My wife and I currently live in New Zealand. I was born in the US and I am still a citizen, but have not lived there since I was 18. Recently married, we are thinking of moving there before we have kids and while our commitments are low. It will never be easier than now to move to another country.
She is a dentist, and I have been an investor/stockbroker with my own business for about 5 years or so. She hates dentistry, and so the fact that her New Zealand qualifications are not transferable to the US is really a good excuse to change careers. I like my line of work, but I would have to wrap things up here to move back. No big loss on my part either. Things have been going slow for me and it seems New Zealanders don't really like investing in the stockmarket like Americans do. I would have to work for someone there to get established and learn the ropes and get the US qualifications, but I feel if I set up business again while I'm there I'd do much better.
Our frustration with NZ is we feel under-appreciated. She is earning as much as she will ever earn as a dentist, and I just don't feel like I'm reaching my potential here. It's a great place to live in many ways. The air is clear, the country is beautiful, and it is a great place to live an easy life. Painters and cafe workers and "menial" workers (no judgements attached) are paid quite well here. They are paid so well in fact, I have debated a career change out of investments and into house painting. Professionals, by contrast, hit an earnings ceiling quite quickly. Essentially the culture is farming, and people appreciate tangible, down to earth occupations, and overlook more academic/esoteric jobs, IMO.
Also, it's not that cheap to live here. Anything remotely "luxury" can be very expensive. An average new car is about $40k here, which is also the average annual salary. I imagine that the US is cheaper from this standpoint. Healthcare is where NZ wins. It is essentially free here. I know this is definitely not the case in the US.
But I know life can be hard in the US too. It is quite possible to work 70 hours/week and have long commute times. That doesn't interest me either. We need balance. Overall, I think with our work ethic and professionalism we will do very well in America, but I'm interested to hear what you guys think. Which cities should we consider? I have some links in San Fran and LA, and I could maybe find a link or two in NY, but that's a stretch.
How do you find living in the USA? We really need help with this...
Thanks!
I have never lived anywhere else, so I am a little bias.
The US is huge compared to NZ. There are a lot of cities that are very different. Do you want to live inside of one of the big cities, or live in the burbs around them? I would think that both of your proffesions would afford a comfy lifestyle here, but you mentioned you wanted to change them.
Why dont you go on a month long holiday, travel around and check the place out!
If you enjoy the clean air, LA can find itself lacking. Certainly opportunities are not lacking in any of the cities you have mentioned thus far. SF is full of crazy people, as evidenced by a large section of this forum. ;D
Commuting is crappy everywhere, IMO.
Really, everything I have said is useless, and I'm just realizing it. Guess I'll have another drink.
[added]
+1 on Vin's comment. I have actually lived in many of the states, and been happy in every one, but your opinions may vary greatly.
You take the good with the bad. I think the fact that salaries are a little closer together in NZ is somewhat appealing. I mean, who the hell says that what you or I do is intrinsically any more valuable than the guy who makes that amazing cappucino that wakes me up in the morning? Markets are often not rational ;D
I think you summed things up pretty well. Your salary may go up, but more and more of it will be consumed by commuting, inflated prices on some goods (gas, etc), and healthcare. Your quality of life will probably go down. And don't let them tell you off the cufff that we pay a lot less in taxes...between fees, sales taxes, and payroll taxes, the middle class here is probably taxed at similar overall rates to Europe. Check the numbers on that before you make a decision.
Of course, I've never been to NZ. Aus was a great experience, and I'd certainly consider living there (as much as they make fun of you kiwis). But I'm most comfortable in the US...it's my home, and I think things are going to have to change. We'll see.
Oh, and +1 on the comments above. Come over and spend some time. We'll show you around and maybe get you on a ride or two.
I am of the opinion that certain places are appropriate to live in during certain periods of your life. I grew up in Canada, near Toronto. Great place to grow up and take advantage of subsidized education and other things. However, in my line of work (clinical research), in the big earning years of life 25-55, it's been much better for me in the US. We moved to the US when I was 28. I live near Seattle now and really like it. Wages are higher, earnings are taxed at a much lower rate (Washington State doesn't even have income tax) and we have found it easier to save money than in Canada. You probably know about mortage interest deduction rules in the US. My company did green cards for my family. We are all dual citizens now. However, when I retire (I'm 44 now) we'll probably move back to Canada. It's just more advantageous to live there as a retired person, than the US. We are sending our children back to Canada for University.
I pick and choose my opportunities. Just my opinion.
We have made many dear friends in the US. I think that Americans are a very accepting and generous people. Don't be mislead by the media and their magnification of the exceptions.
FWIW
The three cities you mentioned are amongst the most populated and expensive cities to live in in the US. Not exactly the best idea to come to any of them without substantial savings if either (or both) of you are going to take some transition time to switch fields, get local certifications, etc. Real Estate prices are very high, and at the salary levels you're talking about (even adjusted for US market rates) you probably couldn't afford to purchase.
As everyone else said: do some research and identify *what* you're looking for in a destination, we'll be happy to make some recommendations based on that. Come visit, see if it works for you, and then work on the move.
some broad generalizations:
SF is more progressive/liberal. Multicultural. Climate in the actual city is mild year round. Can actually be pretty gloomy a lot of the time. Lots of tech jobs, pretty decent financial center.
LA is a mish-mash. Very populated, but spread out amongst ~100 mi^2 of sprawl. Much warmer than SF. Main industry is entertainment (Film/TV/Radio/etc) and associated industries (lawyers, agents, etc). Some financial work.
Both have great access to motorcycling roads & tracks. Beaches and "fun in the sun" ocean stuff is more LA than SF.
NYC is the melting pot. Largest city in the US crammed into an island 2 miles wide by 8 miles long. Very multicultural. TONS of financial work, entertainment work, tech work, everything. Weather is the best and worst of all 4 seasons. *Very* expensive to drive or ride, many of those that do typically store their bike outside the city because of cost.
Where in NZ are you? I lived in Queenstown for a tiny bit, but I was born and raised in the San Fran Bay Area. As said above, the cities you mention in the US have very high housing costs, but this is a great time to bring your NZ $$ over here. When I was in NZ the exchange rate was somewhere around $0.34(US) to the (NZ)dollar. Come over for a extended vacation.
Have you considered moving across the ditch to Australia?
I live in Sydney, but if I could, I would move to either Melbourne or Perth. That's to say that if I had no ties binding me in Sydney, all my ride buddies live here. [thumbsup]
It all depends on what you want out of a lifestyle. For me, there would be no way i would ever move to the states, too many Americans [cheeky] , but you being American, you know what it's like.
I just think Australia would be a lot more easier to live in than the states. My soon to be wife is Canadian and she said there is no way she would ever move back to Canadia.
Plenty of job ops here for you and the S.O. [thumbsup]
just my .02c
;)
Oklahoma, we need more Ducatisti [cheeky]
I've been here since I was 6. Not extremely exciting, but there's little pollution, housing is about 10X cheaper than anything you mentioned, and its not so jam packed full of people. Problems include extreme hot in summer and extreme cold in winter, high winds, 3.2 beer, long straight roads, and the occasional tornado ;D
Thanks for the replies! [thumbsup]
More info:
I'm in Auckland currently, NZ's largest city with a population of just over 1 million. We live in the central city. We've got a great deal renting a 115m2 apartment (about 1150ft2) with 1 parking space for $450/week. Housing prices are nuts here too, and we cannot (choose not to) afford to buy anything we would be prepared to live in. Some people spend 50% of their income on housing(!?). We like some aspects of city living for now, but ideally see ourselves in a more suburban-type place in the future, with proximity to a city.
I previously lived in Santa Cruz, CA, a couple hours south of S.F.. My sister lived in Long Beach, CA until a few months ago. I sorta know these places, and I like the climate (riding weather).
We've considered Australia, but I think we're after a bigger move than the "across the ditch" like many others are doing.
I agree with the idea of different places for different stages of life. I view NZ as tangueroHondo views Canada. Great place to retire.
It really boils down to the fact that I still feel American after all my years here, and I don't really feel like I speak the NZ cultural language, and that I think I would "gel" better there. My wife and I are almost decided that the US would be a good cultural fit for us.
We're just trying to gauge if people feel like its a hard place to live, or an easy place to get ahead if you've got a head on your shoulders. Jobs, living costs, all that.
I'm really just vomiting all this stuff here because it's been swirling around in my head for too long.... [puke] [bang]
8)
You're trying to get away from the sheep and foosh and choops aren't you? ;D
i can't blame you. NZ is an absolutely beautiful country, very sleepy and would be a great place to retire. [thumbsup]
Move to Monterey, Ca.
Buy a big house near Laguna Seca Raceway.
Do it before July.
Then we will come for the weekend of 7/18-20 and have a big party. [beer]
I'd pick Australia over North America. I loved it when I was down there ~
JM
Quote from: the_Journeyman on May 22, 2008, 05:00:11 AM
I'd pick Australia over North America. I loved it when I was down there ~
JM
Where were you JM?
And what did you do? Did you fit in with everyone else and get pissed? [laugh] [laugh]
I thought Australia was OK, but only for the visit. There are plenty of other great cities to discover in the US.
Put Texas, Tennessee, and Georgia on your list of places to at least visit and see how varied life can be from one region to another.
SanFran & LA were neat, too much political protesting nonsense in SanFran for me though, and LA traffic is bothersome. Several friends that live there go into work very early and stay late, not because work is demanding, but because they despise traffic.
Come over for a little while, work somewhere, and give yourself the opportunity to move about. New Mexico and Arizona are supposedly great places to live.
FYI - rent for an apartment in and around NYC (Manhattan) is generally above $1200 for a shoebox, you can probably find places cheaper in queens/brooklyn/bronx/staten island/NJ for cheaper, but not by much. I think my real estate friend said the average is $36/sq ft annually.
Considered South Africa???? We have the Springboks and strong beer plus a huge amount of us have moved to NZ, so there are enough space for a couple of All Blacks ;D
I agree with traveling around the states before you decide for sure to move here, it will also help decide where to move here. I would def open the door for other cities and states, the 3 cities you listed have the highest cost of living here. Doesn't seem like you would be trading up or breaking even.
If you want to be close to a big city but be in the burbs, don't discount GA, NC, TN or CO. For a little bit higher cost of living don't overlook the upper northwest either, great culture, museums, restaurants, ocean, and fantastic roads.
Good luck!
T
As much as people will balk at the cost of living in some US cities, I would say that's only part of the equation...and a small one at that. Sure, housing is expensive in SF and other cities. But chasing the cheaper land can lead to misery. Just remember that there's a reason why housing is expensive in places like SF and Seattle: people want to live there.
Also, be sure to take into consideration the fact that gas is going up and is likely staying up. As that happens, the suburbs become a less viable place to live. Alarmist movies like "The End of Suburbia" aside, I think there's some real validity to the idea that at least the outlying burbs will no longer be sustainable communities in a decade or so. If you want a touch of suburbia, check out the transit infrastructure for where you want to live. If it's a place that relies on cars, longer commutes into the urban core, etc, then be wary.
I'd say that depends: Cities like Nashville and Memphis have the big companies putting their offices in the 'burbs to ease their employees commute. People want to live in Collierville/Germantown - relative to Memphis, and so that is where big companies are moving to (Where FedEx already is). Similarly, folks want to live in Brentwood/Franklin and you can see Nissan plopping their HQ right in the midst of suburbia.
And gas isn't too bad, if you man up and ride your bike to work! ;)
Quote from: ato memphis on May 22, 2008, 08:12:54 AM
I'd say that depends: Cities like Nashville and Memphis have the big companies putting their offices in the 'burbs to ease their employees commute. People want to live in Collierville/Germantown - relative to Memphis, and so that is where big companies are moving to (Where FedEx already is). Similarly, folks want to live in Brentwood/Franklin and you can see Nissan plopping their HQ right in the midst of suburbia.
And gas isn't too bad, if you man up and ride your bike to work! ;)
Oh, I've seen the office parks in the burbs...especially around Memphis :) They still rely on people commuting by car, and that's what won't be much of an option down the road. I don't think many people currently choose their suburb by what employer they work for...they find a place they like, then work where they can. Sometimes that means a burb on the other side of town. I think Memphis hasn't seen the "urban renewal" trend (at least it was when I was there a couple years ago) other cities have seen, but I strongly suspect that more and more companies will centralize in urban cores on good transit corridors.
Riding a bike is definitely nice (I do it all over SF and the surrounding area), but I'm afraid that'll become expensive in short order as well. I think the office parks will become ghost towns at some point, and density will become the name of the game. Then we have to worry about how we accomplish density without hurting too many people :-\
Small text and hopes no one finds offense: Memphis suburb growth is astronomical, with people flocking from the city by the droves every year. Its the extreme case of white flight. The only thing to see downtown is concerts, Beale St. and Tigers' Games. (Nobody cares about the Grizz)
Come to America, and think how rich you'll be when you convert your NZ cash to $US thanks to our shitty economy! Have you heard about the economic stimulus package? BRILLIANT!
I've only lived in two areas (well, in the US), North Texas (DFW) and SoCal.
I grew up in Seal Beach and currently live north of Downtown LA. The key to life here is that you need to live close to where you work OR make sure that your commute takes you opposite the bad traffic. Also, LA is a town for the truly ambitious - to get all that LA has to offer you really have to chase it. Your dreams can all be realized here, but there's a ton of bums too (if you get my point...). Housing is incredibly expensive, but you also have the potential to make the money to afford a home out here given your current professions.
Now, I spent 6 years in DFW and it was OK. Weather sucks, the roads REALLY suck and it's flat as a board. The people are nice, but 2 things always bothered me about it: 1) Everyone seems to move "slow" and 2) There were a lot of really racist attitudes that everyone just considered the norm. However, if you're concerned about housing prices, don't be. North Texas is as affordable as it gets. Problem is the developments all look like Levittstown. A lot of McMansions and that sort, but if you don't mind living in glorified tract housing, you can get a lot of bang for your buck.
Personally, if I were saying "make the beast with two backs it" and packing up, I would just go for it and either move to London or Paris, or even Firenze. But that's just me.
Quote from: ato memphis on May 22, 2008, 08:45:05 AM
Small text and hopes no one finds offense: Memphis suburb growth is astronomical, with people flocking from the city by the droves every year. Its the extreme case of white flight. The only thing to see downtown is concerts, Beale St. and Tigers' Games. (Nobody cares about the Grizz)
;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
I noticed that too when I was there (working on a project at St. Jude's). The core is empty at night, save for Beale St and Jillian's. I think it's the same way in many southern cities. But I definitely miss Saigon Le's in midtown...I wake up at night craving their curry soup.
Quote from: tangueroHondo on May 21, 2008, 11:26:51 PM
We have made many dear friends in the US. I think that Americans are a very accepting and generous people. Don't be mislead by the media and their magnification of the exceptions.
Lies and mistruths! We are too all glutinous, stupid and rude. And overly proud- don't forget that! ;D
Other than the cost of "luxury items"- NZ sounds pretty good from here. I caution against the concept of the US being the land of opportunity because it is also the land of the opportunistic. I'm pretty sure that the terms "old boys club" and "dog eat dog" are products of American capitalistic enthusiasm. Many people are trampled so that a few can live the life we all dream of. I'm not saying "don't move here", rather- "keep your expectations in check". There are many people in the US that feel the same way that you do about their standard of living being capped and their potential being under-utilized. Internationally speaking there are many countries higher on the list for standard of living. We have relatively high crime rates and the economy is ailing far more than some of those higher SoL countries. All things are relative, of course. If NZ (or anywhere else) is that bad this might all be moot for a newcomer.
Just know what you're getting into. Here you have freedoms that aren't available or tollerated in other places. Some people put a very high value on those. Definitely do some homework before you make any major changes.
Quote from: Flipside725 on May 22, 2008, 07:36:19 AM
FYI - rent for an apartment in and around NYC (Manhattan) is generally above $1200 for a shoebox, you can probably find places cheaper in queens/brooklyn/bronx/staten island/NJ for cheaper, but not by much. I think my real estate friend said the average is $36/sq ft annually.
I live in an outer borough in NYC and pay $1275 for a 1000 sqft apt and parking for the bike and car included. My gf lives a couple of blocks away in a 500 sqft studio for about $800.
Look at Minneapolis MN and surrounding area. Big enough to have every amenity, small enough to be reasonably safe and clean. Winter can be rough, spring summer and fall are to die for.
3.2 AND strong beer, mix of straight roads and fun roads.
Most years jobs and economy ahead of natl avg.
Some suggestions
For IT jobs look at Austin. Good economy, great social scene and good climate.
For Finance take a look at Charlotte. US's second largest banking center behind NY and the home of both Bank of America and Wachovia. Decent economy, fair housing, excellent climate.
For a pleasant job mix and urban experience take a good look at Washington DC, Fairfax VA or Bethesda MD. Good economy, decent housing prices (it's dropped recently) and excellent social scene. You'll also have a large number of expats in the area and Sunday rugby matches along the Potomac river.
Quote from: COWBOY on May 22, 2008, 01:35:27 PM
For IT jobs look at Austin. Good economy, great social scene and good climate.
See also: Great bars.
I also like Charlotte. I'm partial to really warm places, so all my suggestions are in the South. Atlanta has an incredible amount of fortune 500 companies, is very diverse, and has every possible pro sports team available. They also have great nearby mountains for riding and Road Atlanta, a race track. [moto]
...well, as some of you know, i was born and raised in Rome where i lived for 28 years before deciding i wanted to live somewhere else. I love travelling and i have been visiting countries around the world for a long time. Different cultures and the wway people live their life in such different ways around the globe, has always fashinated me.
I have visited many places and lived in a few of them.
I lived in Rome, of course, for 28 years circa. Its a 4million people city. 4million romans, that is :) ...not just any kind of folks...that means that together with the beauty and histoy, the cultural background and the italian charm, you have to deal with the confusion of a 2761 year old city that is still using many of its original roads. Tight windy coblestone ones :). Also us italians have a very different approach with personal space. Americans (in general) seam to be phobics about being close to people and especially worried about contact. We like to talk in your face :) , get close, touch you ALL the time...we say godbye with 2 kisses (eew) and constantly hug eachother...
In Stocholm (Sweden) i lived 2 years. Stockholm is a 1milion poepole city surrounded by water, forests all that nature has to offer! Its the greenest big city i have ever seen. It feels like living in a small town in the midle of Montana but its not...its a big city with sooooo much to do and see. The government (quite socialy inclined) keeps people entertained with plenty of public events all year round, especially in summer. The people are great! The drinking is awsome :) and i hear work is still strong now...On the down side, it gets -35 in winter and you have 4 hrs of lite ;D....oh well
I LOVE NewYork! i spent way not-enough-time there! Its a cultural heaven...you can experiance the world in 16sq miles :) (the Americanised version of course:) )...its vibrating, moving, exiting but at the same time you can find pokets of down to earth areas that make it worth wile the crazy high rents...i lived in Chelsea and walked to my firm...it sure made a difference in how i could apreciate the city by walking on surfice instead of using the tube... :)
i also lived in San Diego. Took a semester at UCSD and lived in La Jolla...Sd is really at human dimention with its 1.5(?) million but i personally grew out of it pretty fast. I think its a little too "small" for me.
As for LA, where i currently live, i can say that you REALLY cant beat the weathr-riding combination...no way of even getting close. I have lived in Malibu, Venice, Brentwood and now in Santa Monica so the living experiance i can describe are all "west side style"...altho pretty close to eachother, all these areas have VERY distinct caracterisics. And this is the real LA feature. You go around a block and its a whole different world. All you need to do is figure out what is your area and stick to it. Defenitly work clos to home!!! Commute can suck pretty bad. I work 30 miles away but my commute is on PCH...on the coast AND couter commuting :)
Its hared to leave LA in spite of the incredible ammout of duchebags :)
Rent is expensive if you live close to the beach but in general (of course) rents are high but wages are too so...i wouldnt worry about that.
...excuse my spelling folks!
ciao
I've lived in three countries, traveled to over 40: including Aussie land and Kiwi land.
Loved them all, to visit.
We have our problems just like anywhere else: But I always come home.
Great thing about the U.S. is it's 50 different countries all in one.
As others have said come here, travel, get a feel for what you like.
See Also:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oHqUipinDyw
Quote from: ato memphis on May 22, 2008, 03:17:22 PM
See Also:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oHqUipinDyw
...poetry
The school system of the US is ok in most parts (since you were talking kids) but it all really comes down to what you want to do and where you want to live.
City life, country life, suburbia... long lengths of roads to ride, skiiing, desert motorcycle riding, camping, surfing, river and lake sports. Every type of job imaginable and alot of careers too, not just money makers. Opportunity to suceed at every corner. America has it all
well that includes crimes, gangs, drugs, the requirement for dual income families in alot of places, a resurgent depression, teh export of many jobs to other countries, rising unemployment, homes that cost 6-10 years of salary and can eat up 50-60% of your monthly income, job security is a thing of the past the average career (working from college to retirement) involves 6 job changes, oh yeah and some lawyer somewhere has your name on his docket, he'll either be suing you or defending you it's a very litigous society..
Pesonally after spending the past year in Japan and the majority of the previous four in the middle east (like 265-300 days per year) I don't want to go back. Its a rat race I hate now, with kids the expenses went up immensely which I expeted somewhat but the small things sucked, It used to cost like 20 bucks to sign your kid up for soccer, now its like 70 because of insurance crap.
I plan to go to New Zealand or Australia to see where I want to retire.
If I were you I'd stay away. The grass is always greener on the other side ...That said but once I got outside the US I find it greened up elsewhere just not back in the States for me.
You can get caught up in all the commericialism and feel like you need a big house and cool car. Or, you can live more simply, and really enjoy what America has to offer. I live in an expensive city, but a lot of what it has to offer is free. I can walk to a beach with my kids. I can enjoy some kick ass parks and playgrounds. I can hobnob with people from all over the world, and it doesn't cost me a dime.
I also have had the opportunity to do a lot of cool things professionally because I live in the US. Three of my grandparents only went to school through eigth grade. The other was a high school graduate. My parents never went to college, yet I had the opportunity to go to college and to grad school through scholarships. I totally attribute much of my professional success to the fact that America rewards hard work. I know there are other countries where you can say the same thing, but I don't think anywhere else in the world are there so many that share a similar story as mine.
I lived in Madrid for two years, and I really loved it, but for me, the USA is the place to be.
Being America is so large, some hints as what you liked would help.
Living near water for boating. Possibly mountain riding, or the bustle of big city life?
Throw out some interests, and the responses maybe more tailored to you. ;)
Melbourne and Stockholm are high on my "move-to" list. Melbourne would be far easier for me (I could probably get dual citizenship). Not sure if it'll ever happen though.
Quote from: ducati_tim on May 22, 2008, 04:35:25 PM
I totally attribute much of my professional success to the fact that America rewards hard work.
They also reward addicted to hard drug, unemployed mothers who keep spitting out welfare babies. :-\ [bang]
One of the finest things about this country (I've met a lot of immigrants (my mother was one)), is that if you're willing to work hard, you can really, basically, get anything you want. There's always room to move up too, something you don't have where you are now.
Have you considered Boston? ;D
Quote from: ato memphis on May 22, 2008, 07:31:06 PM
They also reward addicted to hard drug, unemployed mothers who keep spitting out welfare babies. :-\ [bang]
...and rapacious corporate executives and trust fund babies who develop new & interesting ways to screw the rest of us who actually work for a living ;D
Quote from: ato memphis on May 22, 2008, 07:31:06 PM
They also reward addicted to hard drug, unemployed mothers who keep spitting out welfare babies. :-\ [bang]
http://ducatimonsterworldwide.org/index.php?board=53.0
Fair enough.
Quote from: BWClark on May 21, 2008, 10:24:10 PM
. . . but I'm interested to hear what you guys think. Which cities should we consider? I have some links in San Fran and LA, and I could maybe find a link or two in NY, but that's a stretch.
How do you find living in the USA? We really need help with this...
Thanks!
BW - best of luck to you in your search. I think the best person to answer your question is yourself (and your spouse, together). It's clear that you and your s/o are intelligent people, so you will find work wherever you go. However, I at least feel that work is not the highest priority in life, and we should work to live rather than vice versa. Nevertheless, work is a means to our ends, so it is always important.
I suggest that you make a list of the top 10 or 20 things that you most love to do in your spare time. Maybe do it alphabetically :) abseiling, baseball (cricket?), boating . . . you get the idea. If you live by the ocean now and have for a while, you will miss it dearly if you choose to live in Colorado. However, if you are passionate about rock climbing, Colorado is probably pretty good. Your list may tilt more heavily to cultural activities instead of outdoors. In that case, stay close to the metropolitan centers.
I had the opportunity to live and work in the UK for 3 years and travel Europe quite a bit. It was a great professional/personal experience, and I often wax nostalgic about those few years and the good times had. However, the US was and always will be home. It is an imperfect place for sure, but on balance far more good than bad. For sure, it is diverse; Ohio is nothing like Idaho, etc. When it was time to come home, we chose the Pacific Northwest. It fulfilled "the list" the best. I believe that if you had 100 free tickets to anywhere to give random people around the world (who want to resettle), the vast majority will still pick the US as their permanent destination. It was the first choice of my ancestors and will remain so I think for many others for a long time.
If you know what you want, you will find it here. Be sure to take the climate in to account. Upstate New York, for example, is beautiful, but bitterly cold in the (long) winter. There is a reason why the center of population in the US continues to move south and west with every passing year. Don't rush your decision, but give yourself a dead line. The long vacation is also a good idea. Visit the places that are your best prospects before you decide.
Here's the best part. Since you are part of this crazy italian-motorbike community [moto], you will likely eat, drink and probably sleep virtually for free when you come here. If you stop by our neighborhood, I'll be the first to buy you a frosty one! [thumbsup] [drink]
Have fun!
J
Quote from: JohnnyDucati on May 22, 2008, 11:28:58 PM
Here's the best part. Since you are part of this crazy italian-motorbike community [moto], you will likely eat, drink and probably sleep virtually for free when you come here. If you stop by our neighborhood, I'll be the first to buy you a frosty one! [thumbsup] [drink]
That IS what's so great about this place!! Lots of good people like Johnny, his s/o and the rest of the DMF'ers in the PDX area!
BW, If you visit the NW..you've got a place to stay in Seattle as well. Visit after July..you'll have a place in Austin, TX. [thumbsup]
Quote from: IZ on May 22, 2008, 11:41:21 PM
That IS what's so great about this place!! Lots of good people like Johnny, his s/o and the rest of the DMF'ers in the PDX area!
BW, If you visit the NW..you've got a place to stay in Seattle as well. Visit after July..you'll have a place in Austin, TX. [thumbsup]
Iz will even make sure to 'gather' all the nails in the road for you, just don't ask him to take any pictures for you.
Portland, Maine
Unknown gem of the east
You'll only hate yourself in the winter if you don't ski
San Diego or SF Bay area would be tops but very expensive.
Quote from: JohnnyDucati on May 22, 2008, 11:28:58 PM
If you know what you want, you will find it here. Be sure to take the climate in to account. Upstate New York, for example, is beautiful, but bitterly cold in the (long) winter. There is a reason why the center of population in the US continues to move south and west with every passing year.
I thought it was to get away from Canada? :P
[laugh] [laugh] [laugh]
Hawaii?
Similarities to NZ. More happening.
I am surprised no one mentioned the Golden Triangle Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill. My sister and her husband lived there and I tell you that it is fabulous, lots of job opportunities, awesome social activities, great riding. I looked at buying land in the area but it was just a little too expensive for the amount of land I wanted so I bought elsewhere.
Hey hey hey! ;D
Thanks a lot to everyone that has replied! What a top bunch you all are. And thanks for the offers of hospitality! [thumbsup]
The wife and I moved "flats" (aka apartments) this last week, and the magic genies that power my internet connection screwed things up, hence the late reply.
We're getting more and more firm on the idea of a move to the US, and it's looking like we might head to the LA area initially because of our connections, my moderate familiarity with the area, the climate, and its relative proximity to NZ (that 13 hour flight is bad enough without tagging on domestic travel as well). From there we can explore other places to live at our leisure.
One thing I neglected to mention is our connection in Chicago. My wife's Aunt and Uncle live there, and would even put us up in their "spare" apartment as we got settled. Probably too cold in winter for our taste though.
More about us: My wife doesn't like the cold, so mild winters are almost a must (which equals more riding time for me too), and we've both always lived near the ocean, so it'd be strange to be too far inland. I'm a closet musician and DJ, and I'd love to be close to a cultural center of some kind. The Mrs. is getting into cake decorating (of all things), and would like to pursue it as a profession eventually, so that probably equals areas with larger affluent communities. I'm quite ambitious and entrepreneurial (at this stage of my life), so an economic center of some kind would be good, but I agree with the post about "work to live, not live to work", and balance is very important.
NZ IS a great place, and it is still in my future. It's just that we're after some things right now that NZ can't offer.
As I posted the original message, my wife and I were on the verge of moving apartments, and everything was stirred-up in our heads. We're moved now, less emotional and thinking clearer. Thanks again to everyone! [thumbsup]
if moderate winters are a must, then I wouldn't live in Chicago. negative temp winters norm there.
California, Carolinas, or Florida seem to fit you best IMO
http://forum.barkforum.com/t606-the-worst-and-the-best-places-to-live-in-the-future#729 (http://forum.barkforum.com/t606-the-worst-and-the-best-places-to-live-in-the-future#729)
Yes,I know it's an old thread but some people have expressed an interest in moving.
Having been to NZ and living overseas, now here in the US I'd stay. Stress can be demanding here in today's market but if you are truly driven you might benefit from such an environment. My Wife and I are more interested in less stressful the older we get so we are saving to move overseas for a slower pace in the future. I loved the beauty of NZ and the people there, something to be said for the pace also, it's not just about money for us any longer.
The Lazarus thread.
Rise and live!!
Quote from: muskrat on December 12, 2012, 01:24:15 PM
Having been to NZ and living overseas, now here in the US I'd stay. Stress can be demanding here in today's market but if you are truly driven you might benefit from such an environment. My Wife and I are more interested in less stressful the older we get so we are saving to move overseas for a slower pace in the future. I loved the beauty of NZ and the people there, something to be said for the pace also, it's not just about money for us any longer.
Just move to Nashville - its much more relaxed than the Big D, and there is [good] live music at every bar and on the street.
Whatever you do please don't buy into the "land of Opportunity" myth that people associate with America. If you want to succeed you can't sit on your hands and expect to be successful. But hard work is no guarantee of success either.You also need to have the right circumstances line up for you too. There is no magic thing that happens here. There are 10s of millions of people that that work hard and barely make ends meet in this country. For others their hard work has "worked out for them".
There is a saying that time and unforeseen occurance befall us all.
That being said, if you work hard and make wise choices you will probably do OK here. Much better than say North Korea or some hell hole where he deck is completey stacked against you.
But I would say that opportunitys for sucess are just as good where you live now or in any other western country as they are here.
You have to make the best of the situation you have just like anyplace else.
If you plan on coming here to have a look around I might suggest a drive up from LA as far north as Portland or Seattle and some of the places in between. I moved up here to Oregon a couple of years ago. The cost of living is reasonable and I'm doing all right for myself.
Most of the dentists around here are booked up 3 months out. (I think you said your wife was a dentist) so I would say Business is good. Most municipality's in Oregon don't put fluoride in the water. I don't know how much that contributes to business.
You all realize the OP hasn't logged in in over 3 years...
right?
Revenge of the zombie thread!!
Nope. Who resurrected this thread? I'm too lazy to look.
Quote from: Mendo Dave on December 13, 2012, 03:00:36 PM
Nope. Who resurrected this thread? I'm too lazy to look.
I'm too lazy to tell you. ;D
Quote from: ducpainter on December 13, 2012, 03:12:36 PM
I'm too lazy to tell you. ;D
Well I'm just going to have to go back to reading my book then. ;D
Quote from: Mendo Dave on December 13, 2012, 03:28:10 PM
Well I'm just going to have to go back to reading my book then. ;D
:o :o :o
Oh no...
not the dreaded book of face... :o :o :o :o
Quote from: ducpainter on December 13, 2012, 03:46:29 PM
:o :o :o
Oh no...
not the dreaded book of face... :o :o :o :o
No not that, but that's what my face looked like after I read the first part of the book. It reads.... "It was a dark and stormy night, suddenly a shot rang out"
I had to put it down after that and look out the window to see if it was dark and stormy.
Then I went over to the corner to see if the riffle was still there and weather or not it had been fired recently.
Quote from: Mendo Dave on December 13, 2012, 03:58:15 PM
No not that, but that's what my face looked like after I read the first part of the book. It reads.... "It was a dark and stormy night, suddenly a shot rang out"
I had to put it down after that and look out the window to see if it was dark and stormy.
Then I went over to the corner to see if the riffle was still there and weather or not it had been fired recently.
the riffle?
you have water flowing through the house?
...and weather? :o
Dammed auto spell.....
I'm on the iPad
Quote from: ducpainter on December 13, 2012, 01:18:01 PM
You all realize the OP hasn't logged in in over 3 years...
right?
Typical stockbroker. Takes what we have and then buggers off without trace.
;D
I had a different answer to your question when I got up this morning. Now,......not sure how to answer you.
Quote from: herm on December 14, 2012, 01:25:48 PM
I had a different answer to your question when I got up this morning. Now,......not sure how to answer you.
I'm in the same boat. We're being forced to move back to the states. not happy about it, more so now.
Other countries aren't immune from craziness. Just sayin'.
Quote from: Triple J on December 14, 2012, 02:07:25 PM
Other countries aren't immune from craziness. Just sayin'.
Absolutely true, plenty of idiots with knives!
However, there isn't a huge lobby to influence
politicians prostitutes from passing more stringent laws or fixing existing loopholes. [bang]
Should I just lock it now? [roll]
Quote from: The Mad King Pepe' on December 14, 2012, 03:35:12 PM
Absolutely true, plenty of idiots with knives!
However, there isn't a huge lobby to influence politicians prostitutes from passing more stringent laws or fixing existing loopholes. [bang]
More stringent laws wouldnt have stopped what happened......they were legally purchased then stolen by a sick muther f-er.
Ib4tl
Quote from: rgramjet on December 15, 2012, 09:02:21 AM
More stringent laws wouldnt have stopped what happened......they were legally purchased then stolen by a sick muther f-er.
Ib4tl
Disposable thread anyway......
Quote from: rgramjet on December 15, 2012, 09:03:11 AM
Disposable thread anyway......
Unless you've pissed me off hard enough to ban your sorry ass. :-*
Mine or the person that went "there" first?
Quote from: rgramjet on December 15, 2012, 09:09:10 AM
Mine or the person that went "there" first?
Both?
You didn't
have to jump from the cliff just because he did.
Kind of like the guy that has precipitated this conversation.
I generally let a
comment go.
We won't be discussing the topic of RKBA.
Quote from: The Mad King Pepe' on December 14, 2012, 03:35:12 PM
However, there isn't a huge lobby to influence politicians prostitutes from passing more stringent laws or fixing existing loopholes. [bang]
Pepe...just because you like to dress like a prostitute on occasion doesn't mean you have to cast that aspersion onto others...LOL
In before the lock. ;D