Things EU countries do better than the UK

Simon Wells
Authored by Simon Wells
Posted Monday, January 27, 2025 - 7:52am

Let’s face it, the UK has its charms—tea, sarcasm, and questionable weather among them. But when it comes to certain things, our European neighbours seem to have the upper hand. From food to regulations, the EU just knows how to get some things right. So, grab your passport and let’s explore the ways the EU shines a little brighter.

First off, can we talk about public transport? European countries, especially Germany and Switzerland, have train systems so efficient they could make the Hogwarts Express feel like a museum relic. While in the UK, you’re forking out half a paycheck to stand in the aisle of a delayed train, Europeans are zipping across borders in sleek, on-time trains that serve coffee better than most cafes. France has its TGV, Italy has its Frecciarossa, and the UK has... Well, a lot of apologies for the delays.

Speaking of finer things in life, let’s chat about online casinos. While the UK has a decent gambling scene, the EU, particularly Malta, plays the ace card here. Malta is the hub of online casino regulation, ensuring games are fair, operators are accountable, and players are protected - you can find out more from bestnonukcasinos.net. The EU’s streamlined regulations make cross-border gaming experiences a breeze, something the UK could definitely take a few notes on.

Then there’s food. Sure, the UK has fish and chips, and who doesn’t love a good Yorkshire pudding? But when it comes to culinary finesse, the EU sweeps the table. France practically invented fine dining, Spain gave us tapas, and Italy’s pizza and pasta game is unmatched. 

Healthcare is another area where the EU often leaves the UK playing catch-up. In countries like the Netherlands, Germany, and Sweden, healthcare systems are known for their efficiency, accessibility, and affordability. Need a doctor’s appointment? You’re in and out before you can say "free prescriptions". In the UK, meanwhile, you might wait so long for an appointment that by the time you see the GP, your ailment has either resolved itself or become a life story.

And let’s not forget sustainability. Many EU nations have made eco-friendliness a way of life. Countries like Denmark and Sweden are practically powered by wind turbines and good intentions. Germany is a recycling wizard, and the Netherlands’ love affair with bicycles is nothing short of inspiring. In the UK, we’re still figuring out how to separate our plastics from our cardboard.

Oh, and let’s not forget fashion—an area where the EU struts its stuff like it’s permanently on a runway. From Paris, the undeniable capital of haute couture, to Milan, the epicentre of luxury brands, European countries know how to dress to impress. While the UK has its fair share of iconic style moments, there’s something about the effortless chic of the French or the bold elegance of the Italians that sets them apart. In Europe, even their casual “running to the bakery” outfits could pass for a photo shoot. Style, it seems, is just in their DNA.

Finally, there’s the vibe. European cities just have that extra sparkle. Paris feels like a movie set, Amsterdam is a cyclist’s dream, and Barcelona has a rhythm that makes you want to dance in the streets. London is great, but there’s something about the laid-back charm of a Mediterranean piazza or the fairy-tale aesthetic of Prague that can’t be replicated.

The UK does many things well, but when it comes to trains, food, online casinos, healthcare, sustainability, and sheer joie de vivre, the EU takes the crown. And honestly? We’re not even mad about it.


 

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