A lifestyle expat travel blog about culture, history, Brexit, the Royal Family, travels around the world, Europe, and being British in Berlin!
The last week has been extremely stressful, and we have the awful outcome of the Brexit Referendum to thank for that, and by all accounts, it isn’t a pretty story.
The Prime Minister – David Cameron – handed in his resignation. So did Boris Johnson.
The leader of the Labour Party is struggling to keep his head, Scotland and Northern Ireland are talking loudly about secession, and the pound lost a third of it’s value, and has never been lower!
The idea of BREXIT.
Is.
Frightening.
And.
Totally Awful.
But let me be clear. I’m still British, and I’ll be British to the end.
Yes, those losers voted for Out. But they’re not my people. They’re not the British people that I know.
And.
They don’t represent me.
The people who voted for Remain ARE my people. And even though we lost the Referendum. We haven’t lost our spirit.
I’m proud to be British.
Being British has never been about self.
Being British has always been about supporting the common good, the underdog, freedom and fairness.
I may not agree with the verdict, but it’s democracy, and that vote has been taken, and so we must bear the consequences.
It’s true that I have the luxury of a double nationality if I so wish, and I have the right to do so.
I have lived in three European countries as an expat, and each nation has been left better off than when I found it. They have benefited not only from my expertise, but also my money.
I’m a strong advocate for Europe and I will keep on advocating. Here’s why:
Living in Europe means that you get to learn another language. Our son – “The Tall Young Gentleman” – speaks German, English, Spanish, and a bit of Chinese, although he would actually like to learn Japanese! My husband – The Music Producer – speaks German, English, Latin, and a bit of French. Myself – The British Berliner – well, I speak English, German, a bit of a Czech, a bit of Polish, and a weeny bit of French, although I would like to learn Hindi or Mandarin!
Now of course, the reality is, if you’re an Anglo-American expat and your native language is English, you don’t really need to but… And this is a huge but.
If you want to be truly a part of your new country, it helps if you try. They appreciate it.
I have been to 30 countries in Europe, 10 countries in Asia, 6 countries in Africa, 2 countries in North America, 1 country in South America, 1 country in the Middle East, and 5 dependent islands. In 2014, I travelled to 10 countries, in 2015, I travelled to 11 countries. That makes a grand total of 55 countries and 5 continents!
I love re-visiting countries that I like, and so in 2016 I returned to Spain, Portugal, Belgium, and England of course!
In the summer, I’ll be travelling to 5 countries, and two of them will be new – Switzerland and Luxembourg – and in the Autumn, I’ll be in Asia again travelling to the Philippines, but open to China and Taiwan while I’m there, and trying to squeeze in France somewhere along the way lol!
Not too shabby!
I’ve said it before, and I’ll probably say it again, if you live in Europe (and that includes the UK), you have no excuse not to travel all around this beautiful continent.
While we still can!
In March 2016, I went back to England and attended the very dignified graduation ceremony for my MA Degree.
Yep!
I obtained an MA – Masters of Art Degree at the University of Chester.
In England!
My specialisation was in Education Management and Training. A bit like an MBA for teachers!
I am extremely pleased. And very proud!
My first degree was obtained at an elite university abroad, with a BSc. honours degree in Political Science! I then did a Master’s Degree at Durham University which is the 3rd oldest university in England!
Now I’m a corporate inter-cultural life coach and an educational English language trainer and teacher in Berlin, as well as being an International Social Media Lifestyle & Professional Travel Blogger!
I love teaching and training others, and that is why I wanted a second Masters Degree. I might even go for a Phd sometime in the future. Who knows?
And I paid thousands of pounds for that esteemed and elevated education. And so did my parents!
In European schools and most European universities, you don’t pay a single penny.
Not a single penny!
Of course, you pay student union fees and probably for transport (student discount of course), but no school fees!
The point I’m trying to say is that education is free to all.
Our son used to go to an international school and we paid just €6,000 a year! He now goes to an elite school for scientists – and we don’t pay a cent!
In a few years, he’ll be off to university, and the money that I would have saved will go to his exchange year abroad, when he’s 16 years old, and his GAP year-around-the-world, when he’s 18!
In the UK, the NHS is free of charge but there’s a hell of a lengthy queue and as a result, many people have opted for private care. On the continent, your health card will cover you in every European country, there are no fees to be paid, medication is subsidised, and healthcare for children is absolutely free!
Lat year, I went skiing in the Czech Republic and became enormously ill, but I didn’t have to pay for anything, except for prescription drugs that cost me all of €13.00!
There I said it. SEX. If you’re an adult. Yes. You. Can!
I wrote a post about this a few years ago, and it was based on another post that hit a nerve and got lots of people very upset!
There are many advantages to living in Europe. People fought for a right to choose their own way of living.
We’re liberal.
We can choose without eyebrows raising.
We can marry or not marry.
Be single or in a relationship.
Be committed or be free-loving.
Have a lover or have a million lovers.
Be gay, straight, bi-sexual or transsexual.
Have children or have none.
And isn’t that the point?
CHOICE.
Germany gives both genders, the right to parental leave, for up to three (3) years. As do many other European countries! Either gender or both, can stay at home to look after their children.
When our son was born, I stayed at home for a year, and my husband stayed at home for the other two!
We were also entitled to a home water-birth (which I took) and a girl who came in and did the cleaning and shopping for a fortnight (two weeks), all paid for by my health insurance!
The child benefit is generous as the state would like people to have more children, sadly most of us either have “an only child” or none at all.
Ah well!
Europeans take their holidays and vacations seriously, and they’re not afraid to use them! You get a minimum of 24 holidays per year (by law), and between 11-15 public holidays on top of that. That makes 35 days.
You are also allocated breaks and if you’re ill during your vacation, you’re entitled to get those days back! Even I didn’t know that, until last year when I was so ill on vacation, I couldn’t ski. But when I contacted my company, they’re were great, and when I contacted my health insurance, they were fantastic, and gave me the complete week back again!
In the summer, most Europeans are out and about, either on holiday / vacation, out of the city, or on their bikes. It’s great. Everyone does things outdoor.
In Berlin, it’s so green that you would hardly know that you’re in the capital city of Europe’s strongest economy, and one of the largest countries in the European Union. And if you didn’t already know, Berlin is a river-city too!
In fact, 44% of Berlin is covered with parks, forests, fields, rivers, lakes and canals, and Berlin has about 30 beaches and 960 bridges, which is far more than the ever romantic city of Venice!
I mean, thirty (30) beaches!
So is it any wonder that water activity is an important aspect of living in Germany. As well as mountains, hiking, fields and beaches.
I’m quite lazy but in the last three years, I have done tango dancing, hip-hop, skiing, a little bit of horse-riding, tai-chi, Broadway Musical dancing classes of “Chicago” – that was a killer! And a bit of ballet.
I would like to go back into ballet again. Eeeeek!
As you know, I don’t drive, although my husband does, and in only a few years, our son will too!
And it hasn’t been a problem!
I use other alternative means of getting around. And living in Europe makes that extremely easy to do so! I can, and do love using the train as you can spread out, you can read, you can walk about, and you can take as many suitcases as you want (within reason of course)!
I also love flying and flying within the EU is a doodle, as everywhere is just so close by.
And if you’re really short on cash, taking the coach or bus, is not a problem as nowadays, they’re as fully equipped as planes with wi-fi, flat-screens, free drinks, and everything!
If you’re as romantically inclined as I am, then go ahead and take a ferry cruise, or go the whole hog, and cruise around Europe instead!
I don’t need to tell you how important this is.
So how did I do it?
Well, if you look at my About Me page, you will see that I’m married, I have a husband, a tween child and a very nice corporate job, as an inter-cultural life coach, educational English language trainer and teacher in Berlin, so if you need help with anything, just let me know lol!
And I have this wonderful lifestyle, travel, expat blog!
In short, I live a normal life. Just like you.
I’m married, in a relationship with someone, or have been single. Just like you.
I have family responsibilities. Just like you.
I have a full-time job. Just like you.
And so I get smart. And work things around family life, and I have an understanding German husband to thank.
I’ve always been a supporter of Germany – my adopted country – and I’ll continue to do so.
I’m a strong advocate for Europe and I will keep on advocating.
I’m the British Berliner – a British European.
And I’m proud of it!
This article is not sponsored, and all opinions and the wonderful things associated to living in Germany, and being a British European, are my very own!
Next week, I’ll be writing about Berlin Fashion Week!
July is Pride Week!
From 02.07.16 – 24.07.16, the LGTB (community), well-wishers and gay-friendly supporters will gather in Berlin to celebrate and advocate a tolerant and open-minded society.
The Lesbian-Gay City Festival will take place from 16.07.16 – 17.07.16.
CSD on the Spree (River) will take place on 21.07.16.
Dyke * March Berlin will take place on 22.07.16.
Our main Gay Pride Day otherwise known as Christopher Street Day (CSD), will take place on 23.07.16.
The Berlin Chapter of Travel Massive and Terminal 3, will be hosting True Stories. Told Live. Digital Nomad Style as part of the Tech Open Air Festival on July 14th, at Spielfeld Digital Hub.
I’ll also be attending an Exclusive Food Tour with Fork & Walk on Wednesday, August 10th.
Save the Date!
July is going to be flamboyant!
I’ll be there. Will you?
As usual, you can also follow me via daily tweets and pictures on Twitter & Facebook!
If you’re not in Berlin in July, you’re missing all the excitement!
Watch this space!
See you in Berlin.
Why don’t you drive?
Summer will be great, love your plans..and love it more and more how you’re explaining the Brexit referendum.
Lots of people were so mad on social media, and spewing alot of hate and insults; saying that a good portion of the world was colonized by Great Britain, and now they left the EU because of immigration!
Looking at everything, I noticed that the margins were very close, and almost as many people voted to stay, as the people who voted to leave..so it’s seems not so fair to hate everyone..and I like it that a few days ago there was a protest in London about the same?
I agree with your points here, it is indeed a privilege as you clearly point out..during my time in Holland, I noticed that so many people wanted to leave and go to England. I also had a nice 10-day stay in London, and was hoping to leave soon for the U.K, but with the referendum, I think I will have to wait a while and see how things pan out, as it may now be difficult to simply migrate to the UK when they are no longer part of the EU. Have a great summer!
Thanks so much Carol!
I don’t drive as I never bothered to get my licence and there was always someone else to do the driving. I even owned a car when I was living in London and everything, so it wasn’t that difficult to encourage my friends to drive me around lol!
The Brexit situation isn’t going to get any better. It’s likely to actually get worse, so if you have a 10-day stay in London NOW is the time to visit, as the official paperwork of the UK enforcing restrictions, etc, have not yet taken place. This will take a while, as no one actually wants to do the dirty job so we’re probably looking at either the end of summer, or early in September/October! Tourists will always be welcome, but travel sooner, rather than later!
p.s. Have a wonderful summer too. 🙂
All good and valid reasons 🙂 . I do however think the time given for parental leave is a bit much. My friend’s sister in Vienna has made a career out of having kids! 5 to be exact. She hasn’t worked in years!!! Her brother hates the fact she is taking advantage :-). On the other hand, the 8 weeks given in the U.S is too little. Have a great time on your travels 🙂
Thanks so much KemKem!
In Germany, the birth rate is 1.2, and that is why the State is generous. Most professional women like myself have only one child, Many have none, as industry doesn’t favour women with young children. Luckily for me, when I had “The Tall Young Gentleman”, I was already quite late in child-bearing (Ahem!), and also, I was the boss lol! Most of my friends have no children, although 50% did actually want to. As far as professional academic women are concerned, no-one is taken advantage of parental leave!
Hey Victoria! So, I was just strolling around the wide blogosphere of writers, and wanted to know if you were interested in participating in a blogging/writing collaboration-journey-adventure in the somewhat near future with me and a few other bloggers. I can’t say too much about it right now – the details are TOP SECRET – but it will basically be a short-term, not-too-labor-intensive, super-mega-fun creative project that will have everyone else be like “damn, why didn’t I sign up to be a part of this project when they asked me to?” If you’re interested, reply here and/or drop me a line at jacobh1021 at yahoo dot com. Cheers!
Hey Joseph! How are you? Thanks for contacting me. Yeah, run the details by me when you have them. On paper, why not lol!
It’s Jacob. And what’s your email address so I can send you the top secret details?
I look forward to hearing from you Joseph. It’s: victoria@thebritishberliner.com
Thanks for reminding me of all these great reasons, as it’s been a bit difficult lately to be proud of my British roots. Last week we were in Budapest and I was in the Terror Museum learning about the horrible oppression, torture and persecution the Hungarian people have suffered over the decades, particularly Jewish people. It reminded me of just how lucky we are in the UK to live in a democratic society where everyone is free to express their opinions; yes, the country is a bit of a mess right now but I’m sure the underlying nature of tolerance and freedom will prevail.
You’re very welcome Amy!
It hasn’t been easy and that was the reason that I wrote this piece. I refuse to abandon my nation ‘cos of a set of ridiculous
little boyspoliticians. Just because a batch of idiots voted for #Leave, doesn’t mean that the rest of us did too. We didn’t! And we should shout that out on the rooftops! European governements and leaders are upset. And understandably so, but the people in Europe still like us and respect us for who we are. People!p.s. The number of German people who have shown me sympathy and grieved along with me, are many. And are we going to let a bunch of losers send our country to the dogs? Absolutely not! Keep your head up and let others know that you voted for #Remain! We’re #BritishEuropean and we’re proud of it! 🙂
Pingback: Is it safe to travel to Europe right now ‘cos I’m scared to travel abroad? | The British Berliner
Pingback: Top 9 reasons why Danish food isn’t just smørrebrød, seasonal berries & herbs, but can be awfully tasty! | The British Berliner
Pingback: How to spend 48 astonishing hours in Lucerne, otherwise known as Luzern – On a budget! | The British Berliner
Pingback: Why you should visit Switzerland, and eat cheese! | The British Berliner
Pingback: Luxembourg: A smart guide to the Grand Duchy of one of Europe’s smallest countries! | The British Berliner
Pingback: Should you visit Bratislava, or stay at home and not bother! | The British Berliner
Pingback: 51 reasons to go to the seaside. In Germany! | The British Berliner
Pingback: 10 Christmas gifts that don’t cost a single thing, and 10 gifts that do!! | The British Berliner
Pingback: How I went to 10 unbelievable countries, went into a media frenzy over Brexit, and lived to tell the tale in 2016. If you want the sky, you’ve got to reach for it! | The British Berliner
Pingback: How to use the train in Europe: 10 tips to help you. | The British Berliner
Pingback: How to visit Amsterdam in two days. With a teenager! | The British Berliner
Pingback: How to start a blog in just a mere 10 minutes: A simple guide! | The British Berliner
Pingback: Article 50 & Brexit in the UK. Everything you need to know! | The British Berliner
Pingback: 10 reasons why Zagreb is a family destination – A great place for teenagers! | The British Berliner
Pingback: Have you ever been to Split in Croatia – Bring out the dragons! | The British Berliner
Pingback: Croatia – a basic guide to food! | The British Berliner
Pingback: Fantastic news! I’m travelling to Sweden & Slovenia by bus. Now isn’t that just awesome. Eek! | The British Berliner
Pingback: The top 10 best interesting things to do in Stockholm. Because the winner takes it all! | The British Berliner
Pingback: Is it safe to travel to Britain & the UK right now ‘cos I’m scared to travel abroad? | The British Berliner
Pingback: Have you ever been to Sweden? Hej! | The British Berliner
Pingback: How I went on the radio for the BBC & was featured in Germany’s biggest Sunday newspaper! | The British Berliner
Pingback: Summer in Germany – Simply the Best! | The British Berliner
Pingback: A 5 minute introduction to Slovenia! | The British Berliner
Pingback: 51 things to do in Ljubljana. That’s right! | The British Berliner
Pingback: How to visit Slovenia: Introducing Kamnik – A town stuffed with mountains and cheese! | The British Berliner
Pingback: Lake Bled – 10 reasons to visit! | The British Berliner
Pingback: Slovenia – a basic guide to food! | The British Berliner
Pingback: Best of Poland: Dumplings, & everything in between! | The British Berliner
Pingback: 10 Christmas gifts that don’t cost a single thing, and 10 gifts that do – 2017/2018!! | The British Berliner
Pingback: How I went to 8 wonderful countries, got heaps of expat awards, was on radio with the BBC, & met Prince William in 2017! | The British Berliner
Pingback: How to get German citizenship if you’re British – How to be a German via Double Nationality! | The British Berliner
Pingback: EXCITING NEWS! I’ve been invited to the Royal Wedding Reception of Prince Harry & Meghan Markle! AND. I’ve got a new job! | The British Berliner
Pingback: I went to Romania. It didn’t wow me! | The British Berliner
Pingback: Best of Eastern Europe. And that’s official! | The British Berliner
Pingback: The British Berliner is 5 years old. Hurrah! Let’s jump up and down and scream! | The British Berliner
Pingback: How I went to 8 exciting countries, went to India, lost my luggage & got trapped and confused in Delhi! | The British Berliner
Pingback: BREXIT! Don’t panic if you’re British & live in Germany. Here’s what to do! | The British Berliner
Pingback: How to get German citizenship if you're British - How to be a German via Double Nationality! - The British Berliner
Pingback: Brexit is Boring! - The British Berliner
Pingback: BREXIT! Don't panic if you're British & live in Germany. Here's what to do! - The British Berliner
Pingback: How to visit Amsterdam in two days. With a teenager! - The British Berliner
Pingback: Warning! If you're British, live in Europe and want to travel in 2021, here's what you need to know! - The British Berliner
Pingback: Have you ever been to Sweden? Hej! - The British Berliner