Non-Americans Reveal 25 American Habits That Make Americans Stand Out Overseas

One of the most fulfilling experiences in life is traveling. You visit new places, experience different cultures, and gain fresh perspectives that contribute to your development as a well-rounded individual.

As a result, you become aware of all the similarities and differences between these distant lands and your own country. However, those in other countries also notice that you're quite far from being a local.

Americans are recognizable to those who are not from the country. It seems that more than just their accents can identify them. Dr. Ramani Durvasula, a clinical psychologist, notes, "Cultural habits can be so ingrained that they become part of our identity, influencing how we interact with the world." She elaborates on this in her work at drramani.com.

They are remarkably outgoing, often wear shoes indoors, and frequently request refills, among numerous other comparable traits. It goes without saying that those who live in the world's most powerful nation often find themselves in the media spotlight.

The internet's fascination with America—its politics, culture, and populace—seems uncontrollable. Everyone appears to have at least a few thoughts about the country to share.

It can be unsettling to think that being "American," "Irish," or "Japanese" defines everything about you as a person. According to Dr. Susan David, an emotional agility expert, "Our identities are shaped by our experiences and the cultures we inhabit, which can lead to both pride and discomfort." You can explore her insights at susandavid.com.

From dressing like a ranch hand to being incredibly loud, these are some of the most iconic American behaviors.

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1. Exaggerating Everything

2. "How Are You Doing?"

3. They Expect a Tip

Cultural Signifiers

Dr. Geert Hofstede, a leading cultural psychologist, explains that certain behaviors act as cultural signifiers. According to his research, Americans often display a strong sense of individuality, which can be strikingly different from collectivist cultures.

This is evident in how Americans prioritize personal achievements and assertiveness in social situations. While this can be empowering, it may sometimes come across as self-centered abroad, leading to misunderstandings.

Hofstede’s insights suggest that awareness of cultural nuances can enhance interpersonal interactions, making it crucial for travelers to adapt their behavior.

4. The Military Thanks

5. The Small Talks

6. Hating on a Large Group

Experts in cross-cultural communication emphasize that being mindful of one's surroundings can help bridge the gap between American cultural habits and those of other nations. For instance, Dr. Erin Meyer, author of "The Culture Map," illustrates how varying communication styles can lead to misinterpretations.

She emphasizes the importance of adaptability and suggests that Americans practice active listening when interacting with people from high-context cultures. This means slowing down and being more observant, which can foster deeper connections.

7. Using Forks to Eat Everything

8. Chanting for No Reason

9. Serving Enormous Portions

The Power of Adaptability

According to Dr. David Livermore, an expert in cultural intelligence, adaptability is essential for successful global interactions. He notes that many Americans may unintentionally come off as abrasive due to their direct communication style.

Livermore suggests that Americans can benefit from adopting a more culturally aware approach, such as mirroring the communication styles of locals to foster better relationships. Practicing gratitude and humility can also enhance cross-cultural interactions, making American habits more palatable abroad.

10. They Take It Pretty Seriously

If you've ever been abroad as an American, you probably know what it's like to be recognized as such. They don't hide it; in fact, they are proud of it more than anything else!

But sometimes you just wish you could fit in and experience what it's like to be treated like a local. All it takes is walking into, say, an Italian "bar" and ordering a beer on tap, only to receive stares and a firm, "Where in America are you from?"

11. Celebrating Each and Every Holiday

12. A Very American Thing

In the realm of social psychology, researchers emphasize the role of stereotypes in shaping perceptions of American travelers. Dr. Jennifer Eberhardt, a professor at Stanford University, discusses how these perceptions can create barriers.

She recommends that Americans work to dismantle stereotypes by engaging genuinely with locals. This means stepping outside of comfort zones and being open to new experiences, which can counteract negative assumptions and foster goodwill on both sides.

13. Being Loud While Sober

14. Give Me That Ranch Dressing

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15. Getting Free Water

Understanding Directness

Dr. Steven Pinker, a cognitive scientist, highlights that Americans' directness can be refreshing but may be perceived as rude in cultures that value indirect communication. His research suggests that understanding the nuances of these differing communication styles is crucial.

To improve interactions, he recommends that Americans learn to gauge their audience and adjust their communication accordingly. This can involve asking questions and being more attuned to non-verbal cues, ultimately leading to more productive conversations.

16. Domestic and Foreign

17. Just Forks

18. Driving All the Way

Life coach Brené Brown emphasizes the importance of vulnerability in fostering authentic connections. She notes that while Americans often pride themselves on independence, this can sometimes lead to emotional barriers when traveling.

To enhance experiences abroad, Brown suggests practicing openness and sharing personal stories with locals. This practice not only builds rapport but also helps break down the stereotypes that might exist between cultures. Vulnerability can create lasting, positive impressions.

19. Just as It Is

20. Does It Confuse You Too?

21. Such an American Thing

Mindfulness in Travel

Dr. Jon Kabat-Zinn, a pioneer in mindfulness research, highlights the benefits of being present while traveling. He suggests that mindfulness can significantly enhance cross-cultural experiences by encouraging travelers to observe and engage with their surroundings fully.

By practicing mindfulness, Americans can cultivate greater awareness of local customs and traditions. This can lead to more respectful interactions, ultimately bridging cultural gaps and enriching their travel experiences.

22. Being Loud and Friendly

23. The Loud Talks

24. Small Talks

In the field of social dynamics, Dr. Paul Bloom, a psychology professor, underscores the significance of empathy in cross-cultural encounters. He points out that many Americans may overlook the emotional dimensions of social interactions abroad.

To improve these encounters, he recommends that Americans actively practice empathy by putting themselves in others' shoes. This approach not only fosters better relationships but also helps to counteract any potential cultural misunderstandings.

25. A Competitive Spirit

Not all traits commonly associated with America are negative. Every culture has distinctive characteristics that, even when left unasked, can reveal to people worldwide which nation a person is from.

However, there are instances when the differences between the US and other countries can be so glaringly clear that they provide some humorous moments of misunderstanding whenever they are brought up. Share this article with your loved ones to get their own opinions as well.

Ultimately, understanding and adapting to cultural differences can greatly enhance the experience of American travelers abroad. Insights from experts like Dr. Geert Hofstede and Brené Brown indicate that being aware of one’s own cultural habits and actively practicing empathy can create more meaningful connections.

As travelers become more mindful and open in their interactions, they not only enrich their own experiences but also promote a greater understanding and appreciation of the diverse cultures they encounter. In doing so, they embody the best of what it means to be a global citizen.