Debunking the Myth: Brexit and the US Alternative

It's often said that if a British resident is unhappy with the UK, they should consider trading places and settling in the US. However, my experience and observations suggest otherwise. From personal experience and current living in the US, this hypothesis doesn't hold water.

Accurate Perception Matters

Back when my family moved to the US in the early nineties, the portrayal of America was far from the reality I encountered. Having lived in the US for a while now, and considering my family still resides in the UK, I have a more nuanced and accurate understanding of the lifestyle and societal norms. The perception of the US as a land of endless opportunities and high quality of life can sometimes be misleading.

Quality of Life: A Metric to Consider

While the idea of seeking a better life is commendable, the assumption that moving from the UK to the US automatically guarantees a higher quality of life isn't always valid. There are numerous factors, including cost of living, healthcare, education, and job opportunities, that play a role.

A Second Home in the US: A Personal Perspective

I have a second home in the US, and I have spent considerable time there. However, it's not something I would consider permanently making my home. The UK remains my primary residence, and my family is deeply rooted there. Moving permanently to the US is not an option for me.

Exploring Alternatives

If given the choice, I would rather move to countries like New Zealand or Canada. Not only do they offer a higher quality of life, but I would also be able to speak the language and feel safer, away from the “nutters with guns” that have become a problematic issue in recent years in the US. European countries, despite the language barrier, often provide a sense of safety and familiarity.

Personal Journey Amid Brexit Uncertainty

While I have enjoyed my time in the US, it's not where I ultimately want to settle. As a former UK resident and current US resident, I'm planning to move back to the UK this summer. I believe that, in the long term, my quality of life will be better in the UK than in the US, no matter the outcome of Brexit.

Strong Family Connections

My family remains in the UK, and that is where I feel at home. Even though there may be short-term disruptions due to Brexit, the long-term benefits of staying in the UK are clear to me. I'm deeply rooted in the UK, and nothing seems likely to change that.

Alternative Views on National Sovereignty

The notion of Brexit restoring sovereignty isn't as straightforward as it seems. In reality, the UK will continue to work with its European neighbors as equals. The idea of being a US client nation is laughable—trade deals with the US will never be to the UK's advantage.

Exploring Other Options

If I were seeking a different kind of lifestyle, I would consider Australia instead. The frontier spirit and recent European settlement history make it an interesting option. Additionally, France offers a way to escape the Brexit nightmare.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while Brexit brings uncertainty, my personal experience and thoughts suggest that the UK remains a more favorable option for me. The quality of life, family connections, and cultural appropriateness all point towards the UK as the best choice for me in the long run.