Welcome to DU! The truly grassroots left-of-center political community where regular people, not algorithms, drive the discussions and set the standards. Join the community: Create a free account Support DU (and get rid of ads!): Become a Star Member Latest Breaking News General Discussion The DU Lounge All Forums Issue Forums Culture Forums Alliance Forums Region Forums Support Forums Help & Search
134 replies = new reply since forum marked as read
Highlight: NoneDon't highlight anything 5 newestHighlight 5 most recent replies
Hypothetically, if you had to live in any other country, where would you go and why? (Original Post) Flaleftist Sep 2020 OP
South of France because it's so pleasant. fierywoman Sep 2020 #1
I don't know enough about other countries to make a good choice, will get back to you. greyl Sep 2020 #2
Canada for me, too. LuvNewcastle Sep 2020 #10
ot: you might enjoy Mike Myers: Canada greyl Sep 2020 #13
Thanks for the suggestion. LuvNewcastle Sep 2020 #17
Martin Short's "I Must Say" is worth the price of admission. nt greyl Sep 2020 #22
Britain... First Speaker Sep 2020 #3
New Zealand VMA131Marine Sep 2020 #4
I agree with you, VMA. I'd move there. nt CozyMystery Sep 2020 #12
If they'd have me, I'd agree. herding cats Sep 2020 #16
England Chili Sep 2020 #5
Ha! I just watched all 17 days of the World Snooker Championship. ZZenith Sep 2020 #11
Ohh! Ohh! Look at that! Chili Sep 2020 #15
I hope you do find all your roots! ZZenith Sep 2020 #21
I did see some of that! Chili Sep 2020 #24
Thanks for posting. I bookmarked it, don't think I can watch in one sitting. JustABozoOnThisBus Sep 2020 #38
Norman Conquest was wrought with complexities Chili Sep 2020 #60
I can list every monarch from Edward the Confessor right on down. trueblue2007 Sep 2020 #26
here's that funny shortie list: Chili Sep 2020 #59
SCOTLAND WAS WONDERFUL. I read ALL of the Outlander books when they first came out. trueblue2007 Sep 2020 #72
Love this! Thank you. n/t ChazII Sep 2020 #120
welcome! Chili Sep 2020 #125
First, English speaking, or at least a lt of English. I made t through French, Spanish and German... TreasonousBastard Sep 2020 #6
Copenhagen jmbar2 Sep 2020 #7
We've seriously discussed this zipplewrath Sep 2020 #8
Japan vercetti2021 Sep 2020 #9
Haven't been back in four decades, but...Kongsberg, Norway. Grokenstein Sep 2020 #14
New Zealand catbyte Sep 2020 #18
My daughters went to Portugal... tonedevil Sep 2020 #19
I have family in Italy and Scotland herding cats Sep 2020 #20
The UK is extremely difficult to migrate to permanently. a la izquierda Sep 2020 #44
My sister ended up with dual citizenship in the US and Britain csziggy Sep 2020 #88
Lol yeah it is. a la izquierda Sep 2020 #93
New Zealand samplegirl Sep 2020 #23
I'm already here. NanceGreggs Sep 2020 #25
Vancouver would be nice. MLAA Sep 2020 #27
Canada, eh? FuzzyRabbit Sep 2020 #28
A country with healthcare as a basic human right. n/t area51 Sep 2020 #29
We'll be heading back to Australia Thyla Sep 2020 #30
I live in Australia and am so grateful that I do pink Sep 2020 #34
Yeah, I may not agree with all of the way they have handled this Thyla Sep 2020 #36
My heart cries for the kids just leaving school and looking for jobs. pink Sep 2020 #75
Canada or United Kingdom Awsi Dooger Sep 2020 #31
Hell, if we get to make up wherever we want with no monetary concerns ... mr_lebowski Sep 2020 #32
The Netherlands. Jeebo Sep 2020 #33
Like Nance, I'm already there DFW Sep 2020 #35
Scotland. Because I'm an introvert and the peace and quiet Luz Sep 2020 #37
New Zealand. Crunchy Frog Sep 2020 #39
Ireland sparkeyd53 Sep 2020 #40
Ireland Sherman A1 Sep 2020 #41
England, The Netherlands, or Germany a la izquierda Sep 2020 #42
Dutch only sounds like total gibberish in the beginning DFW Sep 2020 #101
I'm doing well reading it. a la izquierda Sep 2020 #108
Rotterdamse is sort of like the Dutch equivalent of Brooklynese DFW Sep 2020 #110
Thank you for this. I really needed a good laugh... a la izquierda Sep 2020 #128
Be thankful it's Dutch and not Danish DFW Sep 2020 #129
Holeeeee crap. I'm terrible at math... a la izquierda Sep 2020 #131
Basque numbers are just as impractical as the Danish ones DFW Sep 2020 #133
Mont Tremblant in Quebec Le Roi de Pot Sep 2020 #43
It is good skiing. I like how u can ski down either side if I remember right. nt EX500rider Sep 2020 #83
Yes .. my favorite is the versant edge .. its an okish black - but ZERO crowds Le Roi de Pot Sep 2020 #89
Namibia cagefreesoylentgreen Sep 2020 #45
Ideally or practically? Tommy_Carcetti Sep 2020 #46
Practically: Canada, because I have relatives there. But I've always dreamed of Mike 03 Sep 2020 #47
Costa Rica, but I'm also considering Guam maxrandb Sep 2020 #48
It'd have to be a 3rd world country where I can live on SS. Kaleva Sep 2020 #49
This message was self-deleted by its author NurseJackie Sep 2020 #50
I'd move to Germany in a heartbeat FakeNoose Sep 2020 #51
Ireland. Beautiful and love the lifestyle. sinkingfeeling Sep 2020 #52
Same here Tom Rinaldo Sep 2020 #56
Me too.... oh wait, that's where I am anyway OnDoutside Sep 2020 #77
Probably Denmark. moondust Sep 2020 #53
Canada llmart Sep 2020 #54
Australia's north coast Amishman Sep 2020 #55
Canada because it's progressive, and because I hate hot and humid weather Goodheart Sep 2020 #57
I moved already GusBob Sep 2020 #58
somewhere outside of Florence, Italy so I could go visit the art often, esp. when I despair about CTyankee Sep 2020 #61
Ireland--no language issues, decent-enough climate, great beer and whiskey Maeve Sep 2020 #62
Germany. Aristus Sep 2020 #63
I would love to live in New Zealand, more realistic is somewhere in the UK because my Luciferous Sep 2020 #64
France. Along the Rhone. Lyon maybe. GulfCoast66 Sep 2020 #65
New Zealand if they would have me Chainfire Sep 2020 #66
There sure are a lot of folks who want to dump this country. panader0 Sep 2020 #67
It is interesting to note. Just about all answers are first world places GusBob Sep 2020 #68
Many people here have paid their dues. This wasn't a holier-than-thou contest. Grokenstein Sep 2020 #78
Tell that to Jimmy Carter GusBob Sep 2020 #79
I don't think Jimmy Carter would call it a contest. Grokenstein Sep 2020 #81
Face this if you will GusBob Sep 2020 #84
Fanciful speculation is now "quitters running and hiding." Grokenstein Sep 2020 #86
People want a comfortable or "better" life Renew Deal Sep 2020 #98
I went somewhere with zero benefits DFW Sep 2020 #103
The question is if you had to leave. Renew Deal Sep 2020 #97
Or you might have married a friendly native of somewhere else DFW Sep 2020 #102
Canada. W_HAMILTON Sep 2020 #69
Ireland KatyMan Sep 2020 #70
I have cousins in Norway qwlauren35 Sep 2020 #71
England Hobo Sep 2020 #73
Bhutan RichardRay Sep 2020 #74
Canada, Germany, or Ireland. Solly Mack Sep 2020 #76
Maybe we all come to live in Sollymackistan, or Sollymackovia. JustABozoOnThisBus Sep 2020 #111
Private. ;) I kid, I kid. Solly Mack Sep 2020 #115
Canada. Vancouver, Toronto or Halifax. nt Blue_true Sep 2020 #80
Somewhere that speaks English, but where the food is great Polybius Sep 2020 #82
you must not have been to London much, if you think we have bad food Celerity Sep 2020 #92
England has great food. Just don't eat local dishes DFW Sep 2020 #105
You no longer hang the pheasant outside for a week before cooking? JustABozoOnThisBus Sep 2020 #113
Check central London Renew Deal Sep 2020 #96
Somerset, England Brother Buzz Sep 2020 #85
England Skittles Sep 2020 #87
Cuba BGBD Sep 2020 #90
I haven't been there in many years, but..... DFW Sep 2020 #104
I basically meant BGBD Sep 2020 #117
I see. I heave heard there is plenty of both DFW Sep 2020 #124
Australia. roamer65 Sep 2020 #91
New Zealand, without question. VOX Sep 2020 #94
Oooh.... Dorian Gray Sep 2020 #95
Well, as long as you have it narrowed down......... DFW Sep 2020 #99
LOL Dorian Gray Sep 2020 #126
Conch Republic. tavernier Sep 2020 #100
I have never been there DFW Sep 2020 #112
Scallopia always has that ocean or bay controversy tavernier Sep 2020 #119
That explains the split! n/t DFW Sep 2020 #127
The most logical place would be Canada, specifically Toronto. smirkymonkey Sep 2020 #106
I would go to southern Italy, where my family originally came from. phylny Sep 2020 #107
Mexico jcgoldie Sep 2020 #109
Canada, but, to blend in with Canadian culture, ... JustABozoOnThisBus Sep 2020 #114
Having been to around 40 countries.....Colombia EX500rider Sep 2020 #116
East coast of Spain somewhere. beaglelover Sep 2020 #118
Costa Rica is said to be a great place for ex-pats. grobertj Sep 2020 #121
Canada, Ireland or Iceland. -NT- jayfish Sep 2020 #122
My wife is a German citizen and owns a home there Yeehah Sep 2020 #123
Wyoming. Gidney N Cloyd Sep 2020 #130
Causton (Midsomer) also known as Wallingford in Oxfordshire ... or ... NurseJackie Sep 2020 #132
I'll be hanging out here in California. hunter Sep 2020 #134

greyl

(22,990 posts)
2. I don't know enough about other countries to make a good choice, will get back to you.
Tue Sep 1, 2020, 01:29 AM
Sep 2020

Okay, Canada.

Why?

Many kind and creative men today are from Canada.
And it's closer than Iceland.

LuvNewcastle

(16,855 posts)
10. Canada for me, too.
Tue Sep 1, 2020, 01:39 AM
Sep 2020

The culture is similar enough to be comfortable and different enough to stay interesting. And I've found most Canadians to be very likeable.

greyl

(22,990 posts)
13. ot: you might enjoy Mike Myers: Canada
Tue Sep 1, 2020, 01:45 AM
Sep 2020

"...as he says, "No description of me is truly complete without saying I'm a Canadian". He has often winked and nodded to Canada in his outrageously accomplished body of work, but now he turns the spotlight full-beam on his homeland."

https://amzn.to/3lFLm06

LuvNewcastle

(16,855 posts)
17. Thanks for the suggestion.
Tue Sep 1, 2020, 02:00 AM
Sep 2020

Amazon is trying to get me to subscribe to their audible books, so I could listen to it for free. I've always liked Mike Myers, so I just might get it.

First Speaker

(4,858 posts)
3. Britain...
Tue Sep 1, 2020, 01:30 AM
Sep 2020

...history, beauty, ancestry. Perfect climate--not too hot or cold, and I don't mind cloudy days. Civilized--well, relatively. Boris Johnson, bad as he is, would stand out like Pericles compared to today's GOP. I'd live in a provincial city in a pretty area--maybe Bristol, or Plymouth, or Oxford. And visit that little town on the Welsh border--I forget the name--that has all the bookstores, maybe once a month. I'd be happy enough...

herding cats

(19,567 posts)
16. If they'd have me, I'd agree.
Tue Sep 1, 2020, 01:59 AM
Sep 2020

Odds are they wouldn't have me, though. I'm not wealthy and don't have any unique skills they're looking for at this time.

Chili

(1,725 posts)
5. England
Tue Sep 1, 2020, 01:35 AM
Sep 2020

Particularly London. I've been an Anglophile since childhood. No idea why. Grew up watching "Lion in Winter" and "Beckett," love "Camelot," all the Bounty movies, even "My Fair Lady." Used to consider myself an expert on the entire Tudor dynasty, own both mini-series "Elizabeth R" and "Six Wives of Henry VIII" and - go ahead, laugh at me, I can take it - I can list every monarch from Edward the Confessor right on down. Wrote a screenplay about the Battle of Hastings. Again, don't know why. It's always been there.

I get it. I'm sick. I'm thinking, in another life...

Did spend 5 days in London with my Mom way back in '89, have tried planning a return trip ever since, just not going to work out. But I loved it.

ZZenith

(4,126 posts)
11. Ha! I just watched all 17 days of the World Snooker Championship.
Tue Sep 1, 2020, 01:43 AM
Sep 2020

Serious Anglophile cred there, methinks.

Really want to get back to London once more before I shuffle off this mortal coil.

Can’t name all the succession, though I have watched this several times, which I think is well-done:

Chili

(1,725 posts)
15. Ohh! Ohh! Look at that!
Tue Sep 1, 2020, 01:59 AM
Sep 2020

Never seen that - will have to watch! Thank you for posting that!

Didn't take to "The Tudors" mini-series much, there were too many times when I yelled "it didn't happen that way!" But they covered Anne Boleyn perfectly. The Elizabeth movies were even worse, but I did enjoy them.

LOVED "The Last Kingdom" series, can't wait for season 5. While the characters are all over the place out of their dates, too good for that to matter.

And I didn't mention that I can trace my line back to Edward IV. Oddly, when I discovered that, I was 48 and it didn't hit me like it would have when I was younger. I'm African-American... it impressed me, but I'll be more thrilled if I can find the Kunta Kinte of my family.

ZZenith

(4,126 posts)
21. I hope you do find all your roots!
Tue Sep 1, 2020, 02:06 AM
Sep 2020

My family’s genealogy extends to the 1100’s and it’s really fascinating to know the names of your ancestors.

Will definitely check out “The Last Kingdom” series - thanks for the tip. Did you enjoy “Wolf Hall?”

Cheers!

Chili

(1,725 posts)
24. I did see some of that!
Tue Sep 1, 2020, 02:23 AM
Sep 2020

It was very good - the actor Rylance, who played Cromwell - he's excellent. But I got distracted, that was 2015, when LeBron James returned home (Cavs fan!)

Cheers to you too!

JustABozoOnThisBus

(23,364 posts)
38. Thanks for posting. I bookmarked it, don't think I can watch in one sitting.
Tue Sep 1, 2020, 05:55 AM
Sep 2020

But from the couple of minutes I watched, it seems England began in 1066. I'm guessing the period before then, starting with the departure of Roman forces, would be interesting, if a bit confusing.

The Norman Conquest seems like small potatoes compared to the Anglo-Saxon conquest or the Viking conquest.

Chili

(1,725 posts)
60. Norman Conquest was wrought with complexities
Tue Sep 1, 2020, 09:37 AM
Sep 2020

William "The Conqueror" was actually an intriguing charming aggressive bully with a huge ego - extremely intelligent, able to lie, manipulate, and use every kind of strategy you can think of to get his way. Harold, on the other hand, had none of that guile, but was beloved and respected for his steadiness and support of Edward the Confessor. His one mistake was to travel to Normandy. His naivete cost him the throne. If Harold had not made that trip, it's possible William would not have won that battle because he may not have gained the Pope's support (though he did promise to Bring England completely under the Vatican's control, which it was not), and may not have convinced all the Norman earls to follow him, and therefore would have had fewer mercenaries. The story of these two men is what fascinated me.

So no, not as violent as the Viking conquest, just one battle. But what led up to it was interesting.

trueblue2007

(17,237 posts)
26. I can list every monarch from Edward the Confessor right on down.
Tue Sep 1, 2020, 02:59 AM
Sep 2020

*************************** I CAN ONLY NAME FROM HENRY II.

I visited GB in 2001 and that had been my dream since i was a sophomore in high school. i love English, Scottish all of GB history. French and all of Europe.


i would live in SCOTLAND !!!!!

Chili

(1,725 posts)
59. here's that funny shortie list:
Tue Sep 1, 2020, 09:23 AM
Sep 2020

Starts with William I (1066)

Willie, Willie, Harry, Ste,
Harry, Dick, John, Harry three;
One two three Neds, Richard two,
Harrys four five six, ... then who?

Edwards four five, Dick the bad,
Harrys (twain), Ned (the lad);
Mary, Bessie, James the vain,
Charlie, Charlie, James again

Will and Mary, Anna Gloria,
Georges four, then Will, Victoria;
Edward seven, George and Ted,
George the sixth, now Liz instead.

I would love to visit Scotland. Didn't mention one of my favorite movies, "Braveheart." Bet you like "Outlander?" I read the first 3 books years ago, but didn't keep up with the series.

TreasonousBastard

(43,049 posts)
6. First, English speaking, or at least a lt of English. I made t through French, Spanish and German...
Tue Sep 1, 2020, 01:36 AM
Sep 2020

courses, but never really learned how to speak them. And now I'm too damn old to start over.

So, I've been to really neat Caribbean islands, like St Maartin, which would be fun to retire in. Europe, of course, and I kinda fell in love with Scotland. Haven't been to Ireland, yet, but it sounds good. Everywhere on the Continent were great places to visit, and Scotland's just a hop away.

South and Central America don't interest me much, and I know very little about Africa, Asia, and the Pacific, although the little I do know is intriguing.



zipplewrath

(16,646 posts)
8. We've seriously discussed this
Tue Sep 1, 2020, 01:38 AM
Sep 2020

The spouse and I have discussed this. There are not easy answers. Britain is not exactly stable now. Canada is significantly different in many undesirable ways. I don't speak foreign languages. South America is continually unstable. There are northern European countries that are appealing but I planned financially for US law so it makes it all the more complex. But I will say, if he w7, I'll start to make plans, and if he starts arresting political opponents, I'm gone despite the fiscal impact.

vercetti2021

(10,156 posts)
9. Japan
Tue Sep 1, 2020, 01:39 AM
Sep 2020

I've always been so fascinated with their culture and way of life I would totally live there if I had the chance

Grokenstein

(5,727 posts)
14. Haven't been back in four decades, but...Kongsberg, Norway.
Tue Sep 1, 2020, 01:54 AM
Sep 2020

It's like a village in a Disney movie (not to be confused with a Disney park). Just felt at home there. Even the punks were well-mannered.



Saw Flash Gordon, Coal Miner's Daughter and When A Stranger Calls at the Kongsberg Kino.

catbyte

(34,447 posts)
18. New Zealand
Tue Sep 1, 2020, 02:01 AM
Sep 2020

It's different enough to be interesting but I wouldn't have to learn another language at my age. A friend of mine was transferred there for a couple of years and loved it. Although, I would have to get used to driving on the wrong side of the road, lol. And I've always wanted to see the night sky in the Southern Hemisphere. I want to see what the sky looks like without the Big Dipper and see the Southern Cross instead. The country is gorgeous and not led by a nut. Hopefully, we won't have to deal with that after January but after 2016 I'm so gunshy I take nothing for granted.

 

tonedevil

(3,022 posts)
19. My daughters went to Portugal...
Tue Sep 1, 2020, 02:01 AM
Sep 2020

about 2 years ago and they seem to think they could live there. I would follow my daughters.

herding cats

(19,567 posts)
20. I have family in Italy and Scotland
Tue Sep 1, 2020, 02:02 AM
Sep 2020

I could probably get visas to those two countries?

I'm not rich so my options are more limited.

I forgot I have family in Germany! I'll pick that one if they'd host me.

a la izquierda

(11,797 posts)
44. The UK is extremely difficult to migrate to permanently.
Tue Sep 1, 2020, 07:24 AM
Sep 2020

They have a points scheme for visas. If you can get an ancestry visa/passport, it'll be much easier, but it's limited (I think) to 2nd generation. I've looked into this for Ireland and the UK, but being 3rd generation, it's difficult if not impossible.

Italy is easier if you're ancestry is through the paternal line (mine is not).

And migrating to Germany? Have fun dealing with the Bundesamt for Migration und Flüchtlinge...It's a headache and a half (dealt with them last year).

csziggy

(34,137 posts)
88. My sister ended up with dual citizenship in the US and Britain
Wed Sep 2, 2020, 11:46 PM
Sep 2020

She married a British citizen. Even though they divorces, she has retained the citizenship she acquired during that marriage. So that is one path to immigrating to England/UK.

a la izquierda

(11,797 posts)
93. Lol yeah it is.
Thu Sep 3, 2020, 05:25 AM
Sep 2020

The Dutch don’t even require you to be married, just in a long term relationship 🤣

NanceGreggs

(27,817 posts)
25. I'm already here.
Tue Sep 1, 2020, 02:39 AM
Sep 2020

I live in Toronto - and there's nowhere I would rather be.

I came here from NY in '74. It took a period of adjustment, but then I fell in love with this city.

At the beginning, I was reluctant to leave the US. But as things have unfolded over the years, I came to be grateful to be here, rather than there.

MLAA

(17,321 posts)
27. Vancouver would be nice.
Tue Sep 1, 2020, 03:01 AM
Sep 2020

A reasonably mild weather for a Canadian city. It’s beautiful. I’ve been twice over the years. And the Canadians I’ve met have been very pleasant. I also liked Sydney, and again all the Australians I’ve worked with have just been so decent and fun loving.

FuzzyRabbit

(1,969 posts)
28. Canada, eh?
Tue Sep 1, 2020, 03:21 AM
Sep 2020

If Trump steals this election I am moving to Canada. If I can't immigrate legally, I'll just walk there, cross the border and become an illegal alien, er, an undocumented immigrant.

Thyla

(791 posts)
30. We'll be heading back to Australia
Tue Sep 1, 2020, 03:32 AM
Sep 2020

When all the dust has settled and we can get organized and sell up here.

I have been OS ten years plus now and want the kids there for higher education. My wife is French and she agrees and wants to move there too.

We are actively searching for good properties ATM even though they will likely be gone when the time comes. Also about to start some online courses with the idea that we will change our lifestyle and careers completely.

Right now feel trapped and angry in a Spain that doesn't give a shit about you or common sense and disappointed with the EUs open for business handling of this pandemic.

As someone said to me recently, "They say home is where the heart is, but sometimes, home is where the kangaroos are"

He's dead right.

pink

(497 posts)
34. I live in Australia and am so grateful that I do
Tue Sep 1, 2020, 03:57 AM
Sep 2020

Even with a right wing government, the country is coping so much better than most others.

Thyla

(791 posts)
36. Yeah, I may not agree with all of the way they have handled this
Tue Sep 1, 2020, 04:29 AM
Sep 2020

But you can't deny it's been better than almost everyone else.

I think more than that though this pandemic has caused us personally to question our priorities and if it really is the way wish to live and the answer is no. We could go back and translate our life, jobs and house to suburbia Australia but then we'd just be in the same situation.
At the end of the day the only ones looking out for us is ourselves and frankly our kids deserve better too.

pink

(497 posts)
75. My heart cries for the kids just leaving school and looking for jobs.
Wed Sep 2, 2020, 02:22 AM
Sep 2020

I have nothing to complain about, by comparison. Being retired, my only burden is social distancing. I'm not paying off a mortgage or paying rent. I truly think that the baby boomers could contribute with some of their franking credits, but I'm sure that would have a snow-ball's chance in hell of getting up.

 

Awsi Dooger

(14,565 posts)
31. Canada or United Kingdom
Tue Sep 1, 2020, 03:44 AM
Sep 2020

I have looked into this quite a bit in recent months. My ancestry is Irish so I've checked the particulars and spoken to them. One sticking point is a regulation from 2015 that requires relatively high annual income during retirement, so you won't be a burden to the state.

Scotland would be great also, especially since I'm such a golf fan.

Canada and specifically British Columbia would interest me. I always love trips to Vancouver, Victoria and Whistler area.

I have relatives who tell me I am overreacting. They don't know a damn thing

 

mr_lebowski

(33,643 posts)
32. Hell, if we get to make up wherever we want with no monetary concerns ...
Tue Sep 1, 2020, 03:46 AM
Sep 2020

The Country known as 'Mr. L's Own Tropical Island'

Maybe the Caymans? Vanuatu? Bora Bora? The Azores? Turks and Caicos?

But if it has to be a realistic place ... Canada, New Zealand, UK would be my first 3.

NZ would be first if it I thought it unlikely I'd ever return for whatever reason.

I'd love to go back to Hong Kong if it were still British like when I lived there as a kid.

DFW

(54,436 posts)
35. Like Nance, I'm already there
Tue Sep 1, 2020, 03:58 AM
Sep 2020

I live in the German Rheinland, near Düsseldorf.

I came here because my wife is German and didn't want to move to the States. The commuting got tedious, and I got to structure my job, so that 99% of it was in Europe anyway. I speak German, French, Spanish, Dutch and Italian (and a few others), so language was not an issue. Privacy IS an issue, and the Überwachungsstaat (surveillance state) is very pervasive. I sometimes wonder why East Germany didn't take over West Germany instead of the other way around (J/K--not really. The West had more money).

If I had to move elsewhere, I think I'd move down to Switzerland. Any area with a lake. Geneva, Zürich, Lugano, whichever.

Or maybe next door to the Netherlands, but it's a bit crowded there. Switzerland doesn't have an ocean coast, but Zürich and Basel are only a 50 minute flight from Düsseldorf, and it's a brief flight down to the Mediterranean coasts of Spain, France, Italy and Croatia. Besides, the Swiss lakes are spectacular.

Luz

(772 posts)
37. Scotland. Because I'm an introvert and the peace and quiet
Tue Sep 1, 2020, 05:33 AM
Sep 2020

of the highlands just calls to me. I could get lost for years in the history, natural beauty and fabulous people that live there.

Crunchy Frog

(26,629 posts)
39. New Zealand.
Tue Sep 1, 2020, 05:58 AM
Sep 2020

It seems like a very sane country, and it's about as far from this country as it's possible to get. It also looks like an extremely beautiful place.

a la izquierda

(11,797 posts)
42. England, The Netherlands, or Germany
Tue Sep 1, 2020, 07:19 AM
Sep 2020

England is easy enough in terms of language/culture. My Irish ancestors would roll in their graves, but alas...that's actually where I'm headed very, very soon. I'm going on a Tier 4 Student visa, but qualify for a Tier 1 when I complete my studies.
The Netherlands is beautiful and I'm teaching myself Dutch. The people are lovely.
Germany is stable, beautiful, their academic research scheme is great for those of us looking to flee the US academy (me).
I'd love Ireland, but it's really expensive.

DFW

(54,436 posts)
101. Dutch only sounds like total gibberish in the beginning
Thu Sep 3, 2020, 07:41 AM
Sep 2020

Once you get it explained to you, it's actually not at all difficult.

a la izquierda

(11,797 posts)
108. I'm doing well reading it.
Thu Sep 3, 2020, 09:26 AM
Sep 2020

But hearing it- especially Rotterdamse- is another matter altogether 🤣🤣

DFW

(54,436 posts)
110. Rotterdamse is sort of like the Dutch equivalent of Brooklynese
Thu Sep 3, 2020, 10:46 AM
Sep 2020

If you can read German, learning to read Dutch is an easy adjustment. It's sort of like trying to read Republicanese*--it's basically the same language with messed up grammar and spelling. But speaking it is like trying to understand spoken Danish if all you know is Swedish or Norwegian. Written out, it's 98% the same language. Spoken, it might as well be Albanian.

* In case you're not familiar with Republicanese, here is a quick introduction:

EXCERPTS FROM THE OFFICIAL DICTIONARY OF REPUBLICANESE

In Republicanese, many words that sound alike may be spelled differently at random. A few prominent examples:

In Republicanese, the following words may be spelled at random using any of the three ways given:

A.) Two, Too, To
B.) Their, They're, There
c.) Your, Yore, You're

The Republicanese version of Robin Hood therefore starts with "In days of you're...."

The only rule is that the correct use of them as in English is never permitted twice in a row.

Words with single letters that change meaning when that letter is doubled must never be used in correct English context. The classic example is “lose” vs. “loose.” In Republicanese, if you do not win an election, then you “loose” that election. Conversely, if your (Republicanese: you’re) belt is too tight, you need it more “lose” in order to be comfortable. Another example would be the Republicanese, “I met Donald Trump, and he was rudder than I imagined,” vs. “I grabbed the ruder and was able to steer the boat to shore.”

In Republicanese, as opposed to English, an apostrophe is used to form a plural. But it must be done at random, never systematically. For example, Bill and Hillary are "the Clinton's," but Bill, Chelsea and Hillary are "the Clintons." The other way around is also correct. In Republicanese, either form is correct as long as it is not spelled the same way twice in a row.
----------------------------------------------
PS--I often see people on DU using the Republicanese way of forming a plural. E.g. "We Democrat's believe...." or "I like to keep three cat's in my house," etc. Since there is no school in the English-speaking world that has ever taught a kid to use an apostrophe to form a plural, I assume they do it to make their posts more comprehensible to visiting Republican trolls as a courtesy. It's a kind gesture, but it sometimes confuses people who don't know any other language than English. Besides, a Republican will never thank you for it, since they don't know the difference.

a la izquierda

(11,797 posts)
128. Thank you for this. I really needed a good laugh...
Fri Sep 4, 2020, 06:23 AM
Sep 2020

especially as I'm increasingly anxious about moving to the land of Cockney English.

I find Dutch to be like a puzzle made by a drunk person specifically designed to be put together by a troupe of monkeys.

DFW

(54,436 posts)
129. Be thankful it's Dutch and not Danish
Fri Sep 4, 2020, 12:22 PM
Sep 2020

Danish makes the French number system seem streamlined.
In French (except in Belgium and Switzerland, who have broken free of French academic rigidity), 70-99 goes:
sixty-ten, sixty-and-eleven, sixty-twelve (etc. etc.), sixty nineteen (we're at 79 now), four twenties, four twenties one, four twenties two, (etc. etc.), four twenties nine, four twenties ten, four twenties eleven, four twenties twelve, etc. etc. four twenties nineteen (we're now at 99), one hundred.

Think THAT'S bad?

Here's Danish:

50-99 goes like this:
half off of three twenties, one and half (half a twenty, that is) off of three twenties (still with me? this is 51), two and half off of three twenties, three and half off of three twenties, (etc. etc.), nine and half off of three twenties, three twenties (now we're at 60). One and three twenties, two and three twenties, (etc. etc.) nine and three twenties, half off of four twenties (now we're at 70), one and half off of four twenties, two and half off of four twenties (still with me? we're at 72), nine and half off of four twenties, four twenties (hey, it worked for the French), one and four twenties, two and four twenties (etc. etc.), nine and four twenties, half off of five twenties (OK, they don't have to do EVERYTHING like the French), one and half off of five twenties, two and half off of five twenties (we're now at 92), etc. etc. nine and half off of five twenties (Danish: ni og halvfems), one hundred.

No wonder Denmark is less burdened than Sweden with third world immigration. Once any self-respecting immigrant tries to assimilate, and is presented with the Danish number system, most people would flee in terror to the nearest border, and hope the next country, whichever it is, has a number system that DOESN'T sound like it is an excerpt from Alice in Wonderland.

"Welcome to Denmark, Mr. Biannajee, We can offer you a ticket for local public transportation worth seven and half off five twenties kroner a week, a food voucher worth eight hundred eight and half off of four twenties kroner per month, and a cell phone on which you can call home for two hundred four and half off three twenties kroner per month. What's that? What do you mean, you didn't understand? Which part was unclear?"

a la izquierda

(11,797 posts)
131. Holeeeee crap. I'm terrible at math...
Fri Sep 4, 2020, 02:12 PM
Sep 2020

so in France I feign ignorance and use Belgian numbers.
In Denmark I would have to use English. That is the worst system I’ve ever read about.

Last night, I woke up at 345am and could not fall asleep, so I began counting backwards from 100 in German. That didn’t help. I then switched to Dutch. Didn’t help either. I guess they’re too similar to English. Maybe I should try doing Danish math...

DFW

(54,436 posts)
133. Basque numbers are just as impractical as the Danish ones
Fri Sep 4, 2020, 02:59 PM
Sep 2020

And they start in with the craziness even sooner. Ogei twenty, Ogeta-amar (twenty-ten) is thirty, Berogei (two times twenty) is forty, Beirogeta-amar (two times twenty ten) is fifty, and so on.

The difference is that the whole Basque language is nuts, where Danish--outside of their numbers and their pronunciation--is pretty straightforward.

Neuk piskat Euskera aitxutendot ("I understand a little Basque" in the Bilbao dialect).

 

Le Roi de Pot

(744 posts)
89. Yes .. my favorite is the versant edge .. its an okish black - but ZERO crowds
Thu Sep 3, 2020, 12:38 AM
Sep 2020

Most people do the North in the AM and South in the PM

Tommy_Carcetti

(43,198 posts)
46. Ideally or practically?
Tue Sep 1, 2020, 08:14 AM
Sep 2020

Ideally it might be Belize. English speaking country with a lush tropical environment that would make this Floridian feel at home.

Don’t know what the employment or standard of living is like though.

Practically the obvious answer would be Canada. I hate cold weather though. But with climate change and all perhaps that wouldn’t be as big of a factor. I have heard British Columbia is slightly more temperate than the border areas so that would be where I probably would want to settle.

If I needed a place where I had family ties available, there’s Ukraine. Obviously the standard of living is lower and I would have to learn the language. But I absolutely loved visiting there last year and seeing the country and connecting with relatives.

Mike 03

(16,616 posts)
47. Practically: Canada, because I have relatives there. But I've always dreamed of
Tue Sep 1, 2020, 08:22 AM
Sep 2020

living in Japan. I think living in Japan would be a difficult transition, but I think after the initial difficulties I would do okay there because of how much I revere so many aspects of their culture (except for their unrepentant and pointless whaling and the slaughter of dolphins in Taiji).

maxrandb

(15,350 posts)
48. Costa Rica, but I'm also considering Guam
Tue Sep 1, 2020, 08:25 AM
Sep 2020

It's about as far away as you can get, but still technically be in the United States, and I could still use the Navy Exchange and Commissary.

Response to Flaleftist (Original post)

FakeNoose

(32,746 posts)
51. I'd move to Germany in a heartbeat
Tue Sep 1, 2020, 08:31 AM
Sep 2020

Munich probably - or anywhere in Bavaria!

The trouble is that I would eventually get homesick and want to come back to the US. If I had to go somewhere and never return, it would be Canada. Either Ontario or farther east.

Tom Rinaldo

(22,913 posts)
56. Same here
Tue Sep 1, 2020, 08:48 AM
Sep 2020

I've been to Ireland several times and I love it there. Good and friendly people, lovely land. Easy access to continental Europe and the UK. And English is one of the official languages. At my stage in life a little bit of continuity would help ease a major uprooting of my world.

moondust

(20,005 posts)
53. Probably Denmark.
Tue Sep 1, 2020, 08:36 AM
Sep 2020

Since first visiting there 45 years ago I've been jokingly telling people that I shoulda been born in Denmark (since it's hard to immigrate). Other EU countries would be fine, though. New Zealand sounds nice, or Canada. I'd prefer a place committed to quality of life: good public transportation, universal health care, well-regulated capitalism that does not encourage greed/predation/inequality, and without a deadly gun culture or global military footprint/vast MIC, etc.

Oh well...

llmart

(15,552 posts)
54. Canada
Tue Sep 1, 2020, 08:40 AM
Sep 2020

I could be there in 20 minutes.

I've been to Nova Scotia and the beauty there could stop one's heart from beating. Met and talked with people in Halifax and hung out with some of them and you cannot find nicer people. Even the teenagers were polite and friendly to us and it seemed they weren't as materialistic as Americans. It's a slow, peaceful way of life and I tend to be a bit introverted so I'm fine with that.

Amishman

(5,559 posts)
55. Australia's north coast
Tue Sep 1, 2020, 08:44 AM
Sep 2020

I'd try to find something with an ocean view, far away from people. Should be possible there. I wouldn't mind a long drive to stores and shops.

Keys for me are beautiful countryside (ocean in this case), low population density, english speaking (I'm really bad with languages), relatively stable government.

Goodheart

(5,338 posts)
57. Canada because it's progressive, and because I hate hot and humid weather
Tue Sep 1, 2020, 09:09 AM
Sep 2020

then Spain because it's so beautiful and I know a little Spanish, then France because, well, it's France.

GusBob

(7,286 posts)
58. I moved already
Tue Sep 1, 2020, 09:15 AM
Sep 2020

I live and work on an Indian Reservation
Sovereign land under tribal law for the most part

I killed 3 birds one stone in doing so
Left Trump country hell
Kept my job
Providing much needed healthcare to folks in need

Its cold up in these mountains this morning but I love it

CTyankee

(63,912 posts)
61. somewhere outside of Florence, Italy so I could go visit the art often, esp. when I despair about
Tue Sep 1, 2020, 09:56 AM
Sep 2020

the state of my country and the world.

Maeve

(42,288 posts)
62. Ireland--no language issues, decent-enough climate, great beer and whiskey
Tue Sep 1, 2020, 10:03 AM
Sep 2020

And I've been telling Irish stories for 20+ years, so...(oh, and I do speak some Irish gaelic, so that's not an issue even in the gaeltacht)

Aristus

(66,456 posts)
63. Germany.
Tue Sep 1, 2020, 10:04 AM
Sep 2020

You've heard of a spirit-animal? Germany is my spirit-country.

I don't have a drop of German blood, but I fell in love with the place from an early age: 2 or so. I lived there when my Dad was stationed there in the Army. I learned German in high school with the goal of joining the Army myself and being stationed there.

I was a tank crewman in Germany from 1989 to 1991, and loved every minute of it. I can't wait to go back someday...

Luciferous

(6,085 posts)
64. I would love to live in New Zealand, more realistic is somewhere in the UK because my
Tue Sep 1, 2020, 10:13 AM
Sep 2020

husband is a dual citizen and has family there.

GulfCoast66

(11,949 posts)
65. France. Along the Rhone. Lyon maybe.
Tue Sep 1, 2020, 10:23 AM
Sep 2020

I already speak a little French and would pick it up fast.

I like the people. Standoffish but sincere. And I live to eat.

Would have said Switzerland but a meal there cost a week of pay! Most beautiful place I have visited.

Chainfire

(17,636 posts)
66. New Zealand if they would have me
Tue Sep 1, 2020, 11:07 AM
Sep 2020

Australia if they wouldn't. Why? Because I believe that they have the good parts that used to be America, without the idiots running the governments.

It is all academic. I will leave my current home feet first.

panader0

(25,816 posts)
67. There sure are a lot of folks who want to dump this country.
Tue Sep 1, 2020, 11:17 AM
Sep 2020

I'll never leave. This is my country. You must be well off to leave, and also not care about the US.

GusBob

(7,286 posts)
68. It is interesting to note. Just about all answers are first world places
Tue Sep 1, 2020, 11:23 AM
Sep 2020

which lets be honest, reflects a sort of selfish demeanor

If I hadnt made my choice as above, I would pick somewhere where I could really make a difference. Burundi maybe

Grokenstein

(5,727 posts)
81. I don't think Jimmy Carter would call it a contest.
Wed Sep 2, 2020, 10:20 PM
Sep 2020

He wouldn't do all he does just to rub it in people's faces, either.

GusBob

(7,286 posts)
84. Face this if you will
Wed Sep 2, 2020, 11:16 PM
Sep 2020

See post 58
Today there was a cluster outbreak on the Rez, again
Another one so for 2 coworkers dead
2 in hospital today 2 dozen positives. I know most of them
Tomorrow I go into th e clinic and fight it for the tribe
Again since March now. Non stop

I look at this thread and see quitters running and hiding

I aint holy just angry


Grokenstein

(5,727 posts)
86. Fanciful speculation is now "quitters running and hiding."
Wed Sep 2, 2020, 11:32 PM
Sep 2020

I just watched a YouTube video instead of washing a leper's feet so I "lose," I guess.

Renew Deal

(81,871 posts)
98. People want a comfortable or "better" life
Thu Sep 3, 2020, 06:52 AM
Sep 2020

Why wouldn’t they want to go somewhere with good benefits?

DFW

(54,436 posts)
103. I went somewhere with zero benefits
Thu Sep 3, 2020, 07:50 AM
Sep 2020

Most people fall for the fantasy that everything is free here in Germany, but if you are not a citizen, and do not work for a German employer, you get to pay your full taxes, but get zero benefits. No health care insurance, and no pension. Zip. Nada. They take 50% of your income and give you nothing in return. So why did I come here?

To stay with my wife, I would have gone to any of the four corners of the earth. That's why.

Renew Deal

(81,871 posts)
97. The question is if you had to leave.
Thu Sep 3, 2020, 06:50 AM
Sep 2020

I’m not going anywhere either, but it’s fun to daydream about globetrotting.

DFW

(54,436 posts)
102. Or you might have married a friendly native of somewhere else
Thu Sep 3, 2020, 07:45 AM
Sep 2020

Plus, I was able to do my job here, so no adjustment work-wise.

Not your typical case, I realize............

KatyMan

(4,209 posts)
70. Ireland
Tue Sep 1, 2020, 12:07 PM
Sep 2020

We're already citizens and lived there for a couple of years earlier this century. We're working on renewing our Irish passports in case the worst happens.

Solly Mack

(90,780 posts)
76. Canada, Germany, or Ireland.
Wed Sep 2, 2020, 02:47 AM
Sep 2020

Lived in Germany before. Canada, just cause. I adore Ireland. I can adapt.

My own country would be nice. I don't mean America, either. I mean my own personal little country.

Dare to dream.

Solly Mack

(90,780 posts)
115. Private. ;) I kid, I kid.
Thu Sep 3, 2020, 11:11 AM
Sep 2020

The country of Henry

President Wilson Spalding Titleist MacGregor. Henry, for short.

Land of the Pookies

Beautiful, clean beaches.

President Henry is a Pookie as are all citizens of Henry. Well, all but one.

However, in the dark shadows, bagging up soup, is Solly, ruler of all.

Solly is not a Pookie. Solly is a Josephine.

But friends call her eejit, heathen, and High Priestess of Cock and Bull.

She likes coffee.

Polybius

(15,475 posts)
82. Somewhere that speaks English, but where the food is great
Wed Sep 2, 2020, 10:30 PM
Sep 2020

So that leaves out England and Ireland, so I guess I would go to Australia.

Celerity

(43,497 posts)
92. you must not have been to London much, if you think we have bad food
Thu Sep 3, 2020, 01:49 AM
Sep 2020

things have changed massively in the past 30, 40 years, especially the past 20

DFW

(54,436 posts)
105. England has great food. Just don't eat local dishes
Thu Sep 3, 2020, 07:55 AM
Sep 2020

But they have so many Indians, Italians, Orientals, you can live there now and never have to eat English food even once.

JustABozoOnThisBus

(23,364 posts)
113. You no longer hang the pheasant outside for a week before cooking?
Thu Sep 3, 2020, 10:54 AM
Sep 2020

Ok, I'll give the place another try.

Still have warm, sweet beer?

Renew Deal

(81,871 posts)
96. Check central London
Thu Sep 3, 2020, 06:48 AM
Sep 2020

Those old stories about British food are mostly about British food. Other places that speak lots of English are Sweden, Norway, Singapore, and Malaysia, but it might not be enough English.

Brother Buzz

(36,461 posts)
85. Somerset, England
Wed Sep 2, 2020, 11:28 PM
Sep 2020

A cottage in the countryside with no neighbors within sight, and a pub within walking distance would suit me well. Most everything agrees with me about the area.

DFW

(54,436 posts)
104. I haven't been there in many years, but.....
Thu Sep 3, 2020, 07:52 AM
Sep 2020

These days, I doubt even Hemingway could live like Hemingway did when he was there.

DFW

(54,436 posts)
124. I see. I heave heard there is plenty of both
Thu Sep 3, 2020, 02:43 PM
Sep 2020

When I was there, it was at the invitation of the government. There was definitely NO time for any of that Hemingway stuff. Although, come to think of it, their people DID stop to show me a café where Hemingway was supposed have hung out. Kind before my time, so I wouldn't know.

VOX

(22,976 posts)
94. New Zealand, without question.
Thu Sep 3, 2020, 06:12 AM
Sep 2020

Friendly, progressive, nuke-free, military-style rifles outlawed after the tragic Christchurch shooting, beautiful country, and the people there fully appreciate what they have.

Dorian Gray

(13,499 posts)
95. Oooh....
Thu Sep 3, 2020, 06:36 AM
Sep 2020

Japan, Norway, Finland, Denmark, Italy, UK, Canada, Uruguay, Argentina, Australia, New Zealand, South Korea, Malaysia, Tunisia, France, Germany, Estonia, Tahiti, Iceland, Sweden, Portugal, Ireland.......

DFW

(54,436 posts)
99. Well, as long as you have it narrowed down.........
Thu Sep 3, 2020, 07:07 AM
Sep 2020

That sounds more like a $50,000 year long cruise!

tavernier

(12,400 posts)
100. Conch Republic.
Thu Sep 3, 2020, 07:27 AM
Sep 2020

Where I live now. Where everybody knows my name. I’ve been all over the world, but always returned to paradise.

DFW

(54,436 posts)
112. I have never been there
Thu Sep 3, 2020, 10:53 AM
Sep 2020

Has it retained all its charm ever Conchoscallopia separated into the Conch Republic and the Republic of Scallopia?

tavernier

(12,400 posts)
119. Scallopia always has that ocean or bay controversy
Thu Sep 3, 2020, 01:47 PM
Sep 2020

hanging over it. Conchs are tougher, and certainly charming as ever.

 

smirkymonkey

(63,221 posts)
106. The most logical place would be Canada, specifically Toronto.
Thu Sep 3, 2020, 07:58 AM
Sep 2020

Where I would like to live? The UK, but they are having similar problems so I am not so sure that would be a wise choice. I love London, but it's very expensive, however York is very appealing to me. I would also consider the Irish republic, yet the problem with both of those countries is the weather. I have travelled in both and there is a lot of rain and gloom.

My next choice would be Vienna, where I lived as a student in college. I absolutely loved it there and have always wanted to retun. That country is in my heart and Vienna is in particular. I speak a small amount of German, but I am sure I could pick it up quickly if I lived there.

Lastly, I would go to the Netherlands or one of the Scandinavian countries. I would need to live in a liberal, democratic nation.

phylny

(8,386 posts)
107. I would go to southern Italy, where my family originally came from.
Thu Sep 3, 2020, 08:00 AM
Sep 2020

We visited there last year. Gorgeous. Mild climate, delicious food.

Alas, my children are here and we would never leave them behind.

jcgoldie

(11,643 posts)
109. Mexico
Thu Sep 3, 2020, 09:29 AM
Sep 2020

I realize its a poorer country with many issues but my wife and I plan to retire in a fishing village down south of Vallarta on the Pacific coast. Wonderful people, wonderful weather, great place.

EX500rider

(10,855 posts)
116. Having been to around 40 countries.....Colombia
Thu Sep 3, 2020, 01:36 PM
Sep 2020

Cheap like Costa Rica used to be (I lived there 5 years) friendly people and Medellin is beautiful, cheap with avg temp of 72.
Also not as dangerous as it used to be, Jamaica, the Bahamas and the US Virgin Is's all have a higher homicide rate now.
Also it's only a $300, 3-1/2hr flight on Spirit from Fla so I can return home to see relatives.

beaglelover

(3,489 posts)
118. East coast of Spain somewhere.
Thu Sep 3, 2020, 01:38 PM
Sep 2020

Temperate climate, friendly people, scenic land, delicious food, affordable.

grobertj

(187 posts)
121. Costa Rica is said to be a great place for ex-pats.
Thu Sep 3, 2020, 01:48 PM
Sep 2020

However, in my heart I'd really prefer to live in the UK. The weather's not great but there's soooo much history.

NurseJackie

(42,862 posts)
132. Causton (Midsomer) also known as Wallingford in Oxfordshire ... or ...
Fri Sep 4, 2020, 02:28 PM
Sep 2020

Causton, Midsomer (also known as Wallingford in Oxfordshire) ... or ... Cotswold village Kembleford (also known as Gloucestershire village of Blockley).

I think I'd very much enjoy the slow pace village life and the English countryside. A small cozy cottage is all I need (and high-speed internet.)

hunter

(38,326 posts)
134. I'll be hanging out here in California.
Fri Sep 4, 2020, 03:03 PM
Sep 2020

When much of the U.S.A. is a smoldering ruin we'll probably be annexed by Canada or Mexico.

Where we are living now will be close to the new border any which way.

Latest Discussions»General Discussion»Hypothetically, if you ha...