15 Tell-tale Signs Someone Is American

Americans seem to don a common hat when they step foot on foreign soil. Their behaviors can be amusing, endearing, or just plain annoying, making them stand out wherever they go. Whether in bustling city streets or tourist spots, spotting an American abroad is often easier than you might think. Here are 15 dead giveaways of a typical American.

Excited Look

They always look like they’re about to open a Christmas present, even if they’re headed to a kidnappers’ den. Their faces light up with genuine enthusiasm for new experiences, which can be infectious and endearing. Other travelers might appear more reserved, but Americans often can’t contain their joyous expressions.

Wearing Sports Apparel

Always search for the Yankees cap, the Lakers jersey, or the Patriots hoodie when trying to spot an American abroad. These items of clothing, emblazoned with logos and team colors, are a hallmark of American tourists. From NFL jerseys to college team sweatshirts, their sports apparel is both a comfort and a badge of pride.

Ask them about David Beckham

Ask someone what sport David Beckham plays. If they respond with “soccer,” you’ve got your answer. Americans tend to have unique names for sports, calling  the global game “football” by “soccer.” In contrast, their “football” refers to what others know as American football.

Generous Tipping

This one’s a trait service staff and providers love Americans for: their generous tipping. In the U.S., tipping 15-20% for good service is standard, and this practice often carries over when they travel abroad. Americans are accustomed to rewarding good service with substantial tips, which sometimes leads to confusion or even gratitude from foreign service staff unaccustomed to such generosity.

The Citizen Fuel

If coffee were a fuel, Americans would run on it, and their love for it would be evident wherever they went. They often seek out coffee shops first thing in the morning, craving that perfect cup of joe. It’s common to see them carrying large takeaway coffee cups, a habit that stands out in countries where smaller portions are the norm.

Wearing Sneakers Everywhere

Dressing for comfort is an American thing, even if it’s a formal event. Americans often prioritize comfort over formality, so you’ll frequently see them wearing sneakers, regardless of the occasion. Their practical approach to dressing means sneakers are paired with everything from jeans to dresses.

Being Loud in Groups

The volume at which Americans speak is directly proportional to their number. It reflects their social norms, where being vocal and expressive is encouraged and often draws attention in more reserved cultures, making them stand out. Their conversations grow louder and more exuberant when gathered in groups, easily distinguishing them in public spaces.

Eating While Walking

Picture a scene from a Hollywood movie where the lead actor quickly grabs a sandwich and starts munching on it as he heads out the door. This on-the-go eating habit is common among Americans, reflecting their busy and fast-paced lifestyle. They often eat while walking, multi-tasking through city streets or tourist spots.

Frequent Use of Credit Cards

Americans prefer to insert or swipe a credit card rather than handle cash. Their reliance on plastic payment methods is a notable habit ingrained in their daily routines. Even for small purchases, they often reach for their credit cards, a practice that can puzzle those in more cash-centric countries.

Unique Word Pronunciations

If, at this point, you still haven’t picked up on the ‘Americanness’ of a tourist, then just ask them to read this sentence: “I need to check my schedule before I put the data in the advertisement.” Americans pronounce “schedule” with a hard ‘k’ sound, say “data” with a long ‘a,’ and “advertisement” with an emphasis on the second syllable. These pronunciations are distinctive from those in many other English-speaking countries.

Being Chatty with Strangers

Perhaps Americans are oblivious to stranger danger or do not care, but they are chatty with strangers. Whether in line at a coffee shop, on public transportation, or in a tourist attraction, they often strike up conversations with those around them, making small talk and asking personal questions.

Use of American Slang

Common American slang like “wanna,” “gonna,” “awesome,” “cool,” “dude,” and “y’all” are often peppered into their conversations. Their casual and relaxed language can be distinct from the more formal or different slang used by locals in other countries. These linguistic quirks are a clear sign of their American roots.

Cargo Pants and Baseball Caps

It’s almost like Americans are handed cargo pants and baseball caps at their airports before boarding because these items often complete the signature American tourist look. The baseball cap, often emblazoned with a sports team logo, adds to the casual vibe.

Curiosity

There’s a genuine wonderment that is a pointer to their curiosity about global diversity. Americans are genuinely curious and eager to learn and experience every little detail about basic things. Asking questions about local customs, or even the taste of common foods reveals their need to see it all, hear it all, and feel it all.

Driving Everywhere

Car rental services abroad love Americans. Even in places where everything is within walking distance, they often look for car rental services to get around. This tendency contrasts with the more pedestrian-friendly habits of many other nations.