Table of Contents
Introduction
Culture shock is real. Although it’s not always bad, it can be quite strange to find yourself in a different environment. Sometimes it can be very different. Americans experience culture shock most often when they visit Europe. Although the cultural differences between Americans and Europeans may not be vast, it can still be quite surprising to learn how their friends across the pond are living. Some people even find it surprising. In this article we will share five biggest cultural shocks for Americans visiting Europe.
There are many things to consider, including neutral toilets, hot and cold-water taps, people who can walk very fast, birds, flowers, and churches all around. We often experience culture shock when we visit a country that we don’t understand. There is always something new to discover, even if it comes from strange or different culture. Especially in Europe which is super diverse continent. Before we heat to the actual cultural shock moments, take your time to check out ETIAS website, if you plan to visit Europe anytime soon.
Little Cities in Europe are Livelier Than in the USA
The main square is vital to every city and village. It’s vibrant and vital in a way Australian cities can never manage. These include bustling terraces of cafes, bars, ball games, and even a musical performance.
Local citizens can talk for hours on end. Children as young as five years old are seen roaming the streets until midnight, laughing at the joy of being a European kid. Village squares are host to summer festivals that feature performers, a children’s carousel and locals dressed in traditional costumes reenacting an ancient victory.
No Free Refills on Fizzy Drinks in Europe
Americans have become accustomed to drinking lots at meals. They are also used to refilling their glasses without charge. This is probably because the ice makes up two-thirds the drink. Most European restaurants will charge you for another glass. This is something many people didn’t expect.
It is also a health risk. France prohibits sugary drinks from being refilled without charge. As a precautionary measure, the country passed a law prohibiting unlimited refills of soft drinks at any price.
Europe Has Less Air-Conditioners Than the USA
Air conditioning is a favorite of Americans. It’s most often necessary due to the weather. However, even if it’s too hot, it can be adjusted to the right temperature for you to sleep. Many Americans are shocked to learn that many European homes and flats lack air conditioning when they visit.
Why? The reason is that most buildings in Europe are older and are made of hard-to-modify materials like brick or stone. Window units are often criticized for being too costly to operate because they consume too much energy. They can also prove difficult to install or impossible in certain homes due to the way that windows open.
Public Transport is Very Efficient
The airport links are quick and easy to access. Metro services arrive every few minutes on all lines. Inter-city trains speed across the country at speeds of 300km/h. You might be wondering why the USA, one of the richest nations in the world, has such poor public transport. But who knows, maybe that’s a cultural thing too.
Beer is Super Cheap
Many Americans are shocked at the high cost of drinking water in Europe. Although tap water is free, it’s not cheap. Redditors have commented that water (or wine if you live in France) is more costly than beer at the pubs.
Some travelers pointed out that there is a German law that states that if a restaurant serves alcohol, they must serve a nonalcoholic beverage that is less expensive than the alcoholic beverages on the menu. Sometimes, that drink is milk.
Conclusion
Many Americans fly to an overseas destination from the United States without realizing they are entering a foreign culture. Culture shock is a psychological disorientation that results from immersion in a culture where things are done and seen differently.
However, cultural shocks aren’t always bad. They can be good indicators showing how different regions of the world have been developing over the centuries. If you consider something normal back home, but discover that isn’t tolerated in another country – Be Chill. This is the way how these society has evolved and your anxiety cannot change a thing. Just be mindful and keep your eyes wide open when traveling. After all it can be a nice story, no?
