10 Shocking Things Europeans Always Get WRONG About America!

Moving to a new country can be thrilling, unsettling, and sometimes downright bewildering. When I first packed my bags and headed from Europe to the United States, I thought I was prepared. I’d watched Hollywood films, binged on American TV, and even played tourist. But nothing could have readied me for the everyday surprises, the lighthearted laughs, and the deeper transformations that came from actually living here. If you’re considering making the move, or just curious about what life in America is really like, let me take you through the culture shocks and life lessons I discovered on my American journey.

Everything's Bigger in America

Stepping out of the airport, the first thing you notice is how big everything is. The roads stretch for miles, the cars are massive, and when you finally go grocery shopping, it’s a whole new world. Imagine an aisle dedicated solely to cereal – and not just two or three choices, but what feels like a hundred. The dairy section alone could be a store. And don’t even get me started on peanut butter. It was overwhelming, yet there was a weird thrill to it – like being a kid in a candy shop, but the "candy" is bread, milk, and snacks.

The super-sized mentality isn’t just in the stores. Go out to eat and you’ll find that even ordering a "small" meal could fill you (and a friend!). Restaurant portions are gigantic. My first American deli sandwich looked like a picnic for four. And then there’s the magic of free refills – endless soda, coffee, or iced tea just for the asking. For someone used to paying for every little extra, it really did feel like a superpower!

Friendliness, Small Talk, and Social Surprises

Cultural warmth takes on a different flavor in the US. Where Europeans might keep to themselves in public spaces, Americans are quick with a "how are you?" – even if it’s mostly chit-chat. People will greet you in elevators, chat in line at the café, and smile at strangers on the street. At first, I wasn’t sure if it was all genuine. Over time, I realized small talk is a crucial part of American culture. It can feel superficial at first, but embracing it opened up more doors than I ever expected, and it made daily interactions feel a lot lighter.

But it isn’t all sunshine. The healthcare system here is—to put it mildly—staggering. Coming from a place with affordable or even free healthcare, the price tags on something as basic as a doctor’s visit left me stunned. Health insurance is complicated, expensive, and often confusing. If you’re thinking about moving to the US, trust me: do your homework about healthcare and insurance before you arrive.

Dining Etiquette and Tipping Culture

If you visit restaurants, you’ll quickly learn about tipping—an American institution that can be odd for newcomers. In most of Europe, a tip is a bonus and usually modest. In America, it’s part of an employee’s wage, and it’s standard to tip 15-20% at restaurants, a few dollars at coffee shops, and something for pretty much any service that involves someone helping you directly. I spent weeks nervously calculating tips and worrying about getting it wrong, before I finally just started carrying extra cash in my wallet. You get used to it—but it’s a uniquely American experience.

Driving, Distances, and Getting Around

Transportation was another eye-opener. In European cities, public transport is second nature. Trains, buses, and subways can take you just about anywhere. In much of America, especially suburban or rural areas, a car is a necessity. Distances can be vast, and public transport often isn’t up to European standards. I had to learn to drive everywhere—even just to pick up groceries. Parking adds another headache: sometimes it’s free and easy, other times you’ll spend half an hour circling for an overpriced spot.

Optimism, Work Culture, and the Pursuit of Dreams

One of the most enjoyable surprises was American optimism. People here genuinely believe that with hard work, anything is possible. They talk openly about their dreams and ambitions. There’s a contagious sense of positivity. I found myself looking at my own goals differently, daring to take bigger leaps.

But with that can-do spirit comes an intense work culture. Americans work longer hours, take fewer holidays, and often blur the lines between work and home life—checking emails late at night or on weekends. It can be exhausting, and it took time for me to realize that setting boundaries and protecting personal time wasn’t just allowed, it was necessary.

Patriotism, Diversity, and Community Spirit

Patriotism is everywhere—in American flags, holidays, and parades. The 4th of July is truly something to see, with fireworks lighting up the night sky. People are openly proud of their country and celebrate together in ways I hadn’t experienced before.

But perhaps the greatest joy of living in the US is its diversity. You’ll meet people from every corner of the world, hear a mix of languages, and be able to sample foods you never knew existed. That melting pot comes with its own quirks—navigating social norms, humor, and even personal space can be tricky. Sometimes, jokes don’t translate. Sometimes you accidentally cross a line you didn’t know was there. The key is patience and openness to learning.

The Convenience Factor

America is the land of convenience. Stores often stay open until late and many are open 24/7. It took some getting used to; I’d wonder why I felt guilty running errands after dinner or shopping on Sunday. But over time, I appreciated the flexibility. It’s all about finding what fits your routine and enjoying the freedom it brings.

Weather, Welcoming Communities, and Fitting In

Depending on where you land, America offers some wild weather—from tornadoes to blizzards to hurricanes. I had to get schooled on storm warnings, tornado drills, and why you need snow tires. But no matter where I lived, I found communities eager to welcome a newcomer. Neighbors introduced themselves, invited me to cookouts, and asked how they could help. Joining a local group or volunteering became fast tracks to making real connections. While making deep friendships takes time, don’t be discouraged if it feels surface-level at first. With patience and consistency, you’ll find your people.

Holidays, Traditions, and Sports Madness

Americans love their holidays—Halloween, Thanksgiving, Valentine’s Day—they’re all celebrated with color and enthusiasm. Participating in these traditions felt a little strange at first, but they quickly became some of my favorite memories. And then there’s sports. The passion surrounding football, basketball, and baseball is infectious. You don’t even need to understand all the rules to feel the excitement and community.

Personal Growth and Final Reflections

Looking back, the biggest surprise wasn’t about supersized coffee or healthcare bills. It was how much living in America encouraged me to grow—to be braver, kinder, and more open to the world. I found myself learning to laugh at my own mistakes, appreciate differences, and cherish the unexpected adventures. If you’re about to move to the US, here’s my advice: Be curious, be patient, and jump into the adventure with both feet. You’ll be amazed not just at what you discover about America, but about yourself along the way.

Have you experienced culture shock or have burning questions about relocating to the US? Share your stories or ask away in the comments. And if these tips help you on your journey, consider supporting our work so we can keep sharing real advice for real people starting new American adventures.