20 of the Most Annoying Things Americans Hear Abroad While Traveling

Traveling abroad is an enriching experience, but with it comes an inevitable challenge—striking the right cultural balance while interacting with locals. For Americans, certain behaviors, linguistic quirks, and cultural misinterpretations often make them the subject of unsolicited commentary or awkward corrections. These moments aren’t necessarily malicious, but they’re a reminder of the subtle and sometimes glaring differences in global culture.

A 2025 study by Wakefield Research, commissioned by RVshare, highlights Americans’ unwavering enthusiasm for travel. According to the findings, 90% of Americans plan to travel just as much—or more—next year compared to 2024. Here are 20 of the most common and annoying things Americans hear abroad. This list serves as both an eye-opener and a friendly cultural guide for travelers.

“Can you please quiet down?”

Americans are often labeled “louder than the locals” across Europe and Asia. Hospitality workers cite that higher speaking volumes make Americans easier to spot in public spaces like cafes, museums, or trains. While it may reflect a cultural preference for open expression, this perceived loudness often draws unsolicited shushing.

American culture tends to celebrate boldness, which can inadvertently translate into loudness in quieter settings, creating a stark contrast with cultures that prioritize subtlety and discretion.

“It’s not ‘Can I get…’, it’s ‘May I have…'”

One of the most nitpicked Americanisms abroad is “Can I get,” especially in formal settings like cafes or restaurants. Some locals—particularly in the U.K.—deem it a tad abrupt compared to the more respectful “May I have.” Lexicographers note this as one of many linguistic differences between American and British English.

Pro Tip: When ordering, be aware of local customs; adding “please” and “thank you” can soften cultural faux pas.

“We don’t use that word here.”

Have you ever been baffled to hear someone in England ask about “fringe” instead of bangs or “transport” instead of transportation? You’re not alone. British linguists bluntly call these differences “irritating Americanisms,” adding to the lighthearted cultural tension between the U.S. and the U.K.

“You’re pronouncing it wrong.”

“Zee” versus “zed,” or an American’s distinct pronunciation of foreign place names like “Edinburgh,” always leads to corrections from locals.

Case in Point: A survey in the U.K. humorously ranked “zee,” the American pronunciation of the letter Z, as one of their top linguistic grievances.

“Please be more aware of your surroundings.”

A stroll through cobblestone streets with a distracted tour group? It’s no wonder Americans hear this one. International hospitality workers note that a lack of spatial awareness—blocking pathways or tourist sites with luggage—can disrupt locals’ daily routines.

Quick Fix: Keep to the side on busy streets and be mindful of crowds, making the experience smoother.

“Tipping isn’t necessary here.”

Tipping customs vary widely around the world. While it’s second nature in the U.S., tipping can confuse or insult locals in countries like Japan or France, which isn’t as ingrained in the culture.

Tip for Travelers: Research in advance when, where, and how much to tip. Sites like TripAdvisor offer tipping guides tailored to each destination.

“That’s not appropriate attire.”

Casual sneakers and a Yankees cap might be wardrobe staples back home, but they can stand out at cultural landmarks or fine-dining establishments overseas. 

This often earns Americans unsolicited sartorial advice to conform to local standards, especially in Italy or France, where dress codes reflect cultural pride.

“Please don’t stare.”

Curiosity about vibrant local cultures can unintentionally come off as rude. Americans have been flagged for gawking at religious ceremonies, traditional outfits, or even unfamiliar street performances. Discreet fascination works wonders—observe, but don’t intrude.

“That’s not how things work here.”

While expecting free water at every restaurant or lightning-fast customer service, expressing frustration with cultural differences is one of the quickest ways to irritate locals. 

American travelers sometimes unknowingly reinforce stereotypes by complaining when the familiar comforts of home are absent.

Why it Matters: Cultural immersion is about adaptability; try to celebrate—and enjoy—the differences rather than point them out.

“You don’t know everything about our culture.”

Nothing raises eyebrows faster than an American enthusiastically explaining a country’s traditions to its locals.

Example: Citing movies like “Gladiator” when in Rome might be a fun icebreaker, but acting like a history buff who’s spent mere hours on-site can rub natives the wrong way.

“Please respect our traditions.”

Missteps in cultural customs—such as talking too loudly in places of worship or pointing at sacred statues—can be deeply offensive. 

For instance, Buddhist monuments in Southeast Asia require modest dress and reverence, which some American tourists overlook. If unsure, follow the locals’ lead.

“Not everything is like in the movies.”

Unfortunately, stereotypes of Parisian romance or American cowboy culture shape many foreigners’ expectations, but these templates often fail to reflect the nuances of real life. 

Generalizations based on exaggerated media portrayals can inspire some head-shaking abroad.

“It’s ‘couldn’t care less,’ not ‘could care less.'”

Americans troubled by grammar sticklers at home won’t find respite abroad. Common expressions like “could care less” are frequent targets for grammatical nitpicking by English speakers elsewhere, sparking countless debates on proper usage.

“We don’t use that term here.”

Do locals in Scotland need to hear about your “bangs”? This linguistic divergence reappears in peculiar places, from sidewalk versus pavement to touch base, which topped a Reddit poll of U.K. residents’ least favorite phrases.

“That’s not how we say the date.”

Thanks to their month-day-year format, American travelers may face puzzled stares abroad when scheduling an itinerary. It’s a common point of confusion in countries like Germany or Australia, where day-month-year reigns supreme.

“We don’t have that here.”

Many Americans have expressed shock on discovering that ranch dressing isn’t universal or that pumpkin spice season isn’t celebrated everywhere. These conversations almost always lead to a bemused, “This isn’t America.”

“You’re being too demanding.”

American tourists don’t shy away from making special requests, but this assertiveness can sometimes be misinterpreted as entitlement. 

A bartender in Portugal noted that customers often request tweaks “without realizing it goes against their culture of hospitality.“

“This isn’t America.”

Expressing frustration over a lack of air conditioning or differences in cuisine can come across as tourist entitlement—the fastest way to guarantee an icy reception from locals.

“You haven’t really ‘done’ Europe.”

A whirlwind trip through Paris and London doesn’t entitle one to boast about “doing Europe.” Locals often roll their eyes when hearing sweeping claims about experiencing an entire continent through just a few cities.

“Please don’t use the speakerphone in public.”

Lastly, the sight and sound of Americans chatting on speakerphones in public areas has become a universal pet peeve. A travel site humorously dubbed this the “21st-century wall of noise.”

While these gripes are usually delivered with a touch of humor, they underscore the importance of cultural awareness and mutual respect when traveling. A little effort to adapt to local customs can go a long way.

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

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