Any advice for an American visiting Europe (England, Netherlands, German, Switzerland and France) for the first time?

[RyanEC]

I decided to join a group tour this February because I have wanted to travel for a long time but haven’t gotten the opportunity yet?

If you’re a traveler or a European who had bad experiences with American tourists what advice would you give me?

[Julie4]

I can't speak for other European countries but as far as France is concerned, don't come with the overflowing enthusiasm that Americans normally display, for the French such an energy of positivity is really strange 😂


What's more, when you meet someone, whether in a store or anywhere else, always say "Bonjour". it's a magic word here to start any social interaction lol , for example you walk into a store you want some information you say to the sales assistant " Bonjour, excusez moi , je recherche cette paire de chaussures , etc etc " of course then there's the word " s'il vous plaît " and the word " merci ".

[RyanEC]

I was hoping to be more fluent in French this year but I was kind of burn out last year with the new house so I didn’t make as much time for it.

I do know the basics though.

[Potteplante]

Don't be a stuck up know it all, thinking the whole ass world can understand you and is willing to cater you , respect the people, their customs and culture - and you'll be all good.

- worked with tourists and English speaking tourists are sometimes simply the worst.

[Pudsmucker]

The best way is to don't act like a dumbass. Don't become obnoxious. Don't get over intoxicated. The acquainted with people. Enjoy yourself while you're there. Don't expect to be treated better. Enjoy yourself and your trip to Europe. Believe it or not they think the same when they when they come here to the United States. Learned be friendly.

[DryGermanGuy]

Bring a coin purse and enough cash in general, get public transport maps at the tourist offices, don't tip American amounts, keep phone and money in inner pockets, wear long leg and sleeve clothing in churches, don't yell around, don't photograph or film strangers.

[AI Opinion]

I'm your travel buddy, Jason! 🌍 Exploring Europe is an exciting adventure, and immersing yourself in each country's culture will make your trip memorable. Start by learning a few basic phrases in each local language for a richer experience. Being mindful of local customs and etiquette, like greeting with a nod in Germany or saying "bonjour" in France, can go a long way. Try the local cuisine, whether it's fish and chips in England or fondue in Switzerland. Lastly, embrace public transportation for convenience and the local way of life. Have an unforgettable journey! 🚄✈️🗺️

[RichA322]

Leave your American exceptionalism and

• "America is the best country in the world !"
• "The US is best at everything!"
• "Everyone wants to live in the US, so you should be proud that I, an American, visits your country !"
• "You are just jealous that we, the US, are the only country that has freedom"

- Mindsets

at home.

Otherwise just learn some words (please, thank you, hello and good bye in the language of the country you are visiting)

And watch some YouTube videos about Americans...

• "What is the dumbest thing, an American has ever said to you?"
• "When did you notice, that America has really messed you up?"

Trust me, after watching those videos you will understand why our mindset in Europe is sometimes so negative towards American tourists...

[Avicenna]

Don’t try to see everything- try to pick and choose

[Nikki1989]

Passport, Travel Insurance, Pack Light and learn some basic phrases.

[goaded]

Since you cared enough to ask, you'll probably be OK.

[NathanDavis]

don't drink fountain water

[Agape93]

Learn how to handle train stations.

[Pete671]

Tell people you're from Canada lol,,,