15 Ways to Spot an American Abroad: From Leaning Habits to Love of Small Talk

Y’all ready to find out the most obvious signs that someone’s American? If you’ve ever traveled abroad, you know that there are certain habits and behaviors that are uniquely American. And if you’re from the US, you’ve probably been asked where you’re from because of these quirks. Here are 15 ways that people from around the world have noticed Americans:

1. Americans are known for leaning on things when standing still. This is a habit that the CIA even trains Americans to unlearn when training to be a spy. Don’t worry, we can still stand on our own two feet!
2. Americans are always eating on the go. One person living in Europe was asked if they were American because they were eating a bagel while walking. Hey, we gotta fuel up for all that small talk!
3. Americans are known for being loud and friendly, and our accents are a dead giveaway. Some people have even said that Americans talk too loudly, and that our indoor voices are almost non-existent. Oops, sorry ‘bout that!
4. Americans love small talk and are super friendly. We often smile at strangers and engage in unprompted conversations, which can be seen as unusual or even off-putting in other cultures. We just can’t help it, we love meeting new people!
5. Americans are known for wanting ice in their water, a habit that may be seen as strange in countries where ice is not as commonly consumed. It’s just how we roll!
6. Americans often greet people with “Hey, how are you?” This greeting may be seen as too friendly or even mocking in some cultures. Sorry about that, we’re just being friendly!
7. Americans are known for leaving tips, a habit that is not as common in other countries. It’s just our way of saying thanks!
8. Americans have a reputation for being confident, even if we’re walking in the wrong direction. Hey, sometimes you gotta walk with a little swagger!
9. Americans are known for enjoying sweet treats for breakfast, a habit that may be seen as strange in other cultures where breakfast is typically a savory meal. Hey, donuts are a breakfast food in our book!
10. Americans are often seen as being obsessed with their appearance and constantly checking their appearance in mirrors. Hey, we just want to look our best!
11. Americans are known for wearing tactical sunglasses, a style that may be seen as unusual in other countries. Hey, you never know when you might need to go undercover!
12. Americans are known for saying “y’all,” a contraction of “you all” that is unique to the US. Hey, it’s just how we talk!
13. Americans are known for their love of baseball caps, especially when worn backwards. Hey, it’s a classic look!
14. Americans are known for their love of saying “the US” or “America” when asked where they are from, even though these terms refer to the entire country. Hey, we’re proud to be from the best country in the world!
15. Americans are known for their friendly grins when making eye contact with strangers, a habit that may not be well-received in some cultures. Hey, we’re just trying to be friendly!

So, there you have it! These are just a few of the many ways that people from around the world have noticed Americans. Whether it’s our accent, our volume, our friendly nature, or our love of small talk, there are plenty of clues that can give us away when we travel abroad. Y’all have a great day!