While I was reading Rick Steves blog http://www.ricksteves.com/news/blog/blog10.htm called "Steves' pet peeves in Europe", I started thinking about some of his complaints. One of them was loud Americans oblivious to ruining the peaceful setting in a restaurant or public place in Europe. Do you think Americans deserve the bad reputation they have in Europe? We have been called many names but the three that come to mind are obnoxious, rude, and arrogant. I never understood why Americans were looked down upon until I experienced it on my first trip to Europe. There are three things you can do so you do not fall into the trap of the stereo typical ugly American tourist.
The first is to dress appropriately. In Europe people do not dress sloppy. I remember being in Paris and picking out many of the Americans by their clothing. This one man in particular stood out like a sore thumb. He had on a cowboy hat, an old t-shirt that said "I love Texas", awful looking plaid shorts, bright white tennis shoes and three quarter length white socks. I also saw many dressed perfect for Hawaii or another tropical beach location, but not for a European city. You need to remember if you would like to see some of the churches and museums, they have dress codes. No shorts or tank tops. You do not have to dress fancy, but think more along the lines of business casual. I know it gets hot in the summer, but if you want to blend in bring light clothes that are not too casual.
Second, do not assume everyone speaks english or wants to speak english. Try to learn at least a few important words like please and thank you in their language. I have seen Americans actually get upset if the Europeans did not understand them. We are visiting their country, we should at t be respectful if they can not speak english. I have found if you try to talk in their language, even if it is not good, they appreciate that and will help you. On the flip side to this, be careful that you do not talk about someone you perceive does not speak english in front of them. I have witnessed this happening and it is extremely embarrassing. You would think that is obvious but people do it.
The last thing to remember is your manners. To me this is simple but to some, they go to Europe and their manners go out the window. Americans can be loud, inflexible and complain too much. If you have decided to visit another country, you need to be open minded to the different customs and ways people live. Europe is not going to have the exact amenities of the United States, but that is part of the beauty of traveling there. Exploring the different countries people, food, and traditions, makes the trip memorable.
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