American culture is rich and varied, but there are certain habits ingrained in the American lifestyle that can seem quite peculiar to those from other parts of the world. From social norms to food preferences, these everyday practices often leave foreigners scratching their heads. Here are nine American habits that are commonly misunderstood by those from outside the United States.
Tipping Generously and Frequently
In many countries, tipping is not common and can even be considered rude, as The Economist writes. In America, however, tipping is a widespread practice, expected at restaurants, bars, taxis, and many other services, often at a standard rate of 15-20%.
Using Ice in Almost Every Drink
Americans love their beverages ice-cold, a preference that astonishes many visitors from countries where drinks are served at room temperature or only slightly chilled.
Large Portion Sizes
The size of a single meal in the United States can often serve as a shock to foreigners, with portions significantly larger than those found in other countries, leading to a common misconception about American excess.
Frequent Small Talk
Americans are known for their friendliness and often engage in small talk with strangers in public settings. This can seem superficial to people from cultures where such interactions are reserved for acquaintances.
Drinking Coffee on the Go
The sight of Americans walking around with a coffee cup in hand is a familiar one, but it can seem unusual to those from coffee cultures who favor sitting down and enjoying the drink leisurely.
Patriotism in Everyday Life
Foreigners often note the prevalence of the American flag and patriotic themes in everyday settings — something less common in many other countries.
The Question “How are you?” as a Greeting
In the U.S., “How are you?” is commonly used as a casual greeting, but it is not always intended to solicit an honest or lengthy response. This can confuse visitors who are accustomed to answering this question more literally.
Wearing Shoes Inside the House
In many cultures, removing shoes before entering a home is a sign of respect and cleanliness. However, many Americans do not follow this practice, which can be surprising to foreign visitors.
The Love for Personal Space
Americans generally value a considerable amount of personal space compared to other cultures. This can be seen in public spaces, where people often prefer to stand or sit some distance apart.
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Parts of this article were AI-assisted