Jason Kottke is a fabulous writer, and this observation from his recent article about traveling in Asia reflects my own experience:
America is a rich country that feels like a poor country. If you look at the investment in and the care put into infrastructure, common areas, and the experience of being in public in places like Singapore, Amsterdam, Paris, and Berlin and compare it to American cities, the difference is quite stark. Individual wealth in America is valued over collective wealth and it shows.
It’s a terrific article with excellent photography.