On the age of 33, I generally really feel like I’ve already lived a thousand lives. I am initially from Los Angeles, and over the past decade, I’ve carried out every little thing from educating English in China to serving as an emergency assist employee in Turkey throughout the battle in Syria.
After I accomplished my grasp’s diploma in London, I began working as a product supervisor for a worldwide journey tech firm, and I had the choice to switch to the U.S. or to Germany, the place my husband is from.
When contemplating my determination, I did some math and I spotted that in Germany, even on a decrease wage than what I might be doubtlessly incomes within the U.S., I might obtain my monetary objectives, like paying off my pupil debt, quicker.
Since February 2020, I’ve referred to as Berlin, Germany residence, and I’ve by no means been happier. Right here is why I really like residing right here:
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I am keen on our quiet, cozy neighborhood
My husband and I reside in an space west of Berlin referred to as Charlottenburg, a comparatively quiet neighborhood stuffed with cozy espresso outlets and middle-class households. I’m on a first-name foundation with most of the store homeowners, and I really like the neighborhood right here.
We reside in a 1,100-square-foot, 2-bedroom condominium with a balcony. We pay $1,843 per 30 days for hire, about $350 for utilities, and $240 for parking. We have been paying about the identical in London, however our Berlin condominium is double the scale, and the constructing is far newer.
Taking within the sunshine and a fantastic day within the metropolis.
Picture: Vanessa Wachtmeister
For groceries, I am a giant fan of METRO, which is basically the Costco of Germany. Each two weeks, we spend about $300 on our bulk staples. We fill in as essential with different gadgets purchased from native finances retailers like Aldi and Lidl. Lidl sells 45 cent Brötchen, or bread rolls, which might be my favourite.
Shifting right here helped me repay debt
In Germany, the federal government supplies issues like assured healthcare, pensions, parental go away, tuition-free college and even unemployment insurance coverage. I’ve just a few pals who have been laid off, however due to that insurance coverage, they have been capable of obtain 80% of their wage for one 12 months.
After I was deciding between the U.S. and Germany, I crunched some numbers and realized that with the social security internet — and never having to put aside 1000’s of {dollars} for medical emergencies, for instance — I might be capable to save between $1,000 and $3,000 every month. That is made an enormous distinction.
In entrance of Brandenburg Gate.
Picture: Vanessa Wachtmeister
After I arrived, I used to be dealing with down $130,000 in pupil debt. I used to be capable of repay all of it in November 2023, all whereas nonetheless saving and investing for my future. It has been an enormous weight off my shoulders, and I do not fear about not having the ability to pay my payments right here.
My cash goes farther, and I am additionally completely satisfied to contribute my justifiable share so folks can entry help once they want it.
There’s a palpable sense of neighborhood
What stunned and delighted me probably the most once I arrived in Berlin was the deep sense of egalitarianism that everybody appeared to share, irrespective of their background.
Many cultural occasions have free entry, as a result of entry and participation are large core values right here. Considered one of my favourite issues to do throughout the summer season is discover cafes in different neighborhoods and go to meals festivals.
Having fun with a beverage and the ambiance at an outside cafe.
Picture: Vanessa Wachtmeister
The festivals are enjoyable, cheap (I am often spending simply $12 on a drink and snacks) and infrequently have a good time completely different cultures and international locations. It is an effective way to satisfy like-minded folks in a metropolis of 6 million.
I’ve additionally discovered that Berlin’s immigrant neighborhood, which I am so proud to be a member of, is particularly pleasant. All of us perceive how isolating the expertise of discovering your footing in a brand new place will be.
I’ve entry to the remainder of the European Union
In February, I’ll have been a German resident for 5 years. Which means I will be eligible to use for a passport and twin citizenship, as an alternative of simply everlasting residency.
Right here I’m in Potsdamer Platz, subsequent to one of many items of the Berlin Wall on show there.
Picture: Vanessa Wachtmeister
Holding a German passport means I will have the chance to maneuver wherever I please within the European Financial Space. My long-term dream is to retire early, get some chickens and reside peacefully within the Italian countryside. Getting an EEA passport is a key a part of this plan.
Finally, regardless that I’ve referred to as many locations residence, the choice to return to Berlin has opened up extra paths to me than I ever thought potential.
Vanessa Wachtmeister is a proud Chicana from Los Angeles, California. She is a thought chief and digital content material creator who has amassed over 700,000 followers throughout a number of social media websites, along with her platform Wander Onwards. At present, Vanessa lives in Germany, and her aim is to proceed to construct digital merchandise that improve the lives of North People overseas, and assist others pursue monetary and site independence.
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