Escape The US: Retire In Europe! 

Love watching your videos. We are Canadians from Vancouver Island that bought a beautiful place in a 5 star resort in Palm Springs a couple of years ago. We are finding the unreal costs of everything in Calif. is hard to deal with especially when we look at the exchange rate. We are thinking about selling and spending a winter in the Algarve. Your videos have been a great inspiration and full of useful information. Thanks for sharing and doing such a great job at what you do.

@@brianbetts5773 We retired from California to Lisbon, Portugal. We will be moving to the Algarve this September.

Why are you complaining about US? You have what you consistently voted for

Countries offer you healthcare IF YOU PAY TAXES.

@@marcomarco6430 Regardless of party, the cost of living in the U.S. is exorbitant. Stop trying to make it all about left or right because you're completely incorrect.

Thanks so much for the kind words ☺ We have found that until you experience the differences yourself, it's hard to truly know. I get it, as I was once in that position. Thank you so much for watching and following along! Cheers

Too funny we left Neptune beach for France and love our lives. Still have a home there but its rented and prob wont go back to live again in the states. Quality of life is just amazing here.

you are fantastic in communicate your ideas in an elegant way.

Don’t feel bad for telling the truth. Living in the US these days especially as a senior citizen it’s become increasingly difficult, even to do groceries. I’m glad for you, and it’s the best decision you’ve made.

@@giova3026 Where did you move to in France, and is it expensive?

Sounds like a good plan! We’re thinking of moving to Europe too

This is the draw to many and why they look elsewhere to retire. Sounds like you have a great plan. Cheers!

There is divided politics in Europe too, it is just easier for you to tune it out there.

Thank you for the content. It's always interesting and appreciated.😊

same, it's not just cost of living, it's MORE lifestyle and no drama and better quality food

There are much less preservatives in the food here in Europe. You are what you eat!!! 😀

That’s good to know but sure would be hard to avoid those croissants. 😀

They have much stricter rules for what can and can't be added to foods, make up etc in EUrope.

Where are you in Spain?

@@joan5631 Alcoy (Alcoi) in Alicante. ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-4RJ5aN8-XMI.html

Alcoy (Alcoi), Alicante.

@@MyLifeinSpain888Hi, are you going to apply for Medicare part B come the time? I know of a lot of Americans who are not taking part B because of its cost. I don’t get that. Do you pay taxes on your SS benefits in Spain? Are pensions taxed even though they pay taxes in the U.S. by default? I live in Portugal under the NHR scheme (no taxes for 10 years) and can apply for citizenship in five years. Then I can live anywhere I want in the EU. Spain is surely a very attractive prospect come the time.

Hi, No, I will not be paying Medicare. I have no plans on ever returning to the States. If your pension in Spain is less than If your annual income comes from a single source (i.e., just your pension) and it’s less than €22,000 a year, you do not have to file an annual income tax declaration. As a result, around 65% of pensioners in Spain are exempt.

Totally agree - I really wish there would be much more focus put on the quality of food and the health outcome by having the population consume foods with ingredients proven to cause long-term health issues. Still holding out hope one day we will see that change.

This is why a lot of US food is banned in the EU and elsewhere.

exactly, I walked a lot in many European big and small cities at night by myself as a woman, but I was always too afraid to do the same in the US.

I also travel alone. I feel very safe walking around most of Europe and also in Puerto Vallarta Mexico. The USA is not safe. A guy pulled a knife on me ~ 8 am near the strip in Vegas. Grew up in Chicago--a disaster.

I’m from Switzerland. When I was a teenager in the 80ties/90ties I would walk home in the middle of the night as a young girl all by myself sometimes. (But don’t tell my dad 😉). Today I wouldn’t do that anymore. I live in the US since a few years and I’m afraid to walk by myself during day time. I’m now moving to Mallorca, Spain because I’m not happy in the US and stressed all the time.

Sounds like you've found your happy place in Spain ☺. We LOVED it there!

Ironically, Europeans own lots of guns but don't seem to have the problems we do in US.

Totally agree!

Thank you so much ♥

Thank you so much!! We appreciate the kind words!! ❤

Sadly it's true 😞

​​@@BrianandCarrie Yep, I walked in Paris along the seine after midnight without fear and sitting at the Pantheon late at night is so enjoyable. Paris has no alcohol law that you can drink on the streets at anytime. All Europe countries are similar, no alcohol law but there's no mass shootings and crazy things like in California my home State.

Walking is the best. Combines exercising, sight seeing and even meditation. Some cities, however, are much better for walking than others.

Yes, slow travel is a wonderful way to do just that. Thanks so much for watching 😊

I've travelled for 3.5 years across Europe without a car. Mostly by train, some bus journeys and occasionally splashing out on a car and driver which is not too expensive in Eastern European countries. So what is stopping you? Come to Europe and enjoy the food!

Thank you! I think I will!

I am aware of this, thanks! I live on the Mexican border and see the struggles daily. It's a sad state of affairs.😢

Thats ridiculous!! 😳

@@BrianandCarrie That's pretty standard pricing in the US right now in any decent restaurant, and I am in KY, not LA or NYC.

@@JayandSarah I know. Wife and I are from former Yugoslavia currently living in the states, but we are traveling to Europe every year and we are shocked at the price difference. As Brian and Carrie said "you get much more (life) for your money" anywhere in Europe. Even in places like Germany, France and Italy, the cost of living and going out is much more reasonable than even in poorest US states. In Italy you can buy two bottles of house wine for the price of one glass in the US.

Europe has terrorist attacks. When I was last in France there were guards outside a cathedral, which was closed due to terrorist threats. They were carrying rapid fire guns. While it may be “safer” understand pick pockets and terrorist threats are much higher.

I’m moving to Mallorca, Spain by the end of this year from Las Vegas. I can’t wait! 😁

Thank you, Liz! So many people say that it can't be done but you are living proof that it can be!! Thank you for adding to the channel!! ❤

Is there a high financial threshold for the Visa?

@@siouxrose7766 the Golden visa has a threshold of $500k but they are doing away with that type of visa

@@lizcoleman5229 --Oh, well... over my head. Thank you for the info.

Yes, and you are helping the local economy in Greece!

It sounds like you've found the perfect balance! It's wonderful you've had all your family visit and you're so right, all the apps for video chats and social connections make the distance much more bearable. Cheers!

Congrats on your retirement - happy travels ☺

Expensive for sure! Fortunately, there are many other options within the States and abroad. Cheers!

Yes, slow travel is another great option and a way to not have to tackle all that comes with residency. Which as you mentioned isn't as easy as it was just a few years back. Always best to do plenty of research before jumping in. Cheers!

You will always have tax obligations to the U.S.. My initial researched understanding is that, for countries with certain treaties with the U.S. , the U.S. will credit you for at least a significant part of the foreign taxes you would pay as a legal resident of the other country. So not really double taxation.

That's so sad that this is the question you are asked. So much at stake. We appreciate you watching!

We live near DC. We do love it here but I completely understand your feelings. I have family in Norway who I believe are too afraid to visit us. The rest of my family is in NY/NYC. It’s hard to convince foreigners that we are safe when we aren’t sure we believe it ourselves.

It is indeed heartbreaking. I do believe the US has reached a point of no return. The divisiveness of the country beginning began to accelerate in 2016 and since then the situation has been working from day to day.

Thank you so much for the recommendation...we will for sure check it out. 😊😊. Cheers!!

Yes, so many reasons - but all added up, it's quality of life. Thanks so much for watching and happy travels ahead ☺

consider a teaching job in Europe. English id the 2nd language in most counties. they are always needing them. you wont regret the opportunity!

@@JayandSarahIt depends how many hours per week you work as an English teacher. If you work full time you will earn enough to live in Europe!

Yes, that would be a different spin on it!

They did say not all parts of Europe are cheaper. 🤔 Besides Eastern Europe you also have Portugal, Spain, and Italy. I guess it's more about what's comfortable for you. I do miss all the healthy food and produce that had taste from my time in Europe. Not to mention all the sugars and salt in the foods here in the States.

Based on my experience, I disagree. I've traveled throughout Europe both for work and vacation, and I've lived in Hamburg, London, and Barcelona. Overall, I've found dining out to be cheaper in Europe, primarily bc of the added tip in the US. Note - I do not have much experience in Switzerland.

Switzerland has the highest cost of living in the world, but Germany, Austria and France are all significantly lower than the US.

@@CarrieJamrogowicz I referred only to food not the entire living cost. Either way i just google it we are not far away from the top ranking, sadly 1. Monaco - $3955 2. Singapore - $3408 3. Cayman Islands - $3255 4. Switzerland - $2850 5. Iceland - $2457 6. Ireland - $2343 7. Liechtenstein - $2326 8. United States - $2317 9. Luxembourg - $2271 10. Australia - $2212

As a Romanian, I want to say thank you for visiting my country and I happy you felt safe there

It is so sad but true! That sounds like a perfect plan, the best of both worlds, and the perfect hop-off point from the US. We absolutely loved Romania and totally agree, we never felt unsafe.

I totally agree with you, Romania is very safe, I traveled quite a bit there, and I love everything about it. I think about retiring there- lots of history and culture, beautiful places to visit, they have mountains and the Black Sea, food is cheap and high quality, people are friendly, 99% of people under the age of 40 speak a bit or more English, and is very SAFE.

Yes, this is very true! We look forward to visiting Colorado someday, we've heard so many wonderful things.

@@BrianandCarrie After returning from a month in Northern Europe in late May, we will be home June - August. You are both welcome to join us in Fort Collins! IMHO, we have the best breweries! We'd love to show you around.

Thank you so much!! We do look forward to getting to Colorado someday soon.

There is a level of truth to this for sure. But, we do know there aren't the same in-your-face constant arguments in most areas we visited. Not only is it not seen or heard, but we've heard this from locals as they comment about how out of control American politics is.

❤ tell us more please. Thank you.

Keep hearing more and more good things about Morocco...see Jumping Places and their travels there recently. Amazing and such an easy jump for slow travel to get out of Schengen in Portugal or Spain

This is so great to hear - we are hoping to make it there in the next few years. We've heard so many wonderful things. Cheers!!

Yes, SE Asia is a great place that many choose to go and retire on very little - we just couldn't handle the heat and humidity year-round. We do love enjoying our beverages - it's all about finding balance in life and health ☺. Thanks so much for watching.

Lol. Guess I could have watched a bit before commenting. 🤷‍♂️

Just spent a few days in Seville. We are staying in Portugal for a month. Streets are spotless. No homeless ppl sleeping on the streets. I would def consider living full-time in Europe. I love the fact that most don’t want F U mansions and brand new cars to keep up with the neighbours! Life is simpler.

We love Seville and the beauty around every corner! And yes, so incredibly clean ☺. It's all those little things that add up and make us really appreciate Europe. Cheers!!

Funny, lived 9 years of life in Europe, visited 6 times including one coming up. It is simply not true that the cost of living is less in Europe? Maybe a small village in Slovakian backwoods? Do you guys buy gas? Furniture? Pay electric bills? Pay rent? Buy a car? Buy a home? What in the world are you talking about? How about going to a convenience store at night? Oh, that. How about freedom of movement, national parks, war, bureaucratic nonsense about everything, the cost of insurance? They don’t give to charity, they don’t tip and they pay California style taxes. Wait, more than California style taxes. Funny, but far more Europeans move to America than Americans to Europe. Wonder why? Because American immigration laws have changed to make European immigration far more difficult, the number is much smaller than it might otherwise be. The new laws favor cheap unskilled labor and hi tech, but cheap, semi skilled labor such as comes from South Asia. There is a lot to like about Europe. The quality of life is generally good. They pay nutty taxes to pay for their health care. They also limit who can get free higher education which is much more widely available in the U.S. their streets are clean and crime is low. So, where I live the streets are clean and crime is low. In the U.S. I can live where I want. Not necessarily so in Europe.

Thank you for adding your opinion, Poco.

Plus there are all the illegals now in Denver.

Agree. I did an analysis of moving to Spain from USA and my retirement budget will be heavily taxed in Europe compared to USA.

That’s unfortunately, so true. I wanted to stay in Germany after my job ended to be double taxed from America. It got to be so complicated besides more expensive. I don’t mind paying taxes where I live. I’m not trying to get out of them, but being double taxed, and the stress of having to do too, it just got to me. !!!!! Also, unfortunately, because in the United States, they made those new laws for the bank, such as F bar, and some others so many of the banks in Europe, don’t want to take Americans because they have to fill out more paperswork because they required to comply with IRS, the new laws at least two banks refused me before I found one and that was just so I could pay rent Because I was keeping a large amount there

Wrong info on Thailand. SS exempt from dual taxation.

Yes, this is a very valid point and why many choose not to actually get full residency somewhere but instead travel long-term to areas. It all comes down to the balance if it's worth it for all the other things that come with it. Cheers!

It seems to be the only comment here that sets the perspective straight. Taxes and levies in Europe are very high, leaving little net from gross. In the USA, salaries are significantly higher, with much better retirement plans. This explains why your foks cab afford your travelling, renting Airbnb while this is driving the prices up for locals. This should not be forgottten. There are two sides of story.

We just booked Budapest for the month of June!!! So excited!!

@@BrianandCarrie try stay in Buda because the air quality is better! don’t forget visiting all thermal baths! True experience..

@@anna_m59 yes yes the thermal baths were wonderful!!! I even saw some older men playing chess in the baths

@@BrianandCarrie Good choice guys, although Hungary is supposed to be Romania's enemy (LOL, just joking :)) ) Budapest is really beautiful, and I have visited many beautiful cities in Europe. Budapest and Vienna are best, in my opinion.

We are looking forward to eventually traveling throughout the US as well (quite a few years down the road though). There is so much beauty we have never seen in our own country. But, we also know returning you leave some of the wonderful things we've enjoyed in Europe. Cheers!!

We did enjoy a few places in southern Italy while there last summer. We also spent a week in the Czech Republic but not nearly enough time. Very affordable!! Thank you for the recommendations!! 😀

Czesky Krumlov is 💯 historic charm and beauty!

Good point, Robert. We haven't been to Brazil yet, but SE Asia is another very affordable place to live comfortably!! There are so many options!! Thank you for adding to the channel!! Cheers!!🍻

But Mexico especially and Brazil, although perhaps a bit safer than the US (perhaps) are not even in the same league as Europe when it comes to safety. There are no ongoing drug wars in Europe.

@@RaduRadonys Mexico is not a bit safer than the US, it's far more dangerous than the US according to the numbers. Even South African cities are safer than the major Mexican cities.

I'm Brazilian. I was born and raised in Rio de Janeiro. Rio is a very dangerous city. The cost of living in Brazil is way more expensive than the United States SUS (health Care) does not work very well that's why when a Brazilian gets a better job the first thing they do is get health insurance ( or "Plano de saúde ' which is different)... Almost all my friends have left Rio due to the violence.The Cartel took over Rio. Now I live in the United States..best move ever. Before moving to the United States I lived in Petrópolis, a good city to live in . Besides all that now we have a horrible corrupt president who was in jail for corruption.

We are really enjoying it here. That video will be out next week! Thank you for watching!! 😀

@@BrianandCarrie can't wait to watch that video!

@@BrianandCarrie We can't wait to see the video on Fethiye, Turkey! We are planning a trip to Turkey for next month and are planning on visiting Istanbul and Antalya so far. Maybe we will add Fethiye. Pegasus airlines just started flights out of Lisbon and are substantially cheaper than any other airline, so we hope they work out.

Exactly! Didn't add that as the variation person to person would so different. Thanks for watching 😊

Healthcare in most European countries are affordable. Not like in the US.

Damit, Larry!! 🤣

Yes I did catch it, but it seems petty to point out mistakes when the content and the people delivering it are Freaking amazing. I like to focus on the positive😂

@@denise91221 it’s all good and it was meant as a joke. Their content has always been valuable to me and my travels. Appears they took it as a joke. Safe travels to you.

@@aCountryVegan I aware it was meant as a joke. I just couldn't help myself 😂😂😂

Thank you for commenting. There are many wonderful things about the US and many that are less desirable. We look forward to visiting Western Europe and Luxembourg someday soon!! 😀🍻

@@BrianandCarrie I know a lot of Americans who are working here in Luxembourg, for companies like Amazon and Google. They have better working conditions compared to America - more vacation time, better healthcare, and more time for their families. On average, they have lost 4-8 pounds due to healthier food choices and less reliance on cars, opting to walk more. They never return to the USA except as tourists visiting family. The most difficult aspect of this decision is the separation from family and friends."

This is exactly what happens to any country that promotes lobbyists and special interest groups.

Very true! We love that as well, you know what you're going to pay before getting to the cash register.

Yes, so much more for the organic variety....where here in turkey we pay under $3 for 20 farm eggs.

Unfortunately, people are choosing to not eat out as often. The tip culture is having the opposite effect it was intended for. Personally, I would rather have 5 10% tips rather than 2 20% tips. 😀

It's crazy expensive, sad really! Yes, that is going to be so much fun - my son a huge soccer fan will be going for sure and thankfully is close enough to drive from our hometown - cause hotel prices will be insane. Cheers!

Very true - saves so much! Cheers

Thank you so much, we appreciate you watching and following along.

Yes, agreed - we've found locals, especially in Portugal to be so incredibly kind and helpful. Enjoy your continued travels ☺

That is such a great story, you made me smile!! You would absolutely survive the US. We are only slightly crazy!! 😃 Thank you for sharing your story and for watching!! Cheers!!🍻

Borders still exist, we were stopped between Austria and Germany for a passport check as well.

I have never seen a gun or know anyone who knows someone who has seen a gun. I have never heard a gun shot in my entire life. Guns are simply a non subject in most of Europe. We just act like they simply don't exist.

Yes, it's definitely getting a bit more challenging as countries some countries have removed the ease. Thankfully, it's still doable, just takes more research and time. Thanks so much for watching - Cheers!!

It's a big, beautiful world!! 😀

Congratulations!! Thank you for watching and safe travels!! Cheers!!🍷🍷

Thank you! We loved Lisbon and have been 3 times now, such a beautiful city with so much to do. Healthcare is such a major plus as we get older, being affordable and quality care are plenty of reasons to stay on their own. Cheers!!

Sounds amazing! Cheers

It is a tough decision for many. Being away from family and friends is something many just can't give up, but for others the combination of affordability, quality of life, and affordable healthcare just make it worth it. Here is to finding the balance that works best for all of us ☺.

Not from our experience, but everyone gas a different view.

How do you instantly spot an American? They will tell you all bad stuff happens in the US because of the party he doesn't like. Bulletproof recipe.

Thank you for watching and adding your opinion. 😃 Cheers!! 🍻

Many life circumstances can come into play. It's unfortunate, as that will be incredibly tough to do.

We are very excited for our Mexico and South America adventures - it's been on our list for quite some time. Thanks so much for watching ☺

@@BrianandCarrieit’s lovely! Central America too. I recommend it.

It’s lovely, with fabulous history and sights but it’s very dangerous in many places, we saw a police and criminal shoot out on a street corner in Polanco which is probably the wealthiest, most upmarket neighbourhood in Mexico City.

That's an amazing story, Terry! Some have commented that it can't be done. We say that it can be!! Thank you for sharing and for watching our channel!!

It is also much easier to stay in a routine while on the road. With healthier food and consistent excursive it seems easy!!

@@BrianandCarrie I wondered if you have a suggestion as our Airbnb reservation was just canceled in Antalya due to the new restrictions? We have another month booked in Istanbul, but they haven’t canceled yet? What’s the word on the street there in turkey and is there a work around?

We confirmed with our host about a month out to make sure all was still good. We've met many people that are here now without any issues with their Airbnb, so hopefully you won't have another issue.

@@BrianandCarrie thanks, I’ve messaged a couple other hosts to confirm it’s ok to rent to us on Airbnb

Kansas City would most likely be less expensive than any of the European cities you mention but, who wants to live in Kansas City? 😀 I kid...The problem is even if you live in a less-expensive part of the US you still need to work for your health care. You can't retire early or work part-time like we do and live in the US. As always, Doug, thank you for adding to the channel! Cheers!!🍻

Yes, it's a really big concern in the US unfortunately. Hopefully that can change one day.

Frontier. Proceed with caution

We haven't since we don't fly in the US enough. I've also heard some pretty bad stories of cancellations and delays, so would be a bit hesitant.

That's so true and way more affordable than many think. Thanks so much for watching 😊

It is surprising when go home, so many in your face differences. Some things we enjoy but the majority take away from our peace and quality of life. Thanks so much for watching. Cheers!

I’m thinking of doing the same. Just selling my house in southern CA and being a retired nomad until I find something else.

Thank you so much ♥

Love that and miss the wine in Spain ♥

We love Romania ♥

Agreed! We will most likely slow travel as we are until we can start receiving pensions and retirement funds. Health insurance will always be something that we will have to consider. For now, it is very affordable. Thank you for watching and commenting!! Cheers!!🍻

I am currently still using a local sim card and have had no problems. Carrie is now using Airalo. Thank you so much for watching!! Here is the link. airalo.pxf.io/c/5129205/1310283/15608

You should consider Turkey as well. Thank you so much for watching!! 😀

My question about Turkey is to what extent the minarets do the call to prayer, is it five time a day? How long does it last, and can it be disturbing/noisy to a tourist, making it hard to relax. How about resort towns like Bodrum and Feteye, do they have loud minarets?

5 times a day for just a few minutes and you will hear it in every town in Turkey.

We truly love Portugal and can see it as a long term stay location for us later. Safety, healthcare, quality of life - things it's hard to put a price tag on. Cheers!

Yes, that is the case. But that is what we've always had to do in the state of WA as well. It's so much money up front, but is common.

10 years ago, but not anymore.

Not everyone needs to fly home that often

Sometimes when makes the new place their home

Yes, that was unfortunatelya oversight and got cut by mistake, it was a average cost of $1826.00 in Valencia, Spain. Flying home would be part of year costs, we do put that in our total cost budget we do ☺

All great points, Chad! Not all of Europe is less expensive than the US. My "Two Thirsty" hoody was left at home! It was too big to pack away in my carry-on, but we are looking to add a summer lineup soon!! 😀

I did fail to mention the Kraken!! Such a disappointing year! 😔 Shane Wright has looked good since the call-up. Hopefully, he can be a bigger part next season.

That's great info to know, thank you so much for sharing 😊

@BrianandCarrie Thanks for the nice comments. I am following your lead and buying the DJI mic next month. I am looking forward to your next travel video. In the meantime, how about a video about popular Turkish dishes? I enjoyed some great food in Istanbul. Perhaps you could make a video about the Turkish food you both like.

You won't regret the DJI mic. Easy to use and we needed to get something better than what we had. We are going to start adding food to our destination videos. Doing a video all about food has proven to be difficult for us. 😂

Switzerland is my home country! I grew up in Basel, lived in Ticino, Lucerne and Zug. Several years ago I made the mistake and moved to the US. I’m not happy with crime, politics and healthcare. So I’m now preparing to move to Mallorca, Spain.

🤣🤣