American tourists can be easily spotted abroad due to their unique habits and behaviors. One common observation is that they are amazed by things that are more than 200 years old, as America does not have many historical sites of that age. They can often be heard breaking the silence in museums, and are known for constantly wearing clothing items from their colleges. Americans have a strong inclination towards tipping, even in countries where it is not customary, and they are always on the lookout for public restrooms, often using the term “bathroom” instead of “toilet.”
Additionally, American tourists are known for being friendly and engaging in conversation with strangers, a behavior that may be uncommon in other cultures. They also tend to be cheerful and constantly smiling, in contrast to tourists from other places who may appear more neutral. American preferences for extra ice in drinks, cheese on everything, and to-go coffee cups are also distinctive traits noted by observers. They frequently inquire about measurements in Fahrenheit, miles, and pounds, assuming that stores are open late or 24/7 like in the U.S.
The attire of American tourists abroad is another noticeable characteristic, as they often dress in a casual or adventurous style, even when exploring European cities. They are also known for wearing white socks pulled up high, and for crossing the street expecting cars to stop for them, a behavior that may not be typical in other countries. American tourists can be daring in their food preferences, often asking for ketchup with virtually any dish, and are not deterred by cold weather, seen walking around in shorts when others are bundled up.
In addition to their behaviors, American tourists may stand out for their pronunciation of foreign words and their tendency to complain about portion sizes in restaurants, preferring larger servings. Overall, the combination of these habits and behaviors make American tourists easily recognizable when traveling abroad, sparking reactions ranging from amusement to confusion among locals and other tourists. Whether laughing or crying, Americans abroad may find it interesting to reflect on these tell-tale signs that set them apart on their global adventures.
