11 American Tradition That Are Rude in Other Nations
Like every other country, American customs and traditions are unique. There are acts that may be harmless in America but may come off as incredibly rude, shocking, or unacceptable in some countries.
For anyone who loves international travel, it may be wise to know some of the different customs and cultural differences in the country you are visiting, so you don’t have awkward run-ins or offend the locals unintentionally, Here are some interesting traditions to take note of.
Tipping Generously
Tipping Generously is a way of life in the United States. At a restaurant, a 15-20% tip is the decent human thing to do, a 0% tip can get you scowled at. In countries like Japan and South Korea, tipping is unnecessary, or even insulting. They’re paid a proper wage to work there, and tipping might imply you think they’re not doing their job.
Being Loud in Public
It is all natural to see Americans strike up a hearty conversation at full volume in a restaurant or train. In Germany or Japan, this is viewed as intrusive and insensitive. Public spaces are shared sanctuaries of peace, so if you raise your voice, you may get a few disapproving stares.
Wearing Shoes Indoors
In many American households, wearing shoes indoors is a nonevent, but in Scandinavia and most of Asia, this is unacceptable. Shoes are dirty and bringing them inside is disrespectful. If you ever visit someone in Norway, be prepared to leave your sneakers at the door.
Casual Use of First Names
Americans address each other by first names whether it’s colleagues, an elderly neighbor, or even a boss at work. This could be considered disrespectful in countries like Germany or South Korea. In such cultures, addressing people professionally or formally using their title or last name shows respect for the other person.
Hugging Strangers
Many Americans tend to greet people with a warm hug even when they might have just met them. In countries like China or the UK, personal space is respected. A handshake, or even a polite nod, might be a safer bet.
Over-the-Top Smiling
Americans smile a lot. It’s just being friendly, and approachable. In Russia, however, over-the-top smiling can make people suspicious. Smiles are reserved for real happiness or close friends there. So, flashing those pearly whites at a stranger may not get you much more than a confused frown.
Small Talk With Strangers
An American can spend all day chatting with someone in line at the grocery store or sharing life stories with their Uber driver, but in countries such as Finland or Switzerland, small talk with strangers is considered invasive. These cultures respect their privacy and prefer if they talk and discuss with meaningful and deliberate conversation.
Flag Displays Everywhere
Americans are known for their patriotism and pride in their country, especially since the American flag is on almost every front porch, t-shirt, and coffee mug, but in countries like Germany or France, you hardly see overt nationalism. Their pride is shown in more subtle ways or at special occasions.
Casual Dress in Public
Overly Casual dress in public places like Italy or France may get a raised eyebrow or two. Running errands in sweatpants or pajamas is considered sloppy. Wearing clothes that make you look good in public is considered respectful to yourself and others.
Ice in Drinks
Ice in drinks is less common in places like Europe or China, but Americans love their drinks ice cold. Locals may be confused or annoyed if their glass is stocked with more ice than drink. Plus, some people believe cold drinks are bad for digestion, so ice is unnecessary.
Minor Holidays With Elaborate Celebrations
Americans are big on celebrations and have exciting traditions for days like Valentine’s Day and Groundhog Day, but in countries, like the UK or Japan, smaller events are hardly celebrated or are observed quietly. While Americans may turn these seemingly smaller events into vacations, it may seem over the top to others.
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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