Enjoy your TH-cam so much❤. Doesn't matter China USA Europe Singapore or etc with someone CAPABLE like you (which I'm not). You can survive and get along in any country by enjoying your life for who I admire and impress to. Anyway I am from Malaysia and stay in Malaysia with my wife (french). Consider to move to France one day with her. It is a big move for me. So looking on TH-cam to get some advices maybe and found your video 👍. I started follow you.
im irish 45, from ireland but have been living overseas for the last 15 years. i lived at usa, mexico and china at the duration of 5 years each. im a middle age white man with 2 master's degree and work at the tech field. this is my opinion and what i saw & felt living there. in usa, yankees are rude to all and can be downright mean at times. in mexico, light skinned mexicans step on dark skinned mexicans, asians & blacks 24/7. however, mexicans love and respect only white people. my life at china was so wonderful, shocking and extremely memorizing. china is so big with both old and modern cultures at the same time. there was so much to see, do, feel, eat, etc... no one can do it all in a lifetime. i love how the young people treat and care for the old with so much admiration & dedication. plus, the chinese were so nice & sweet to all people, regardless of money, power, race, age, etc. the chinese people is a culture everyone can learn, teach, gain & benefit from. thank you!
As I Chinese who has lived in UK for 10 years and travelled most of Europe, last year we made the decision to move back to my Country China, the best decision I have made, don’t let western media fool you, come and see China with your own eyes, you will find China is one of the safest country with best infrastructure and hard working and friendly people 🇨🇳
@@JohnDorian-j7xTo see the world and experience the difference, believe me it will make you love your own country even more, instead of sitting in your mom’s basement and believing everything your government told you even you can’t afford to pay the rent and can’t even go out in the evening because of the violence outside, they still tell you what you have is the best !
@@maggiema2777 Ahhh, I see... so, in other words, you're just a pinkie. I might have believed you if you had just said the first couple lines of your sentence, but the whole "instead of sitting in your mom’s basement and believing everything your government told you even you can’t afford to pay the rent and can’t even go out in the evening because of the violence outside, they still tell you what you have is the best!" tells me everything you're attempting to do by campaigning a certain prop position to the public western world. Its quite unfortunate. China's future was looking quite bright for quite a long time... however... that all changed after Xi Xinping took control of China. The last half decade has been outright disastrous for China and its citizens... whereas in the mid 2010s, all of my Chinese engineering friends were all bright eyed and hopeful and planning to return back to China to work eventually... in the 2020s, they're all trying to leave China and get any sort of job overseas even if they're not full/well compensated positions. Its unfortunate, because China was really starting to look like a great place to be... its crazy how fast that can change in a half decade or so. SMH. Free China! Free the Chinese people! Let the Chinese people be heard! Stop Chinese CCP censorship of the Chinese people's opinions! Stop the persecution of non-CCP sanctioned thoughts and opinions! Stop the CCP's military build up and bullying of its neighbors like Vietnam, the Philippines, India, Taiwan, Bhutan, Nepal, Malaysia, and Indonesia etc! Sanction the CCP government for crimes against humanity in Xinjian! Sanction the CCP for supplying Russia with military and economic support for its invasion of Ukraine! Give Taiwan the military aide to defend itself from Chinese invasion! Give the Philippines the military aide and allied support to defend itself from Chinese threats and harassment! Give Vietnam the support to protect its sovereignty from Chinese incursion and allure! Pray for the Chinese people that they be protected from their CCP government forces! Pray for peace and prosperity for the Chinese people! Free China!
I’d rather live in China. I think they’re moving in the right direction for their people, it’s cleaner, a lot safer, developed and a stable economy years ahead.
I live in China for 16 years. All your descriptions of China are total wrong. DEFINITELY not cleaner and economy is in shambles. I do not know where you got your ideas from.
I m chinese and My gf is from Thailand, before she visit China for the 1st time she was scared. After stay in China specifically Shanghai, she said she doesn't want to leave. And she wants to become a chinese.
For that, you have the western government and western propaganda media to thank for. Even today the u$ government has travel advisory for its citizens against traveling to China, go figure that.
Why was she "scared" of China? Its not like it 1950 or something anymore... China's been very nice and developed (at least in the first tier cities) for many, many years now.
@@JohnDorian-j7x, stereotypes about China are very powerful, worldwide, and have persisted for many years till this very day due to the media constantly demonizing China. But once you've experienced China for yourself, then you realize how wonderful it is, and how the media unfairly has cast China in a negative light. So that's why his Thai girlfriend, understandably, would be scared of going to China until she experienced it for the first time for herself.
5:30 Wow this is the least fact checked interview ever, I've never heard an American say assimilate. However, last I checked, since 2004, France has a law that bans the wearing of religious symbols in public schools! So I can't even with this interview!
I’m Chinese who lived in Europe and America for 20 years, and I visited Paris twice last year… most of the French I met were super nice, I’ve hardly experienced weirdness in France compared to other European countries lol 😂 I recently moved back to China, it’s nice to finally come home after seeing the world 😊
I'm from hong kong. I had a conversation with an American lady 40 years ago. We talked about American value. She said ' American believe that nobody is better than the other, They are only different.' Since then, it has become my value. I don't see Americans still hold that value.
I've lived and worked in China for the past ten years. (Having lived in the UK, Europe, America, Australia and North Africa) China wins hands down. The best analogy I can relate is that China to me is like a beehive ~ 'We're Chinese ~ This is China' ~ the principle works in nature ~ and it works in China ~ (And that unity has nothing to do with what the west sees as communism or the Communist Party of China ~ It's far deeper than that.. ~ China has Unity ~ That's why it's peaceful and has such phenomenal proven and unquestionable progress ~ and all this without firing a single bullet or bombing another country to smithereens. Go figure..
Ha!! Ha!! Most Of Chinese present land including Tibet is STOLEN by the communist #CCP with genocide of Tibetans & many others!! And.. you say no bullet was fired??!! SHAMEFUL!!
Also... skimmed past this part somehow... but "without firing a single bullet or bombing" is completely untrue, LOL. Tibet, Mongolia, Vietnam, India, Pakistan, etc.?
The communist party has been successful in not just brainwashing the gullible Chinese but also the international community!! Recently even Parisian Museums were collaborating with these monstrous communist animals to erase the name of Tibet from history!!
I am British of Chinese descent, lived in England for 54 years and counting. I have travelled extensively all over the world. What fascinates me about China is that the so-called communists don't really exist in purest form; it is just an ideology. The Chinese government looks after the people. You can tell from the way the leaders talk, act and achieve. For example, you don't find homeless people in China. Over in the United Kingdom, this week there have been lots of media discussing about the causes and extent of homelessness. In London alone, there are 183,000 homeless people, and nationwide there are between 300,000 and 400,000 homeless people in one of the wealthiest countries in the world. It breaks my heart listening to stories about them. Chinese immigrants study and work hard wherever they are, making a better life for themselves and their families. The Chinese people have been capitalists for thousands of years. The bad labelling of China as communists is poorly constructed, simply based on the fact that the country is ruled by the Communist Party of China. It could have been easily renamed the Civilization Party of China, but the West still would regard China as some kind of enemy because it is revitalizing itself in leaps and bounds.
Unfortunately UK and the entire Anglosphere (and the rest of the west) have been led down a very dangerous path. Some claim it's subversive work of the axis(especially Chinese government which holds grudges) and it doesn't sound unreasonable if you follow the trends. The east has it's strengths a d weaknesses(as every place in the world) and hopefully the Eurocentric perception will cease being so strong and we could all learn from eachother and work together for a better world, and not just to strengthen our own civilizations.
She is willing to learn the language of the place she goes, and thought that she should. That is already better than 99% Americans, who thought everyone everywhere should speak English to cater for them.
Yeah, I met an english woman who told me she lived 16 YEARS in Spain and did not learn the language. What was she expecting from me after saying that? A round of applause?
@@MazzerineSeashe learned Chinese... and she said, the french never let her practice and start speaking English immediately... It becomes harder and harder to learn a new language the older you get
Americans are mostly very insular and sheltered , ignorant about the rest of the world . . Worse still , they have a misplaced sense of superiority and are supercilious in their interactions with person who are non white Their biggest mistake is expecting everyone to be like them …..
@sandraankenbrand Not really true. Famously Steve Kaufman is one of the most famous polyglots, knows over a couple dozen languages, and half of them he can speak fairly fluently, and he didnt decide to start learning languages til in his late 50's and still learns languages proactively today into his 70's. The problem is, like you said, the French aren't very inviting, especially to Americans, speaking their language. They're one of the most notorious for being rude to people who try to learn their language by speaking it. Not all obviously but its more common. So they'll just pick up on your English accent and proceed to speak only English with you, and ignore you speaking their language if they know English. Alot of EU countries are famous for doing this amongst language learners. Sweden, Denmark, Finland etc. Alot of the language Learning community says to not bother learning any of their languages because they won't speak it with you, unless you learn it well enough to sound like a native. Whereas in China, people love when you can speak mandarin when you're a foreigner and they appreciate it. Which is why I'm sure her mandarin grew to great fruition. Something I feel like should have been mentioned.
I knew Alden when she was living here in China. Really awesome to see her share her experiences here! This video just popped up on my feed and I thought to myself, what a small world!
I loved this conversation. I have lived in Asia for over 25 years and I understand many of the observations both of you made. It also makes me think about how wonderful it is that we have different cultures and ways of doing things. It makes the world such a more interesting place. And although we come from different countries and cultures, we all want basically the same things: we want ourselves and our families to be safe and healthy and be free to find our own happiness
I really enjoyed this conversation. I would love to live in China! I feel like that would be such an amazing opportunity. I want to see China and US get along again.
Unfortunately, there is no any possible, untill one crash down another one，white man only trust all win or all lose, even they studied 5000 years history of China, they still choose lose but harmonious(chinese so called `HE`)
I mean, who doesn't want to see China and US get along? lol. Its China's change in leadership since the mid 2010s that has drastically changed that relationship. Maybe once Xi leaves, things will get better... hopefully.
I really wish American and china relationship will be better!I I am Chinese married an American man, before covid live in china with my American kids ,people very friendly to us and felt so comfortable to live there ,since American and china relationship not good ,our family have difficulty time to live there
@@YaoBlaner It comes down to the politicians and their agendas. Right now, the US is deeply threatened by China being the second largest economy in the world and being displaced by China. As long as the US places more value in its fear of losing power, US politicians, and by extension, US media, will continue to only say bad things about China. Unfortunately, where I believe the majority of China's citizens are well-read, thoughtful and up-to-date on world events (from what I've seen), the vast majority of US citizens that I hear around me in the US only echo the fear and paranoia pumped by the local and national media, which leads to racism (something the US is shamefully good at). It is my hope that the common people of the US are able to find alternative sources of information that demonstrates China in a more positive light, so they are able to better understand for themselves that China is not evil and they are not our enemy. While every country has their issues, and those issues are not for me to comment on, I see China's friendship as being very important in the long-term, so the better thing for the US to do would be to approach China with a spirit of understanding and cooperation, stop putting down China and spreading lies.
France is fine but I find them somewhat rude. China is a nice peaceful place that is safe and much cleaner than a decade ago. As for the US, there are nice areas but the country has high crime and many cities are dirty and falling apart…
@@brevnobia1238 I live on the French border in Germany and the French are just like anyone else. Some are sophisticated, some are not. The entire France is not some fancy salon in Paris you know? Most of it consists of small agricultural towns and very dense industrial cities.
@@brevnobia1238 not everyday 😂 😂 we tend to come across as rude if you expect roundabout manners and not being forward, not as curt and matter of fact as germans but very painfully honest sometimes, seing more the half empty glass most of the time (to us USA's general positivity and enthusiasm feels fake, borderline delusional and more than a bit irritating). We see our take on life as being realistic, down to earth and genuine (as they would their endless smiles and hopes for fame and glory I guess), everyone has a personnal definition of what being genuine is, so it might vary ;) If you can get used / past that you'll be fine.
@@RaunakYadav-i2g Maybe to you but definitely not to me and a lot of other people, even in the US. Focus more on the freedom that really matters to improve the quality of life. Not these unnecessary BS.
@@RaunakYadav-i2gI have to say the Americans have the 'freedom of speech' like Edward Snowden, Chelsea Manning and oh Julian Assange too. Whatever happened ro these people. One is on exile, one been to jail because of her freedom of speech and Julian, well he was imprisoned for his part of 'freedom of speech'. Does the US have freedom? Really?
Whichever country works for you, it’s the best. I ask my college age children to travel the world, figure out who they are, and which country they like the best to live and work at certain period of lives.
We are lucky, to be able to travel for fun ! There are more people on this panet, who either may not ore do not have the money to travel. Other people leave their country because of war or other issues! So we are very privileged und lucky, to be able to do what we do!
Many Americans are very insular people, they don't really have a clue or care what is happening in Washington DC let alone the outside world. When I used to travel to work in business in the U.S. I was surprised how old fashioned and backward many communities are in certain American states are. IMO some Americans do seem to be a bit superficial. It is very refreshing when you meet an American who has travelled and lived outside the U.S. they are like Alden in the video, their eyes have been open.
China for me. Not so much because of the fantastic infrastructure and technologies, which are all very good, but my number one is safety. I've lived and worked in several countries and I feel safest in China.
@@elllllllle939 If you compare the proportion of Asians who are harmed in the United States to the proportion of Japanese who are harmed in China, you will find that it is at least 100 times. At least once a Japanese is harmed in China, it will make the headlines of the Chinese media. It is difficult in the United States because there are too many.
It's amazing how living abroad can broaden your horizons. I think it makes us understand each other as humans better. To be open minded to other cultures is one of the greatest gifts of life.
I dont know if she is beautiful inside as I do not know her - but outside she is to me. I love she let and dare to be natural with out industrial amount of a make up which makes her look even younger despite she has not just natural gray hair but long gray hair but as she wear very small and discrete amount of a make up she do look naturally young and delightful
Since she was often cast as the villain because she's American, perhaps she might understand the plight of Asian Americans, who until very recently were relegated to roles as villains, or as one-dimensional stock characters like martial artists or nerds. Difference is, Asians have been here in large numbers for well over a century, yet they have been portrayed as outsiders. Americans in China are almost always expats, living there temporarily like this woman. So while being cast as the mean CEO isn't entirely fair, it makes a little more sense than routinely casting Asian Americans as foreigners.
I think the anglophone countries tend to be more individualistic. It makes sense if you consider how far flung the old colonies are - people literally moved thousands of kilometers away from their families and friends. The early history of settlements can be quite definitive for those countries. People in the UK or Europe are really set in their way because all those with a sense of adventure left for the colonies. In terms of the UK - you would have to be really old money with all your assets tied up in the country to want to stay in a place with such dreary weather.
Chinese also trade all over the world from ancient time. But we neither force india people plant and sell opium, nor trade black slaves, nor massacre american indigenous people, and celebrate Thanksgiving shamelessly.
Max, hi. It’s not just in China 🇨🇳 that people take off their shoes 👞 when entering a household. This is the Asian culture where inside the house 🏡 is clean and outdoor shoes are NOT to be walked into with. Same with Singapore 🇸🇬, Malaysia 🇲🇾, Japan 🇯🇵, Hong Kong 🇭🇰, India 🇮🇳, Korea 🇰🇷, Indonesia 🇮🇩, the Philippines 🇵🇭…..etc…. As for me and my family, we have lived in Japan 🇯🇵 and now Hong Kong 🇭🇰, we have been brought up to be aware of cleaniness, hygiene and a sign of respect 🫡 as not to dirty the interior of the house. As the lady said, American and European just walk into their house with shoes on and some even have their shoes on while relaxing on the bed 🛏️ or while on the sofa 🛋️.
As Indonesian. I still don't understand, why westerners don't take off their shoes in the house. As it's dirty, and maybe they use public toilet, which is considered unhygienic.
As Indonesian, squat toilet is so good for people who has pooping problem, and make it easier task... 😂... but in my age that has knee problem, i prefer sitting toilet... 😊
as Indonesian who born in 90', i love them both, squat or sit but i prefer squat more with cigarettes if someone said its disguisting cus u can look your poops ! well i dont think so, its just a poops, its natural, anyway air polution and walkside with trash is more disguisting than poops cus its have more germ in it ! the pro for squat is actually able to see your poops and smell your poops too, so you know how good your health esp your stomach health from doing that
Squatting puts the lower body in a better position to execrete more efficiently just as one wouldn't expect a female to urinate from a standing position. 😂😂😂😂
My husband is American and I’m a Malaysian Chinese living in the US past 45 years. We’ve also lived in Germany for a few years. Our observations is that every country has its pros and cons. There are wonderful amazing people and culture in all countries and there are also mean angry, cruel and entitled people in every country. Where you prefer to live is a very individual choice sometimes influenced by factors such as opportunities for your children at the expense of your own comfort and taste. I feel the rule of thumb is if you’re nice to others, sincere about your intentions and fairly open minded to different cultures, you will enjoy and appreciate what each culture or country offers you; despite inconveniences or challenges. But if you want to feel you’re better than others because of your race, nationality, wealth, intelligence or appearance; then you’re bound to feel aggrieved or unhappy because you’re not getting what you’re “entitled” to.
I have spent a lot of time in China over the last 30 years. As an Anthropologist it has been amazing to watch the transformation in Chinese society and culture in that time period. I never met anyone in China who matched that description since the late 90's. And if you studied the teachings of Confucius, upon which Chinese society operates today? You will understand why. Confucius teaches that with great wealth, comes even greater social responsibilities. And that only by living up to those responsibilities? Can one achieve balance and harmony in ones life. 30 years ago the Chinese were rude, uncouth, obnoxious and greedy. Just like their occupiers had been for 100 years. Today? They are almost Japanese in their mannerisms and respectfulness.
@@davefroman4700 No, it is an insult to chinese by comparing them with japanese. Japanese mannerisms and respectfulness is superficial with skin-depth only.
I just came across this interview... very informative and dissolved many preconceptions about different cultures and even though I'm Canadian could relate to many of the topics discussed. Thank you Max. Please continue adding these type of interviews
Elon Musk once mentioned that as a boy, he dreamed of America as the shining land of opportunity and inventiveness. Later in life, he pointed out that the vision of nationalistic energy he dreamed about was actually more true in China. He compared the speed and quality of the construction of his car factory in the US to his car factory in China, noting that the Chinese factory was built much quicker and with much higher quality.
One thing she said about Chinese culture that I disagree with Chinese cultures have always been making your own paths and be creative about it for thousands of years. I have worked with Europeans for many years as their business partners, what I could not stand is per what the lady said, its established norm and they think it’s the “best practice” and that’s how it should be done and was so stubborn and wasn’t willing to change. One example, many years ago, in one of my high tech project, in which the German excelled in this niche tech, where there were only a few quality suppliers in the world. They came and was so arrogant and told us they have the best tech and showed us their samples, however what they forgot was that the product we wanted was to be used on Asians and for Asians market. They didn’t believe us that we have a supplier that can do better than what they had, then we showed them our samples and pointed out the differences which they wouldn’t have noticed as Europeans, but credit to these Germans, they acknowledged the differences and praised the supplier product but boy, it took me so much time and efforts to make them understand, luckily they have one engineer that really understands us and helped us convinced their management, which wouldn’t have happened if not for that guy. The Chinese in such cases would have gone back straight away and try to figure out in anyway they can to work out a solution, rather than spending time arguing with the customers and try to convince them their product is the best.
I totally agree. I've worked in Germany for many years, and have had a lot to do with China, and some other European countries. There was a way that my Chinese colleagues were ready and willing to try something new, and not go through bureaucracy that is so refreshing. The Germans on the other hand have to do things in a very methodical (and painfully slow) way. It also works, but it's a totally different culture. I found Italy much more like China in getting things done quickly. Also the food in Italy and China is great. I prefer to do things quickly (yes more mistakes can be made, but good results come sooner, usually), because I'm impatient and enjoy the creative work. People are happier when being creative. Bureaucracy is bad for the psyche.
Spot on. I spent 20 years in China and now 20 years in Europe, her observations are excellent. I would find it very difficult to move back to the states after learning how big the world is. My adult children experienced their k-13 school on 3 continents and don't have that strong desire to be in the states, other than seeing family.
I'm a 66 year old Dutch guy. The last decade it's clear that European mentalities are getting closer and more egalitarian. Modern (young) Europeans want to belong to an international group of cosmopolitan people.
I am European and what you ssy is NOT TRUE for the Half of the European. It is the US force the EU for to go against THE EUROPEAN. THE SAME WAY THEY PLAYED OUT ALL AND EVERY GOVERMENT IN THE WORLD FOR TO REPLACE IT WITH DICTATORS AND MURDERS LIKE THE US and THE UK SO CALLED PLANNER OF THE EMPERIALISM WHICH IS AGAINST THE HUMAN RACE FOR THE SAKE OF THE TECHNOLOGY and Industrialism GREED and money GRABBING OR STEELING OPENLY
I normally get some clean toilet paper and clean the sit before I sit down and also after I have used the toilet, it is just courtesy for others. I hate those wet toilet in SEA , the water contains your left over feaces and urine, just getting everything wet and dirty for others.
I agree that using water is cleaner than toilet paper. But wiping your butt with bare hand is equally unhygienic. Because unless you wash your hands thoroughly with soap for at least 20 seconds each time, there is no guarantee that harmful bacteria will be removed. Japanese style bidets are the best choice.
This is so interesting. The difference among cultures. If I go to to any of those places I will enjoy it every minute of it. I live in the US for a very long time and one of the thing i love about the US is that i am expose to people that cames from different culture all the time. To me that is so invigorating. I love it❤
So many Museums because of France's colonial past. Just like British, French also collected rewards from all those poor countries when they ruled over them. All the important religious artifacts, Buddha statues etc belong to China are in London Museums. It is what it is...
What's wrong with having artifacts in other countries museums for everyone to see? Most of the countries in the world don't YET really respect such things, so why not have it be experienced by others until then?
@@JohnDorian-j7x They were looted from the countries they colonized and displaying it now in museum like trophies from their ill-gotten gains. Some museum charge entrance fee too.
@@JohnDorian-j7x My point is they are wrong to do this and then benefiting later from their crimes. Looting is wrong and displaying their looted stuff and charging people to see it, is disgusting. However, if you don't understand then, then its ok. Judging from all of your comments you made, you are definitely one of those anti Chinese troll or China hater who has already made up his mind about China. You will not get it with whatever I say.
Spent 4 years in Beijing during and after the 2008 Olympics. The reason Chinese run the other way when there's trouble is because of cases when helpers or passers-by were blamed by the victim for whatever happened and forced to pay a huge monetary settlement. So many people looking for whatever financial benefit they can get, whether it's fair or not. No one's looking out for anyone but themselves.
This was a very informative conversation. Some things I had not heard of. I must say the bit about waiting your turn to speak or overlapping is interesting. I grew up in New England. I was taught to always wait your turn and never interrupt. My fiance is from the mid-west. And although she listens intently to everyone when they speak, she overlaps frequently. We are both aware of each other's style of speaking and it helps, but I often find it an issue because I feel interrupted or can't get a word in edge wise. She doesn't mean anything negative by it, it is just how she learned. I pause quite long even when I have more to say. I am slow, methodical and thoughtful. It's a relaxing way of being.
MAX, I went back inside to change my shoes to keep the room clean. Otherwise, it would be too troublesome to mop the floor frequently. In many Asian countries, you basically have to change into slippers when entering the house.
China and Asia in general is the future with the most growth and excitement. That being said, America is the only Western country in the world that is more aligned with Asia in terms of innovation, workaholic culture, entrepreneurship and chasing a dream.
Growth and excitement? Maybe until ~2020... but China will be and is shrinking at the fastest rate in the world except for maybe South Korea (in fact, almost all east asians are shrinking). So growth is gone... and, unfortunately, that will drastically reduce the "excitement" as well.
I’m a Canadian and have lived in China and Asia almost 20 years. And I’ve traveled and spent a lot of time in the USA. I’d much rather live in China and Asia than in Canada. And I wouldn’t want to live in the USA
@6:54 This lady has got it right! The way things are done in a culture of 5000 years "are for a reason". Some foreigners are so quick to scoff at squat toilets in China. But they do not bother to find out the reasons for squat toilets. Similarly, for taking off our shoes when entering the house.
@@joyce4165 Agree. I am sure some elderly in China will have the same problem, especially if overweight. But my point is not to scoff at the ways things are done in other countries without understanding the reasons. I suspect only the Public Toilets are squat toilets nowadays.
I thought that taking off shoes before going into a house made sense until I was talking to a podiatrist. She said she always made people keep their shoes on as she had seen too many feet up close and preferred the dirt on shoes!
As someone who's lived in China for 13yrs, it's quite interesting to hear the take of someone who was obviously quite sheltered while here was. We all have so many similar and dissimilar experiences with being expats :)
School examination grade is a public record, published in many Europe countries for example UK, France up to University Ph.D level. It is spelt out in the school information booklet.
I totally relate all of this. Also totally relate to missing food. It is so important to pick up things from where you live and learn to cook them. But in addition..... I found myself most at home in Sweden but there is a lot of things I love about Indonesia too. So maybe different people have naturally different inclinations.
Believe me, I live in Australia and Malaysia for the last 50 years. Australia definitely has slided down in all aspects of everything while Malaysia not being perfect definitely have more opportunities.😂😂
I'm Chinese ethnically but born and raised in California silicon valley...I work in software and want to move away but I'm already in the best area for my field so there is no getting away from my parents. They checkmated me from birth 😂
@@gregroyal123 I’m talking about job prospect and monetary compensation. Naturally humans move for better monetary opportunities that’s what I was referring to
@@laughoutmeow There's a difference between "Compensation" and Quality of life. If you earn ... 70%, but your cost of living is 50%, the "Compensation" is actually better. . Not to mention, if you took cash saved to Shenzhen it would set you up nicely.
lovely lady ...her cultural insights helped me better define myself.. very americanized european as I am kind of open and extrovertish and spent a lot of time around Americans but with a strong orientation on family so Eurasian thanks you
If move to another country to live there a while, then it is on you to learn how to behave, not expect those living there to teach you everything when you find the time. Peoples have their lives, so if to become a part of others then it takes some work and have to fit in. Most will be friendly and help if approach in the local way. If peoples seems unfriendly, then take the hint and maybe do some research. Depends also on the area, big city and countryside can be two different things, along where in a country. Almost worst are those that do not bother try learn (some of) the language if to be there some years.
Squatting to poop is the right way over sitting to poop based on how our body anatomy is designed. It is easier for poop to go down and you won't be over occupying the toilet because your knee hurts 😂
All of Asia used to have squatting toilet, but now they change all of them to sitting one. In my country most of new house also install sitting toilet, including my house. But we still squat when using it because it just feel so natural for our body 😂😂
This is very true. Pooping will be much harder when you get older sitting on toilet seats that are usually too high and your feet aren't planting on the ground firmly. A footstool helps for better bowel movements.
When I lived in France and some of the night clubs had the squatting toilets😂 I would take my gay friend to the bathroom with me so he can pull me up - you know - after a couple of drinks, you need help to get back up😂🤣😂🤣
True. With the possible exception of San Francisco or NYC, but of course both are more dangerous than any Chinese city. Outside of safety though, the international aspects of these American cities are really nice with the diverse cuisine and the wide variety of cultures and I hope that when you come back to America that you have a great time.
A look at the US ICE Website reveal that this year more than 30,000 Chinese immigrants risking limbs and life crossing the border into USA illegally. And finally, why is that when Chinese make a little money fled abroad and send their kids and money oversea?
@@Chayanika2074 It depends on what you care about. If you like endless history and culture, you will prefer Beijing (not that Hangzhou doesn't have these, just not as much). If you care about gentle natural environment, slow-paced but modern urban life, you will prefer Hangzhou (Beijing suffers from sandstorms from Mongolia almost every autumn and winter). Other than that, they are not much different. Oh by the way, in the eyes of Chinese people, both two cities are food deserts, local food is not considered tasty enough, but of course, they also have a large number of other provincial restaurants.
Awesome interview and a great interviewee!! Putting your in other shoes is easy to say but very difficult to do! She has very strong empathy and could relate her experience to those who immigrated to her country. If everyone does the same, the gaps between different ethnics would be gone!
That's NOT what's "advertised in the West", lol. Its the core of the family unit (just like most every other country), so its the most talked about... but to ignore the grandparents is insane. And as long as you haven't moved away from your home area, you should have all kinds of cousins and uncles/aunties.
Nothing is flawless, same as countries. Respect one’s country socioeconomic system, no matter it is pseudo-capitalism, socialism, or pseudo-communism. Don’t preach diversity, equity and inclusion if you can’t even do it in the UN or global community.
I’m an American who lived in China for 10 years. Actress and woman with kids is bound to be a much a different experience than teacher and man with no kids. This guest was living a very prestigious and (from the sound of it) sheltered life in China. Without lots of money and strong connections, local Chinese life is a lot of pain and sacrifice. But the perspective on this guest’s feelings was interesting, anyway. Keep up the good work, Max!
@@ellisonleo5856 In some places, like in tanking economies that have relied too heavily on foreign direct investment and real estate bubbles never bursting, your life will be much harder and much less hopeful than in others that didn't.
by the people,for the peolpe,of the people:NO by the wallstreet,by the military indutrial complexes,by the lobbyists, by the oliarchys:YES YES us congress/ neocons
I was in Paris, 2 years before covid. I was traveling alone ,with no understanding of the language besides 10 words and phrases. IT WAS SUCH a wonderful experience, everyone was so friendly, so willing to help. I was there for 7 days. Only one strange incident was with an insecure American who thought I was french ... It was ever BETTER in the South of France.... I LOVE FRANCE SO MUCH !!! ❤❤❤❤🇫🇷
As a brown, short, and dark-skinned woman, my experiences traveling to China, Hong Kong, Korea, Singapore, and Japan are much different from this woman. I feel welcome in Thailand. That's why I love the country. For the record, this is my experience and not someone else.
Regarding "bullet holes in the buildings": I remember reading the autobiography of a Finnish WWII officer, Adolf Erhnrooth, who at a reunion of veterans asked a former soldier if he had been at a certain battlefield. "Yes, he said, and in the final stage I fought on my own farm yard." That blew my mind, having to fight the invader on your own yard. A European experience that luckily the Americans never have experienced in modern times.
Having lived in a few countries across different cultures, I have learnt to accept and adopt the good parts of the culture. It's like this funny conversation I heard between a European and an Asian. The European was griping that toilet paper was hard to find in an Asian toilet and it's disgusting to use water. The Asian asked, 'If you put your hand in shit would it be better to wash or to wipe?
Yeah France is great, US is great, China is great, here we are in Indonesia, the streets are stuck, traffic is bad, infrastructure is bad, medical system is slow, many people still poor, but good thing is people still smiling in their face, do not know why the government so sluggish, they do not even think about it, let alone to fix it!
Of course all the countries are different that's what makes the world go round. And I agree the USA is having a Society collapse I just don't understand why people can't get it in their mind just to do the right thing no matter what choices you're going to make you should think about it and say am I doing the right thing yes or no we all know the difference between right and wrong we all know treating people poorly is not the answer Karma will get you treat people badly we all have the same destiny every one of us and everything that breathes this are we are going to witness death eventually I don't know why everyone can't make this time on Earth Pleasant for someone else
Good conversation. I've lived on 4 continents, in 6 countries, and an island. US and Canada, naturally as well as the Far East, Africa, and now Europe for the past 32 years. Language learning is essential to be part of local society, having friends, etc. In the early 90s I found that where I lived was more civilized than in the US, as shops would close at noon or 1pm, and not open until Monday. It's changed now, but still not 24/7 as it was for some grocery stores in LA when I left. Tourists have stopped me on the street for help in English, once they got the info, I would be complimented on my English, but would not disappoint them, accepting their compliment. When speaking German, most people think I come from the Netherlands, which is great. My daughter is European, has traveled extensively in Europe, as well as the US and Canada, also 6 months in Korea attending a Uni semester there, and is now scheduled for a Master's semester in China. She speaks German, English, Japanese, Korean, and is learning Chinese. The likelihood of her having these experiences might not have come about had she been born and raised in the US. While visiting Hungary during the Iron Curtain times, a fellow traveler said the best value for one's money was to travel, the memories will be with you forever.
Where would you rather live - China or the USA?
Singapore 🇸🇬 😂
There is no best place anywhere, unless you are good at being grateful ❤
@@cregitindonesia but what's your preference?
Enjoy your TH-cam so much❤. Doesn't matter China USA Europe Singapore or etc with someone CAPABLE like you (which I'm not). You can survive and get along in any country by enjoying your life for who I admire and impress to. Anyway I am from Malaysia and stay in Malaysia with my wife (french). Consider to move to France one day with her. It is a big move for me. So looking on TH-cam to get some advices maybe and found your video 👍. I started follow you.
USA
im irish 45, from ireland but have been living overseas for the last 15 years. i lived at usa, mexico and china at the duration of 5 years each. im a middle age white man with 2 master's degree and work at the tech field. this is my opinion and what i saw & felt living there. in usa, yankees are rude to all and can be downright mean at times. in mexico, light skinned mexicans step on dark skinned mexicans, asians & blacks 24/7. however, mexicans love and respect only white people. my life at china was so wonderful, shocking and extremely memorizing. china is so big with both old and modern cultures at the same time. there was so much to see, do, feel, eat, etc... no one can do it all in a lifetime. i love how the young people treat and care for the old with so much admiration & dedication. plus, the chinese were so nice & sweet to all people, regardless of money, power, race, age, etc. the chinese people is a culture everyone can learn, teach, gain & benefit from. thank you!
Really interesting to hear your experiences in these different countries. What a life you have lived!
Come on. Your English does not look like native Irish at all.
@@4-SeasonNature years of living overseas will do that.
@@LW78321 thanks LW
@@4-SeasonNatureSounds Irish to me all right...😅
Chinese myself, went to school and worked in the US over two decades.
Recently I made a decision of moving back to China, very happy about it. 🎉
Nice! Why?
Me too ❤
Good we don’t want CCP loyalists in the west.
@@MaxChernov personally speaking, same economic status, China’s living standards is higher. It is hard to believe, right?
Nice!
I lived and studied in China for 11 years. I've been staying in America for 7 years. I miss China every day.
Why not move back then?
@@JohnDorian-j7x none of your business.
@@woodyquach4302 Then why comment? Also, didn't ask you
@@JohnDorian-j7x It is almost impossible for foreigners to stay in China. In such a huge country, only 7000 foreigners get green cards
@@allaboutchinaeverthing What's your point?
As I Chinese who has lived in UK for 10 years and travelled most of Europe, last year we made the decision to move back to my Country China, the best decision I have made, don’t let western media fool you, come and see China with your own eyes, you will find China is one of the safest country with best infrastructure and hard working and friendly people 🇨🇳
I'm doing the same this year
Why did you leave in the first place and why were you gone for so long?
@@JohnDorian-j7xTo see the world and experience the difference, believe me it will make you love your own country even more, instead of sitting in your mom’s basement and believing everything your government told you even you can’t afford to pay the rent and can’t even go out in the evening because of the violence outside, they still tell you what you have is the best !
@@maggiema2777 Ahhh, I see... so, in other words, you're just a pinkie. I might have believed you if you had just said the first couple lines of your sentence, but the whole "instead of sitting in your mom’s basement and believing everything your government told you even you can’t afford to pay the rent and can’t even go out in the evening because of the violence outside, they still tell you what you have is the best!" tells me everything you're attempting to do by campaigning a certain prop position to the public western world. Its quite unfortunate. China's future was looking quite bright for quite a long time... however... that all changed after Xi Xinping took control of China. The last half decade has been outright disastrous for China and its citizens... whereas in the mid 2010s, all of my Chinese engineering friends were all bright eyed and hopeful and planning to return back to China to work eventually... in the 2020s, they're all trying to leave China and get any sort of job overseas even if they're not full/well compensated positions. Its unfortunate, because China was really starting to look like a great place to be... its crazy how fast that can change in a half decade or so. SMH.
Free China! Free the Chinese people! Let the Chinese people be heard! Stop Chinese CCP censorship of the Chinese people's opinions! Stop the persecution of non-CCP sanctioned thoughts and opinions! Stop the CCP's military build up and bullying of its neighbors like Vietnam, the Philippines, India, Taiwan, Bhutan, Nepal, Malaysia, and Indonesia etc! Sanction the CCP government for crimes against humanity in Xinjian! Sanction the CCP for supplying Russia with military and economic support for its invasion of Ukraine! Give Taiwan the military aide to defend itself from Chinese invasion! Give the Philippines the military aide and allied support to defend itself from Chinese threats and harassment! Give Vietnam the support to protect its sovereignty from Chinese incursion and allure! Pray for the Chinese people that they be protected from their CCP government forces! Pray for peace and prosperity for the Chinese people! Free China!
Back to China and you will want to leave it again soon.
I’d rather live in China. I think they’re moving in the right direction for their people, it’s cleaner, a lot safer, developed and a stable economy years ahead.
I live in China for 16 years. All your descriptions of China are total wrong. DEFINITELY not cleaner and economy is in shambles. I do not know where you got your ideas from.
Please hurry up and move
@@Dogsrcute823 it's not easy movingto another country; especially when it's far & you don't speak the language
No it's easy. Its China!
@@Dogsrcute823 What's the problem with you , haha, YOU HAVE NEVER BEEN TO CHINA YET!
I m chinese and My gf is from Thailand, before she visit China for the 1st time she was scared. After stay in China specifically Shanghai, she said she doesn't want to leave. And she wants to become a chinese.
For that, you have the western government and western propaganda media to thank for. Even today the u$ government has travel advisory for its citizens against traveling to China, go figure that.
Why was she "scared" of China? Its not like it 1950 or something anymore... China's been very nice and developed (at least in the first tier cities) for many, many years now.
@@JohnDorian-j7x, stereotypes about China are very powerful, worldwide, and have persisted for many years till this very day due to the media constantly demonizing China.
But once you've experienced China for yourself, then you realize how wonderful it is, and how the media unfairly has cast China in a negative light.
So that's why his Thai girlfriend, understandably, would be scared of going to China until she experienced it for the first time for herself.
@@JohnDorian-j7xApparently it's the western media want you to feel that way.
@@hanjustin4311 ... she's not from the west...
Alden is such a well rounded person. We need more open minded people like her. Thanks for sharing your life experience.
5:30 Wow this is the least fact checked interview ever, I've never heard an American say assimilate. However, last I checked, since 2004, France has a law that bans the wearing of religious symbols in public schools! So I can't even with this interview!
I’m Chinese who lived in Europe and America for 20 years, and I visited Paris twice last year… most of the French I met were super nice, I’ve hardly experienced weirdness in France compared to other European countries lol 😂 I recently moved back to China, it’s nice to finally come home after seeing the world 😊
精致利己主义者，哪里好哪里跑
I think ever teen needs to experiance living in a country for one years and compare notes with other students
I'm from hong kong. I had a conversation with an American lady 40 years ago. We talked about American value. She said ' American believe that nobody is better than the other, They are only different.' Since then, it has become my value. I don't see Americans still hold that value.
you are Chinese, dont feel HK gives you a leverage
When they said 'all men are born equal', they still owned slaves.
Some are more equal than others.😂
When american says people are equal, they really mean it, but not what their politician thinks.
Nobody is better than others, except we Americans . Its called America exceptionism
I've lived and worked in China for the past ten years. (Having lived in the UK, Europe, America, Australia and North Africa)
China wins hands down. The best analogy I can relate is that China to me is like a beehive ~ 'We're Chinese ~ This is China' ~ the principle works in nature ~ and it works in China ~ (And that unity has nothing to do with what the west sees as communism or the Communist Party of China ~ It's far deeper than that.. ~ China has Unity ~ That's why it's peaceful and has such phenomenal proven and unquestionable progress ~ and all this without firing a single bullet or bombing another country to smithereens. Go figure..
Ha!! Ha!! Most Of Chinese present land including Tibet is STOLEN by the communist #CCP with genocide of Tibetans & many others!!
And.. you say no bullet was fired??!! SHAMEFUL!!
Are you saying that any other country does NOT, in fact, "have unity"? How is China any different than any other patriotic country in that respect?
Also... skimmed past this part somehow... but "without firing a single bullet or bombing" is completely untrue, LOL. Tibet, Mongolia, Vietnam, India, Pakistan, etc.?
@@JohnDorian-j7x twit.
The communist party has been successful in not just brainwashing the gullible Chinese but also the international community!!
Recently even Parisian Museums were collaborating with these monstrous communist animals to erase the name of Tibet from history!!
Wow, I must say she has great insights and feedback on cultural differences, life. I think this is one of the best interview yet. Bravo!
I am British of Chinese descent, lived in England for 54 years and counting. I have travelled extensively all over the world. What fascinates me about China is that the so-called communists don't really exist in purest form; it is just an ideology. The Chinese government looks after the people. You can tell from the way the leaders talk, act and achieve. For example, you don't find homeless people in China.
Over in the United Kingdom, this week there have been lots of media discussing about the causes and extent of homelessness. In London alone, there are 183,000 homeless people, and nationwide there are between 300,000 and 400,000 homeless people in one of the wealthiest countries in the world. It breaks my heart listening to stories about them.
Chinese immigrants study and work hard wherever they are, making a better life for themselves and their families. The Chinese people have been capitalists for thousands of years. The bad labelling of China as communists is poorly constructed, simply based on the fact that the country is ruled by the Communist Party of China. It could have been easily renamed the Civilization Party of China, but the West still would regard China as some kind of enemy because it is revitalizing itself in leaps and bounds.
exactly i totally agree!!
Unfortunately UK and the entire Anglosphere (and the rest of the west) have been led down a very dangerous path.
Some claim it's subversive work of the axis(especially Chinese government which holds grudges) and it doesn't sound unreasonable if you follow the trends.
The east has it's strengths a d weaknesses(as every place in the world) and hopefully the Eurocentric perception will cease being so strong and we could all learn from eachother and work together for a better world, and not just to strengthen our own civilizations.
Sure but we shouldn’t pretend people can say anything against their government in china and not be detained
She is willing to learn the language of the place she goes, and thought that she should. That is already better than 99% Americans, who thought everyone everywhere should speak English to cater for them.
Yeah, I met an english woman who told me she lived 16 YEARS in Spain and did not learn the language. What was she expecting from me after saying that? A round of applause?
She said she can say 'thank you' and 'a baguette, please' in French. After two years, I'm not convinced that's a willingness to learn the language.
@@MazzerineSeashe learned Chinese... and she said, the french never let her practice and start speaking English immediately...
It becomes harder and harder to learn a new language the older you get
Americans are mostly very insular and sheltered , ignorant about the rest of the world . . Worse still , they have a misplaced sense of superiority and are supercilious in their interactions with person who are non white
Their biggest mistake is expecting everyone to be like them …..
@sandraankenbrand Not really true. Famously Steve Kaufman is one of the most famous polyglots, knows over a couple dozen languages, and half of them he can speak fairly fluently, and he didnt decide to start learning languages til in his late 50's and still learns languages proactively today into his 70's.
The problem is, like you said, the French aren't very inviting, especially to Americans, speaking their language. They're one of the most notorious for being rude to people who try to learn their language by speaking it. Not all obviously but its more common. So they'll just pick up on your English accent and proceed to speak only English with you, and ignore you speaking their language if they know English.
Alot of EU countries are famous for doing this amongst language learners. Sweden, Denmark, Finland etc. Alot of the language Learning community says to not bother learning any of their languages because they won't speak it with you, unless you learn it well enough to sound like a native.
Whereas in China, people love when you can speak mandarin when you're a foreigner and they appreciate it. Which is why I'm sure her mandarin grew to great fruition. Something I feel like should have been mentioned.
I knew Alden when she was living here in China. Really awesome to see her share her experiences here! This video just popped up on my feed and I thought to myself, what a small world!
I loved this conversation. I have lived in Asia for over 25 years and I understand many of the observations both of you made. It also makes me think about how wonderful it is that we have different cultures and ways of doing things. It makes the world such a more interesting place. And although we come from different countries and cultures, we all want basically the same things: we want ourselves and our families to be safe and healthy and be free to find our own happiness
I really enjoyed this conversation. I would love to live in China! I feel like that would be such an amazing opportunity. I want to see China and US get along again.
True, if American easily have the chance to live in china and also Chinese can easily live in American, That's good for us to improve our life.
Unfortunately, there is no any possible, untill one crash down another one，white man only trust all win or all lose, even they studied 5000 years history of China, they still choose lose but harmonious(chinese so called `HE`)
I mean, who doesn't want to see China and US get along? lol. Its China's change in leadership since the mid 2010s that has drastically changed that relationship. Maybe once Xi leaves, things will get better... hopefully.
I really wish American and china relationship will be better!I I am Chinese married an American man, before covid live in china with my American kids ,people very friendly to us and felt so comfortable to live there ,since American and china relationship not good ,our family have difficulty time to live there
@@YaoBlaner It comes down to the politicians and their agendas. Right now, the US is deeply threatened by China being the second largest economy in the world and being displaced by China. As long as the US places more value in its fear of losing power, US politicians, and by extension, US media, will continue to only say bad things about China. Unfortunately, where I believe the majority of China's citizens are well-read, thoughtful and up-to-date on world events (from what I've seen), the vast majority of US citizens that I hear around me in the US only echo the fear and paranoia pumped by the local and national media, which leads to racism (something the US is shamefully good at). It is my hope that the common people of the US are able to find alternative sources of information that demonstrates China in a more positive light, so they are able to better understand for themselves that China is not evil and they are not our enemy. While every country has their issues, and those issues are not for me to comment on, I see China's friendship as being very important in the long-term, so the better thing for the US to do would be to approach China with a spirit of understanding and cooperation, stop putting down China and spreading lies.
France is fine but I find them somewhat rude. China is a nice peaceful place that is safe and much cleaner than a decade ago. As for the US, there are nice areas but the country has high crime and many cities are dirty and falling apart…
I agree but I don't understand why some of them are so rude overseas?
I believed that french were sophisticated people?
@@brevnobia1238 I live on the French border in Germany and the French are just like anyone else. Some are sophisticated, some are not. The entire France is not some fancy salon in Paris you know? Most of it consists of small agricultural towns and very dense industrial cities.
@@brevnobia1238 not everyday 😂 😂 we tend to come across as rude if you expect roundabout manners and not being forward, not as curt and matter of fact as germans but very painfully honest sometimes, seing more the half empty glass most of the time (to us USA's general positivity and enthusiasm feels fake, borderline delusional and more than a bit irritating). We see our take on life as being realistic, down to earth and genuine (as they would their endless smiles and hopes for fame and glory I guess), everyone has a personnal definition of what being genuine is, so it might vary ;)
If you can get used / past that you'll be fine.
High crimes at USA streets is nothing in comparison to USA crimes in world politics.
China.
For: affordable, safety, Culture, food, family, modern, cleaner, infrastructure, history, healthcare, people, government, freedom.
Freedom?😂
@@RaunakYadav-i2g What freedom? They certainly don't have the freedom to carry guns or smoke weeds. Be specific.
@@hyeung1 isn't that nice?
@@RaunakYadav-i2g Maybe to you but definitely not to me and a lot of other people, even in the US.
Focus more on the freedom that really matters to improve the quality of life. Not these unnecessary BS.
@@RaunakYadav-i2gI have to say the Americans have the 'freedom of speech' like Edward Snowden, Chelsea Manning and oh Julian Assange too. Whatever happened ro these people. One is on exile, one been to jail because of her freedom of speech and Julian, well he was imprisoned for his part of 'freedom of speech'. Does the US have freedom? Really?
Whichever country works for you, it’s the best. I ask my college age children to travel the world, figure out who they are, and which country they like the best to live and work at certain period of lives.
We are lucky, to be able to travel for fun !
There are more people on this panet, who either may not ore do not have the money to travel. Other people leave their country because of war or other issues!
So we are very privileged und lucky, to be able to do what we do!
Wow, what a pleasant conversation and full of interesting experiences. Bravo!
Many Americans are very insular people, they don't really have a clue or care what is happening in Washington DC let alone the outside world. When I used to travel to work in business in the U.S. I was surprised how old fashioned and backward many communities are in certain American states are. IMO some Americans do seem to be a bit superficial. It is very refreshing when you meet an American who has travelled and lived outside the U.S. they are like Alden in the video, their eyes have been open.
Great sharing. More foreigners should visit China.
I am British born Chinese..I would love to live in China then UK
What’s stoping you?
@@xbman1 language probably most BBC speak Cantonese not mandarin
You can move to China. It’s easy. As long as you can prove You buy a house. You can start a small business. You can do it
@@xbman1a job or immigration laws, maybe family, lol. What do you think?!
Can you be British and Chinese? very different cultures.
China for me.
Not so much because of the fantastic infrastructure and technologies, which are all very good, but my number one is safety. I've lived and worked in several countries and I feel safest in China.
come to chicago your safe as long as your members of the latin king, orthe black ston rangers,or the cribbs in LA .
should visit chicago,20,000 black stone rangers for your enjoyment
Only if you are not Japanese. The stab incident happened to the Japanese in China is more than once
@@elllllllle939 If you compare the proportion of Asians who are harmed in the United States to the proportion of Japanese who are harmed in China, you will find that it is at least 100 times. At least once a Japanese is harmed in China, it will make the headlines of the Chinese media. It is difficult in the United States because there are too many.
@@elllllllle939come to Oakland, will show you something that you have never seen before and hear at night, not fireworks if you are wondering.
As a Chinese person， I think she possesses the attitude we all need as human.
It's amazing how living abroad can broaden your horizons. I think it makes us understand each other as humans better. To be open minded to other cultures is one of the greatest gifts of life.
Chinese classic- “respect others as you want to be respected!!”
The first lesson we learn in class.
国家和人民都坚持一个原则就是彼此尊重和平相处
Also taught in Europe
@@sandraankenbrand In some countries it is a moral standard, in some countries it is just political correctness
It is a universal classic. It is an old French "dicton". Even Jesus said so in the Bible. Universal.
@@XuepengGao its a moral standard in Europe too, taught by parents… since ages… dont mix the USA with Europe
She’s a beautiful lady, inside and out.
Came here to agree....very not american
I dont know if she is beautiful inside as I do not know her - but outside she is to me. I love she let and dare to be natural with out industrial amount of a make up which makes her look even younger despite she has not just natural gray hair but long gray hair but as she wear very small and discrete amount of a make up she do look naturally young and delightful
Since she was often cast as the villain because she's American, perhaps she might understand the plight of Asian Americans, who until very recently were relegated to roles as villains, or as one-dimensional stock characters like martial artists or nerds. Difference is, Asians have been here in large numbers for well over a century, yet they have been portrayed as outsiders. Americans in China are almost always expats, living there temporarily like this woman. So while being cast as the mean CEO isn't entirely fair, it makes a little more sense than routinely casting Asian Americans as foreigners.
I think the anglophone countries tend to be more individualistic. It makes sense if you consider how far flung the old colonies are - people literally moved thousands of kilometers away from their families and friends. The early history of settlements can be quite definitive for those countries. People in the UK or Europe are really set in their way because all those with a sense of adventure left for the colonies. In terms of the UK - you would have to be really old money with all your assets tied up in the country to want to stay in a place with such dreary weather.
Chinese also trade all over the world from ancient time.
But we neither force india people plant and sell opium, nor trade black slaves, nor massacre american indigenous people, and celebrate Thanksgiving shamelessly.
Max, hi. It’s not just in China 🇨🇳 that people take off their shoes 👞 when entering a household. This is the Asian culture where inside the house 🏡 is clean and outdoor shoes are NOT to be walked into with. Same with Singapore 🇸🇬, Malaysia 🇲🇾, Japan 🇯🇵, Hong Kong 🇭🇰, India 🇮🇳, Korea 🇰🇷, Indonesia 🇮🇩, the Philippines 🇵🇭…..etc….
As for me and my family, we have lived in Japan 🇯🇵 and now Hong Kong 🇭🇰, we have been brought up to be aware of cleaniness, hygiene and a sign of respect 🫡 as not to dirty the interior of the house.
As the lady said, American and European just walk into their house with shoes on and some even have their shoes on while relaxing on the bed 🛏️ or while on the sofa 🛋️.
As Indonesian. I still don't understand, why westerners don't take off their shoes in the house. As it's dirty, and maybe they use public toilet, which is considered unhygienic.
@@OoomKoch they obviously like to bring the grot from outside into the house. 😂
No in Germany or Scandinavia you also normally take off the shoes before entering the house.
Even Sweden
@@fynnschumann7661 really?
as a southeast asian (no chinese ancestry), and a heavy smoker... the squat toilet is heaven on earth for me 🎉🎉
As Indonesian, squat toilet is so good for people who has pooping problem, and make it easier task... 😂... but in my age that has knee problem, i prefer sitting toilet... 😊
❤@@OoomKoch
as Indonesian who born in 90', i love them both, squat or sit but i prefer squat more with cigarettes if someone said its disguisting cus u can look your poops ! well i dont think so, its just a poops, its natural, anyway air polution and walkside with trash is more disguisting than poops cus its have more germ in it ! the pro for squat is actually able to see your poops and smell your poops too, so you know how good your health esp your stomach health from doing that
@@OfficialKrayoon 😂
Squatting puts the lower body in a better position to execrete more efficiently just as one wouldn't expect a female to urinate from a standing position. 😂😂😂😂
My husband is American and I’m a Malaysian Chinese living in the US past 45 years.
We’ve also lived in Germany for a few years.
Our observations is that every country has its pros and cons. There are wonderful amazing people and culture in all countries and there are also mean angry, cruel and entitled people in every country.
Where you prefer to live is a very individual choice sometimes influenced by factors such as opportunities for your children at the expense of your own comfort and taste.
I feel the rule of thumb is if you’re nice to others, sincere about your intentions and fairly open minded to different cultures, you will enjoy and appreciate what each culture or country offers you; despite inconveniences or challenges.
But if you want to feel you’re better than others because of your race, nationality, wealth, intelligence or appearance; then you’re bound to feel aggrieved or unhappy because you’re not getting what you’re “entitled” to.
don't lecture us hindus and pinoys
I have spent a lot of time in China over the last 30 years. As an Anthropologist it has been amazing to watch the transformation in Chinese society and culture in that time period. I never met anyone in China who matched that description since the late 90's. And if you studied the teachings of Confucius, upon which Chinese society operates today? You will understand why. Confucius teaches that with great wealth, comes even greater social responsibilities. And that only by living up to those responsibilities? Can one achieve balance and harmony in ones life. 30 years ago the Chinese were rude, uncouth, obnoxious and greedy. Just like their occupiers had been for 100 years. Today? They are almost Japanese in their mannerisms and respectfulness.
@@davefroman4700 No, it is an insult to chinese by comparing them with japanese. Japanese mannerisms and respectfulness is superficial with skin-depth only.
Very interesting conversation, I loved it very much. And she has such a lovely voice and manner of speaking, that was a joy to hear, too.
I just came across this interview... very informative and dissolved many preconceptions about different cultures and even though I'm Canadian could relate to many of the topics discussed. Thank you Max. Please continue adding these type of interviews
still watching but couldnt help note that Musk is not American.. Born in South Africa and moved to Canada at 18 if im not mistaken.
but building all his biggest projects now in the US
And an American citizen.
He's African American
Elon Musk once mentioned that as a boy, he dreamed of America as the shining land of opportunity and inventiveness. Later in life, he pointed out that the vision of nationalistic energy he dreamed about was actually more true in China. He compared the speed and quality of the construction of his car factory in the US to his car factory in China, noting that the Chinese factory was built much quicker and with much higher quality.
Musk is NOT.... a good example of US doing good.
One thing she said about Chinese culture that I disagree with Chinese cultures have always been making your own paths and be creative about it for thousands of years. I have worked with Europeans for many years as their business partners, what I could not stand is per what the lady said, its established norm and they think it’s the “best practice” and that’s how it should be done and was so stubborn and wasn’t willing to change.
One example, many years ago, in one of my high tech project, in which the German excelled in this niche tech, where there were only a few quality suppliers in the world. They came and was so arrogant and told us they have the best tech and showed us their samples, however what they forgot was that the product we wanted was to be used on Asians and for Asians market. They didn’t believe us that we have a supplier that can do better than what they had, then we showed them our samples and pointed out the differences which they wouldn’t have noticed as Europeans, but credit to these Germans, they acknowledged the differences and praised the supplier product but boy, it took me so much time and efforts to make them understand, luckily they have one engineer that really understands us and helped us convinced their management, which wouldn’t have happened if not for that guy. The Chinese in such cases would have gone back straight away and try to figure out in anyway they can to work out a solution, rather than spending time arguing with the customers and try to convince them their product is the best.
What "products" were they specifically? And what were they supposed to be used for?
@@JohnDorian-j7x Trade Confidentiality.
I totally agree. I've worked in Germany for many years, and have had a lot to do with China, and some other European countries.
There was a way that my Chinese colleagues were ready and willing to try something new, and not go through bureaucracy that is so refreshing.
The Germans on the other hand have to do things in a very methodical (and painfully slow) way. It also works, but it's a totally different culture. I found Italy much more like China in getting things done quickly. Also the food in Italy and China is great.
I prefer to do things quickly (yes more mistakes can be made, but good results come sooner, usually), because I'm impatient and enjoy the creative work.
People are happier when being creative. Bureaucracy is bad for the psyche.
Really great interview. Thanks for the video.
Spot on. I spent 20 years in China and now 20 years in Europe, her observations are excellent. I would find it very difficult to move back to the states after learning how big the world is. My adult children experienced their k-13 school on 3 continents and don't have that strong desire to be in the states, other than seeing family.
The [commentary and content are equally wonderful] series.
I'm a 66 year old Dutch guy. The last decade it's clear that European mentalities are getting closer and more egalitarian. Modern (young) Europeans want to belong to an international group of cosmopolitan people.
I am European and what you ssy is NOT TRUE for the Half of the European.
It is the US force the EU for to go against THE EUROPEAN.
THE SAME WAY THEY PLAYED OUT ALL AND EVERY GOVERMENT IN THE WORLD FOR TO REPLACE IT WITH DICTATORS AND MURDERS LIKE THE US and THE UK SO CALLED PLANNER OF THE EMPERIALISM WHICH IS AGAINST THE HUMAN RACE FOR THE SAKE OF THE TECHNOLOGY and Industrialism GREED and money GRABBING OR STEELING OPENLY
When i meet western toilet i don’t wanna sit on it, i do squat, it feels unhygiene when sit on it, and i prefer water than tissue
Spot on! That's my main concern! I "half squat" when using western toilet!
Is that why sometime I see footprints on those toilet board? 😂 If doing so please be considerate clean the board after use. lol
@@sola4393 i used to clean it up, but usually avoid to using it, if it not urgence enough, hha
I normally get some clean toilet paper and clean the sit before I sit down and also after I have used the toilet, it is just courtesy for others. I hate those wet toilet in SEA , the water contains your left over feaces and urine, just getting everything wet and dirty for others.
I agree that using water is cleaner than toilet paper. But wiping your butt with bare hand is equally unhygienic. Because unless you wash your hands thoroughly with soap for at least 20 seconds each time, there is no guarantee that harmful bacteria will be removed. Japanese style bidets are the best choice.
This is so interesting. The difference among cultures. If I go to to any of those places I will enjoy it every minute of it.
I live in the US for a very long time and one of the thing i love about the US is that i am expose to people that cames from different culture all the time. To me that is so invigorating. I love it❤
so nice to watch this conversation,
This is such an enlightening and honest interview. Thank you.
So many Museums because of France's colonial past. Just like British, French also collected rewards from all those poor countries when they ruled over them. All the important religious artifacts, Buddha statues etc belong to China are in London Museums. It is what it is...
Utter BS, I'm sure your are french, thats 's the kind of BS brainwhashed younger french woke would say.
What's wrong with having artifacts in other countries museums for everyone to see? Most of the countries in the world don't YET really respect such things, so why not have it be experienced by others until then?
@@JohnDorian-j7x They were looted from the countries they colonized and displaying it now in museum like trophies from their ill-gotten gains. Some museum charge entrance fee too.
@@bldomain Okay. What's your point?
@@JohnDorian-j7x My point is they are wrong to do this and then benefiting later from their crimes. Looting is wrong and displaying their looted stuff and charging people to see it, is disgusting. However, if you don't understand then, then its ok. Judging from all of your comments you made, you are definitely one of those anti Chinese troll or China hater who has already made up his mind about China. You will not get it with whatever I say.
Spent 4 years in Beijing during and after the 2008 Olympics. The reason Chinese run the other way when there's trouble is because of cases when helpers or passers-by were blamed by the victim for whatever happened and forced to pay a huge monetary settlement. So many people looking for whatever financial benefit they can get, whether it's fair or not. No one's looking out for anyone but themselves.
This was a very informative conversation. Some things I had not heard of. I must say the bit about waiting your turn to speak or overlapping is interesting. I grew up in New England. I was taught to always wait your turn and never interrupt. My fiance is from the mid-west. And although she listens intently to everyone when they speak, she overlaps frequently. We are both aware of each other's style of speaking and it helps, but I often find it an issue because I feel interrupted or can't get a word in edge wise. She doesn't mean anything negative by it, it is just how she learned. I pause quite long even when I have more to say. I am slow, methodical and thoughtful. It's a relaxing way of being.
MAX, I went back inside to change my shoes to keep the room clean. Otherwise, it would be too troublesome to mop the floor frequently. In many Asian countries, you basically have to change into slippers when entering the house.
except in india,outdoor defication is a norm blessed by the hindi gods
China and Asia in general is the future with the most growth and excitement. That being said, America is the only Western country in the world that is more aligned with Asia in terms of innovation, workaholic culture, entrepreneurship and chasing a dream.
Growth and excitement? Maybe until ~2020... but China will be and is shrinking at the fastest rate in the world except for maybe South Korea (in fact, almost all east asians are shrinking). So growth is gone... and, unfortunately, that will drastically reduce the "excitement" as well.
are you smoking kamquat shoots, ask trump and biden: "china is our #1 threat"they are eating our lunch and raping us/ trump.
She is really insightful
❤ China! 😊
This was a very insightful and interesting interview. Both Max and Alden are very smart, sympathetic, and engaging people. Thanks for posting!
I’m a Canadian and have lived in China and Asia almost 20 years. And I’ve traveled and spent a lot of time in the USA. I’d much rather live in China and Asia than in Canada. And I wouldn’t want to live in the USA
@6:54 This lady has got it right! The way things are done in a culture of 5000 years "are for a reason". Some foreigners are so quick to scoff at squat toilets in China. But they do not bother to find out the reasons for squat toilets. Similarly, for taking off our shoes when entering the house.
Most Americans would find it impossible to get up from a squat toilet.
@@joyce4165 Agree. I am sure some elderly in China will have the same problem, especially if overweight. But my point is not to scoff at the ways things are done in other countries without understanding the reasons. I suspect only the Public Toilets are squat toilets nowadays.
I thought that taking off shoes before going into a house made sense until I was talking to a podiatrist. She said she always made people keep their shoes on as she had seen too many feet up close and preferred the dirt on shoes!
@@freebornjohn2687 😂😂😂
@@chew5461-l7f yes.
Everything she said is so true. It's an enjoyment to listen to her speak.
As someone who's lived in China for 13yrs, it's quite interesting to hear the take of someone who was obviously quite sheltered while here was.
We all have so many similar and dissimilar experiences with being expats :)
School examination grade is a public record, published in many Europe countries for example UK, France up to University Ph.D level. It is spelt out in the school information booklet.
In Africa too
She is right 500%. That is how we chinese are.
I really don't think 2 years in France count as enough experience to talk generally about Europe as a whole.
Honestly, China looks like a better country to raise a family.
the air quality is so bad there tho
@Alex.af.Nordheim where in China were you?
She hit the nail in the head! Great video! Thanks
I totally relate all of this. Also totally relate to missing food. It is so important to pick up things from where you live and learn to cook them. But in addition..... I found myself most at home in Sweden but there is a lot of things I love about Indonesia too. So maybe different people have naturally different inclinations.
Believe me, I live in Australia and Malaysia for the last 50 years.
Australia definitely has slided down in all aspects of everything while Malaysia not being perfect definitely have more opportunities.😂😂
ossies been abusive to the wallabys and red kanagroos.
According to traditional Chinese philosophy, life has no meaning, life is only a group of desires. When you can’t answer that question, it is normal
Meaning is derived through narrative; it all boils down to what story you choose to tell.
The Chinese just want to live in a secured country, free from fear of crime, hunger and a lack of opportunities. That's their meaning of life?
I'm Chinese ethnically but born and raised in California silicon valley...I work in software and want to move away but I'm already in the best area for my field so there is no getting away from my parents. They checkmated me from birth 😂
Shenzhen is far more advanced. I have worked in both Palo Alto and Shenzhen
@@gregroyal123 I’m talking about job prospect and monetary compensation. Naturally humans move for better monetary opportunities that’s what I was referring to
@@laughoutmeow
There's a difference between "Compensation" and Quality of life.
If you earn ... 70%, but your cost of living is 50%, the "Compensation" is actually better.
.
Not to mention, if you took cash saved to Shenzhen it would set you up nicely.
Guaranteed you'll be able to save more and have a higher quality of life in Shenzhen.@@laughoutmeow
@@gregroyal123 silicon valley is most software, Shenzhen hardware
lovely lady ...her cultural insights helped me better define myself..
very americanized european as I am kind of open and extrovertish and spent a lot of time around Americans but with a strong orientation on family so Eurasian
thanks you
Fantastic interview!
0:23 Nice to see my hometown Shenzhen❤, Zhuoyue Center is always amazing
消费太高，食品质量不高，不如小地方宜居，但是赚钱嘛，得忍
20 years in China! now retired and i stay here ❤😊🇨🇳
When a European smiles at you you know they mean it, when an American smiles at you you have no idea.
Please stay there 🙏
Auch a good interview and such a good guest. ❤❤❤
If move to another country to live there a while, then it is on you to learn how to behave, not expect those living there to teach you everything when you find the time. Peoples have their lives, so if to become a part of others then it takes some work and have to fit in. Most will be friendly and help if approach in the local way. If peoples seems unfriendly, then take the hint and maybe do some research. Depends also on the area, big city and countryside can be two different things, along where in a country. Almost worst are those that do not bother try learn (some of) the language if to be there some years.
Squatting to poop is the right way over sitting to poop based on how our body anatomy is designed.
It is easier for poop to go down and you won't be over occupying the toilet because your knee hurts 😂
All of Asia used to have squatting toilet, but now they change all of them to sitting one. In my country most of new house also install sitting toilet, including my house. But we still squat when using it because it just feel so natural for our body 😂😂
@@rian4104 i have both in my house.. lol..
@@rian4104 Oh NO!! Squatting doesn't Work for Everybody!!!!!
This is very true. Pooping will be much harder when you get older sitting on toilet seats that are usually too high and your feet aren't planting on the ground firmly. A footstool helps for better bowel movements.
When I lived in France and some of the night clubs had the squatting toilets😂 I would take my gay friend to the bathroom with me so he can pull me up - you know - after a couple of drinks, you need help to get back up😂🤣😂🤣
As a Chinese national, I'd say living in Beijing, China is way much better than living in any city in the US.
Is Hangzhou better than Beijing in any terms? Please let me know!
True. With the possible exception of San Francisco or NYC, but of course both are more dangerous than any Chinese city.
Outside of safety though, the international aspects of these American cities are really nice with the diverse cuisine and the wide variety of cultures and I hope that when you come back to America that you have a great time.
A look at the US ICE Website reveal that this year more than 30,000 Chinese immigrants risking limbs and life crossing the border into USA illegally. And finally, why is that when Chinese make a little money fled abroad and send their kids and money oversea?
@@Chayanika2074 It depends on what you care about. If you like endless history and culture, you will prefer Beijing (not that Hangzhou doesn't have these, just not as much). If you care about gentle natural environment, slow-paced but modern urban life, you will prefer Hangzhou (Beijing suffers from sandstorms from Mongolia almost every autumn and winter). Other than that, they are not much different. Oh by the way, in the eyes of Chinese people, both two cities are food deserts, local food is not considered tasty enough, but of course, they also have a large number of other provincial restaurants.
@@未央笑笑生 Thanks a lot for letting me know!
Really enjoyed this interview. Alden, I can tell you are an awesome human being!
So sweet.❤ Loved this video.
France is cool, germany is also cool country.
China, a beautiful and friendly safe country
not according to marco,trump,biden ,harris,rubio,chang,narraro, bolton,congress,modi the list goes on......
In African and Asian cultures they're taught to respect their elderly. In European and American cultures the older folks are treated like outcasts.
True words. As an African, that was one culture shock I encountered in the US.. lol
Not true
I am from Easten Europe and the families here take care of each other VERY MUCH INDEED and most the grandkids and the grand parents !
@@andreasmack694you practice “individualism” where as African and Asian cultures are more “community” oriented.
Very candid and enlightening conversation ! 👍👍
Awesome interview and a great interviewee!! Putting your in other shoes is easy to say but very difficult to do! She has very strong empathy and could relate her experience to those who immigrated to her country. If everyone does the same, the gaps between different ethnics would be gone!
She was able to learn the true meaning of "family" in China... It is not just a wife, husband and their kids as advertised in the West.
That's NOT what's "advertised in the West", lol. Its the core of the family unit (just like most every other country), so its the most talked about... but to ignore the grandparents is insane. And as long as you haven't moved away from your home area, you should have all kinds of cousins and uncles/aunties.
Unfortunately, it is the same in big cities in China: husband, wife and one to two kids. It is the consequence of industrialization.
@@JohnDorian-j7xyou literally chug your parents in nursing homes
Nothing is flawless, same as countries. Respect one’s country socioeconomic system, no matter it is pseudo-capitalism, socialism, or pseudo-communism. Don’t preach diversity, equity and inclusion if you can’t even do it in the UN or global community.
You talking about China?
I’m an American who lived in China for 10 years. Actress and woman with kids is bound to be a much a different experience than teacher and man with no kids. This guest was living a very prestigious and (from the sound of it) sheltered life in China. Without lots of money and strong connections, local Chinese life is a lot of pain and sacrifice. But the perspective on this guest’s feelings was interesting, anyway. Keep up the good work, Max!
If you have no money. Your life will hard in everywhere.
@@ellisonleo5856 In some places, like in tanking economies that have relied too heavily on foreign direct investment and real estate bubbles never bursting, your life will be much harder and much less hopeful than in others that didn't.
@@tablab165 i see. i have been some country. i think china was the most hopeful contry for normal people.
She had the same privilege in all three countries so it's a fair comparison.
你应该庆幸，当你十年前到中国的时候还有外国人特权。我想说的是，如果你没有钱，地球上随便哪里都会生活的很艰难。
People mostly get along although their govts don't.
who elects their gov?except the fake democrative neo cons elecetorial votes baby, poular votes don't count what a fake democritic republic!!
by the people,for the peolpe,of the people:NO by the wallstreet,by the military indutrial complexes,by the lobbyists, by the oliarchys:YES YES us congress/ neocons
That's a nice flat in Paris!
❤
I was in Paris, 2 years before covid. I was traveling alone ,with no understanding of the language besides 10 words and phrases. IT WAS SUCH a wonderful experience, everyone was so friendly, so willing to help. I was there for 7 days. Only one strange incident was with an insecure American who thought I was french ... It was ever BETTER in the South of France.... I LOVE FRANCE SO MUCH !!! ❤❤❤❤🇫🇷
A truly open minded,wonderful lady!
As a brown, short, and dark-skinned woman, my experiences traveling to China, Hong Kong, Korea, Singapore,
and Japan are much different from this woman.
I feel welcome in Thailand. That's why I love the country.
For the record, this is my experience and not someone else.
Yeah, asians in general are verrryy racist/prejudiced, lol. white ladies wouldn't understand
you're built like my aunt 4 foot 4,244
Regarding "bullet holes in the buildings": I remember reading the autobiography of a Finnish WWII officer, Adolf Erhnrooth, who at a reunion of veterans asked a former soldier if he had been at a certain battlefield. "Yes, he said, and in the final stage I fought on my own farm yard."
That blew my mind, having to fight the invader on your own yard. A European experience that luckily the Americans never have experienced in modern times.
This lady has a heart of gold.
Having lived in a few countries across different cultures, I have learnt to accept and adopt the good parts of the culture. It's like this funny conversation I heard between a European and an Asian. The European was griping that toilet paper was hard to find in an Asian toilet and it's disgusting to use water. The Asian asked, 'If you put your hand in shit would it be better to wash or to wipe?
lol Fully agree on the "to accept and adopt the good parts of the culture" part!
this comment killed me 😂😂 I would say both would be nice.
Yeah France is great, US is great, China is great, here we are in Indonesia, the streets are stuck, traffic is bad, infrastructure is bad, medical system is slow, many people still poor, but good thing is people still smiling in their face, do not know why the government so sluggish, they do not even think about it, let alone to fix it!
Nomad Capitalist loves loves that place lol
印尼有美丽的大海和松弛感🤓
Of course all the countries are different that's what makes the world go round. And I agree the USA is having a Society collapse I just don't understand why people can't get it in their mind just to do the right thing no matter what choices you're going to make you should think about it and say am I doing the right thing yes or no we all know the difference between right and wrong we all know treating people poorly is not the answer Karma will get you treat people badly we all have the same destiny every one of us and everything that breathes this are we are going to witness death eventually I don't know why everyone can't make this time on Earth Pleasant for someone else
Thanks for the great OPEN MINDED conversation.
Good conversation. I've lived on 4 continents, in 6 countries, and an island. US and Canada, naturally as well as the Far East, Africa, and now Europe for the past 32 years. Language learning is essential to be part of local society, having friends, etc. In the early 90s I found that where I lived was more civilized than in the US, as shops would close at noon or 1pm, and not open until Monday. It's changed now, but still not 24/7 as it was for some grocery stores in LA when I left.
Tourists have stopped me on the street for help in English, once they got the info, I would be complimented on my English, but would not disappoint them, accepting their compliment. When speaking German, most people think I come from the Netherlands, which is great.
My daughter is European, has traveled extensively in Europe, as well as the US and Canada, also 6 months in Korea attending a Uni semester there, and is now scheduled for a Master's semester in China. She speaks German, English, Japanese, Korean, and is learning Chinese. The likelihood of her having these experiences might not have come about had she been born and raised in the US.
While visiting Hungary during the Iron Curtain times, a fellow traveler said the best value for one's money was to travel, the memories will be with you forever.