America has that mysterious allure that brings in tourists from all over the world to check out our beloved country.
The foreign media hates us.
So other people are curious to see if what they say about America is true.
Some Europeans have been introduced to Americans overseas, and we’ve lived up to their stereotypes.
Other Europeans have never met an American.
And when some Europeans visit America for the first time, they’re often left confused about some of our customs that are, well, just American.
Things that are totally normal for us completely baffle them.
Here are the top things about America and Americans that confuse Europeans.
Our Restaurants
At first, Europeans are utterly amazed at just how large our portion sizes are.
Ordering a burger and medium fries at a typical joint in America would feed a family of three in Europe.
Yes, we like to eat.
And free refills?
Yep, that’s how we roll in the USA.
We love sugar, and we gulp it down.
But what throws Europeans for an even greater loop is the fact they are expected to tip.
In some European countries tipping is as seen as an insult, but here in America… it’s how servers make a living.
You better believe if you have an $85-dollar tab and you leave an American server a $2 tip, you’ll reinforce the stereotype, “Europeans can’t tip.”
Servers in the U.S. make like $2.13 an hour.
If you have friends from Europe visiting, kindly remind them that standard tipping in America is 20%.
We’re So Much More Chill
One of the best things about living in America is we are not pretentious.
Well, at least not the conservatives, ha!
Sure, many of us are educated and went to good schools.
Yes, some of us have “important” jobs working to save the world.
But chances are we don’t talk about it.
We’d much rather discuss our favorite baseball team or give you tips on where to find the best local craft beer and wings.
And, you’ll probably catch us in a baseball cap and t-shirt – because we like to be comfortable.
Many Europeans are suspicious at first as to why Americans actually appear to be so nice and laid back.
Some even think we have ulterior motives.
The truth is, we’re just chill. And most of us like people.
In addition, when we enjoy something or sample some tasty grub, we want others to share in the joy too.
Trust us Europeans, you’ll appreciate the fact we’re approachable and not standoffish.
And as a bonus, you’ll love our air-conditioned buildings during the hot summer days!
Freedom, Baby!
We Americans cherish our FREEDOM.
Yes, the stereotype is true, some Americans even wear the American flag on their clothes (to each their own).
But we hate tyranny.
And we’re proud our Founding Fathers fought so hard to make us free.
So we celebrate our freedom whenever we can. Sporting events. Ceremonies. Parties.
We erect statues and monuments and write books on how we broke free of British tyranny.
You get the idea.
There probably isn’t a city in America you can visit that won’t ring of American pride.
Even the most liberal cities in America have at least a few patriots.
No, Our College Isn’t “Free.” Neither Is Our Healthcare.
Real Americans don’t like socialism.
We know it doesn’t work.
And if you ask us about “free healthcare for all” – you’ll likely get schooled on economics and be reminded that nothing is really free.
Yes we pay taxes. No we don’t like it. And we certainly don’t want to pay more!
If you start to talk to us about how much better America would be with universal healthcare, we will probably stop talking to you.
You may ask, “But what about kids who want to go to college?”
Rock on. We support them. But they can either pay for it like we did, or take out a responsible loan and pay it back, like we did.
And no, we don’t envy European healthcare and having to wait 6 months to have a knee surgery.
Or doctors deciding whose lives are worth saving and which lives are “less valuable” so we get to die in the system.
No thanks.
We’re Actually Not So Bad
Some foreign media outlets portray Americans as a bunch of rude obnoxious jerks.
But as many Europeans learn, we’re not so bad.
Sure we may be loud at times.
And yes, we talk through our meals, and on the subway, and riding in an Uber, and pretty much anywhere else.
But that’s because we’re social creatures.
We like people.
And if you ask us what the best restaurant is in town, we’re happy to tell you which places to check out and which to steer clear from.
But if you start to insult our country or our freedom, chances are you’ll see just how quick we rise to the occasion to defend our beloved country.
And listen, just because we love our country doesn’t mean we hate yours.
We know Europe has some cool spots. We travel there. We have fun and appreciate the uniqueness.
But while in America, all we ask is you tip our servers, show some respect, and enjoy the freedom!
Have you ever had a European friend visit America before? What was their first impression?
What do you think confuses Europeans the most about America?
Tell us your thoughts in the comments below and be sure to share this article with all your friends!