I am doing my PhD in Netherlands after studying in Belgium. I also worked in USA for a few years as a software engineer. Work culture is more relaxed in EU. My wife is allowed to work here from day of her arrival even though I am a PhD student. Even on a single salary we were able to travel around Europe. I had the option to study in USA for my PhD. Looking at the current situation, I am very happy with my decision to stay in Europe. Public transport is great, language is not a problem in big cities, and food/wine/beer/cheese is amazing.