re: Ever gone there a bit and hung out with the natives?
Yes, I have. Worked in Deutschland. Ich arbeitit bei Nixdorf A.G.
I was addressing the oft promoted myth of the economic standard of living, not quality of life
I agree with Gary's statement that Americans should have more than 2 weeks vacation per year. It would increase productivity and is pro family values. This from someone who worked for hi-tech startups where taking Sunday off or any vacation was frowned upon by investors. The same folk who often missed board meetings because THEY were away on exotic vacations.