Peruse the internet for no more than 10 seconds and you will probably find some article touting some opinion. Throughout this highly connected world, somebody is ready to pounce, telling you their opinion on the current political climate, or social justice cause, or even the latest trend is health and dieting. In this day and age, it is much easier to find the cons rather than the pros.
But traveling tends to change opinions and broaden horizons. And those who travel are far more likely to focus on the positives rather than on the negatives.
There are so many great reasons to live in the US. There are also so many great reasons to travel or even live outside the US. But keep in mind, the pros for one may not be the cons for the other.
Below are five reasons to live in the US and five reasons to travel outside the US. These reasons aren’t as abstract as, say, “freedom.” No, they’re tangible, and personal, reasons for why I like living in the US and why I like traveling outside the US.
And now, the Pros and…Pros.
US Pro #1: Bacon.
While places like the UK and South Africa have types of bacon (google “back bacon”), no land has that crispy delightful slice of meaty goodness like the good ‘ol US of A. Nothing comes close.
International Pro #1: Street food.
Whether you are walking the narrow alleys in Bangkok or getting tapas in Barcelona, one truth ties them together—street food. Ah, the smell of the open wok. That music of the food stand attendant barking out the wild names of unknown foods. Nothing beats the world abroad for street food.
US Pro #2: The public restroom.
America truly is the land of the free…restroom. Instead of having to pay to use the toilet, just use one of the free restrooms scattered all over this vast nation. In fact, drop into a convenient store or gas station and use their restroom. You probably don’t even have to buy anything.
International Pro #2: The Bidet.
What can I say? It’s a car wash for your backside. So many countries use them. And when you walk out of the restroom cleaner than you’ve ever been, you will know why. You’ll just have to overcome the first impression of being sprayed, well, down there.
US Pro #3: Camping.
No country camps more than the US, and there’s a good reason why. The US has a plethora of National parks, State Parks, and other campgrounds. Americans camp more than any other culture. Campfires and bonfires are an integral part of American culture, and you’d be hard pressed to find its equal.
International Pro #3: Transportation.
Want to go someplace? Just take one of the many trains, buses, trolleys, trams, or subways within walking distance of your home. Heck, you could even rent a bicycle. Europe excels in this area. Flights are also cheaper. As I write, tickets for a flight from Dublin to Amsterdam from February 26th– March 3rd are literally $38 roundtrip.
US Pro #4: Carpet.
I don’t know about you, but there is something special about walking on carpet with bare feet. You won’t find a lot of carpet outside the US. I know it’s silly. But I like carpet. Thanks, America.
International Pro #4: Cell phones.
I have friends in China. Their cell phone bill is $7 a month. Of course, China is probably listening to their calls and monitoring their text messages. But seven bucks? Let ‘em listen!
US Pro #5: Gas prices.
Unless you live in California, Hawaii, or Alaska, chances are you’re paying less than $3 per gallon. Not $3 per liter. I’ll let you do the math.
International Pro #5: Coffee.
Worldwide, coffee reigns. France, Spain, UK, Thailand, they all can serve you a delightful cup of carefully crafted coffee. I’ve never seen so much concentration or effort than the time I watched a barista in Tokyo pour a cappuccino. And in most countries, coffee is to be enjoyed at a table; no to-go order. The art of careful concentration on quality coffee still exists.
Though I love the US, I also love travel. And there are pros to each.
anthony forrest
