The Do’s and Dont’s of Standing Out as an American in Europe
As Americans, we have many cultural differences from our friends on the other side of the world and let’s just say, we tend to stand out! Normally, you can spot an American from a mile away. If you want to fit in, follow these Do’s and Don’ts for standing out as American in Europe.
American in Europe
Do:
Dress casual
You do not have to wear a nice dress everywhere you go just because you are in Europe!! Contrary to popular belief, Europeans wear jeans too! I remember my university in the US advised all the girls to have dresses to wear when we visited European cities during my study abroad. Looking back, it seems a bit ridiculous!
Don’t:
Wear athletic wear
Okay, just don’t be TOO casual. In the US, we wear athletic clothes for just about anything! In Europe, athletic clothes are reserved for the gym and nothing else. Everyone knows that you’re American when they see those Lululemon leggings or Nike shorts. Are they comfortable? OF COURSE. But the European mindset is that you should at least make a little bit of an effort when you leave the house.
Do:
Wear comfortable shoes
You will probably be walking a lot! Sneakers are normally the way to go! In summer, find some comfy sandals! In winter, comfortable boots! Your feet will thank you after an entire day spent walking on ancient but uneven cobblestone.
Don’t:
Wear tons of makeup
Aside from the British, most European girls sport the all-natural look. They may throw on a bit of a lipstick for the office or going out, but nothing to the extent of what you see on American beauty influencers.
Do:
Speak clearly so people can understand you!
When you travel, chances are you won’t be in a country whose native language is English. People in that country have learned English to accommodate for YOU, so the least we can do is slow down, try to cut out the slang, and speak clearly. A little bit goes a long way.
Don’t:
Be super LOUD
That being said, it seems that Americans natural instinct when not understood, is simply to SPEAK LOUDER. Speaking louder does not help!!
Even walking down the street we tend to be the loudest bunch, which plants us as an easy target for pickpockets. Not sure why we’re this way, but Americans are notorious for not knowing what an ‘inside voice’ is.
Do:
Make an effort to speak the language
People will always appreciate it if you at least try! It can make a world of difference in customer service if you walk up saying hello in English, versus the local language. It doesn’t even have to be much! When I travel I try my best to learn how to say ‘hello’ and ‘thank you’. Even those simple words are appreciated.
Don’t:
Expect everything to be the same (comparison, ice, food)
Things are different! If you ask for ice in your drink, they will look at you funny, and then come back with a single ice cube. Houses are way less modern than what we have in the US, so hotel standards are priced accordingly. Food is insanely different. American pizza tastes nothing like Italian pizza, and THAT’S OKAY.
Do:
Use public transport!
Guys, you are just wasting money if you take Ubers everywhere. The public transport outside the US is top-notch and while it may be confusing at first, you will quickly get the hang of it and save so much money!
Don’t:
Leave your valuables easy to access/fall for scams
During my first time in Florence several years ago, my aunt and I were walking the city centre and had a guy walk up to us asking where we were from. He was so ecstatic to learn we were Americans, saying how much he loved Americans and how his cousin lives in New York. He spoke and spoke to us, wanting to know all about our culture, and then decided to give us a ‘parting gift’ because we had ‘made so much of an impression on him’. Then, you guessed it, he asks for money and wouldn’t leave us alone until we gave it to him.
Looking back, I can’t believe I fell for it!! Being from a small town, my aunt and I were very naive, never being exposed to that. Try not to talk to strangers, especially ones that love you because you’re American, want to give you a bracelet, or want you to sign a petition.
What would you say is a dead giveaway that someone is American??
