Though it’s true that beards have become increasingly popular in America the last year or two, American men, many times, are carefully shaved. Sometimes they will shave designs into their scalp. You see, manscaping is a thing in the States, and this means all facial hair will be perfectly mowed, plucked, and sculpted.
But if you go to other parts of the world, men might not be so well-groomed. Some men, depending on where you are, might just let themselves go and let the hair grow indefinitely. Other men, might not have the patience to groom and simply shave all of their hair off as soon as possible. It just depends where you are.
You Know the Melody to ‘Sweet Caroline’
One of the most sure-fire ways to pick an American out of any audience anywhere is that they recognize Neil Diamond’s song “Sweet Caroline.” After the lyric, “Sweet Caroline,” and in anticipation of the percussive element to the famous American melody, he or she will typically feel the urge to meet it with, “Ba, ba, ba!” And, of course, “So good!”
British readers will know how popular the song was when the England national soccer team went so far in the 2020 European championships. After every win, fans all around the stadium would start singing the song! That's a true testament to the popularity of the song.
You’re in France and You Don’t Say ‘Bonjour’
This is a pet peeve of the French. Americans who are visiting France approach locals and ask for directions, sans greeting. Not saying “hello” or “bonjour” before demanding information is considered rude. This, especially in a place like France where etiquette is an important part of their culture and language.
So we would recommend checking out the popular Netflix show "Emily in Paris." That is a decent entry point for Americans into the French culture as it is told through the eyes of a young, happy-go-lucky American lady played by Lily Collins. If that doesn't teach Americans how to act in this part of the world, we don't know what will.
You Expect Stores to Be Open Late
In Europe, you will not find a 7-Eleven. Don’t even bother looking. On Sundays, it is worse; everything is usually closed. Contrary to the U.S. always-open philosophy, European shops are closed on holidays. Even the food stores and you probably won’t be aware of the dates. During the week, stores stay open until 7 or 8 p.m.
Well, we told a little white lie when we said that you won't find a 7-Eleven in Europe. On the contrary, there are a few located in Scandinavian countries, the UK, and there are quite a lot located around Asia. The globalization of 7-Eleven is serious.
You Leave Locks on the Bridges of the Seine
Don’t leave a lock on bridges over the Seine. Over the years it became a custom of tourists to lock their love in France. But the famous Pont des Arts removed them all and banned the sentimental practice in 2015. Why? Because it is dangerous. Part of one bridge buckled because of the weight of the padlocks.
Paris officials did not want to risk a bridge collapse. But that doesn't stop newly engaged couples from padlocking other bridges around the world. You just need to see if other couples are doing it and maybe research it online before you do it.