American Habits That Are Rude In Other Countries

When it comes to vacationing Americans, we are by far the ones with the most notorious reputations around. Naturally, some of us are the loudmouths or obnoxious people who question other countries’ customs. However if we’re not those type of people, we’re the travellers who aren’t familiar with the culture. And these subtle differences in cultures can grind against the natives’ gears, even though, they’re normal in the United States.

It’s why, for a traveller, it’s important to take some time to study and observe the culture. Reading articles like this and many others will serve you in figuring out what is good manners here and what isn’t in other places. Below, I’ll be sharing some of the habits that we do that are normal here, but not so much when we travel abroad.

Drinking someone else’s beer/alcohol

In the US, it’s normal to share it around. But Norway sings a different tune. With more restrictions on alcohol in general, taking a can from someone’s stash feels more like you’re stealing from them. If you’re going to a party in Norway be sure to BYOB or be happy with staying sober.

Asking about someone’s occupation

It’s a small-talk go-to question in the US, but it’s not so much in the Netherlands, a social-welfare country. You can expect many people being irked by this in other social-welfare countries too. By asking this question, you’re seen more as a classist than someone innately curious.

Taking the back seat of a cab

While many Americans prefer taking the back seat of a cab, it’s quite rude in some parts of the UK and anywhere in Australia. If you’re given the option of where to ride in a cab, take the shotgun. People here generally want to talk to you, and taking the furthest corner away from them can make you come off as avoiding them.

Blowing your nose

If you are travelling to places like Japan, Saudi Arabia, China, or France, blowing your nose is considered a gross thing to do for them. It’s better if you wait it out. To them, blowing your nose in front of them is akin to you sneezing in their face.