“I grew up in Germany and now live in the US, and it still bothers me.”

Here is what some people said:

1.

In London, conversing with strangers is considered rude unless you ask for directions.

Two men in a shop, one trying on a novelty hat with a British flag design; surrounded by UK-themed souvenirs

Its disheartening, IMO."

Ellen, South Carolina

2.

“When I was in Edinburgh, I loved almost everything there.

Person holding a glass with a straw, resting on a table beside a window

The only thing I didnt love was they never give you ice.

I cant help it!”

“Talking in public.

Person eating a salad with chips, seen over the shoulder, at a table with another meal and water glasses

In America, we have to make (ugh) small talk.

In Europe, you dont!

You just sit down and eat food (for longer without interruption!)

Group of people dining at a table with various dishes and drinks, sharing a meal together

In Europe, food portioning is much more reasonably sized.

No stuffing yourself at every meal.”

Anonymous

5.

A person is adjusting a baseball cap on their head, surrounded by others in a similar pose

“I’d say tipping and health care.

In Europe, we tip because the food and service are worth a little extra.

lifetheuniverseandeverything

6.

Four people clinking beer glasses together at a social gathering, possibly celebrating while traveling

“People in Europe actually take their time at meals.

“In America, there are flags everywhere, and there are free refills on food things.

Americans also tell people how long it takes to get somewhere as opposed to distance.”

Laundry including shirts and pants hung on a line to dry in a backyard setting

Amber, California

8.

“In America, people wear baseball-style hats indoors, especially at church or dinner.

I grew up in Germany and now live in the US, and it still bothers me.”

“People in America eat with only one hand while the other is under the table.

bird_t

10.

“The concept of having a personal bubble here in America.

After several weeks spent across Europe, I was never so happy to be back home in America!

I enjoy my personal bubble!”

Janelle, AZ

11.

Im already not a beer person, so I didnt have a beer there.

That was the first time I had heard that word.”

“Americans write dates the way we say them.

For example, today is July 25th, written 7/25.

The 4th of July is a special case because it’s a holiday.”

rapunzel452

13.

“Europe doesn’t have clothes dryers.

On my first visit to Portugal, I stayed at several Airbnbs.

They all proudly had washing machines, but none had dryers.

“In Europe, cafe seating often faces out to the street.

In effect, its set up for people watching.”

Blue green

15.

“Service in Europe can be awful!

It took 45 minutes to get my waiters attention so I could ask for my bill.