British Father Reflects on Life in Germany After Decade Abroad
A British father who relocated from London to Germany a decade ago says he has no regrets about the move, citing significantly lower living costs, superior healthcare, and enhanced safety as key benefits. Alex Ahom, 45, moved to Hamburg with his wife and three children ten years ago, driven by the high cost of living and limited opportunities in the UK capital.
Substantial Savings and Improved Quality of Life
Alex highlights that rent for his 2000 square metre property in a desirable part of Hamburg is half what they charge for their small flat in Shepherd's Bush, London, which they now let out. He explains, "We have a nice place here, two cars, a couple of holidays a year, because life is cheaper here so we can do that." Day-to-day expenses are also lower, with a loaf of bread costing less than one euro and a litre of water around 30p.
He notes that wages in Germany are higher, and benefits include extended maternity leave, with most firms offering at least a year of paid leave. Crime rates are impressively low, and green spaces are abundant for children. Alex recounts an incident where his son's backpack was left in a park and returned by teenagers to the police, a gesture he doubts would happen in the UK.
Healthcare Advantages and Family Safety
One of the most significant advantages is the healthcare system. Alex states that in Germany, it would be unusual to wait more than two days for a doctor's appointment, with surgeries scheduled promptly. In contrast, his family members in the UK often face up to two years' wait for surgery. He adds, "When you weigh up the practical things, you start to wonder why you would stay in the UK. The house is cheaper, the car is cheaper, healthcare is cheaper, all schools are free, university is free."
Safety is another key factor, especially for his family. Alex says, "You do feel safer. Women do talk about how they are more comfortable walking at night. When you have kids, you do consider these things more." His children have few memories of the UK and view it as "scary and dirty," having been unnerved during a visit when their car was broken into.
Cultural Adjustments and Challenges
However, the transition was not without challenges. Alex admits adapting to German attitudes was difficult, describing them as markedly different from the "polite" British temperament. Workplace culture involves addressing everyone by surname, and friendships between colleagues are uncommon. He recalls an incident where a visiting friend was shouted at for not covering his mouth while sneezing outdoors.
Reflecting on his London life, Alex confesses he misses the multicultural atmosphere and culinary variety most, finding it hard to source meat other than pork in Germany. He remarks, "It was a big adjustment, much bigger than I had expected. English people have a reputation of being polite globally. German people are on the opposite side of that spectrum."
No Plans to Return Despite Nostalgia
Despite missing home, Alex has no plans to move back. He explains, "I miss home, but it doesn't make sense moving back to a place where we couldn't afford half of what we have here." He believes many people are leaving the UK due to dissatisfaction with the government, Brexit, and issues like immigration, seeking better opportunities abroad.
Alex concludes, "People are moving to Germany because they want to provide for their families and it is easier to do that here." While he acknowledges the culture shock can be overwhelming for some expats, he has managed to adapt and thrive in his new environment.
