Oftentimes we have clients who are surprised by the cultural differences, common practices, and the way of life they experience when visiting Europe for the first time. Traveling exposes us to new customs and traditions, which is enriching but can also be challenging. It's all part of the adventure, and embracing these differences leads to a deeper understanding of other cultures. That being said - here are the differences our clients have been the most surprised by. (On caveat - European countries of course differ from each other as well - these are just the differences we see most often in a variety of countries).
What to Expect in Hotels
In the US, we're known for the mentality of "the bigger, the better," but that's just not the case in Europe. In Europe, the space is often optimized for functionality, to save on resources, and sometimes because the architecture is hundreds of years old. This means the size of your hotel room will likely not be what you're used to (unless you want to upgrade to a suite).
Bedding is another big difference. Standard hotel rooms in Europe are typically sized and set up for two people. It is almost unheard of to have the two queen beds option we are accustomed to in the US in certain European destinations. When there are two beds in Europe they are often the European double (closer to a full in the US). Three to a room or a "triple" is less common as well - and no they will not just cram you in. There may not be enough, and there are occupancy laws that the hotels need to abide by. Depending on the country and the hotel once you have three people you will be in two rooms.
Also - let's talk about what's ON the bed. Of course this varies country to country but in general you'll find that on double beds there will be two duvet covers - one for each person, and there will not be a top sheet (that's a US thing). There will also likely be fitted sheets (bottom sheet) on a seperate mattress for each person - it's just how beds are made in Europe. They typically do not have box springs, but use flexible wooden slats under each mattress instead.
Beside space and bedding - you should expect that air conditioning is not typical in hotels, and most European buildings. In fact, even hotels with air conditioning or heating are often pre-controlled by the building management, meaning there is not an in-room thermostat or ability to control the temperature yourself. Even in cases where you can control the temperature in your room - very often it won't be as cold as you're used to. This is particularly surprising to US travelers, but you have been warned!
What to Expect in Restaurants
From reservation to the check, restaurant norms will be different than you are used to. In fact, many countries expect reservations ahead of time as the wait staff and cook prepare for the amount of guests and tables they will book. When in doubt, call ahead! Times to eat can be different in Europe, too. We're used to three major meals, but because many Europeans eat smaller meals throughout the day, and because (depending on the time of year) it is lighter out later, dinner time may begin around 7-8 PM or later - many restaurants are not open at the typical 5:00 PM that we are used to in the US.
At the table, water is often not automatically given or refilled in the ways you may be used to. Bottled water and sparkling water are most often what are offered, both of which are paid for. Sometimes there may be an option for free tap "still" water. Servers have a common practice of staying out of the way for you to enjoy your meal, as it is deemed rude to hover or bother patrons, and in general the pace of life is just slower. Ask for what you need at the start of the meal or let them know to check in with you in 30 minutes. This is even true for when it is time for the check, as you may need to wave to your staff from the table to alert them that you are ready to finish.
What to Expect in Restrooms
This might seem like a silly one or one you think you may know, but it can often catch tourists off-guard when visiting a new place and something like the bathroom is more complicated than they anticipated. In fact, just this summer, we stopped in a fast food restaurant at a train station in Italy that would not let patrons use the bathroom until after they had paid and had a receipt in hand. There are fewer public restrooms and they are not always free, so use them when you see them! Paying to use a public bathroom is a common European norm at highway rest areas, train stations, and even at some tourist sights. Make sure you have small change in local currency for these times. Sometimes the toilet will be free, but there is an attendant selling sheets of toilet paper. You may also run into a tip dish near the door - about 50 cents to a dollar is fine.
There will likely also be different types of toilet systems, most typically a two flush system - a smaller button for less waste and a larger button for more waste.
In some countries where the plumbing is more fragile (such as Greece) you may see a trash can near the toilet with used toilet paper in it. If you see that - it is your cue to follow suit. And NEVER EVER try to flush anything else in a toilet in Europe.
What we think is most important? If you're not a fan of drip drying - always be prepared and carry tissues or personal toilet paper with you as some public restrooms may not carry it to reduce waste.
There are so many more cultural differences (like how Europeans tend to speak at a much lower volume than we do, and rush less through life). Ultimately, learning new cultures and etiquettes are what make traveling exciting and eye-opening. If you think we missed something important you've learned during your travels in Europe, we'd love to hear from you!
Keep an eye out on changes to this page as we continue to build up common cultural expectations when traveling to Europe.
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