10 Telltale Signs You’re an American Abroad

I’ll never forget one of my first adventures adjusting to life in London more than 25 years ago. I needed a monthly Tube card and, in classic “let’s get this done” style, I rushed straight to the window, completely oblivious to the patient line of people already waiting. When the attendant kindly gestured toward the very end of the queue, I huffed and rolled my eyes.

Then I heard it: someone muttering, “She must be an American.”

While impatience isn’t exactly a trait unique to Americans, in that moment, it was like a neon sign flashing above my head. I’d arrived in a new country and immediately stood out for all the wrong reasons. Ever since, I’ve been hyper-aware of the American stereotypes we tend to project while traveling abroad.

As a journalist who’s spent decades exploring the globe, I’ve seen and cataloged plenty of these telltale habits. Here are the biggest giveaways that you’re an American abroad—plus a quick tip for each to help you blend in, make friends, and avoid the eye rolls.

1. Couch-to-street fashion

American tourists have earned a reputation for taking the “rolled out of bed” look global, while much of the rest of the world treats everyday outings as a low-key style moment, or at least an occasion to put in a bit more effort before leaving the house. While strolling through museums or shopping districts, the American fashion habits are familiar: baseball caps, yoga pants, athletic shorts, oversized hoodies stamped with college or team logos, and on particularly bold days, pajama pants in public.

Tip

Pack comfortable slacks, button-downs, or solid-colored T-shirts, and layer with a scarf or a locally bought piece. Bonus points if it didn’t come from the airport gift shop.

2. McDonald’s and Starbucks devotion

You didn’t fly all the way to Rome just to order a Starbucks latte, did you? I adore a Venti vanilla blonde latte, but hearing Americans hunt down familiar fast-food staples while abroad is always a little disappointing. (Families traveling with pint-size picky eaters get a full pardon. McDonald’s fries are a powerful peacekeeping tool.)

Tip

Explore with your palette, not just your feet. Ask your hotel concierge, check TripAdvisor, or—wild idea—ask a local for advice on where they grab a casual meal or their favorite cup of coffee. And if you expect the country’s cuisine to be unfamiliar to your palate, try a restaurant that specializes in it to discover which dishes you enjoy most.

3. Loud and proud

Sure, people from other countries can raise their voices, but Americans tend to take gold for being the loudest in a room. Even private complaints can go public—I once overheard (as did half the Tube) an American tourist lamenting just how “disgustingly dirty” London was.

Tip

Be mindful of your volume. Whether you’re in a museum, pub, or on public transit, follow the lead of locals, and adjust accordingly. Your fellow travelers (and your ears) will thank you.

4. State pride abroad

A former colleague in the UK opened my eyes to this: When Americans are asked where they are from, many respond with their state or town, as if “Massachusetts” and “Macon” are internationally famous destinations.

Tip

Stick with “America,” “USA,” or “The United States.” Bonus points if you attempt to say it in the local language. It’s a small gesture that goes a long way toward being a thoughtful global ambassador.

5. Only speaking English

While traveling in Egypt, I befriended a fellow tourist from Alabama who attempted to communicate with bazaar merchants by speaking English—loudly and slowly—as if that somehow might help. (Cringe.) Many Americans, especially first-time international travelers, assume English is universally spoken. Spoiler alert: it isn’t.

Tip

Learn a few simple phrases in the local language, such as “Hello,” “Please,” and “Thank you.” Those three words work wonders for building goodwill. Translation apps can help, too, making it easier to connect with locals—and, bonus, creating more meaningful memories along the way.

6. Displaying the “American Lean”

Good posture apparently isn’t our strong suit. “The American Lean”—the tendency to prop ourselves against walls, railings, or furniture while standing in public—is a cultural observation (and roast) that non-Americans have been noticing for years. Perhaps it’s our relaxed attitude, or maybe we’re just pros at taking up space. Either way, it’s become something of a cultural punchline.

Tip: Unless you genuinely need some physical support, engage that core and stand up straight. Your back (and fellow travelers) will thank you.

7. Confidently expecting everything immediately

A British colleague once told me, “You Americans are true go-getters.” While I took this as a compliment at the time, that trademark American confidence can sometimes come across the wrong way abroad. What we mean as friendly enthusiasm can be mistaken for entitlement, pushiness, or even aggressiveness. (And yes, sometimes it really is.)

Every place has its own pace and style, and often things move more slowly than we’re used to. That kind of assertiveness we take for granted at home doesn’t always land well abroad. I’m definitely guilty of this myself, but I’ve learned to dial it back by reading the room and practicing a bit more patience.

Tip

Patience, patience, patience…

8. Eating on the go

While visiting Japan, I tried to order a to-go coffee and found it wasn’t possible. Why? I learned that drinking and eating on the go is frowned upon there. As in some other destinations, Italy and France included, food is treated as an experience, not a task to squeeze in between appointments. And in certain places, snacking while riding public transportation may even be illegal.

As Americans, we’re masters of multi-tasking, but many cultures take a more relaxed (and arguably wiser) approach to satisfying thirst and hunger. You sit, you stay present with that drink or meal, you enjoy.

Tip

Read up on the etiquette of your travel destination ahead of time. Better yet, try sitting down and savoring that café-made coffee while on vacation; you may find it tastes even better when you’re not power walking.

9. Asking for ice in everything

In much of Europe and elsewhere, it’s common to receive water or soda with no ice—or even at room temperature. The American preference for a big scoop of ice in most beverages can stand out abroad.

Tip

Skip the ice, and drink like the locals. Consider it part of the cultural experience and a way to avoid accidentally watering down your drink.

10. Tipping obsessed

Americans have a reputation for being generous tippers by non-Americans—which can be a good thing. But tipping norms vary around the world, and what’s polite at home can be confusing, awkward, or even insulting abroad.

Tip

Learn your travel destination’s tipping norms in advance. Among other things, it will save you the stress of fumbling around for bills and coins.

. . . . .

Refer to this cultural “cheat sheet” before your next trip abroad—to remind, reinforce, and reduce the odds of being that American tourist.