Leaving Home
Thousands of people immigrate every year, whether it’s to chase their dreams or for better lives. Leaving the country you were born in can be difficult, but oftentimes, it can lead to great benefits.
Recently, a few Americans that have immigrated to Ireland shared why they would never return to the US, and we’re all ears! From healthcare systems to work cultures, these are the reasons why Americans regret not leaving home sooner.
Transportation
One person pointed out that the US usually caters to vehicles and motorways, but that pedestrians are hardly considered. This makes it hard to get around when you don’t own a car.
In Ireland, public transportation is everywhere. From buses to train stations, getting around without a car is simple. Not to mention, it’s a lot cheaper and easier than owning a car.
Tipping Employees
In America, employees usually depend on tips to supplement their income. You, as the customer, are expected to calculate your bill and give a 15% tip on top of it.
In Ireland, tips are not expected, but they are seen as a token of appreciation for good service. Restaurants will include a service charge on your bill, and you are not expected to tip every time you order a drink on a night out.
Gun Culture
In recent years, it has become apparent that the US has a serious gun problem. Statistics have revealed that since the start of 2022, the country has experienced over 300 mass shootings.
Ireland has strict gun laws, in fact, only 20% to 25% of their law-enforcement officers are qualified to deploy a firearm. One person revealed, “Crime is generally low in Ireland, and I've never felt safer.”
The Healthcare System
The healthcare system in Ireland is far from perfect, but it’s much more affordable than in the US.
One woman shared that in the US, she used to pay $300 a month out of pocket for subpar healthcare coverage. Now that she’s living in Ireland, she’s able to easily and affordably visit doctors, dentists, and psychologists without private health insurance.
Unreasonably High Cost Of Higher Education
While studying in America, one person shared that, despite having a great scholarship and a grant that covered most of their undergraduate degree, they still had to work three jobs to pay the bills.
But thanks to the Free Fees Initiative, the Department of Further and Higher Education covers all costs of public undergraduate degrees for Irish and European citizens.
Overwhelming Work Culture
In American work culture, people are often expected to work overtime and master the skill of multitasking. One person said, “I felt like I was never doing enough, even if I worked more than 50 hours a week.”
In Ireland, work seems to be less of a focus. People tend to take more frequent and longer vacations. They added, “The slower pace of life here also means businesses close earlier and more frequently than in the US, where the way of life in some areas revolves around 24/7 convenience.”
Athleisure
One person said that they could easily pick out an American in a crowd before they've even said a word. What’s their secret? It's usually the only person sporting athleisure!
Athleisure refers to clothing worn during athletic activities, such as leggings and tank tops. But did you know that in Ireland, you can’t wear athleisure everywhere? Oftentimes, restaurants and bars will turn you away at the door in this attire.
Hidden Taxes
In the US, taxes are usually not included in the listed price of shopping items. This means that the price of the item is higher at checkout than it says on the item.
In Ireland, taxes are included in the listed price. At checkout, you pay the exact price as stated on the item, meaning that there are no hidden fees or surprises.
The Cost Of Phone Plans
According to one American, it is impossible to find a smartphone plan in the US for less than $50 a month. On top of that, it is nearly impossible to find options that don’t include a one-year contract.
Ireland has a lot more options for noncontractual service plans. They often make use of "top-up credit" which makes it easy for users to cancel or add services from month to month. Not to mention, their options are a lot cheaper. “I pay €20 (about $20) a month for unlimited data and texting, which is just what I need,” they added.
TV Ads
Someone revealed that they do not miss the overwhelming advertising culture in the US. They said, “I never noticed just how many medical and prescription-based ads aired in the US until I started watching TV in Ireland.”
In Ireland, they do feature ads for over-the-counter drugs, but drug companies are not allowed to advertise prescription-only medication.
The People
Although Americans are generally seen as being quite friendly, one man revealed that since making the move, he’s discovered otherwise. “See, a lot of people think Americans are super nice, but they talk smack about you as soon as you're out the door,” he commented.
According to him, Irish people are some of the most down-to-earth and friendliest people out there!
Biscuits
In America, biscuits are known as small, quick-baked breads made with baking powder or buttermilk. They are usually served with gravy as a savory side dish. They are most commonly served alongside chicken and mashed potatoes.
But in Ireland, the word ‘biscuits’ refers to a small, hard, sweet treat, just like American cookies!
Being Polite
One man revealed that, in general, Irish people are a lot more polite than Americans. He explained, “When someone asks you how you’re doing, they genuinely want to know, whereas, in the US, that’s just another way of saying ‘hello’. ”
He also revealed that Irish people are more prone to saying ‘thank you’ and ‘please’.
Clothing Brands
In the US, clothing brands such as Gucci and Louis Vuitton are all the hype. You will see people sporting these brands regularly, but in Ireland, branded clothing is a rare sight.
“In Ireland, people dress a lot more casually on a day-to-day basis,” one woman revealed. In order to protect the privacy of those depicted, some names, locations, and identifying characteristics have been changed and are products of the author's imagination. Any resemblances to actual events or places or persons, living or dead, are entirely coincidental.