15 Ways We Telegraph We’re Americans When We’re Abroad

We Americans have that certain “je ne sais quoi” that just makes us stand out abroad. It could be the sneakers or maybe the iced coffee in hand. Whatever it is, people can spot us from miles away. Here are 15 ways we Americans give ourselves away when we’re far from home!

Talking at Full Volume

We don’t just speak; we project. While locals chat quietly over cappuccinos, Americans are having full-volume conversations about last night’s “amazing” pasta. It’s not that we mean to be loud, but when we get excited, well… the whole piazza might just hear about Aunt Patty’s dog groomer.

Asking for Ice in Everything

Who knew a few ice cubes could reveal your nationality? We love our drinks cold—like Arctic-level cold. Ask for ice in a European café, and you’ll likely get a confused look or maybe two sad cubes. For us, it’s just not a drink if it doesn’t come with a frosty chill.

Wearing American Flags (and Other Patriotic Gear)

If there’s one thing we’re not shy about, it’s our pride in red, white, and blue! Whether it’s a tiny flag pin, a star-spangled hat, or a full-on Fourth of July T-shirt, we love wearing our patriotism on our sleeves…and elsewhere. You might spot us from miles away, proudly broadcasting our roots.

Smiling at Everyone

While many cultures save smiles for close friends or family, we throw them out like confetti. We’ll flash a big smile at strangers on the subway, shopkeepers, or anyone who looks our way. It’s friendly to us; however, to some locals, we might seem like we just won the lottery.

Wearing Baseball Caps Everywhere

Nothing says “American” like a baseball cap, especially worn backward. It’s practically a uniform. While locals dress to blend in, we show up to grand European plazas with a baseball cap firmly in place. For some reason, it’s as essential as a passport.

Tipping Generously, Even When It’s Not Customary

We are raised to believe that tipping is a must, and we’ll throw in that extra 20% even when locals don’t expect it. Some countries don’t really tip at all, but we can’t help it! Old habits die hard, and we just want to say “thank you” with a little extra cash.

Using “Restroom” Instead of “Toilet”

When nature calls, we politely ask for the “restroom” (or sometimes “bathroom”), even though there’s no rest or bath involved. In many places, it’s just called the toilet. But ask for a restroom abroad, and you might as well have stamped “American” on your forehead.

Wearing Sneakers as Casual Shoes

For us Americans, sneakers are the holy grail of versatile footwear that goes with everything: shorts, jeans, even sundresses. While Europeans might carefully select a snazzy loafer for visiting cafes or leather shoes for office, we’re happily strolling along in our comfy Nikes. Stylish? Maybe not. But practical? Absolutely.

Sporting Big, Bold Backpacks

We. Love. Our. Backpacks—big enough to fit a day’s worth of supplies and often brightly colored for that extra “look at me” touch. Locals may prefer sleek satchels or no bag at all. On the other hand, we carry enough “just in case” items to handle whatever adventure (or snack attack) might arise.

Asking Where the “Good” Coffee Is

We know our coffee, and we’re not afraid to ask for it! While locals enjoy a single, small espresso, Americans are hunting for the nearest spot with “good coffee” (aka a venti cold brew). And yes, we’ll probably try to take it to-go, causing minor cultural shock in the process.

Talking about Sizes and Prices Back Home

Ever heard one of us abroad say, “You know, this pizza would cost half as much back home—and it’d be bigger, too!”? We just can’t help but compare everything back home, from gas prices to portion sizes. It’s a way of making sense of the world—or just a reason to chat.

Saying “Hi, How Are You?” to Strangers

This American greeting ritual often confuses people. A cashier might look baffled when we say, “Hi, how are you?” and don’t actually wait for an answer. In some places, greetings are quick, unlike for us, where even a stranger at a ticket booth deserves a warm “howdy.”

Hugging When Others Are Shaking Hands

We from the “Land of The Free” love a good hug, even if it’s not the local custom. We might lean in for a squeeze when meeting new people or saying goodbye, sometimes catching locals by surprise. It’s just our way of showing friendliness, whether every culture is ready for the full hug treatment or not!

Asking for Free Refills

Let’s admit it: We are spoiled by unlimited drink refills at restaurants, so we naturally expect the same abroad. Ask for a refill overseas, and you might get a funny look or a whole new bill. In other countries, they just don’t get why anyone would need a second (or third) Coke with their meal.

Starting Conversations with “So, Where Are You From?”

When we want to break the ice in America, this question is a go-to. Abroad, it’s not always a standard opener and can catch people off guard. It’s our way of connecting, though unfortunately, not every culture considers it small talk. For Americans, it’s practically the key to new friendships!