Traveling through Europe as an American woman is a lesson in cultural curveballs. The moment you set foot across the Atlantic, it feels like common sense got a chic Parisian makeover.
Suddenly, you’re kissing cheeks instead of shaking hands, facing dinner menus at bedtime, and realizing that nobody—and I mean nobody—is wearing leggings to the bakery. It’s fascinating, hilarious, and sometimes leaves you feeling like you missed the memo.
European habits are a wild mix of charm and confusion, making you question if you’ve been doing basic things, like greeting people or drinking coffee, all wrong your whole life.
There’s something reassuring in seeing how the other half of the world lives, but let’s be honest: half the time, I’m whispering, “Is this normal?” So here’s my not-so-diplomatic breakdown of the quirks, rituals, and habits that leave us equal parts awestruck and totally befuddled.
1. The Art of Saying Hello and Goodbye—To Everyone
Walk into a small European shop and suddenly you’re playing social butterfly. In France, it’s bonjour to every stranger in the room—no exceptions. By the time you leave, it’s au revoir with the same gusto, whether you bought a croissant or just browsed.
American women, meanwhile, are trained for speed and efficiency. A quick nod, maybe a mumbled “hi,” and we’re out. The formality of individually greeting and bidding farewell to everyone can feel so personal, it’s almost intimidating at first.
But there’s a hidden upside: it creates tiny moments of connection. That extra hello can change a mood or spark a smile. In the end, it’s less about rules and more about respecting the space you share. Who knew common courtesy could be so charmingly intense?
2. Cheek-Kissing Olympics—How Many Is Too Many?
Cheek-kissing as a greeting is practically a competitive sport in Europe. One? Two? Four? Even locals can’t agree. American women find themselves frozen, trying to decode the sequence—left, right, which cheek first—praying they don’t accidentally land one on someone’s lips.
There’s a kind of grace to the whole routine, but mastering the choreography takes nerves of steel. Missing a cue or going in at the wrong speed can lead to a laugh or, worse, a forehead bump. It’s like a social pop quiz every time you walk into a party.
Still, there’s something oddly endearing about it. Cheek-kissing is personal, warm, and a far cry from the stiff handshake. But let’s be real: a little instruction manual at customs wouldn’t hurt!
3. Lunches That Last Forever (And Sometimes Include Wine)
Long, wine-soaked lunches are a European staple. Two-hour midday breaks are not just tolerated—they’re encouraged. American women, used to chugging sad salads at their desks, are left wondering if anyone actually works here.
No one’s rushing, no one’s apologizing, and there’s a certain freedom in that. You’re expected to savor your food, talk, and actually taste your lunch. In the U.S., lunch is squeezed between meetings and guilt over not being productive enough.
The first time you linger for dessert in the middle of the day, it feels almost rebellious. The second time, you start to love it. Europeans treat meals as a ritual, not a rush job—and honestly, now my salads feel a little jealous.
4. Grocery Shopping in Actual Shoes—No Athleisure Allowed
Here’s one for the closet: Europeans do not play around when it comes to footwear, even at the grocery store. Walking into a shop in slippers, flip-flops, or worn-out sneakers is practically a fashion faux pas.
American women—who practically invented the leggings-and-UGGs combo—find themselves questioning everything they know about casual wear. You’ll spot loafers, ballet flats, even the occasional chic boot, just for a milk run.
There’s an undeniable confidence in the way Europeans dress, as if style is a sign of respect for public life. Once you notice, it’s hard to go back to athleisure for every errand. Are my gym shoes crying in the closet? Possibly.
5. Tiny Coffees, Big Attitude
Espresso the size of your thumb is a daily ritual, not just a caffeine fix. Order a coffee in Europe and you’ll get a porcelain thimble, not the gallon-sized cup you’re used to back home.
American women, devoted to their venti iced lattes, are left blinking at the tiny dose of caffeine—sometimes accompanied by a side of sass from the barista. Slow sipping is the standard, and gulping down your drink is basically sacrilege.
Once you get past the size shock, there’s a certain charm in savoring each tiny, intense sip. It feels fancy, almost like you’re in on a secret. Still doesn’t stop me from missing my bucket-sized cold brew every morning.
6. Sunbathing—Just Another Day at the Beach
You stroll onto a European beach and, surprise—tops are entirely optional. Women of all ages sunbathe with zero shame, and nobody bats an eye. It’s liberating, even if you’re clutching your bikini like a security blanket.
American women, conditioned to cover up, often find themselves nervously adjusting their swimsuits. The casual nudity isn’t meant to shock; it’s normal, not provocative. Kids, parents, and grandparents are all just living their best beach lives.
If you’re bold enough to join in, you might discover a new sense of body confidence—no judgment, no stares, just sunshine. Still, my inner prude is usually whispering, ‘Maybe next time.’
7. Sit Down and Sip—No Coffee on the Go
Ordering coffee to go? In many European cities, that’s borderline scandalous. Coffee is meant to be enjoyed sitting down, never gulped while speed-walking to your next meeting.
American women, with their trusty Starbucks tumblers, suddenly feel like rebels sneaking contraband. The entire vibe says: slow down, enjoy, be present. Walking around with a to-go cup draws stares, not admiration.
There’s a lesson buried in all the side-eye: life doesn’t always need to be so rushed. Still, I’d be lying if I said I didn’t miss my morning commute coffee run just a little.
8. Tipping—It’s Not a Guilt Trip
Here’s a twist: in Europe, tipping isn’t the make-or-break part of a server’s wage. Ten percent is considered generous, and sometimes, you just round up the bill. American women, trained to tip like their reputation depends on it, look around in confusion.
The lack of tip pressure means the experience feels more relaxed, like nobody’s keeping score. There’s no need for math acrobatics or guilt-fueled generosity. It’s a relief, even if you keep reaching for your wallet out of habit.
It’s about fair wages and mutual respect. Still, I’ve definitely overtipped out of panic more times than I can count—old habits die hard.
9. Babies Napping Outside—Yes, Really
First time I saw a baby napping outside in a stroller, I nearly called someone. In Scandinavia, this is not neglect—it’s a cherished routine. Fresh air is considered essential for healthy naps and robust little immune systems.
American women are taught to keep a watchful eye, stroller always within arm’s reach. The concept of leaving a baby alone, even a couple of feet away, sends a shiver down our spines.
But take a breath: it’s perfectly safe and celebrated. Locals will assure you that the babies sleep better, and honestly, they might be on to something. Still, my inner helicopter mom can’t quite compute.
10. No Ice, No Problem—Or So They Think
Order a drink in Europe and brace yourself: there’s almost never ice. Your Coke or water arrives lukewarm, and nobody seems bothered. American women start sweating before the drink even hits the table.
Europeans claim it’s better for your digestion, less shocking to the body. The glassware is often smaller, too—no Big Gulps here. You’ll notice the lack of condensation and the total absence of tinkling ice cubes.
As someone who likes my drinks arctic, this one takes getting used to. Cold drinks are special-order, and even then, you’ll get two cubes, max. I still crave a frozen lemonade on a hot day, but hey, when in Rome.
11. Smoking Still Everywhere—Even Outdoors
Wander through a European city and you can’t miss it—smoking is still everywhere. Cafés, parks, train stations, even scenic hiking spots are filled with smoke. American women, used to strict no-smoking zones, cough their way through the haze.
It’s a cultural holdover, and while some cities are slowly changing, cigarettes remain a social staple. You’ll spot teens to grandmas lighting up without apology.
Even if you’re not a smoker, there’s a strange nostalgia to it, like stepping back in time. But personally, I’ll stick to my clean-air patios and side-eye anyone who sparks up next to my salad.
12. Walking Everywhere—But Always in Style
Stilettos on cobblestones? Welcome to Europe. Walking is a way of life, but somehow everyone manages to look runway-ready. Americans, clutching orthotics and sneakers, are left in awe.
There’s an art to navigating ancient streets in designer flats or chunky boots. You’ll see women toting groceries, herding kids, or heading to dinner—all without a scuff or wobble. It’s intimidating in the best way.
After a week, your feet will beg for mercy, but you’ll find yourself eyeing a pair of Italian loafers. Comfort, meet confidence. If only someone could teach me the secret to blister-free style.
13. Bread, Cheese, and Olive Oil—Serious Business
Food in Europe isn’t just about eating—it’s an emotional investment. Baguettes must have the perfect crust, cheese is a source of national pride, and olive oil is practically worshipped. Arguments over what’s “the best” can get intense.
American women tend to grab whatever’s on sale. The passion and drama over a loaf of bread or wedge of cheese is both hilarious and inspiring. You soon realize food isn’t just fuel; it’s a love language.
After one taste test or passionate debate with a local, you’ll never look at grocery shopping the same way. Who knew lunch could come with so much personality?
14. Life in the Slow Lane—By Choice
Europeans have mastered the art of not rushing. Meals stretch for hours, conversations flow without checking the clock, and nobody’s side-eyeing you for taking too long. American women, raised on multi-tasking, find themselves twitching in slow motion.
The first time your dinner lasts until midnight, it’s confusing. By the third, you’re savoring every minute. There’s a freedom in letting time slow down—even if your inner scheduler is screaming.
It’s a relief to realize not everything needs to be a race. Sometimes, taking things slow is exactly what we need. Even if I sneak glances at my watch.
15. Art, Ads, and All the Bare Statues
It isn’t just for beaches in Europe—it’s everywhere, from art museums to billboards. Statues flaunt it, commercials feature it, and no one acts like it’s scandalous. American women, taught to cover up, are left whispering, “Is that allowed?”
It’s not about shock value, just a different comfort level with the human body. Kids rarely blush, and adults don’t snicker. Even a casual stroll through a park can turn into an anatomy lesson.
It’s eye-opening—sometimes literally. Eventually, you start to appreciate the casual confidence. Still, I’ll never forget my first museum tour with a group of giggling tourists.
16. Vacations That Actually Last Weeks
Four weeks off work? In Europe, it’s a given. People pack up for the entire summer, leaving their jobs, phones, and worries behind. American women—masters of the three-day weekend—are left gaping in disbelief.
Vacation is sacred, not something you have to beg for. There’s an expectation that everyone needs time to recharge. Families travel together, friendships deepen, and burnout is a foreign concept.
By the end, you start to question why you ever settled for rushed getaways at all. Maybe a month off isn’t so outrageous after all. Now, about convincing my boss…
17. Why Rush Down the Aisle?
Marriage is a whole different game in Europe. Couples live together for years, raise kids, and don’t rush to make it legal. American women, fed a steady diet of rom-coms and wedding Pinterest, are left recalculating everything.
There’s no pressure to tie the knot young, and no one bats an eye at long engagements. Relationships unfold at their own pace, and love isn’t measured by diamond size or guest counts.
It’s a refreshing twist—no deadlines, no drama. For some, it’s liberating; for others, it’s confusing. Either way, it’s proof that love stories come in all styles.
18. The Great Bidet Mystery
There it is, staring at you from the hotel bathroom corner—the mysterious bidet. Americans just aren’t trained for this. Do you sit? Do you straddle? Should you Google a tutorial before attempting?
European women treat the bidet like second nature. For everyone else, it’s a mix of curiosity and terror. Stories abound of Americans splashing water everywhere or just ignoring it completely.
Some say once you try it, you never go back. But that first encounter? Pure panic and a little laughter. I’m not ashamed to admit I’ve phoned a friend from the bathroom more than once.