I like how you focused on the language aspect, though I believe that is a pretty minor issue in comparison. Though I tend to see things a bit differently anyway, since I believe most travelers (unless impeded by arrogance or self doubt) will learn a bit of the local language, even if they're there for a few days. Hello, Thank you, You're welcome, Excuse me, ... These are such basic, yet essential items, that it's hard to image someone not having to use them on a daily basis. Nu-i așa? ;-) And if you're enthusiastic enough, you may soon find yourself in quick conversations about the weather or philosophical theories. (Just kidding about the latter!) Now, becoming proficient enough to pass a language exam is another matter entirely, but still feasible even after a three-month stay, provided it's seen as necessary, which brings me to my next point:
It should NOT be necessary! Same thing goes for visas, work permits, and other useless paperwork, period! And I'm so happy you brought up the gov't handouts, because I think that's the biggest factor impeding this logical next step: If they stopped handing out stolen money (taxes), whether to their own citizens or foreigners, all these restrictions wouldn't be necessary. Then we could really start working from the places that appeal best for us, for as long as they do. And sure, by living in a place you are more likely to spend your money there. And THAT should be a greater incentive for countries rather than coerced taxation, which in my opinion would only encourage people to move away from there. But I'm sure, once one country starts this trend, others will follow suit, as it will become a competition for residents. And in this regard, I think small countries (like the Netherlands or Austria) are more likely to change than big, rigid ones like Germany.
I think we agree to disagree. Learning a bit of the local language can help you at the grocery store or at the market, but not when it comes to legal matters. Try to sort out fines, taxes or other legal matters in a country, where there's no English speaking clerk and there's no online information in English either.
This is why I have written this post, but looks like due my crappy English, the meaning was lost.
No way! Your English is excellent!
However, when it comes to taxes and legal matters, I honestly don't think I could sort it out, either in English, or in any other of my native languages. Believe me, I've tried! (Ha, maybe it was ME who's the idiot...) In the end I've always ended up getting help from someone who was professionally capable, and not only spoke the language "perfectly". And again, this leads me into: maybe we all would be better off without taxes or legal matters. But I've hijacked your post enough already. -sorry about that. 😇
I studied law and know that one comma can make the difference. Not to mention when there are three lawyers in the room, there are five opinions as they interpret the law in different ways. Then imagine the poor citizens that have no help.
Hahaha, I know, I've been there. My wife is a lawyer, so we tend to have three (or more) lawyers around the table. So I know you are not exaggerating. Also, I have had my share of experiencing German, Hungarian, US, and Mexican bureaucracy first hand. And though there are considerable differences between these, neither one can be described as user friendly.