13 Surprising American Things That The French Don’t Understand
13 Surprising American Things That The French Don’t Understand
When French visitors come to the United States, they often find some American habits and customs quite surprising. As you may know, I lived in the USA for a bit and definitely have noticed some of this list’s items. But I’ve also gathered items that other visitors have noticed so it’s not just based on my experience and offers you a more complete picture. Here’s a fun look at some of those quirks that might seem odd to someone from France.
1. Restrooms open spaces
In the US, it’s common to find gaps around restroom stall doors. This can be quite a shock for French visitors, who are used to more private facilities. The gaps are there for safety and ease of cleaning, but they definitely sacrifice privacy!
2. Christmas decorations going up before Thanksgiving
Americans love to celebrate, and that enthusiasm is clear when you see Christmas decorations appearing even before Thanksgiving has passed. This overlap of holidays can be puzzling to French guests who are accustomed to a more distinct separation between celebrations.
3. Everyone owning a truck including teenagers
In many parts of the US, trucks are not just for work; they’re a popular choice of vehicle for all ages, including teenagers. This might seem excessive to French visitors, where smaller cars are more common due to narrow streets and high fuel prices.
4. Being able to turn right on a red light
In America, turning right on a red light is allowed after a complete stop when the way is clear, which is not something you can do in France. This rule helps keep traffic flowing but can initially confuse visitors from countries where it’s not allowed.
5. Refills are free
In the US, many restaurants offer free refills on soft drinks, a practice that can delight French visitors. In France, each drink usually comes at a separate cost, so the free refills phenomenon is a pleasant surprise and speaks to the American value of generous hospitality.
6. Not many motorcycles
Unlike in France, where motorcycles are a popular and practical transportation option, in the US, they are less common. Wider roads and cheaper cars make motorcycles less necessary here, which can be an unexpected observation for French visitors.
7. Seeing bears or moose in your backyard is normal in certain towns
In some parts of the US, it’s not unusual to see wildlife like bears or moose. For French visitors from urban areas or where such wildlife is rare, this proximity to nature can be both thrilling and a bit alarming.
8. People shopping in pajamas
Going out in public in pajamas is seen in some parts of America and is often surprising to French people who are used to dressing more formally when in public spaces. This casual approach reflects a laid-back aspect of American culture.
9. Everything is open on Sunday
Most American stores and services are open on Sundays, which can surprise French visitors used to more restrictive Sunday trading laws in France where many places are closed.
10. Going to church more for reputation than actual faith
In some American communities, attending church is as much about social status as it is about faith. This can seem strange to French visitors for whom church attendance is generally more closely tied to personal belief.
11. Having to show ID to buy alcohol even if obviously older than 21
In the US, everyone must show ID to buy alcohol, regardless of age. This strict policy is designed to prevent underage drinking but can seem excessive to French visitors who are used to a more relaxed approach.
12. Older people working when they should be retired
Seeing older individuals in the workforce is common in the US, even past usual retirement age. This can be unexpected for French visitors, as in France, there is often a stronger emphasis on enjoying a leisurely retirement.
13. Roads that are straight for miles and miles
The vast, straight roads stretching across the American landscape are a stark contrast to the often winding and narrow roads found in France. This can be mesmerizing and a bit monotonous for French visitors driving in the US.
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We are Mary and Eric, the founders of Be Right Back, a blog dedicated to romance around the globe and at home.
We are Mary and Eric, the founders of Be Right Back, a blog dedicated to romance around the globe and at home. With over 10 years of experience in dating and traveling to romantic places, we share our favorite date ideas and romantic destinations to help couples level up their relationships. Having lived in and traveled through the USA, we also share our favourite things to do in the States.
With 70,000 monthly readers and 16,000 followers on social media, Be Right Back is your go-to resource for romantic trip ideas and couple activities at home and abroad.