Many travelers have the expectation that Europe will be the same as their home country, except that people may speak a different language. While ideas converge and become ‘global’, there are still some important differences that the first-time traveler to Europe should be aware of.
Remember: generalizations are not difficult to deal with, they are difficult not to find fault with them. Western Europe is a great place and it has been established throughout its long history by many different cultures. So take the generalizations below as general guidelines for navigating European customs. Sweden is very different from Portugal. That’s what makes traveling fun.
Drink
The idea of the “big shot” cup or the infinite soda fillings you expect in the United States has not exactly caught on in Europe. Don’t expect to order a refill on your drink and you won’t be charged for it. Also, the price of American-style sodas is often high relative to the price of beer and wine. Just remember our own Thomas Jefferson, who was a keen observer of European customs: “No nation is drunk where wine is cheap and none is sober where quality wine substitutes for fiery spirits like the common drink.”
Drinking wine or beer at street tables is more common in Europe than in the US Despite this, European driving laws are constantly being revised to redefine deterioration levels downward. If you are driving, check the permitted blood alcohol levels in the country you are visiting; You may be surprised, given the availability of wine and beer.
Then there are the one liter (34 ounce) beer glasses from Bavaria!
Taxes
High, but often hidden. You’re paying a hefty tax for that terrace lunch, but it’s unlikely to show up on your bill.
Tip
Tip is a minefield. For Western Europe in general, tips represent more the spirit of true tip, that is, it is a percentage of the bill you give for good service, not a large sum paid to pay your server’s wages. Unfortunately, as Americans bring their customs to Europe, the expectation of a large tip rises as server salaries decline, especially in large cities.
Electricity
The voltage in Europe is twice what it is in the United States. Most computers and modern technology run on both voltages, and only one adapter plug is needed. Please note that not all European plugs are the same. Older hotels may not have the juice to run that 1000-watt blow dryer you desperately (don’t) need.
Buy locally
It is customary to greet shop owners in their stores in many European countries. If you plan to shop in small boutique-style stores, learn to say “good morning” or “good afternoon” in the language of your destinations. You’ll start to find shopping easier and more enjoyable, and you might find a bargain along the way. People generally highly appreciate any attempt you make to speak their language and learn their customs, and using a few polite words often opens doors.
Talk to your local pharmacy
Pharmacies are more useful as a point of contact for a person whose health is in question in Europe than the law allows them in the United States. If you are in a city and closer to a pharmacy than an emergency room and your condition is not critical, try the pharmacy. You may be surprised at the services a pharmacist can provide.
Take advantage of public transportation
Public transportation is much more extensive in Europe than it is in the US You will have a variety of ways to get from one city to another, or even from one city to an extremely small town. Where there are no trains, there are likely to be buses, even if their schedules are not ideal for the tourist. In Switzerland, postal buses will take you almost anywhere you can think of. For longer train rides, you’ll want to find the right rail pass. If you are taking short trips or day trips, don’t use a rail pass day, because rail passes are not guaranteed to save you money, especially on short trips.
