American in Europe

[Saturn]

Gudday, I am wondering about where to live in Europe as an American? I know I know, we are all a bunch of ******* and we are not welcome, go away bloody american ********, I'll do you a treat mate and I'll **** in your general direction. We've been through this already.

Anyhoo, for those who will respond (in kind), can you tell me where I can reside that will be best for taxes and where I don't need to get permission from the government. Is there even such a place? Luxemborg perhaps. Just seeking info.

And BTW, I have a job with a great company. I will not be taking a job from a European. Thanks a bunch.

:yuk:

[exeng]

Americans are generally welcome in most parts of Europe.

I'm not so sure however that people who are quite happy with using vulgar words in a public forum will be welcome in many civilised places.

You could try Saturn, the people there may be more accommodating.


Regards
Exeng

[Saturn]

Just a Monty Python quote from the Holy Grail. Meant no harm, just a little humor.

:O

[dusk2dawn]

The US run an extensive network of web-pages from their embassies (?) with infos on residence- and working permits.

[Toulouse]

Lots of great places in Europe to live in... not just saying that cause I'm a "proud" European.

Places I've lived in... Ireland: brillinat country, kind people, weather is a bit of a problem and it's got extremely expensive!

Spain... lived in Madrid and some time in the south for many years. Wonderful people, yet their "extrovert and direct" nature can sometimes take a bit of getting used to. They tend to appear to be rude and unpolite (especially service wise) which offends many foreigners, but this is just at first, it's their culture and they just to say "thank you" and "please" as much as some of us do. Tax is low. Cost of living is quite low as well. Better off avoiding working for smaller companies there, not greatest conditions. Nice food. Extremely pretty women. In the centre and south it's INCREDIBLY hot in summer (45° C) about 118°F is quite normal there (in the sun). And winter can be really cold.

Switzerland... Expensive, fasinating place culturally: four different languages areas in such a small palce, French, German, Italian and Rhetoric (Romansch). Excellent standard of living. great skiing and incredible scenery. The people can be a little cold though.

France... currently in the south west of France (as my nick gives away). Absoloutely LOVE the place. The people (down this part of France anyway) are extremely friendly, kind and open. Scenery is unique. Climate is perfect. Food is, well how can I put it, it's just sooo French. Lots of beautiful women (and handsome men, I suppose, just in case you're a woman). Excellent standard of living, incredible social benefits and public health system (best in teh world). Vive la France!!!! (and I'm not French).

Now your point on being American... yeah they're may ahve been a bit of bad press about the Americans recently, but I think the vast majority of Europeans are just as fond of the Americans as anyone. Even though parts of the American press have hammered the French in a ridiculouse way just because Président Chirac had the ba:mad: to say, "No, we don't really agree with you Mr. Bush...", I don't think this has damaged the image of Americans here in France. If you do come over, just remember, you're no longer in USA and you'll be fine. Things are different over here, everything doesn't have to be the biggest of the best, and people like to take time to enjoy life (lots of holidays, slow dinners...). i know loads of Americans living here, and they all say how much they love living here and that they can't imagine returning home...

Good luck no matter what you do.:ok:

[Saturn]

Thank you so much for the reply. That was very informative and kind. I very much appreciate it. I have been to Paris many times and love the French. I think it is safe to say where I'd like to be. Cheers and safe flying.



:p

[Flip Flop Flyer]

I suppose that you will need to narrow your choice down to a little less than just Europe. If you have problems understanding any other language than English, then I suppose the UK would be for you. While most Europeans do speak English to a smaller or lesser degree, there are indeed places where you'd be well in the shyte if you don't have at least a passing knowledge of the local lingo. Spain, Italy, France and to an extent Germany also.

If you are looking for sun and beach, then southern Europe is for you. The drawback is less developed infrastructure and a bit of chaotic Mediterranean mindset, which I personally find charming but let's say that it's not always a beacon of efficiency. If you are less interested in sun and beach, value personal freedom under responsibility, and is looking for a well organised society, then perhaps Scandinavia is for you. Oh, sorry, forgot you don't fancy paying taxes.

Right, there is also the new EU countries like the Czech Republic which boasts fantastic scenery, great beer and very good looking women. Language might be a problem though, but it's still very cheap (outside of the Prague tourist traps at least) and the taxes are not very high. Neither are the salaries; those two things usually goes together.

Whatever you choose, take up relevant language training, get with the local way of life, and enjoy! If you really want to be accepted in the society, the rule is the same as for any expat in the world "When in Rome ......" and the way "Romans" live in Prague is very, very different from the "Romans" in London which again is different from those in Paris etc etc etc. Europe is by no means as homogenous as the US. But that's a major part of the charm if you ask me. You will need to ask yourself which society would suit you best, and I dare say that starting with the tax bit is a rather short sighted approach.

[RoyHudd]

South of France is right, but you need to start using French tout de suite..no matter how bad it feels, just dive in. Agree with all the comments re this place, and commend it...as for taxes, pay someone to help you, but pay 'em...for the QOL and a relaxed outlook, tax avoidance is not a good way to go.

And completely forget the idea of living in the UK...an expensive , dirty and aggressive place to live...despite the very high standards of aviation here...hope I haven't offended anyone, but doubtless some Brit will now weigh in!