17 Outrageous Behaviors Abroad That Make it Clear You’re an American

When traveling, you expand your horizons, try new cultures, and, for better or worse, show what and who you are. For Americans abroad, specific daily actions can sometimes stand out…and sometimes not in a good way. These behaviors, cultural trapdoors that we venture into without hesitation, are the sort that often shouts, “Hey, I’m an American!”  

According to Condor Ferries, in 2023, U.S. citizens embarked on 98.5 million international trips, a 22% rise compared to 2022. This figure is nearly on par with the pre-pandemic peak of 99.7 million departures in 2019. The most popular destinations for U.S. travelers in 2022 included Europe, the Caribbean, Asia, South America, and Central America.

Below, backed by personal accounts, data, and social observations, are 17 behaviors that non-Americans immediately associate with travelers from the United States.  

Tipping Everywhere

It’s normal here—it’s normal in America—servers rely heavily on tips. However, tipping can be perceived as offensive in countries like Japan and South Korea, where service workers would instead want to feel like they’ve done a good job. They see tips as a reddening gesture of pity.  

If you are traveling abroad, nothing is worse than a good gesture being misconstrued, so research the tip norms for the country you are going to.  

Loud Conversations

Loud conversations speak volumes. Americans use expressive tones to enhance their emotions, but in cultures like Japan or many European nations, being overheard around the room is a definite way to get noticed wrongly.  

Exaggerated Ice Requests

“More ice, please” is another quintessential American habit. A staple of drinks in this country, sodas are usually filled to the brim with ice cubes. However, this is rare in other countries where beverages are cool but not as cold. 

For instance, Europeans often take a small sip of their sodas with maybe one to two ice cubes, perhaps none.   

Cheese Obsession

Who doesn’t love cheese? For many Americans, the answer is “nobody,” as they frequently request cheese on items that traditionally don’t require it. 

While the U.S. fascination goes well beyond ‘burgers and pizzas‘ to include seafood and cultural staples, cultures have wondered about (or questioned) the ‘fascination‘ with cheese in American food.  

The To-Go Coffee Lifestyle  

Gagging coffee to go is nearly synonymous with the American morning, but European café culture welcomes customers to relax and linger over coffee. 

Confusion About the Metric System 

If an American asks about distances, weights, or temperatures abroad, you can bet they will ask for miles, pounds, Fahrenheit, etc. 

The US persists with its measurements, following what the rest of the world doesn’t. The global reliance on the metric system is one of the most evident displays of this cultural divide.  

Expecting Late-Night Shopping 

Americans are spoiled back home: 24/7 convenience. While in Germany, shops, even supermarkets, close as early as 8 or 9 PM. Those assuming there’ll be late-night access will be surprised.    

Wearing Adventure Gear in Urban Spaces

Watching American tourists walk in European streets in jungle expedition clothes is funny but typical. In big cities like Paris or Rome, you see people with hiking boots, cargo shorts, and even safari hats.  

Ketchup on Everything 

“Ketchup overkill” is another dead giveaway. But unlike in other parts of Europe, where condiments like mustard and olive oil rule, Americans universally love ketchup.  

Shorts in Cold Weather 

Another head-turner is Americans walking the streets of London or Berlin in shorts when it is too cold. This stereotype is cemented even more if it is too cold to your liking, especially for locals.  

Over-the-Top Reactions to Ordinary Things

Spotting an enthusiastic American marveling over lush grass or a seemingly ordinary old streetlamp? Yep, that happens. 

Many countries with historic landmarks or natural beauty often witness exuberant American tourists enjoying what locals might find standard daily.  

Constantly Altering Food Orders

Many cultures worldwide are very proud of their food. Requesting to “hold” or “add” ingredients risks offending chefs whose creations are meant to be enjoyed as presented. For example, such behavior is regarded as lacking respect in France or Japan.  

Refusing Food or Gifts

In countries like Saudi Arabia, Lebanon, or Japan, turning down a host’s generous offer, such as a homemade meal or tea, is considered rude. 

Cultural norms emphasize politeness and hospitality, making a polite “no thanks” feel dismissive.  

Public Nose-Blowing

Achoo! But in public? This is universally frowned upon in many countries, like China, France, and Japan. Private tissues reflect good manners in these cultures because private hygiene is highly valued.  

Thumbs-Up Gestures

In the U.S., a thumbs-up is interpreted as approval. But it means something completely different in parts of the Middle East, Greece, or Thailand—where it might even be offensive.  

Using the Left Hand 

When visiting parts of Africa, the Middle East, or Asia, refrain from using your left hand for eating or anything else you may want to offer. It’s considered unclean because traditional personal hygiene tasks were associated with it.  

Casual Public Attire

Sweatpants, flip-flops, and baseball caps might be comfy choices for Americans, but in places like Japan or Italy, such casual dress can be too relaxed—or worse, disrespectful. 

Travel is one of life’s greatest joys. However, it is also an opportunity for cultural exchange and learning. By understanding and adjusting these behaviors, American travelers can avoid passing through as offensive and have richer, more rewarding interactions with local cultures. A little cultural awareness can make for a good experience for everybody involved. 

Disclaimer – This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.

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