Too many things to fit in a HN comment, but basically I miss the optimism and can-do attitude of Americans, as well as the general future-orientation of the culture. Europeans generally situate themselves in terms of the past and aim at a comfortable, quality life. America on the other hand is more of a wildcard with space for crazy ideas.

Being an entrepreneur with a dream or a freelancer, for example, is infinitely more socially acceptable in America than in Europe.

This is a nerdy reference to make, but I’ve always been fascinated with the idea of the Sprawl in William Gibson’s trilogy. There is something very American about it (and it’s situated in America) but that kind of chaotic dynamic culture-mixing space could never really happen in Europe.

I moved to Central Europe btw, but I’ve spent a lot of time in France and Germany as well.

For myself (American), I think I would miss the natural wonders and open road. But I really enjoy roadtripping.