11 American Things That Shock Europeans 

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11 American Things That Shock Europeans 

Europeans visiting or moving to the United States often find themselves taken aback by certain aspects of American life. From the everyday habits to infrastructural norms, the differences can be quite stark compared to what they are used to back home. Here are some elements of American culture that frequently surprise Europeans.

1. AC Everywhere

Air conditioning is extremely common in the United States, found in nearly every home, vehicle, and public building. Europeans might find the widespread use of AC surprising, especially those from cooler climates or areas where AC is used more sparingly due to energy conservation concerns.

2. Lack of Canned Food

In American supermarkets, the variety and abundance of fresh and frozen foods often surpass the selection of canned goods, which contrasts sharply with many European stores where canned items are more prevalent. This might be unexpected for Europeans who rely on canned foods for convenience and long shelf life.

3. Long Distances Everywhere

The vastness of the United States means that long distances are the norm. Traveling large distances for daily commutes, shopping, or even a night out can be quite surprising for Europeans, who are used to more compact cities and shorter travel times.

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4. Toilet Stall Gaps

The noticeable gaps around toilet stall doors in public restrooms in the U.S. often shock Europeans. These gaps, which can compromise privacy, are much less common in European bathroom designs.

5. Flags Everywhere

The omnipresent American flag is a symbol of national pride and is displayed in many public and private places. This frequent and visible display of the national flag is not as common in Europe, making it a notable difference for visitors.

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6. Drinks Always Served with Ice

In the United States, it is customary to serve drinks with ice, regardless of the season or weather. This habit can be a bit of a shock to Europeans, who might be more accustomed to less chilled beverages.

7. Food Portions

The portion sizes in American restaurants and eateries are often much larger than what is typically served in Europe. These generous servings can be quite surprising to first-time visitors from Europe.

8. Massive Supermarkets

American supermarkets are typically much larger than European ones, offering a vast selection of goods under one roof. The size and scale of these stores can be overwhelming to Europeans used to smaller, more specialized shops.

9. Pickup Trucks as the Norm

The prevalence of pickup trucks in the U.S., especially in rural and suburban areas, can be unexpected for Europeans. These large vehicles are a popular choice for their utility and durability, reflecting a different lifestyle and set of needs.

10. Many Churches

The United States has a high number of churches, reflecting the country’s strong religious undercurrents. Europeans might be surprised by just how many churches they see, even in smaller towns.

11. Frozen Pizza Choices vs. Frozen Vegetables

In American supermarkets, there is often a vast selection of frozen pizzas but a more limited range of frozen vegetables. This contrast can be startling for Europeans, who might expect a more balanced variety between convenience foods and healthier options.

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