Just read a great article on how the German "free education" system worrks,

[thucythucy]

10. Yes. It amazes me to talk to people

who've never been outside the US, but badmouth Europe. I remember an acquaintance once called Germany "a socialist hell hole" which must have been a phrase he picked up from Limbaugh or Fox News or something. And he wasn't talking about the old DDR, but Germany post 2010. Granted, Germany--and all of Europe--have problems and issues, but the notion that living there is hell for most people is absurd. I was also astounded at some of the benefits Germans take for granted--especially extended paid vacations, holidays, maternal and paternal leave....

I've also spent some time in various parts of Scandinavia-mostly Sweden and Norway. Aside from the climate--Norway in February can be really tough to take--I've always loved spending time there. (Also--Scandinavia tends to be very expensive in terms of cost of living--at least if you're not employed there).

I love to travel, and wish I'd been able to do more of it. Maybe someday if my health improves.

Best wishes.