Stop Doing This Abroad: 7 Habits That Instantly Expose You as an American Tourist

When you’re an American exploring new destinations overseas, you want to be seen as a respectful traveler—one who values local culture and isn’t just ticking boxes on a bucket list. But sometimes, we end up broadcasting that we’re American without even realizing it. From the way we speak to the little things we do at restaurants, there are some dead giveaways that make locals instantly think, “Ah, here comes an American.”

Don’t worry—being from the U.S. is definitely not a bad thing! But if you’re looking to blend in a bit more or just avoid cringe-worthy moments, it helps to know which habits might be raising eyebrows. Below are seven things Americans often do abroad that scream, “Hey, I’m definitely not from here.” By spotting these habits and making small adjustments, you can travel more smoothly, connect with locals better, and have a more authentic experience overall.

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Quick Easy Tips

Lower your voice in public; many countries value quiet conversation.

Learn a few basic phrases in the local language—it shows effort and respect.

Skip the workout clothes unless you’re actually working out.

Don’t assume tipping is expected everywhere; research first.

Avoid overpacking—many places don’t have space for giant luggage.

Observe how locals interact in restaurants or public transport before jumping in.

One of the most debated aspects of American travel culture is the assumption that “the customer is always right.” While this may fly in U.S. service industries, it often backfires abroad, where workers don’t tolerate entitlement and are less likely to bend over backward for tourists. Expecting the same level of convenience, speed, or friendliness can make Americans appear impatient or rude.

Another point of friction is personal space and volume. Americans are often taught to express themselves freely and confidently, but in many countries, especially in Europe and parts of Asia, modesty, quietness, and restraint are valued in public. Speaking loudly or taking up too much space can be interpreted not as confidence—but as arrogance or disrespect.

Clothing is another unspoken cultural cue. While casual dress is common in the U.S., showing too much skin or wearing overly casual attire like athletic shorts or flip-flops outside the beach can be seen as inappropriate or sloppy in many places. Failing to observe these norms sends an unintended message of indifference to the local culture—even when it’s not meant that way.

1. Talking (Way) Too Loudly

Let’s face it, Americans sometimes have a reputation for being extra vocal in public. Maybe it’s our habit of chatting enthusiastically, telling big stories, or just not realizing how much our voices carry. In many countries—especially around Europe—public spaces like subways, buses, and smaller restaurants are usually pretty quiet. Locals keep their voices down as a sign of respect for others, and they don’t typically broadcast personal conversations for everyone to hear.

What to do instead:

• Be mindful of your volume. If everyone else on a train is talking in hushed tones, tone it down and match that level.
• If you’re in a group, try not to shout across the table or across the room—imagine you’re in a library (okay, maybe not that extreme, but you get the idea).
• Notice how locals interact with each other. If people aren’t yelling out jokes from across the bar, they might see that as disruptive, not fun.

Lowering your voice doesn’t mean you have to hide your personality. You can still laugh and share stories—just keep it in a range that respects the environment around you. Odds are, you’ll get more friendly smiles and fewer side-eyes from across the café.

2. Sticking to a Strict American Tipping Style

Tipping is one of the biggest cultural differences Americans face when traveling abroad. Back home, we’re used to leaving anywhere from 15% to 20% (or more) for pretty much any sit-down meal, plus tipping for bar drinks, taxis, haircuts, and so on. In other countries, tipping might work in a totally different way—or sometimes not at all.

Why it screams “I’m American”:

• Handing over an overly generous tip in a place where tipping is minimal can confuse servers or make them uncomfortable.
• Being upset when there’s a service charge on the bill or when your friends say, “No, we don’t need to tip here,” might also highlight your American habits.

What to do instead:

• Research local tipping customs before you go. A quick Google search or a chat with your hotel receptionist can clear things up.
• Remember that in many parts of Europe, servers earn a decent wage, so tipping might just be rounding up the check or leaving a small percentage.
• Don’t feel guilty if you end up tipping less than you would in the U.S. In some cultures, that’s just how it’s done.

3. Ordering Gigantic, On-the-Go Coffees

You know that familiar Starbucks scene: walking around with a venti iced caramel latte, maybe with an extra pump of syrup, plus whipped cream on top. That’s very American. In many destinations abroad—especially places like Italy, France, or Spain—coffee is more of a slow, sit-down experience. Espresso drinks are usually smaller, stronger, and meant to be savored. You won’t see locals rushing around with huge to-go cups very often, if at all.

What to do instead:

• Try sipping a small espresso or cappuccino at the café’s counter if you’re in Italy, or enjoy a leisurely café au lait if you’re in France.
• Embrace the local pace—coffee time is often a moment to take a break, chat with a friend, or people-watch.
• If you absolutely need that coffee on the go, it’s not a crime—just know that it’s one of those classic American markers abroad.

Learning to appreciate different coffee traditions can actually be one of the best parts of traveling. You might even discover a style of coffee you like more than your usual!

4. Expecting Ice in Every Beverage

The love affair Americans have with ice is real. We’re used to giant cups overflowing with crushed ice, topped off with soda or water. But in many other parts of the world, iced drinks just aren’t standard. At restaurants in Europe, for instance, you often get a small glass of room-temperature water or a lightly chilled drink with maybe a cube or two of ice—if you’re lucky. Asking for a full glass of ice might earn you a puzzled look.

What to do instead:

• Adjust your expectations. If you order a soda or juice, don’t be shocked if it comes with minimal or no ice.
• If it’s really hot out and you want a cold drink, you can politely ask for more ice—just be prepared that it might not be the norm.
• Keep in mind that in some places, you might need to pay for water, even tap water. So always double-check if you’re ordering “still” or “sparkling” and if there’s an extra charge.

This might feel like a small detail, but it’s another giveaway that you’re American. Getting flexible about ice can help you adapt better to local dining norms.

5. Dressing Super Casual for Everything

We Americans love our sneakers, flip-flops, sweatpants, and baseball caps—hey, comfort is king, right? But if you stroll around a European city, you might notice that a lot of people dress up a bit more, even if they’re just running errands or grabbing lunch. It’s not about wearing expensive brands or dressing to the nines; it’s more about a simple yet put-together look.

Why it matters:

• Clothing is a big part of cultural identity, and standing out as a tourist can make you more susceptible to pickpockets or tourist scams.
• Many European restaurants or bars (especially in bigger cities) appreciate “smart casual” attire, not gym clothes or beach flip-flops.

What to do instead:

• Pack comfortable yet stylish clothes that can work for multiple situations. Think jeans or chinos, casual dresses, nicer sneakers or comfortable shoes that look less like they belong at the gym.
• If you’re planning a visit to churches, certain historical sites, or nicer restaurants, you may need to respect dress codes (like covering shoulders or avoiding shorts).
• Don’t worry if you’re not a fashion guru—clean, well-fitted basics can go a long way.

This doesn’t mean you need to be self-conscious 24/7. But a bit of effort in how you present yourself can help you blend in and show respect for local norms.

6. Sticking to a Fast-Forward Pace

In the U.S., speed and efficiency are highly valued. We love getting things done quickly, whether it’s grabbing a meal, commuting, or shopping. However, a lot of cultures abroad take things slower—especially around mealtimes, coffee breaks, and social events. It’s not unusual for lunch or dinner to last two hours or more in places like Spain or Italy. Even in big cities like Paris or Berlin, people might spend more time enjoying their meal instead of rushing off to the next item on their to-do list.

How this habit stands out:

• Locals notice when Americans constantly look at their watches or try to hurry servers along.
• Speed-eating your meal or immediately asking for the check can come across as rude in cultures that prioritize a leisurely dining experience.

What to do instead:

• Embrace slower moments. Let yourself linger over a meal, have a coffee without checking your phone every 30 seconds, and soak in the local vibe.
• If you’re in a hurry (for whatever reason), politely let your server know in advance. Most of the time, they’ll accommodate you if they can.
• Don’t be surprised if the waiter doesn’t bring the check until you explicitly ask. In some places, that’s just standard practice—they’re not being negligent, they’re giving you space to enjoy.

Slowing down not only helps you blend in, but it can also enhance your trip. You’ll have more time to appreciate local life, notice details you’d otherwise miss, and actually relax instead of cramming too much into each day.

7. Assuming Everyone Speaks English (and Wants To)

We get it—English is a dominant language worldwide, and many people do speak it. But going up to locals and immediately speaking English (especially in a loud or forceful tone) can be a bit off-putting. In some places, people will happily respond in English, but in others, they might feel uneasy about using a second language, or they might not know English at all. And if you’re in a rural area, you could get stuck trying to communicate with signs and gestures.

Why it screams “I’m American”:

• There’s a stereotype that Americans don’t bother learning other languages or even basic phrases—sometimes fairly, sometimes not.
• Expecting someone in a small-town bakery in Austria or a family-run restaurant in Greece to speak English fluently might come across as entitled.

What to do instead:

• Learn a few key words or phrases in the local language. Even a simple “hello,” “thank you,” and “do you speak English?” can go a long way in showing respect.
• Use translation apps or carry a small phrasebook. If you try speaking a bit of the local language first, many people will be more eager to help (even if they do switch to English afterward).
• Smile and be patient. Communication can be tricky, but it’s also part of the adventure.

This small effort can totally change the way people treat you as a visitor. Locals often appreciate that you’re trying, even if you butcher the pronunciation along the way.

Final Thoughts: Embrace Being Curious (Not Clueless)

Look, nobody expects you to magically transform into a local when you land at the airport. Traveling is all about discovering new perspectives, and part of the fun is making mistakes, learning, and trying new things. If you slip into one of these seven habits, don’t beat yourself up—just recognize it, maybe laugh it off, and move on. What’s important is showing that you’re open to the culture around you.

A few quick bonus tips:

• Research basic cultural etiquette before you go. Even reading a one-page guide on local customs can save you a lot of awkward moments.
• Observe locals: see how they stand in line, how they greet each other, how they pay for things. You’ll pick up on little nuances that help you blend in.
• Stay flexible and patient: Travel can be stressful, and if you’re fixated on doing everything “the American way,” you might get frustrated. Embrace new routines and keep that sense of adventure alive.

At the end of the day, being American isn’t something to hide or be ashamed of. Your background shapes who you are, and cultural exchange is a two-way street. Just remember that when you’re visiting someone else’s home turf, a little sensitivity goes a long way. Making these small adjustments won’t only help you avoid screaming, “I’m an American Abroad!”—it’ll also give you a deeper, more rewarding travel experience.

So, pack that open mind, take a breath, and get ready to explore the world in a way that’s respectful, fun, and just a little less obvious. Happy travels!