26 | OCTOBER 12 • 2023 J N the UK. We have a generous allocation of holidays here; I personally get around 25 days by default. Plus, being located centrally allows me to travel to fabulous places like Spain or Italy within a few hours. It’s much more convenient compared to the U.S., ” Feczko observes. Feczko notes that this emphasis on work in the U.S. also influences social interac- tions, with most interactions feeling like an interrogation about one’s profession. “Here in the UK, the approach is more relaxed, with casual starters such as comments on the weather. It fosters a slower, more natural development of relationships. ” He remains undecided about the possi- bility of returning to the U.S. in the future. Being content in the UK and holding German citizenship, which grants him the freedom to reside in any EU country, broadens his residential options. While acknowledging the hardship of being sepa- rated from friends and family, he has found considerable advantages in living abroad. “My time overseas has revealed how American-centric my understanding used to be, to the point that I failed to fully appreciate the rich diversity of people and cultures, ” he shares. “Residing in London has allowed me to recognize the privileges I had back home while also valuing the work- life balance and multicultural environment that the city offers, particularly given its historic role as a focal point in the English- speaking world. ” DOWN UNDER Another favored destination for Americans is Australia. Phillip Yip, a seasoned immi- gration attorney based in Sydney, notes the complexities of the nation’s immigration framework. “Our immigration system is managed by the Department of Home Affairs, and we usually have about 190,000 migrants each year. Roughly 70% of these are skilled workers, and the other 30% come for family reasons, ” he says. Yip adds that Australia is ideally looking for immigrants younger than 45, with good education, strong English and at least two years of relevant work experience after their education. Ian Rathmell, 34, was born to a multi-generational Southern Jewish family in Birmingham, Alabama. “Growing up, I never really envisioned living outside of the U.S. In the South, international perspectives weren’t readily accessible, ” he recalls. Despite feeling grounded in the region, the allure of experiencing more of the world led him to seek opportunities abroad. While working in finance in Austin, Texas, he pushed for a transfer to a global office. In 2016, his request was granted, offering him a chance to move to the company’s Sydney, Australia, branch. “There was a deeper desire to explore and see more, driven partially by Sydney’s pro- gressive landscape. Being a gay Jew, I was also drawn to the open-minded approach to the LGBT community in Sydney, ” Rathmell shares, highlighting the importance of inclusivity in his decision to relocate. In Australia, Rathmell finds a political cli- mate more in tune with his personal values, appreciating the universal healthcare system and a heightened sense of safety compared to the U.S. “The safety here is notable. Yes, we have guns, but they are regulated appro- priately, avoiding the extreme scenarios witnessed in the U.S., ” he observes. Furthermore, Rathmell praises the Australian lifestyle that aligns well with his preferences, “In America, it’s hard to find a city that ticks all my boxes — being near a beach and the mountains, having public transportation, walkable and great weather. Sydney checks so many boxes, and Australia just has so much outdoor adventure and so much to explore and see, ” he adds. As more Americans entertain the idea of relocating, their choices are motivated by a complex interplay of factors including work-life balance, safety and a desire for broader cultural experiences. For American Jewish millennials like Rathmell and Feczko, it is evident that the move abroad has ushered in a period of self-discovery, offering a refreshing deviation from the expectations set in the U.S. They have found countries that align more closely with their individual values, where the approach to work, politics, and even casual interactions offers a breath of fresh air. Moving abroad is a significant step, filled with complexities such as ever-changing immigration laws and the inherent chal- lenges of building a life in a new country. Many Americans contemplating this path might feel overwhelmed by the hurdles that lie ahead and ultimately decide not to follow through with an international move. Yet, for a considerable number, the prospect of a life more aligned with their personal values and aspirations, coupled with enhanced safety, might very well outweigh the challenges. Dan Brotman is the executive director of the Windsor Jewish Federation and oversees its J Welcome Home immigration program. In addition to this role, he is the founder of Rootless Mobility, a consultancy that guides clients who are unsure about their emigration options. continued from page 24 Author Dan Brotman in front of Canada’s Parliament in Ottawa Ian Rathmell with his Australian partner, Brando, in front of the Sydney Opera House OUR COMMUNITY