17 Things Foreigners Hate About America

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Have you ever wondered what aspects of American life seem strange or baffling to people from other countries? In 2022, there were about 46.2 million foreign-born people in the US, an increase from 44.7 million in 2018, as noted by U.S Census Bureau.

When foreigners come to America, they often encounter a mix of cultural quirks and norms that can leave them scratching their heads. Here’s a light-hearted look at 17 things foreigners usually find perplexing about the United States.

The Metric System Conundrum

Imagine measuring everything by inches, feet, and miles when the rest of the world uses centimeters, meters, and kilometers.

For many foreigners, America’s reluctance to adopt the metric system is puzzling. While the U.S. sticks to its unique measurement units, visitors often fumble with conversions, wondering why Americans haven’t yet made the switch.

The Date Format Dilemma

If you’ve ever seen a date written as 07/04/2024 and thought it meant April 7th, you’re not alone. The American habit of writing the month before the day is a common source of confusion for foreigners accustomed to the day-month-year format. It’s a small detail, but it can lead to big misunderstandings.

Tipping Culture Confusion

In many parts of the world, service charges are included in the bill, and tipping is either minimal or nonexistent. Not so in the U.S.

Here, tipping is not only expected but also often left to the customer’s discretion, adding an extra layer of stress for foreigners trying to determine the appropriate amount. The unwritten rules of when and how much to tip can be bewildering.

Tax Exclusion Surprise

Have you ever picked up an item thinking you know the price, only to be caught off guard at checkout? In America, prices displayed on items do not include sales tax, which varies by state. This means mental math is essential, a task that can be daunting for new visitors who aren’t used to this system.

Healthcare System Complexity

Even among Americans, the American healthcare system is intensely debated. However, the lack of universal healthcare and the complexity of insurance plans can be confusing and concerning for foreigners. Many come from countries where healthcare is a straightforward right, not a costly commodity.

Gun Culture Shock

The prevalence of firearms and the strong gun culture in the U.S. can be startling for people from countries with strict gun control laws. The sight of civilians openly carrying weapons, along with frequent news about gun violence, can be deeply unsettling.

Car-Dependent Lifestyle

Public transportation is limited in many parts of America, and having a car is almost necessary. This car-dependent infrastructure contrasts sharply with cities in Europe and Asia, where public transit is efficient, reliable, and widely used. Foreigners may find it challenging to get around without renting a vehicle.

Lack of Global Awareness

A common stereotype is that Americans are less aware of global geography and politics than their international counterparts. Whether this is true or not, foreigners often note that conversations about the rest of the world can seem superficial or ill-informed.

Public Bathroom Peculiarities

Many visitors are curious about the design of public bathroom stalls, with gaps in the doors and partitions. The lack of privacy can be uncomfortable for those used to more enclosed spaces while answering nature’s call.

The Arctic Blast Indoors

Step into any American building during summer, and a blast of cold air will likely greet you. Foreigners also find the use of excessive air conditioning perplexing. While it can be a respite from the heat, it often feels like stepping into a refrigerator.

Loud and Proud

Americans are often perceived as being loud, especially in public spaces. Whether talking on the phone, chatting with friends, or expressing opinions, the volume can be noticeably higher than what’s typical in other cultures. This can be jarring for those accustomed to quieter interactions.

College Sports Craze

The enthusiasm for college sports, particularly football and basketball, is a cultural phenomenon in the U.S. that baffles many foreigners. In most other countries, sports at the university level don’t attract the same level of attention, funding, or fervor as professional leagues.

Political Signs and Bumper Stickers

Driving through America, you’ll likely see various opinionated signs and bumper stickers. Foreigners often find how openly Americans display their political affiliations and beliefs unusual. This level of public expression is rare in many other parts of the world.

American Superiority Perception

Some foreigners perceive American arrogance or the belief in their superiority as off-putting. Whether it’s a matter of national pride or cultural confidence, this trait doesn’t always translate well abroad.

Bill-Splitting Scenarios

Splitting the bill at restaurants can be a complex dance in America. Unlike in some countries where the bill is divided equally without fuss, Americans often calculate each person’s share to the last cent, including tax and tip. This meticulous approach can seem overly complicated to visitors.

Supersized Portions

American portions are often much larger than what foreigners are used to. From giant cups of soda to oversized meals, visitors might be overwhelmed by the abundance of food in a single serving. “value for money” is taken to new heights here.

High Incarceration Rates

The United States has one of the highest incarceration rates in the world. For foreigners from countries with lower imprisonment rates, this statistic reflects more significant societal issues and can be pretty surprising.

While these quirks may stand out, it’s important to remember that they form part of the rich tapestry of American culture. Foreigners often appreciate the U.S.’s friendliness, optimism, diversity, and innovation. The country’s technology, entertainment industry, universities, and natural beauty are admired worldwide.

Disclaimer – This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.

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