What It’s Like to Be American Abroad (And How to Tone It Down)
(3 minute read)
Because you’re not fooling anyone—but you can turn the volume down a bit.
We love our fellow Americans. Truly. And we love that you’re curious, adventurous, and passionate about travel. But let’s be honest: the American Abroad™ is a recognizable creature. And not always in the ways we want to be.
From overly loud voices echoing through quiet cafés to asking “Do you have ranch?” in rural France, sometimes we make an impression we didn’t mean to. And while we shouldn’t be ashamed of where we’re from, it is possible to blend in a little better—and connect more deeply along the way.
At Tripologiste, we work with travelers who want to engage with Europe on its own terms. Here’s a loving (and occasionally savage) guide to toning it down just enough.
1. Volume: Let’s Start There
You probably don’t think you’re loud. But that’s because everyone around you is also loud. In many European countries, public spaces—restaurants, trains, streets—tend to operate at a lower decibel.
You don’t need to whisper. Just... maybe don’t narrate your every thought from across the piazza.
2. You Don’t Need to Fill the Silence
In some cultures, small talk is rare. Quiet is fine. The waiter isn’t ignoring you. That shopkeeper isn’t being rude. They’re just not trained to greet you like you’ve walked into a living room in Ohio.
Silence is not hostility. It’s just... Europe.
3. The Service Isn’t Bad—It’s Just Not Smiling for Tips
European service culture is different. Waiters don’t check on you five times. The bill doesn’t come until you ask. No one’s going to ask how your meal is halfway through chewing. It’s not neglect—it’s respect.
Also: tipping exists, but it’s not 20%. It’s a nice round-up, not an audition for Employee of the Month.
4. Fashion: Functional Doesn’t Have to Mean Frumpy
We know: comfort matters. But baggy shorts, athletic sneakers, and logo-covered baseball caps scream “I just came from boarding group C.” Europeans don’t dress fancy—they just don’t dress sloppy.
Try neutral colors, real shoes, and clothes that weren’t designed for a gym. You’ll be amazed at how much smoother everything feels.
5. “Can I Get That To-Go?”... Not Always
Coffee culture varies wildly. In Italy, coffee is a shot standing at the bar. In France, it’s a seated ritual. In most places, walking around with a 20oz iced latte is... not really a thing.
You can still enjoy your caffeine. Just maybe don’t expect it in a gallon-sized cup with oat milk, extra whip, and a paper straw with an identity crisis.
6. Not Everything Needs to Be “Fixed”
Things won’t work like they do at home. The Wi-Fi may be slower. The AC might not exist. There may be two buttons on the toilet and you don’t know what either one does. It’s okay.
Travel is not an extended Yelp review. You’re here to experience a different way—not troubleshoot it.
7. Ask Questions—But Don’t Be Surprised by the Answers
Europeans will often tell you exactly what they think. Sometimes that’s refreshing. Sometimes it’s... not. Either way, don’t take it personally. Directness is not aggression. It’s just, well, honesty.
Embrace it. You might actually love it.
Final Thought: Be Proud, Be Curious, Be Flexible
You don’t need to pretend to be someone else. You don’t have to adopt a fake accent or apologize for your identity. But you can lead with curiosity instead of comfort, and observe before reacting.
At Tripologiste, we help Americans travel thoughtfully—not perfectly, but intentionally. You won’t always blend in, but you’ll feel a whole lot more connected.
Have you ever had an “oops” moment abroad—or a breakthrough where it finally all clicked? Tell us in the comments. We’ve been there too.