1. Talking to Strangers
Striking up a friendly chat in line at the grocery store or with someone at a coffee shop? Totally standard in the U.S. Americans often see it as being friendly or neighborly. But in many other countries, that kind of spontaneous openness can feel invasive or weird.
In places like Germany, Finland, or China, people tend to value privacy and personal space much more. Small talk with strangers is less common, and some might think you’re trying to sell something—or are just plain odd. It’s not that people are cold, it’s just a different cultural norm. What feels warm and sociable in the U.S. might come off as too forward elsewhere.
2. High School Sports Culture
In the U.S., high school football games can fill stadiums, and cheerleaders, pep rallies, and team mascots are all part of the scene. Sports can be a huge part of school identity and even community pride. Some schools have multi-million-dollar athletic facilities. But in most other countries, this level of emphasis on youth sports is unheard of.
Academics are usually prioritized far more, and sports are often separate from school. In places like the UK or Japan, athletic training tends to happen in clubs or private leagues, not at school. The idea of treating high schoolers like mini-celebrities for their athletic ability can seem bizarre or even irresponsible. It’s a uniquely American blend of competition, community, and spectacle.
3. Wearing Shoes Indoors
In the U.S., it’s totally normal to walk into someone’s house with your shoes on, especially if you’re just visiting briefly. Most Americans don’t even think twice about it unless the host specifically asks otherwise. It’s seen as casual and convenient—no big deal. But in countries like Japan, South Korea, and many parts of Scandinavia, keeping your shoes on indoors is considered downright rude.
In those cultures, it’s about respect, cleanliness, and even spirituality. Bringing in the dirt from outside is not just messy—it’s symbolic of dragging the outside world into a personal, often sacred space. Some places even provide special indoor slippers for guests. So, that quick step inside in your sneakers? Definitely a no-go in much of the world.
4. Tipping at Restaurants
In the U.S., tipping is expected, and often it’s seen as part of a server’s wage. Leaving anything less than 15–20% can feel almost insulting, especially in larger cities. It’s so deeply ingrained that customers will sometimes tip even for bad service. But in countries like Japan or South Korea, tipping can be confusing or even offensive.
There, great service is simply part of the job, and workers take pride in not needing extra compensation. Some places may even chase you down to return the tip if you leave one. In Europe, tipping exists but is typically modest and not obligatory. Americans abroad often unintentionally over-tip, leading to awkward or baffled responses.
5. Gigantic Portions
When you order a meal in the U.S., there’s a good chance you’ll get a mountain of food. Oversized drinks, endless fries, and “family-sized” everything are just part of the culture. Americans have grown used to these large portions, often taking leftovers home without a second thought. But for many international visitors, the amount of food can be shocking—or even a little alarming.
In countries like France or Japan, portion sizes are much more modest and focused on balance and presentation. Eating more than needed isn’t just impractical—it can feel indulgent or even disrespectful. Many cultures prioritize quality over quantity. So, that massive burrito or supersized soda might feel like a statement abroad—and not a flattering one.
6. Work as an Identity
Ask an American what they do, and you’ll often hear their job title within the first few minutes of meeting them. Work is a huge part of personal identity in the U.S., and long hours are often worn as a badge of honor. Hustle culture is real, and people often tie their worth to their productivity. But in many European countries, this would be considered unhealthy or even sad.
In places like France, Germany, and the Netherlands, work-life balance is fiercely protected. Long hours aren’t admired—they’re seen as poor time management or signs of a toxic job. People define themselves by their hobbies, family, or values, not just their 9-to-5. So, leading with your LinkedIn bio in a social setting? That might raise eyebrows overseas.
7. Smiling at Strangers
In the U.S., smiling at someone on the street is seen as polite and cheerful. It’s a social cue that says, “I’m friendly and harmless.” But in countries like Russia or China, random smiling can be confusing—or even suspicious. People might assume you have an ulterior motive or that something’s wrong with you.
This isn’t about being unfriendly; it’s about different cultural interpretations of body language. In some places, a neutral or serious face is just the norm in public settings. Americans often misread this as coldness, but it’s really just a different set of unspoken rules. So that friendly grin on your morning walk? Abroad, it might come off as a bit too much.
8. Casual Clothing Everywhere
In the U.S., it’s totally fine to wear yoga pants to brunch, hoodies to the airport, and sneakers to a date. Comfort is king, and fashion rules are pretty relaxed outside of formal occasions. Even business casual has gotten, well, really casual. But in many parts of Europe and Asia, dressing down can look careless or even disrespectful.
In places like Italy or South Korea, people tend to dress more intentionally—even for errands. Presentation matters, and there’s an unspoken standard of neatness and coordination. Tourists in sweatpants or flip-flops often stand out in a not-so-great way. What’s “athleisure” in L.A. might be “sloppy” in Paris.
9. Enormous Vehicles
SUVs and pickup trucks are everywhere in the U.S., even in suburban driveways where off-roading is rare. For many Americans, big cars mean comfort, safety, and status. It’s not unusual to see someone commuting solo in a vehicle that could seat eight people. But in much of the world, this just doesn’t compute.
In cities like Amsterdam, Tokyo, or London, streets are narrow, gas is expensive, and parking is scarce. Compact cars—or even better, bikes and public transit—are the norm. Driving a giant vehicle can be seen as wasteful or even arrogant. So that massive truck with the lifted tires? Abroad, it might turn heads for all the wrong reasons.
This post 9 Things That Are Totally Acceptable in the U.S.—But Would Be a Scandal Abroad was first published on American Charm.
