Americans Question the Stereotypes Europeans Have About Them, and Now the Internet is a Battlefield

This article was originally published on Travellergazette.com

Have you ever traveled to Europe and found yourself biting your tongue? You know, those moments where you’re just dying to tell your European friends what you really think about their culture but don’t want to be rude? Well, fear not, my friends, because we’re here to spill the tea on some things about Europe that Europeans might not be ready to hear. From their obsession with soccer to their confusing love for mayonnaise, there are some things about European culture that just leave us scratching our heads. So we thought we would share some of our observations since Europeans don’t ever have a problem sharing what they think about us…

#1: That European Summer

Whenever I hear Europeans talking about how they don’t really need air conditioning, it kind of blows my mind. I mean, how do you survive without it? Do you just sleep in a bathtub full of ice cubes or something? When all you have ever known is not having air conditioning, it makes sense they’re used to it.

But seeing as the world is only going to get warmer and warmer, these different countries might need to reconsider their hard stance on not incorporating air conditioners into their homes, office, schools, and supermarkets. We’re pretty sure it’s going to be crucial in a few more years…

#2: Move On

Okay, let’s be real here – smoking was never really cool in the first place. But as an American, I have to say that I’m surprised that smoking is still such a big thing in Europe. I mean, haven’t you guys heard of all of the bad effects? Plus, you don’t have to worry about smelling like an ashtray for the rest of the day… 

I think it’s great that smoking laws are becoming more strict around the world, so it only makes sense that Europeans should follow suit. After all, we only get one set of lungs, so we might as well take care of them… We suppose you wouldn’t be able to have that European flare without a deadly cigarette in hand…

#3: No Offense

Honestly, I’m not too surprised that our European friends are starting to put on a few extra pounds. After all, have you seen the size of the schnitzels over there? Sure, we can all indulge from time to time, but it’s important for all of us to take care of our health, no matter where we’re from.

Sure, it’s easy to blame fast food and sugary drinks for our expanding waistlines, but at the end of the day, we’re the ones making the choices. Even though the supersized schnitzel looks appealing, maybe offer to share it with a friend; that way, you can both enjoy the delicious cuisine.

#4: Don’t Judge Us

As an American, I have to say that I’m not too surprised to hear that people are impressed by our friendliness. I mean, we’re known for being outgoing and welcoming, right? Well, apparently, not all Americans are considered to be the most friendly or even interesting people, thanks to tv shows…

It’s important for everyone to know that just because a lot of American characters on television are made out to be annoying half of the time, doesn’t mean that Americans are. Sure, everyone can have a bad day here and there, but that doesn’t mean they’re unbearable.