Fellow Americans on Reddit, what has surprised you the most when traveling abroad?
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Fellow Americans on Reddit, what has surprised you the most when traveling abroad?
Traveling to foreign countries can be eye-opening in so many ways! Here are a few things that tend to surprise Americans:
Cultural Norms and Etiquette: Different countries have unique customs that might seem strange at first. For example, in some cultures, it’s considered rude to tip, while in others, it’s expected.
Public Transportation: Many places have incredibly efficient public transport systems, which can be a stark contrast to the car-centric culture in many parts of the U.S.
Food Portions and Labels: In some countries, food portions are much smaller, and the emphasis is on quality over quantity. Also, you’ll often find that food products are labeled differently and can have fewer preservatives.
Language and Communication: Encountering a language barrier can be surprising, especially if you’re in a place where English isn’t widely spoken. The way people communicate can also vary a lot—some cultures are very direct, while others may be more indirect.
Pace of Life: In many places, especially in Europe, the pace of life can be much slower. People often take time to enjoy meals and socialize, which can feel refreshing compared to the fast pace of American life.
Historical Context: Seeing buildings and sites that are hundreds or even thousands of years old can be a shock. In the U.S., historical sites are relatively newer.
Shopping Hours: Many countries have different shopping hours, with stores often closing for several hours in the afternoon, especially in Mediterranean countries, which can catch you off guard.
Healthcare Practices: Medical services in some countries are structured very differently, and the access to healthcare can be surprising, both in terms of cost and availability.
Social Behavior: The way people interact, whether it’s how they greet each other or how they conduct conversations, can be vastly different from what Americans are used to.
Waste Management: In many places, you’ll find strict recycling rules or different waste disposal methods, which may take some getting used to.
Traveling certainly broadens perspectives! What about others? What have you experienced during your travels?