Comment by pmarreck | Hacker News Reader

Comment by pmarreck | Hacker News Reader

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I suggest anyone who hasn't already visited add Germany to their future itineraries. Did a 2-week trip there almost exactly a year ago and it was quite eye-opening, everything from being able to bike anywhere in Munich, to seeing how well everything is maintained, to how courteous (and active) the people are, and even visiting a concentration camp to get a sense that even a good people can fall into depravity (which Germans are keenly aware of). (I went to Munich and Berlin and a few other beautiful cities like Heidelberg. All were incredible.) And everyone under the age of about 55 or so speaks fluent English! (but German is kinda fun, if you're inclined to pick up some)

Also, having some Leberkäse on a pretzel roll with a bit of mustard and a German beer while outside watching people pass by on the town square on a sunny 72 degree (sorry, "22 Grad") day, is just about the most satisfying lunch I've ever had in my life.

As someone who's been to Germany often and just visited New York for a few days I'd be inclined to say Germany does it better in taking care of its citizens. All the wealth the USA has seems to be translated into too little for its people. Dirty streets, tons of homeless people (or close to homeless), a subway system that looks worse than what's in my home country (Romania) and many more. Felt people are unfriendly, I couldn't even get proper indications on how to get places. Also plenty of people looked tired and overworked.

> worse than what's in my home country

As european i had similar impressions when coming to the USA

Here in SF i pass more homeless people daily on my way to work than i see in a year at home.

(I know SF is special b/c they keep them central but at home i'd need to look everywhere to even get to similar impressions - if possible)

>> everything from being able to bike anywhere in Munich, to seeing how well everything is maintained, to how courteous the people are, and even visiting a concentration camp to get a sense that even a good people can fall into depravity

I think a large part of this is the focus on collective good and "do not be evil/selfish" ethos pounded on kids since childhood.

Compare that to the US where kids are taught that individualism is all that matters. Your friends don't matter, family doesn't matter, community doesn't matter, environment doesn't matter etc.

With all its wealth, living in America is like living in a super mario game, constantly avoiding obstructions and hassles.

+1. Was recently in Berlin and Munich and had a similar experience. Also Oktoberfest in Munich is something that everyone needs to experience.

I've been to Germany many times and hugely enjoyed it as well.

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