 місяців тому +18

      ​@@sauloncallI have never lived in the US, but I believe the safety net of society here in Belgium, or France (can't speak for the countries where I haven't lived) would still make it much more comfortable for a person to live here than over there, especially if the person were to get sick or needed job stability.

    • @Lootensansy2308
      @Lootensansy2308 7 місяців тому +5

      How can you convince that America is great sins UA-cam and TikTok people see that the greatest county is not that great at al.
      And be honest I’m from Europe and I bin in the usa 6 time is beautiful county to and you have some great food to but a lot of garbage food whit a lot of chemical in it. Not one county is perfect. You know why American day Europe is better because we work to
      Life and American life work and buy things and not enjoy like European do. Is that a bad thing not really but you need to stand stil
      What is important in life more

    • @potato1084
      @potato1084 6 місяців тому +6

      @@sauloncallShe isn’t on an American salary though. She’s an influencer. Arguably anyone can become an influencer.

  • @daiha8403
    @daiha8403 7 місяців тому +255

    If you can afford a house that is almost twice the average price in Belgium, means you have high income and can live comfortably. Maybe 5% of the people in Belgium can pay a mortgage of almost 3000 USD a month. They are considered high income persons so they certainly more than 50% tax.

    • @straightdrive6192
      @straightdrive6192 7 місяців тому +24

      You will have to pay above 7000$ monthly mortgage to live in a crappy 1700 sq ft Bay Area home. Just saying.

    • @kverreet
      @kverreet 7 місяців тому +7

      Well 3k usd mortgage probably means around 6.5-8k monthly net income , that would seem safe enough from a bank pov. That certainly is on the upper end of the spread given they also have a company car etc, I think that is top 2% or something even, all things considered.
      But you can certainly live comfortably around here with a much smaller income than that , 6.5 k leaves a lot on the table spending money wise in a normal family

    • @ABC-ABC1234
      @ABC-ABC1234 7 місяців тому +33

      @@kverreet Nah, the company car isn't the dead giveaway, it's the mortgage cost that instantly gave away these people are high income earners.
      The fact that they HAVE this income and CHOSE to live in a silly appartment in the heart of Brussels is such a bad idea!
      The money spent she would have her own house with a big garden on an outskirt of Brussels with super easy acces to a train/metro station...
      A good tutorial here, how *NOT* to spend money... Even if you have money, that appartment is quite tiny. They settled for location only...

    • @chrisodebeek787
      @chrisodebeek787 7 місяців тому +2

      Saint Gilles, I used to live there ..before selling my apartment and buying a home in a smaller town at 45 min.

    • @kverreet
      @kverreet 7 місяців тому

      @@ABC-ABC1234 I know, I didn't say the car was a giveaway. It does however add significant value, that is a lot of money they can spend on other things instead, every single month.
      They could buy a massive villa in the Ardennes or Limburg or something instead, indeed.
      But you have to keep in mind that once you reach a certain age it often becomes more about convenience than possibilities. You no longer want that big house to clean and so on . Also they are expats, if they want to hang out with other expats, Brussels definitely is the place to be , not some rural town where they'd probably
      end up being pretty isolated..

  • @TheFloRidah
    @TheFloRidah 7 місяців тому +211

    I respect a person who has served our country abroad in many countries throughout most her adult life and finally find somewhere she can settle. Yes America is not what it used to be.

    • @byoken
      @byoken 7 місяців тому +2

      It's not what it used to be. There's more diversity now. Let's see what that diversity does to Europe.

    • @forward_ever_ever2595
      @forward_ever_ever2595 7 місяців тому +13

      ​@@byokenhaving lived in N.America, i tell u...the impression i previously had of europe, especially places like Italy Swiss Beligium has changed....America is a dump...the laws and racism is way worse than in europe. You wouldn't think so because of the history but it is. We're constantly putting our noses in other nations business and not focusing on domestic issues. My ex wife sister is based in Iraq working in the oil & gas. Her initial perspective has changed. The ppl are very nice, but we in the west are screwing wt their culture and want to dominate them for their oil...she and her colleagues swear the media lies on these ppl....propaganda all the way

    • @chetanshukla768
      @chetanshukla768 7 місяців тому +2

      Having an American passport is a boon. I am in India and it is really difficult for an Indian to settle in the West with increasing inflation and strict immigration rules for the third world countries.

    • @potato1084
      @potato1084 6 місяців тому +6

      @@byokenAre you seriously this thick?? My city in Europe is 46% non white. It’s diverse and I couldn’t live any other way.

    • @potato1084
      @potato1084 6 місяців тому +2

      @@forward_ever_ever2595I am Iraqi Kurdish myself but live in Europe. I love Iraq at the moment. It’s amazing and I’d rather live there than America especially with all that project 2025 stuff. I actually go to Iraq for healthcare because it’s cheap and easy. Europe has long waiting lists but other than that I like it here too. 😅😅

  • @nikaa4237
    @nikaa4237 6 місяців тому +47

    I'm so impressed with her life. Serving her country and then creating an amazing life for herself and her family as well as a second career. You go girl!!!

  • @MoorishBrooklyn
    @MoorishBrooklyn 7 місяців тому +98

    Minus all the agreements and disagreements from many folks from, near or have been to the area; I am happy that she has found her happy place, feel safe and secure with her family, was brave enough and fortune enough to leave the U.S.

  • @Mmefatoom
    @Mmefatoom 7 місяців тому +140

    $60 for child care could NEVER happen in the states 😭

    • @ultrakapitalist4882
      @ultrakapitalist4882 7 місяців тому +5

      60$ sounds unreal. I am pretty sure that the tax payers have to pay for the rest! We moved from Germany to Switzerland 3 month ago. Child care here is between 800 CHF and 2500 CHF. Per child and month for the Kindergarten! :D So glad we don't have children....

    • @sheilabareiss3735
      @sheilabareiss3735 7 місяців тому +3

      Germany also has low childcare.

    • @SeanOHanlon
      @SeanOHanlon 7 місяців тому

      They're paying $60/month out of pocket. The government is subsidizing the childcare with an additional $180/month.

    • @annabarr1304
      @annabarr1304 7 місяців тому

      She's taking advantage of a system that she didn't pay into and obviously feels entitled to. We should be taking in refugees not Americans.

    • @dc1674
      @dc1674 7 місяців тому +14

      Right, but 50-60% of income goes to taxes. You still pay, just not directly.

  • @TheAcruz133
    @TheAcruz133 7 місяців тому +80

    She seems genuinely happy. ❤

    • @mazzy_vc
      @mazzy_vc 6 місяців тому +2

      Being rich will often do that to a person

  • @sidehustlevikki1066
    @sidehustlevikki1066 7 місяців тому +294

    Every time I watch one of these videos I start asking myself what country do I want to move to and how much money do I need?

    • @ibizawavey8630
      @ibizawavey8630 7 місяців тому +31

      ummmm maybe go travel there as a black woman then make a decision, that's all I'll say. I'm not setting foot in Europe again. I hope you have a better experience.

    • @LukeDyani-rh3zd
      @LukeDyani-rh3zd 7 місяців тому +6

      South Africa....

    • @Immacu1ate
      @Immacu1ate 7 місяців тому +22

      These videos are all higher income people moving from the US because they couldn’t handle it.

    • @anuragchakraborty8766
      @anuragchakraborty8766 7 місяців тому +12

      You can go live in Uganda.

    • @lauraadaly
      @lauraadaly 7 місяців тому +10

      The answer is always Spain 😅

  • @cca7382
    @cca7382 7 місяців тому +160

    I had the same experience: I lived abroad then moved back to the US, and got laid off from my dumb job. The demon who laid me off didn't turn its camera on (it was also in the middle of the pandemic). I realized that the way people are treated in the US is not normal. I don’t know what’s more frightening: the experience of being treated sub-humanly, or realizing the psychology of people who do so

    • @williamelewis464
      @williamelewis464 7 місяців тому +4

      Or people who label other humans as "demon", to explain perceived [undo] evil upon them, then complain they were treated sub-humanly. Hypocrisy is a badge too

    • @jlife9092
      @jlife9092 7 місяців тому +25

      @@williamelewis464 Are you projecting or confessing?

    • @tres5533
      @tres5533 7 місяців тому +3

      I don't know you but, it is obvious to me from your intelligent observation and statement that if you keep your focus you well do well in whatever you in life do as long as you spot the demons before getting into any committed situation with them.

    • @jackbaldwin3649
      @jackbaldwin3649 7 місяців тому

      That's Trump and his people all over....demons.

    • @jackbaldwin3649
      @jackbaldwin3649 7 місяців тому +4

      @@williamelewis464 So is stupidity. Unless you have some personal knowledge of this person's journey why are you commenting?

  • @littleprincess8526
    @littleprincess8526 6 місяців тому +3

    My brother was an exchange student in the US last year and we invited his guests family for 14 days to Belgium for Christmas. It was so much fun because we traveled all over Belgium, we did Paris, Amsterdam, Zurich and Rome too. All by train. They had never left the US and it made me realise how wonderful Europe actually is. They couldn’t believe how stunning the grand place in Brussels is. Their enthusiasm was contagious. I learned that the world isn’t all glitter and glamour as we might think, but each place has its charm. For my brother the US wasn’t what he expected but he made friends for life and said that he felt very welcome, that somethings aren’t as obvious in the US as in Europe, like biking to school which we both love, but on the other hand he had an amazing experience and when ge speaks English, British ask him if he’s American 🤣 When I old enough I will also be an exchange student in the US, but will pick another State, I would love to study in Vermont. Nature is stunning and I heard that people are lovely.

  • @carableu
    @carableu 7 місяців тому +31

    Brussels is such a cute (and underrated) city. And so accessible to all of Europe. Jessica’s home and family are lovely!

  • @krissg1990
    @krissg1990 7 місяців тому +26

    As a belgian, i can confirm that our country is lovely but the daycare is certainly not 60 per month. It depends mainly on your salary ( if you go to a state nursery) but private nursery is about 600 to 800 eur per month

    • @emypeter5961
      @emypeter5961 7 місяців тому +6

      There are quite few inaquracies in the numbers, the state does not cover your medical expenses, you have to co-finance it and get a health insurance, plus a dental insurance, plus a hospital insurance etc and they reimburse between 60 to 70 percent. When you go to doctors you can pay at the moment anything between 6 -15 euros to hundreds of euros if you need specialist help. Gynecologists are extremely expensive, "pink taxing" women. Getting an appointment in a hospitaly usually takes 3-6 weeks, so you are forced to go to a private praxis if you are quite sick. I find the budget calculations very minimalistic, lot of things, such as clothing, entertainment, household equipments, school, internet, public transport subscriptions to travel expenses etc were not mentioned.

    • @mmjkk
      @mmjkk 7 місяців тому +12

      Her child is 7, I don’t think childcare refers to daycare but rather after school care. It could be provided within the school, which might explain why its subsidised. Or an au pair.

    • @krissg1990
      @krissg1990 7 місяців тому +1

      @@mmjkk you are right. I did not get that. Thanks

    • @margheritamiceli8940
      @margheritamiceli8940 5 місяців тому

      she has a 7 years old daughter who goes to school, not nursery

    • @labambou
      @labambou 5 місяців тому +5

      Belgian here. I think the 60 euros is for the after-school care : I pay 2 euros per day to my son's school so that I can pick him up after work around 5.45pm. That's about 60 per month and the school is in Brussels.

  • @fammemadam2237
    @fammemadam2237 5 місяців тому +7

    I live in Belgium. More than 60 % of the people in Belgium have bought a house.
    Most people have a house with a mortgage.
    Belgians say that renting an apartment or a house is a waste of money. They like to buy a house.
    In Dutch we say : Belgen hebben een baksteen in hun maag.

    • @Lamren
      @Lamren 5 місяців тому +1

      I live in Brussels and I can confirm, I came back to my parents because we have a solid settlement and I'd rather not waste money renting unless it's absolutely necessary, most of friends my age (35+) have a similar mindset.
      There's no way I'll ever have the means to buy a house in Brussels though lol

    • @InstantCasette
      @InstantCasette 5 місяців тому +2

      Rented an appartment in Bruges for 3 years. By the second year I was saving up to buy a house. My mortgage is almost the same as the rent I used to pay. So yeah, it's a big waste of money. Note that this was pre-pandemic.

  • @jlife9092
    @jlife9092 7 місяців тому +36

    It's always difficult to uproot yourself from a familiar environment and settle in another country. I'm sure she and her family had to face a lot of bureaucratic crap along the way to arrive at this point of her migration journey. She makes it sound easy but that only speaks to her intelligence, tenacity and positive spirit. Personally I'm really glad that she presented an overall optimistic outlook in the clip because let's face it: who wants to watch a 10 min clip about someone's miserable existence in another country when there's misery aplenty in our own backyard? PS: Thank you for your service! :-)

  • @reconeix
    @reconeix 2 місяці тому +2

    Thankfully I have a friend from Belgium and have stayed with the family and travelled all over the country. It really is quite a dynamic and enjoyable place with absolutely fabulous ancient cities that are still thriving. What's not to love!

  • @DennisJack-km8ho
    @DennisJack-km8ho 6 місяців тому +79

    The U.S. economy can actually get better if only the govt can start making better decisions for the sake of it's citizens, cos' they've really made life more difficult for its residents. Hyperinflation has left the less haves bearing the brunt of the burden. Its already eating into my entire $620k retirement portfolio. Like where else can we invest our money with less risks?

    • @FrankPatrick-no8zo
      @FrankPatrick-no8zo 6 місяців тому +4

      Because I find the market so intimidating, I feel like I could really use more help. I've already liquidated most of my assets, therefore I could use some advice on how best to use my funds.

    • @RuthEvelyn-rc3bg
      @RuthEvelyn-rc3bg 6 місяців тому +3

      I hope everyone has money ready to invest at the appropriate time. Planned actions can help you secure your financial future. You still have the best chance of becoming a millionaire on the stock market.

    • @jose2212-
      @jose2212- 6 місяців тому +2

      Biden is not entirely responsible for whatever is going. The economy is cyclical, and things will definitely get better. The first rule of investing is to keep investing, whatever the economy is doing. That is how you make substantial gains.

    • @LuvmeRos
      @LuvmeRos 6 місяців тому +2

      That's some incredible gains. How do you find a financial advisor? I've been trying to connect with one for some time now, an I don't want to work with hedge funds.

    • @jose2212-
      @jose2212- 6 місяців тому +2

      There are many independent advisors to choose from. But I work with Monica Shawn Marti and we've been working together for almost four years and she's fantastic. You could pursue her if she meets your requirements. I agree with her.

  • @EcomCarl
    @EcomCarl 6 місяців тому +5

    Jessica's experience in Belgium highlights the profound impact that lifestyle, cost of living, and cultural exposure can have on personal happiness and family life. It's a wonderful reminder of how a change in environment can enrich our lives and broaden our perspectives. 🌍

  • @CrashBeastt
    @CrashBeastt 7 місяців тому +55

    Please also put social media of these guys in the description every time that helps us to follow

    • @candacedawn357
      @candacedawn357 7 місяців тому +13

      The Dining Traveler is her UA-cam page. I had to rewind and pause the video really fast to catch it! (:

    • @CrashBeastt
      @CrashBeastt 7 місяців тому

      @@candacedawn357 please share the link over here thanks

  • @AccordingtoWarren
    @AccordingtoWarren 7 місяців тому +35

    Glad to see another Marine Officer doing well! Semper Fi.

  • @msthing
    @msthing 7 місяців тому +24

    Moving to another country (especially legally!) is a privilege, but it is available to many more people than one might think. Especially young people, getting education in another country is a great way to see the world, and even to save some money, considering US tuition costs. Let's hope for a peaceful, friendly future where being a foreigner does not mean isolation, but instead learning and flourishing.

    • @Mr11ESSE111
      @Mr11ESSE111 7 місяців тому +3

      its not privileage now., many americans with pensions of around 1500$ can easilly go and live well in some EU countries as Spain,Portugal even France but outside of Big cities

    • @eattherich9215
      @eattherich9215 7 місяців тому

      @@Mr11ESSE111: nearly 10 million Americans live abroad, but those who have swallowed down the patriotic bs think that the US is the only place to live. I can hear the chants of USA, USA, USA playing on repeat in the heads of some commentators.

  • @yolofuduswa9911
    @yolofuduswa9911 7 місяців тому +37

    Loved this, Jessica looks so fulfilled… so beautiful to watch ❤️

  • @sb_media
    @sb_media 5 місяців тому +5

    Belgian here,
    Cheers to here and the live she is living but as many Belgian people in the comments say: this video is not completely accurate. Also if they can afford a monthly spending of 4K (with a family of 3???) even tho the tax bracket is 50% they have an extremely high income and good conditions from her husband's job. These people do not represent the average Belgian family life at all!

    • @EZ-lj3hv
      @EZ-lj3hv 4 місяці тому

      Ok sure but this is not a documentary about Belgian society. This is a document about Jessica, the American woman who moved to Belgium with her husband. There are plenty of wealthy people in Belgium, like there are people on low or average income. Same as everywhere really.

  • @gingerfellah5665
    @gingerfellah5665 5 місяців тому +1

    It’s great to see this video from my own neighbourhood, I’m lucky to live here. Seeing the homemade pasta stall at the market and her wandering around the commune building which is totally gorgeous and strolling past one of my favourite bars where you can sip a glass a crisp white wine while looking at the sun glinting on the gold of communal tower.

  • @fabooster
    @fabooster 5 місяців тому +4

    Her life is very nice but this is not the normal situation for a Belgian citizen. All big cities are suffering from gentrification. It's extremely expensive to live that close to city hall. Her husband also has an exceptionally good salary package that most people won't get here, especially if you work blue collar (which the Belgian economy is getting more scarce in).

  • @heathermetz6576
    @heathermetz6576 6 місяців тому +2

    This was refreshing to see Jessica's reasons why she and her husband left the U.S. to raise their daughter in Belgium. Thank you for your USMC service. Looking forward to your cooking videos.

  • @ishaqfreeman2584
    @ishaqfreeman2584 7 місяців тому +35

    It’s a good reportage actually. That’s how chill and easy the life of an average European is. And I find it funny how my fellow Americans try to hate on it, you guys just need to go and touch some grass.

    • @DestinationRetirement
      @DestinationRetirement 6 місяців тому

      Well said. Bare feet and green grass!!

    • @anncokafor
      @anncokafor 6 місяців тому +4

      Life is not chill and easy in Europe. There are problems everywhere.

    • @pabloboulanger5984
      @pabloboulanger5984 5 місяців тому +7

      as a Belgian trust me, we have a good life, not going to complain but her life is not the life of an average european. She have a really high standing life, very few people in Europe have this kind of life.

    • @antoineisgoed
      @antoineisgoed 5 місяців тому +4

      lol this is not the life of an averge European. She and her husband are basically in the top 5% of income in Belgium.

  • @lowusua2416
    @lowusua2416 7 місяців тому +2

    Good for her. People are entitled to do what makes them happy. Lots of people changed their lives post-pandemic. I live in DC and love it (things are starting to re-stabilize after all the effects of the pandemic) but I can understand why she and her family made the move. She served her country and now she gets to put her and her family first.

  • @drjdmtuning4982
    @drjdmtuning4982 7 місяців тому +32

    I left America in 2007 been in Europe since 2015 this is very accurate

    • @tstcikhthys
      @tstcikhthys 6 місяців тому +1

      America is quite a big continent, as is Europe, so it's not saying much. Which countries in each?

  • @DWKathy
    @DWKathy 5 місяців тому +3

    I always have the feeling migration abroad is being over-romanticized.
    Include rain since oct-nov and it still hasn't stopped. I switched my heating on the day before yesterday.
    Healthcare is way cheaper than the USA that part is for sure.
    Costs are cheaper but salary is also lower than the USA.
    I'm planning on starting a channel 'a belgian's real life'... maybe this is a sign that I really should 🤷‍♀️

  • @danielamaria1527
    @danielamaria1527 7 місяців тому +8

    What a beautiful family and Jessica is a strong, sweet person. Wishing you all the best :)

  • @TheSportsZection
    @TheSportsZection 5 місяців тому +8

    Belgian here. Nicy cherry picking to make a bias point.
    I pay more than 40% income taxes so those that come here can get all the free stuff.
    There's a reason why people go to the US to build companies. There's a reason why Europe's economy has barely recovered since 2008.
    Bad policies, corrupt politicians, and immigration overload.
    Yes, some things are better in Belgium but that video is like showing Disneyland Paris and telling people that it is Paris.

    • @princediop8190
      @princediop8190 5 місяців тому

      They spend 55% in taxes, so what do you mean free stuff???

  • @alr6111
    @alr6111 6 місяців тому +6

    If you can afford a $3000 mortgage, youll be comfortable in 98% of the planet.

  • @keithss67
    @keithss67 7 місяців тому +57

    Judge you for drinking wine on a Monday afternoon in the states? Honey, we invented the 3 martini lunch 🍸

    • @WillieFungo
      @WillieFungo 7 місяців тому +24

      Americans who move to Europe always have to exaggerate how "bad" America is.

    • @keithss67
      @keithss67 7 місяців тому +11

      @@WillieFungo ha! Well I have been on the road for two years running now. I’m in Buenos Aires at the moment. Nice things here. Nice things back in nyc. Good and bad wherever you go. The truth is that she lives in a very nice city and I’m happy she likes it. But I don’t find the states any more dangerous than Europe

    • @WillieFungo
      @WillieFungo 7 місяців тому +6

      ​@@keithss67 Exactly. I love to travel too. But America is a great country, and I'm always glad to come back.

    • @candacedawn357
      @candacedawn357 7 місяців тому +3

      @@WillieFungo Not a fan of mass shootings!

    • @avasd59
      @avasd59 7 місяців тому +10

      ​@@keithss67 as someone who is born and raised in the Netherlands, I really don't understand how you think you're not safer here in Europe than the US. I mean just going off by the statistics alone along with the obvious (no gun culture, lesser crime and violence and traffic deaths etc). But ok.. I guess..😅

  • @CueTheStage
    @CueTheStage 7 місяців тому +14

    Her life looks so peaceful and stress-free, love it

  • @MattHardwood1
    @MattHardwood1 7 місяців тому +91

    Most rich people stay rich by spending like the poor and investing without stopping then most poor people stay poor by spending like the rich yet not investing like the rich but impressing them

    • @KathyJvanest
      @KathyJvanest 7 місяців тому +1

      Exactly! My grandparents were so frugal but they had a TON of money on both sides. I remember my grandfather telling me "you want to make money while you sleep." And I guess that attitude passed down to my dad (RIP), because I remember going to his house one day and I had bought something I really liked, so I wanted to show it to him. So I said "Look at this!
      Isn't it cute? It was on sale...I saved 50%!" My dad replied "Well, if you're spending, you're not saving." Obviously I had no retort, and that has always stuck with me.

    • @RuthieCarlton
      @RuthieCarlton 7 місяців тому +1

      Saving and investing wisely while prioritizing necessities and a few small luxuries in relation to one's total assets is a great approach. It helps ensure financial stability and I my for the enjoyment of life's little pleasures without compromising long-term financial goals. It's all about finding a balance that works for you!

    • @KaylaRussell77
      @KaylaRussell77 7 місяців тому

      Hello how do you make such monthly ?? I'm a born Christian and sometimes I feel so down 🤦 of myself because of low finance but I still believe in God.

    • @MarieRandy438
      @MarieRandy438 7 місяців тому

      Thanks to my co-worker (Alex) who suggested Ms Angela Christine Derle

    • @MarieRandy438
      @MarieRandy438 7 місяців тому

      After I raised up to 325k trading with her l bought a new House and a car here in the states 🇺🇸 🇺🇸
      also paid for my son's surgery (Andy). Glory to God.shalom.

  • @KamisKisses
    @KamisKisses 7 місяців тому +12

    FATCA is manadatory ALL countries (i think non-Nato countries are excluded)*
    Wonder what her social media income looks like.
    Either way, do what's best for you and your family. Unfortunately majority are too stressed and dehumanized to be able to think and and make a plan to change and let's not forget access. All things considered, good for her.

    • @tstcikhthys
      @tstcikhthys 6 місяців тому

      No, it has nothing to do with NATO. All countries' banks have to report in, or be taxed 30% of all their USD inflows/outflows. It's one of the dumbest, braindead laws ever created (along with the US's citizenship-based taxation); I'd use harsher words, but I'm mincing them being aware of the YT filter.

  • @LXBalla4414
    @LXBalla4414 7 місяців тому +93

    I live (and grew up) near the Belgian border in Luxembourg and my life could not be more different from this. Just saying....

    • @TheMiccoliGroup
      @TheMiccoliGroup 7 місяців тому +8

      How so?

    • @LXBalla4414
      @LXBalla4414 7 місяців тому +44

      @@TheMiccoliGroup cost of living is sky high over here. We both work as independents trying our best to raise two kids with no fringe benefits from employers for example. We still get by but there’s no free time for anything

    • @TheMiccoliGroup
      @TheMiccoliGroup 7 місяців тому +1

      I live in Canada. So I get it. Start your own business.

    • @Tkenny35
      @Tkenny35 7 місяців тому +10

      visited belgium last year for the first time and love the architecture. I was in a tourist area specifically the I think pentagon area in brussels? it was amazing.
      Long story short I was having a beer at night by myself and was approahced by a french girl to share a cigarette and beer with. She ended up taking me to an underground techno show and I loved it LOL.

    • @ABC-ABC1234
      @ABC-ABC1234 7 місяців тому +5

      @@LXBalla4414 I am sorry, but I call complete BS on what you're saying. Unless you're one of these people (like the ones in the video) living in the heart of a capital city, buying property is not your main issue. Actually, property prices in Belgian province of "Luxembourg" are FAAAAAAAAAAR lower than living in Luxembourg... Side note; are you working to live or living to work???

  • @mr_exia
    @mr_exia 5 місяців тому +3

    Fact is when you have money life is cool all around the globe, when you are poor life is harsh. I am Belgian so I am not criticizing what she says about Belgium, but the reality is that at the moment without money you cannot carry out any projects, unless the project is to become homeless.

  • @Aidan_Au
    @Aidan_Au 7 місяців тому +38

    Please make more videos in Europe. Thank your CNBC Make It! I like this video and also the one in Denmark

    • @abhisheksamanta1
      @abhisheksamanta1 7 місяців тому +2

      Yeah, the Denmark one was quite sometime ago, I remember.

    • @Aidan_Au
      @Aidan_Au 7 місяців тому +1

      @@abhisheksamanta1 It's also interesting that both are mothers and they both mentioned about their kids' school environment in the US.....

    • @jj-if6it
      @jj-if6it 7 місяців тому +1

      @@Aidan_Au If I was a mother in the US, I'd also be scared about sending my kids to school!

    • @Aidan_Au
      @Aidan_Au 7 місяців тому +1

      @@jj-if6it And you'd be worried for the same reason that these 2 ladies/mothers talked about in the video? Thank you for sharing!

    • @jj-if6it
      @jj-if6it 7 місяців тому +1

      @@Aidan_Au yes, living in America in general would make me feel anxious due to the high level of gun crime for one. I live in Australia

  • @envisionpigeon
    @envisionpigeon 7 місяців тому +107

    I'm an American who lived in Belgium long enough to become Belgian. There are a ton issues with her story.
    1) The government doesn't provide healthcare. Belgium's healthcare is administered through non-profit insurance agencies and private doctors. The government reimburses part of the cost, but doesn't directly run care facilities.
    2) Co-pays are way higher than 2-3 EUR a month. A general consultation runs you 10-20 EUR. Sure, it's lower than the US, but it isn't "dirt cheap."
    3) Belgium has some of the worst traffic in Europe, and people definitely get angry and honk while sitting in daily gridlock (a lot of that comes from the backwards tax policy of making it cheaper to give employees a company car than a meaningful pay raise. Not only is this horrible for the environment, but it hampers wealth-building and risk-taking since people hesitate to change jobs out of fear of losing their German automobile).
    4) 3,000 EUR a month is crazy expensive for a mortgage for many parts of Brussels. They were able to afford that due to their high income they made living in the US
    5) Belgian workers effectively can't be fired, which creates poor service and labor inefficiencies. Getting fired is like winning the lottery (2+ years of unemployment and paid holiday while being unemployed). That cost falls back on the consumers.
    It'd be nice if CNBC would talk to Americans who have lived overseas for more than 5 years. There's a lot of stuff these green expats just don't know or miss. It's kind of embarrassing as a long-time European resident to see these misrepresentations of US vs European life.

    • @kverreet
      @kverreet 7 місяців тому +28

      2) Co-pays are way higher than 2-3 EUR a month. A general consultation runs you 10-20 EUR. Sure, it's lower than the US, but it isn't "dirt cheap."
      That's not true these days, one no longer has to pay up front and get money back later. Nowadays all you need to pay is the 2-3 euro per visit, like she says.
      3) since people hesitate to change jobs out of fear of losing their German automobile
      This also feels a bit wrong. I don't know anyone who wouldn't change jobs out of fear of losing their car. Company cars basically are ubiquitous for certain sectors/job titles, it doesn't matter where you work you will be able to negotiate for one.
      5) Belgian workers effectively can't be fired, which creates poor service and labor inefficiencies. Getting fired is like winning the lottery (2+ years of unemployment and paid holiday while being unemployed). That cost falls back on the consumers.
      Ofcourse one can get fired, an employer simply needs a valid reason for it, that is all. No random firings around here like in the USA that much is true. But you certainly can get fired, I have been.
      The 2 years plus of unemployment is highly conditional. You cant simply waltz into Belgium, work for a few months, get fired and colllect free money. Back in the day it used to be a lot easier to abuse the system but nowadays they are pretty strict.

    • @Its_elena2
      @Its_elena2 7 місяців тому +2

      Belgium is more productive than the us so …

    • @kverreet
      @kverreet 7 місяців тому +11

      @@Its_elena2 We are a great place to live as long as you are upper middle class or above. Anyone below that is kind of struggling these days , though "struggling" is relative obviously.. our view of struggling still is a poor mans paradise.

    • @TheFloRidah
      @TheFloRidah 7 місяців тому +2

      @@kverreet Nailed it! Thank you.

    • @Cari.diamond1
      @Cari.diamond1 7 місяців тому +1

      Thank you.

  • @jericoba
    @jericoba 4 місяці тому +2

    Don't be fooled. You pay in general very high taxes in the U.S. too, all combined, but you don't get anything for it. In Belgium the taxes actually benefit you in many ways.

  • @baandoptager
    @baandoptager 7 місяців тому +65

    I mean, if you can buy a home in Brussels, you can live in Brussels LOL

  • @janek.5886
    @janek.5886 6 місяців тому +1

    She's optimizing her life, and that's great to see. There was a weird comment in the end where she said she wouldn't get rich in Belgium because of the high taxes, but I'm pretty sure most Americans don't get rich in the U.S. either, because of the low salaries (when considering actual hours worked) combined with the high cost of living. Although, I have no sense of what's expensive or inexpensive anymore because I live in one of the most expensive cities where $590k won't even buy you a decent two-bedroom 1-bath condo...so everything seems less and a better deal in comparison!

  • @jj-if6it
    @jj-if6it 7 місяців тому +3

    I always wonder how you know whether to communicate in French or Dutch. Does it depend on the city?

    • @ABC-ABC1234
      @ABC-ABC1234 7 місяців тому +3

      Rule of thumb Flanders => Dutch but nearly all speak English, I'm willing to bet Flemish people's English is better than their french even though half of the country speaks French. (Blame educational system focusing more on English)
      Brussels; predominant French but English is easily accesible as well due to the international aspect of the city
      Walloon region; almost exclusively French.

    • @wanneske1969
      @wanneske1969 7 місяців тому +2

      Officially, Brussels is bilingual, you can speak French or Dutch. Most people don't speak Dutch though ! Using English is not a bad idea, but it makes you look like a tourist.

    • @jj-if6it
      @jj-if6it 7 місяців тому

      @@wanneske1969 we can't help looking like tourists if we are though, haha. I'm half Dutch but am not fluent. And I learnt French for four years at school but can't remember much!

  • @MarceloRodrigues1
    @MarceloRodrigues1 5 місяців тому +2

    I am from Brussels and it worries me because every time Americans start posting videos about some place in the world it is a bad sign for the common folk.
    Expats will follow searching for some idyllic paradise that don't exist. Further more expats with their narrow frame of mind usually drive prices sky high since they are earning their salaries outside of the host country and are one of the main reasons some cities in Europe have become unlivable such as as Barcelona, Lisbon and Porto.
    Also expats seem to live in an alternate world were they know better than the host country, complain about all the small details which won't suit them and are generally never integrated in the culture and the country as they "don't see a reason to learn the language as they can get along in English", let alone understand the culture.
    Anyways forgive me for being sour, but since expats have basically destroyed life for most locals in many amazing citties in Europe already, I kind of think this video is of disservice more than anything else.

  • @suprme9
    @suprme9 7 місяців тому +191

    Huh? Literally never seen anyone get judged in the US for having wine in the afternoon.

    • @ladyethyme
      @ladyethyme 7 місяців тому +91

      I have. They immediately think you're an alcoholic. It's fairly typical difference I see between Europe and US.

    • @TheNomad8899
      @TheNomad8899 7 місяців тому +17

      @@ladyethyme Exactly.

    • @Diningtraveler
      @Diningtraveler 7 місяців тому +18

      @@ladyethymeexactly! That’s why I made the comment on the video

    • @jinsight3944
      @jinsight3944 7 місяців тому +28

      People definitely judge in the US, will assume you’re a slacker with an easy job

    • @patriciapierre7143
      @patriciapierre7143 7 місяців тому +1

      Right. She seems very touch up

  • @mischievousmoose2441
    @mischievousmoose2441 5 місяців тому

    The fact that I, too, come from D.C. and live close to where all of this was shot in Brussels is too serendipitous for me 😅

  • @fortgrove3166
    @fortgrove3166 7 місяців тому +4

    Ooh-rah!! I am from the Bronx and retired from the military after 32 years in service. I got wise about my finances in my late 30s and good to see fellow vets doing great.

  • @samvangelder4201
    @samvangelder4201 6 місяців тому +1

    As a Belgian I'm happy gor her. For her specific situation it works out fine. In general the financial difference is just because Belgium is one a quite a few 'social welfare states'. Taxes are high, and go into social benefits like education, healthcare, child care, pensions. Belgium certainly isn't thr most efficient one: taxes and national debt are about the highest in Europe, the quality of the social services is similar ot worse then other European countries.

  • @mireyap-r9o
    @mireyap-r9o 7 місяців тому +10

    Love your story! I also moved to Europe to find safety and happiness.🌻🌻🌻

  • @Thomac90
    @Thomac90 5 місяців тому

    Some context:
    1. They live in Saint-Gilles, close to the Municipal Hall. This is one of the most expensive areas to buy or rent a home in Brussels.
    2. Inserting the cost of your family meals and dining out as business expenses is committing fiscal fraud.

  • @Dhi_Bee
    @Dhi_Bee 7 місяців тому +30

    The American dream is to be able to immigrate to a better country without having to worry about the violence, politics, & lack of quality education & healthcare. It’s sad she had to participate in the US military industrial complex, but I completely understand since they purposely/nefariously use it to make working class people (especially POC & 1st generation/immigrant folks) join in order for them to elevate their financial status & class

    • @vvonderweiss
      @vvonderweiss 7 місяців тому +1

      Sad? She used the US system to fund education, travel, and emigration out of the US. She was smart and driven, it must have been a hidden blessing for her to be fired and end up in Belgium working her own business.

  • @nyftn
    @nyftn 5 місяців тому

    what you're paying 3000 for mortgage ?? to live in brussels ?? for a duplex ?? i couldn't imagine living outside west flanders . we pay under 1000 euro mortgage for a house in ostend . maybe less fancy but the beach is only a 15 min walk . bruges is 30 min drive

  • @Maxime_K-G
    @Maxime_K-G 7 місяців тому +6

    Wow, that's an absolute dream! The most amazing duplex apartment in a unit with 2 others in a quiet Brussels neighborhood. Well located for food culture and international travel, amazing she could make a living out of it. Very wholesome video, congrats to Jessica!

  • @reefglider
    @reefglider 7 місяців тому +2

    Awesome…thank you for sharing your story. Good for you finding your way to a new country, after so many years of hard work. Also, for the later in life education. Really amazing. Wishing you and your family all the best!

  • @bryanwilson928
    @bryanwilson928 7 місяців тому +109

    I realized that the secret to making a million is saving for a better investment. I always tell myself you don't need that new Maserati or that vacation just yet. That mindset helped me make more money investing. For example last year I invested 80k in stocks and made about $246k,but guess what? I put it all back and traded again and now I am rounding up close to a million

    • @jesus_inco
      @jesus_inco 7 місяців тому

      I'm favoured financially, Thank you Jesus $32,000 weekly profit regardless of how bad it gets on the economy.

    • @steliosmormoris1
      @steliosmormoris1 7 місяців тому

      Thanks to Mrs Maria Davis.

    • @WilliamOlivia7
      @WilliamOlivia7 7 місяців тому

      Wow I am surprised Maria Davis is being mentioned here I starting off with 2k ...now with massive portfolio.highly recommended..

    • @kevinandrews4
      @kevinandrews4 7 місяців тому

      What impresses me most about Maria Davis is how well she explains basic concept of winning before actually letting you use her trade signals. This goes a long way to ensure winning trades.

    • @potato1084
      @potato1084 6 місяців тому

      SCAM ALERT 🚨

  • @jackf1841
    @jackf1841 7 місяців тому +14

    The best thing about Brussels is the train to Antwerp ♥

    • @flitsertheo
      @flitsertheo 7 місяців тому +2

      Antwerp has only one problem : too many Antwerpians.

  • @Bluboy30
    @Bluboy30 7 місяців тому +39

    So, we judge people for drinking wine on Monday afternoons here in States? That's news to me. 😂

    • @nsppdpikin
      @nsppdpikin 7 місяців тому

      I

    • @hb7030
      @hb7030 7 місяців тому +1

      Especially in DC. That city is full of alcoholics lol

    • @MyCamilla1989
      @MyCamilla1989 7 місяців тому

      Well try drinking that wine on the street like she did and see what happens.

    • @Bluboy30
      @Bluboy30 7 місяців тому +2

      @@MyCamilla1989 Well, she sits at a table at a restaurant that has outdoor seatings. So, I've seen people drinking at restaurants that has outdoor seats and I didn't judge any of them. Are you saying you're going to judge someone for having a drink at a restaurant? 🤔

    • @flitsertheo
      @flitsertheo 7 місяців тому +1

      Is that the same USA where in some states or towns "open carry" of alcoholic beverages is prohibited ?

  • @numericbin9983
    @numericbin9983 5 місяців тому

    Belgian here, the average employee (IT, engineer, accountant, consultant etc) gets a company car and interesting benefits. That helps in negating some of the high costs of living here.
    Other than that, unless you earn pretty good money, above 4-5k net per month (single), that kind of mortgage is out of question.
    You can also have your own company as a freelance, like she does, and if you're smart and have a good accountant, you can hit bank.
    Anyway, success to them & may they remain happy 🥳

  • @SK-lt1so
    @SK-lt1so 7 місяців тому +33

    It's always the American income that allows them to do this.

    • @avisverige
      @avisverige 7 місяців тому

      I didn't see any mention of American salaries here though? Regardless, Belgians are the richest in the world when you look at median wealth per adult. The US ranks 13 on this list.

    • @candyboayue112
      @candyboayue112 7 місяців тому +6

      The retirement income from the military

    • @avisverige
      @avisverige 7 місяців тому +2

      @@candyboayue112 ah yes that’s true. Military penion is good money but you’d earn significantly more from a job in Belgium.

    • @sauloncall
      @sauloncall 7 місяців тому +7

      Exactly! This is just Americans flaunting their wealth in cities with "lower" cost.

    • @annabarr1304
      @annabarr1304 7 місяців тому +2

      I don't understand, does Belgium give visas to content creators?

  • @decnijfkris3706
    @decnijfkris3706 7 місяців тому +1

    On the chaussée de louvain ( the house just before the american pharmacy now) sat 1 traiteur. You could find there very posh and exotic food ready made in plates. I still remember the smell of that shop and how fancy that was while looking at the nylon panties and lace bra lacletes of posh chicks coming to order with dogs we had never seen ( pitbulss)

  • @moremoola
    @moremoola 7 місяців тому +11

    Brussels is basically the Washington DC of Europe. Traffic is terrible because so many people work in the city and because the EU and NATO offices are headquartered in Brussels.
    Just move to Leuven or Ghent or if you can afford it Bruges... Bruges is so beautiful!

    • @ABC-ABC1234
      @ABC-ABC1234 7 місяців тому

      Or pick a strategic city that has good connection with Brussels by train.

    • @wanneske1969
      @wanneske1969 7 місяців тому

      @@ABC-ABC1234 Like Malines, Leuven or Antwerp

    • @ABC-ABC1234
      @ABC-ABC1234 7 місяців тому

      @@wanneske1969 Maline/Leuven/Antwerp itself are UNAFFORDABLE! Either live in a village with close and solid connection nearby or pay the consequences. Although it seems sooo close in Belgium on a map, Belgium itself is very densely populated. Those mentioned cities are beyond disgustingly expensive now. (In terms of living quality Antwerp center isn't even attractive)

    • @wanneske1969
      @wanneske1969 7 місяців тому +1

      @@ABC-ABC1234 I am a single guy and own an 2 bedroom appartment in Antwerp. And I'm not rich :-).

    • @ABC-ABC1234
      @ABC-ABC1234 7 місяців тому

      @@wanneske1969 Hey Wannes, aangenaam kennis te maken. Tegenwoordig liggen die prijzen wel VEEL hoger dan 20 jaar geleden. Vooral post Covid crunch in 2021, die prijzen zijn waanzinnig gestegen. Verder moet je ook nog onderscheid maken tussen apartement aan de kaaien/ Eilandje nieuwbouw appartement vs appartement aan Sint Jans plein... ;)

  • @erikc8284
    @erikc8284 6 місяців тому +1

    Brussels has very beautiful arquitecture and it's a nice place, but I would never live there because of the weather. It's always cloudy and dark and me coming from Spain cannot survive that. I've been 12 years living abroad in North Europe and I cannot stand Belgian or North Germany weather (let alone Finland, Norway and Sweden) it kills me.

  • @tickboy4229
    @tickboy4229 7 місяців тому +33

    Europe is better if you are low on socioeconomic ladder and think that's where you will stay. But US is better if you have the ambition to climb the ladder as higher paying jobs are more plentiful in US. You just a need a good plan to get there and the motivation to do it.

    • @lukewilson5846
      @lukewilson5846 7 місяців тому +15

      This is so dumb. There are multiple European countries with a higher GDP per capita than the US.

    • @hwy9nightkid
      @hwy9nightkid 7 місяців тому +3

      this is false..

    • @bam0505
      @bam0505 7 місяців тому +3

      GPD is not a measure of personal income. But yes there are many countries in EUR that have plenty of wealthy people

    • @aiai-j7i
      @aiai-j7i 7 місяців тому +6

      @@bam0505 Born into wealth. It is very difficult to climb the socio-economic ranks in Belgium. It is very classist and people want to keep you in your class.

    • @lukewilson5846
      @lukewilson5846 7 місяців тому +4

      @@bam0505 GDP per capita isn’t a measure of personal income but it’s a solid measure of economic prosperity. If you look at rankings by personal income, up to five European countries still come out ahead of the US.

  • @ricoamadeo2
    @ricoamadeo2 7 місяців тому +1

    I moved from DC to BXL as well, for sure am more chilled out, my budget is much less, under a thousand euros a month with shared rent, in DC it was a thousand just for rent. My income is half but im generally less scared about the future :)

  • @followGreatness
    @followGreatness 7 місяців тому +16

    Wow! The happiness and aura that the US CAN NEVER give many immigrants. You ma'am look Sun kissed and happy. God bless you. I tap into your amazing blessing for a tall gentleman husband.

    • @lifeisbeautiful7452
      @lifeisbeautiful7452 7 місяців тому

      The US is what you make it to be. Many immigrants who are educated like this woman do just fine. If you’re immigrating with $2 in your pocket, zero education, zero skills outside of manual labor, you’re going to have a harder time than say a doctor or engineering coming to the US.

    • @Diningtraveler
      @Diningtraveler 7 місяців тому +1

      Thank you 😊

  • @picsoumagasinier
    @picsoumagasinier 4 місяці тому +1

    7:12 : 'Are we going to become rich living here? Probably not'... When having a mortgage of 3.000€ for a duplex worth 600.000€... Most belgian couples can't afford a mortgage worth more than 1.500€ so leave the hypocrisy here.
    The Inequalities Observatory stated that for you to be considered 'rich' you have to earn more than twice the median salary (around 2.300€ post-taxes). Knowing they have a mortgage of 3.000€ and that most banks refuse to give you a loan worth more than 1/3rd of your income, they probably earn AT LEAST 9.000€ a month. So, compared to most couples earning around 4.600€ per month, they earn more or less twice than them.
    So yes, you can consider yourself rich here darling.

    • @kimgysen10
      @kimgysen10 8 годин тому

      Whether it will make her rich isn't very clear. They seem to be spending a lot, and the apartment will take a while until it's fully paid for. That is money well spent, but not an income generating asset otherwise. If anything, that is merely a safety net.

  • @adammorra3813
    @adammorra3813 7 місяців тому +12

    I am glad this worked out for her but as a POC that lived in Europe, I got treated very differently. Your job opportunities are very limited, the money is not as good as US, forget about any kinds of promotions since you are a foreigner, and it’s not easy with cultural and language barriers. I hate these types of videos, they show the very glamorized side of it. I fell for it thinking Europe is some utopia and went to a country that is consistently top 5 for happiness and top 3 for wealth and I was miserable with no friends.

    • @vvonderweiss
      @vvonderweiss 7 місяців тому +3

      I wonder if countries that claim to report the top happiness are ever heterogeneous in terms of ethnicity, religion, or immigration? Each culture and country measures happiness differently so maybe that gets lost in translation. Either way, sorry to hear you had such a rough time. I hope you find your niche and grow :).

    • @adammorra3813
      @adammorra3813 7 місяців тому +2

      @vvonderweiss i moved back to US and its better now. And indeed those top countries are very homogeneous. Its always Finland, Sweden, Switzerland, etc. And they have the lowest diversity and immigration. So everyone believes the same thing. I do appreciate the safety nets though.

    • @DariaMorgendorffer123
      @DariaMorgendorffer123 7 місяців тому

      @@vvonderweiss Seems to be that way.

    • @outsidegirl100
      @outsidegirl100 7 місяців тому +1

      Wow. I’m a black American woman living in the US and videos like this make me want to move to Europe! I’m sick of the racism, traffic, sprawling suburbs, car centric design/culture, gun violence, unaffordable housing prices,and only 2wks PTO. Your comment is making me think that even still, it’s better than Europe?

    • @adammorra3813
      @adammorra3813 7 місяців тому +3

      @outsidegirl100 Europe is better but just dont expect to be welcomed with open arms. Your social life and career will suffer. If i had friends and better job opportunities, i would of stayed in europe.

  • @importantlookingpirate
    @importantlookingpirate 7 місяців тому +7

    If you live in another country why you have to send your numbers to The US? I mean you have emigrated? Right? I dont understand that.

    • @kentwhitehead7000
      @kentwhitehead7000 7 місяців тому +26

      As a US citizen you are taxed for life unless you renounce.

    • @inmytravelstoday
      @inmytravelstoday 7 місяців тому +1

      @@kentwhitehead7000 Yes. We are the only country in the world where we have to declare our taxes once we reside in another country.

    • @wanneske1969
      @wanneske1969 7 місяців тому +1

      @@inmytravelstoday That's weird

    • @sharinaross1865
      @sharinaross1865 7 місяців тому

      That's Uber weird.

    • @flitsertheo
      @flitsertheo 7 місяців тому

      Her only way to escape the American taxman is to become a citizen of an EU country, Belgian or Dutch for instance.
      While her husband is a EU citizen this shouldn't be too much of a hassle.

  • @roddiesimmons8773
    @roddiesimmons8773 7 місяців тому +2

    I am curious to know what the income is. I am just seeing spend, spend, spend. I am also missing where there is a savings living in Belgium. The only difference appears to be the view? 😎

    • @eattherich9215
      @eattherich9215 7 місяців тому +3

      'I am also missing where there is a savings living in Belgium.' Everything is cheaper and you don't have to pay through the nose for indifferent healthcare.

    • @dml1514
      @dml1514 7 місяців тому

      She’s saving on healthcare, childcare and transportation costs. Her Housing costs are comparable to the US. She’s retired military and has a working husband.

  • @saamsasan2738
    @saamsasan2738 7 місяців тому +11

    It's so fun and fascinating to hear life storiy and anecdotes of different people with distinct origins and walks of life

  • @JS-bn5mz
    @JS-bn5mz 6 місяців тому

    Now I understand why there are always 2 things to select when you apply for a credit card (for example): if you’re an American citizen or not. At least in Switzerland.

  • @SeriouslyWTFAndre
    @SeriouslyWTFAndre 7 місяців тому +19

    Some of these bot comments are crazy 😂

  • @Aswinishere
    @Aswinishere 5 місяців тому

    Belgian here. She looks like she went to the St Gilles market.
    We can comment all we want, I'm glad she likes it here. Her neighborhood is not mine, city is not yours, country not yours. Everything is different it depends where you live. Let's just be happy for her. Overall it's not wrong or excessive to say that Europe is better than the US if you only consider quality of life.

  • @toniomz1205
    @toniomz1205 7 місяців тому +22

    Who knew that living like a upper class in another country with US income and money makes you "happier"?...Oh right that will happen in any country if you have money $$$ I forgot!

    • @krtt5837
      @krtt5837 7 місяців тому +2

      Yes agreed I’ll just add one thing. You can one stay in NYC and live at poverty levels or move and live in upper middle class elsewhere. She made a smart choice

  • @jj-if6it
    @jj-if6it 7 місяців тому +1

    I would love to live somewhere in Europe, except the taxes would put me off. We pay 35% or something in Australia as middle income earners, and I feel like that's bad enough! Although we do get a good quality of life for it

  • @mariaantonietalucenagomez7046
    @mariaantonietalucenagomez7046 7 місяців тому +10

    What a beautiful story ❤

  • @dcorman2350
    @dcorman2350 6 місяців тому

    Every time I watch US vs Europe videos… it can be resumed in two words:
    Car Dependency
    You either have a great car living in the suburb and a big house or have you a lifestyle around people with coffees and cocktail bars.

  • @ABC-ABC1234
    @ABC-ABC1234 7 місяців тому +9

    Guys I just want to make the obvious observation that this woman isn't living like most average Belgians. The price of her appartment situated in the beating heart of Brussels is exactly why her mortgage is so insane. And Belgian banks are extremely strict when loaning money, meaning her man's income is exactly how they can afford their lifestyle. Her fake "influencer" job doesn't make anything near a normal salary to be able to fund this lifestyle...

    • @BlueFire94
      @BlueFire94 6 місяців тому +1

      Mmmmh interesting thanks for explaining.

    • @ABC-ABC1234
      @ABC-ABC1234 6 місяців тому +1

      @@BlueFire94 This was an awful example of people from the US/ other European countries chosing to live in Belgium. The ones I know, live in normal houses in normal villages near main city centers to reduce housing costs. She would be more honest if she just said; "I married a rich husband, that's how I can afford my lifestyle, the end."

  • @outsidegirl100
    @outsidegirl100 7 місяців тому +2

    I’m a black American woman living in the US and videos like this make me want to move to Europe. I’m sick of the racism, traffic, sprawling suburbs where you don’t see anyone outside or walking around, car centric design/culture, gun violence, unaffordable housing prices, childcare, healthcare, and higher education, as well as only 2wks PTO. Some comments though are making me think that even still, quality of life in the US is better than Europe? What’s the truth?

    • @eattherich9215
      @eattherich9215 7 місяців тому

      '... quality of life in the US is better than Europe ...'. In short, no. There are lots of videos here on UA-cam made by Americans living in Europe. Some of them have settled in my country, England, and are perfectly happy. Racism is a problem in nominally "white" countries and that is the reality.

    • @Newaby
      @Newaby 7 місяців тому

      As they it depends upon your priorities and perceived value. Remember that quality of life is not just the only criteria as you also need work to survive as well as other things. Quality of life in comparison to US is high in Europe but also at the cost of high taxes and social welfare programs.

    • @vmoses1979
      @vmoses1979 6 місяців тому +1

      Travel to Europe and stay more than 2 weeks if you can in one place to get an idea. There are good points and bad points. Safety, public transportation, more security versus a complacent attitude rather than a go getter one, lack of choice and often subpar service and little customer orientation. Europeans also tend to be more insular, less friendly and outgoing in general. Racism is everywhere but in Europe it's more a class thing. If you're black but well dressed and well spoken you will be treated as 'honorary white' but in the States you could be a huge black celebrity like LeBron and be stopped by police regularly as you drive into your expensive neighborhood.

    • @thessysasa
      @thessysasa 5 місяців тому

      @@vmoses1979”honorary white” I’ve never heard such a thing and being living in Belgium my whole life as a black woman.

  • @DikeMarvel
    @DikeMarvel 7 місяців тому +112

    Fantastic video! I have incurred so much losses trading on my own....I trade well on demo but I think the real market is manipulated.... Can anyone help me out or at least tell me what I'm doing wrong??

    • @Lucasclement-lf8fj
      @Lucasclement-lf8fj 7 місяців тому

      Same here, My portfolio has been going down the drain while I try trading,l just don't know what I do wrong. .

    • @AleksyMaciej
      @AleksyMaciej 7 місяців тому

      Trading with an expert is the best strategy for newbies and busy investors who have little or no time to monitor trade

    • @MiaEvie
      @MiaEvie 7 місяців тому

      I think l'm blessed if not I wouldn't have met someone who is as spectacular as expert mrs Janet..
      High recommended

    • @Agneschloe-c5w
      @Agneschloe-c5w 7 місяців тому

      Wow, I'm surprised to see Janet mentioned here as well. I didn't know she had been kind to so many people

    • @DavisAlexis445
      @DavisAlexis445 7 місяців тому

      ​I thought myself and my family were
      the only ones enjoying Janet
      trade benefits

  • @rvp102
    @rvp102 4 місяці тому

    Enjoyed the video. Always interesting to read the comments of people who try to extrapolate to their own situation to contradict the living standards portrayed in this video. of course, there are couple on a tighter budget, but then again there are people who have much more. I’m sure this is not different anywhere else in the world.

  • @mandem888
    @mandem888 7 місяців тому +8

    Can you please do an episode of Netherlands??

  • @pawlieblog7967
    @pawlieblog7967 7 місяців тому +2

    I hate my work experience in the USA - asap, planning to retire in France. Not in Paris but in a smaller town or village with train service to be able to travel. I’ve save up my nest egg and got a good side hustle and will be able to pay all cash for a home so no mortgage. And it will cost a fraction of what you paid for an apartment in Brussels because it’s hard for Americans to get a mortgage. But I love Brussels so more power to you!! I’m single and over 60, in a different situation from yours, but I love to travel and don’t want to live in the states where life is more violent, volatile and expensive.

    • @anuragchakraborty8766
      @anuragchakraborty8766 7 місяців тому

      How do you even have the energy or the will to relocate at this old age?

    • @inmytravelstoday
      @inmytravelstoday 7 місяців тому +3

      @@anuragchakraborty8766 60 is not old. As long as you're healthy, you can definitely live abroad and thrived.

    • @anuragchakraborty8766
      @anuragchakraborty8766 7 місяців тому

      @@inmytravelstoday What do you mean 60 is not old? Most people are on serious medication by that time.

    • @eattherich9215
      @eattherich9215 7 місяців тому

      @@anuragchakraborty8766: most people YOU know. I am on the point of turning 66 and I am not taking any prescribed medications. I don't eat bad food nor am I glued to the armchair. Further, I don't currently have a car, so get some walking in nearly everyday.

    • @anuragchakraborty8766
      @anuragchakraborty8766 7 місяців тому +1

      @@eattherich9215 A tiny handful of exceptions doesn't disprove the rule.

  • @herbst1398
    @herbst1398 7 місяців тому +19

    It´s simple, EVERY country is way more "happier" living then USA

    • @fibonaccifanzeroviews7839
      @fibonaccifanzeroviews7839 7 місяців тому +5

      Right lol yet 100,000 are pouring over the borders into the United States every day to "seek misery" 😂

    • @herbst1398
      @herbst1398 7 місяців тому

      @@fibonaccifanzeroviews7839 We have mass of illegal immigration - that's more and more countries in EU are turning right wing. You should vote 4 trump if you dont want llegal immigration

    • @michaellaviola3125
      @michaellaviola3125 7 місяців тому +5

      be careful when seeing what's highlighted, its better to ask the citizens of the country then an American who moves there, where the USA dollar is strong.

    • @candacedawn357
      @candacedawn357 7 місяців тому +1

      @@michaellaviola3125 True. Good point!

    • @KellyBoettcher-qo9tx
      @KellyBoettcher-qo9tx 7 місяців тому +3

      Then why are all these people coming here to the 🇺🇸

  • @DA-ug6ox
    @DA-ug6ox 7 місяців тому +2

    This is the life we could have in the United States. People, please vote for public transportation and dense housing.

    • @SummersJourney-d5d
      @SummersJourney-d5d 7 місяців тому

      We already have that..throughout the major cities in the U.S. And keep in mind that the U.S. is 2.5X the size of the European Union countries.

  • @Burnenwhysee
    @Burnenwhysee 7 місяців тому +12

    I'm flying to live in Europe in 2 days, such a better quality of life than the US. Looking forward to leaving the culture war and stupid politics behind.

    • @theracer6882
      @theracer6882 7 місяців тому

      Stupid politics won't leave you in Europe. They have stupid far left politician, who think cow burps are significant contributor to climate change.

  • @decnijfkris3706
    @decnijfkris3706 7 місяців тому

    standing in my garden talking nicely to my dog... to the left a 10 meter fence with three big birches at the neighbor. In front a very nice wooden garden house covered with a shale roof. Then an open space whee I have view on meadows with horses land an 5 million villa with tilleuls and on the right a 20 meters green hedge. The next villa sits at 6 meters. L'art de vivre and quality of life.

  • @VioletLife8
    @VioletLife8 7 місяців тому +4

    Geweldig. En hoe leuk dat je helemaal op je gemak bent. En grappig dat je man uit Rotterdam komt. Woon ik vlakbij Overschie). Gaaf wat jullie gedurfd hebben. Brussel is geweldig. Prachtig en bourgondisch! Geniet ervan ! You guys made a big step moving to Europe. Puerto Rico is a Heaven as well imo. Enjoy !! Geniet ervan 👌🏾🙌🏾🌹🐞

    • @jackbaldwin3649
      @jackbaldwin3649 7 місяців тому

      Would you recommend Belgium for Americans looking to live in Europe? We are retired now and we are interested in living in Europe. Thank you!

    • @wimve4719
      @wimve4719 7 місяців тому +2

      @@jackbaldwin3649 Excellent question 🙂If you're looking for the best weather? NO, very rainy. If you want to live in a city with lots to do? YES. And then, it depends on what your lifestyle would be. Enjoing nature with long walks and sleepy villages, move to the Walloon region (French speaking, not a lot of English proficiency ... but beautiful). Or you want more culture (and people more proficient to speak English) move to the northern part. We're small but very diverse. And not claiming to be the best country in the world. We're humble. Anyway, we would welcome you with open arms 🙂

    • @jackbaldwin3649
      @jackbaldwin3649 7 місяців тому

      @@wimve4719 Thank you!

  • @bestovvus
    @bestovvus 6 місяців тому

    Help me here. I'm torn between moving countries and staying put where I currently reside. There's this voice in my head that says there really is no "paradise" in the world as we know it today

  • @guytoledano7215
    @guytoledano7215 7 місяців тому +10

    The grass always seems greener at the other side

  • @decnijfkris3706
    @decnijfkris3706 7 місяців тому

    There was a all greek restaurant at the heigh of shoe shop liessens serving calamares zuflakis and tzsikis in the 70 ies. A volvo dealers ship with the 264 in the showroom ...You litrelly missed it all. Drivever with white gants in rolls royces and bentleys opening doors

  • @mathewmcfool
    @mathewmcfool 7 місяців тому +14

    🤔 Hold on, did she say the 55% of their pay that goes to Belgium is justified, because Belgium’s welfare system provides financial security?

    • @emem2863
      @emem2863 7 місяців тому +5

      Yes. She said that. Considering she's American, it makes sense.

    • @Jonteponte71
      @Jonteponte71 7 місяців тому +3

      I'm guessing workers rights and different kinds of government support makes it easier to transition between jobs in Belgium. Like for a lot of other european countries. You also get very cheap or free healtcare, childcare and education for that money. High taxes works as long as you get something valuable back.
      For families with children I would say that is definitely the case. If you are single or without children, it's more questionable.

    • @abhisheksamanta1
      @abhisheksamanta1 7 місяців тому +8

      55% covers tax and all sort of SS - e.g. healthcare, long term care etc. Gives the peace of mind that she would never go bankrupt in case something bad happens. Also, remember that overall infrastructure is way more advanced and matured. For example, she does not need to buy a car and use the public transport on day to day basis. It's definitely better than getting 80% in hand after tax deduction and then spending 80% of it on things which are practically free (as compared to in her case).

    • @Marcus-pj4yw
      @Marcus-pj4yw 7 місяців тому +5

      ​@@abhisheksamanta1 I agree. At least seeing what comes of your tax money makes sense rather the other way around

  • @andreww.8262
    @andreww.8262 7 місяців тому +2

    Just so you guys know, this is from the point of view from a couple with a household INCOME of at least $135k EUROS annually. This isn't a normal experience in Europe.

    • @wanneske1969
      @wanneske1969 7 місяців тому

      I was always tought your mortgage could only be 1/3rd of your netto income ! If you want to buy a house like that it means paying 100.000 or more euros in advance and earning 10.000 € netto a month, which is indeed not average ...

    • @SummersJourney-d5d
      @SummersJourney-d5d 7 місяців тому

      In then DC metro, the median income is $100,000.00/year for college professionals and many make over $175,000.00/year.

    • @tstcikhthys
      @tstcikhthys 6 місяців тому

      So if it's euros, then it wouldn't be $, but € lol

  • @easytiger3302
    @easytiger3302 7 місяців тому +4

    Theses videos are so hypocritical and false. First off they are focusing on people of a higher Socio-Economic. OF COURSE!!! If you're making 80k or above you can relocate and find a better location to live in. In an Economy that cost less to live in. Let's show case someone making 18K or 25K then I'll be impressed.

    • @krtt5837
      @krtt5837 7 місяців тому +2

      Well right off the bat I’ll tell you 18-25 k in nyc is really poor. I’m sure you can live A better quality of life in most cities in Europe on that income. Not saying it will be great but will be able to offered more.

    • @easytiger3302
      @easytiger3302 7 місяців тому

      @krtt5837 Yes but that's what most people make in NYC and if you look at the percentage of what people of color make. Its less than %15 of us making at or above $80K a majority of us are making around $30K facts so these people and whoever Made this video is out of touch with reality when you showcase people of color that are non-white. In fact it would be insulting if you made a series with Caucasian people talking about their exploits in other countries with lower Socio- Economics values than the US. Because they have most of the wealth in the US which is attributed to racism and white privilege. But that's a whole nother issue.

    • @vmoses1979
      @vmoses1979 6 місяців тому +1

      ​@@easytiger3302 Ppl with lower incomes have much more security than the same person in the States. You just are not aware of the reality.