10 Tourist Mistakes Americans MUST AVOID In Europe

The BIGGEST MISTAKES Americans Make When Visiting Europe. Click "Show More" to see Ad Disclosure.
Avoid these 10 common Europe Travel Mistakes that could cost you money, waste your time, and even make you look rude without even realizing it!
Don't miss out on these essential travel tips before you visit Europe!
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⏰ Timecodes ⏰
0:00 10 Tourist Mistakes Americans make when they travel to Europe
0:36 Mistake #1: Not building walking stamina
1:36 Mistake #2: Assuming things are the same
3:36 Mistake #3: Forgetting Travel Insurance
4:53 Mistake #4: International Phone Plan Issues
6:44 Mistake #5: Sticking to Tourist Hot Spots
7:44 Mistake #6: Not Using Points and Miles
9:20 Mistake #7: Not respecting the local way
10:42 Mistake #8: Packing Too Much
12:05 Mistake #9: Talking Too Loud
12:58 Mistake #10: Packing Your Itinerary Too Full
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#europetravel #traveltips #travel2024

[@awaytogether]

Are you guilty of any of these mistakes??? Let us know! Click here to get 5% OFF Holafly eSIMs: bit.ly/holaflydiscount

[@LeannaRuthJensen]

Respecting local customs/people has bonuses: We asked a local where they usually go to lunch. Some of the best meals we had were in restaurants with no signage on the street. When we got to the local place we would talk with the staff about where they like to take visitors in their city (some great little parks etc ) Oh and we started by saying, "I'm sorry I can't speak your language can you help me in English?" We always found this was a good ice breaker that encouraged a positive response.

[@leewilliams5341]

Absolutely build up your walking muscles. I average 7 to 8 miles per day on my European trips.

[@zwiderwurzn5908]

Point 11: Please note that American Express credit cards are not accepted in many places. It is better to use Visa or Mastercard. Point 12: Do not assume that everyone can/wants to speak English. It's always better to ask beforehand if someone speaks English than to blurt it out straight away. It's a good idea to learn a few phrases in the local language, this will open people's hearts. Point 13: Not only do the different European countries differ from each other, but there can also be big differences within a country when it comes to food, customs and traditions, and language, for example. Point 14: Don't stand or walk on bike lanes. Point 15: Not everything that is different elsewhere is therefore worse. Greetings from Bavaria

[@ValerieD-mf8ks]

Ugh! #7 When we act like we were at Disneyland and the locals must stop to help and answer questions as if they are employees!

[@naturalobserver]

Great comment! I'm going to remember this one :)

[@corinnesolano1237]

Nr. 9 is sooo true! Especially having to listen to a loud American at the next table when you would like to enjoy a nice meal.

[@laurievanzon2126]

All Americans are not the same. I like a peaceful dinner too.

[@corinnesolano1237]

@@laurievanzon2126 I said "a loud American" not "loud Americans", so I didn't intend to generalize.

[@aprylburtchin5178]

I’m an American and do not care for people talking loudly at the next table. We do not all do that!

[@PABackpacker]

We Americans are too loud even for other Americans.

[@MarkAsh-tv2ox]

The talking loud thing is so true. I'm a Brit who has travelled much around Europe and in the USA. When there is a group of Americans on the next table, you can hear their whole conversation. It feels like they want everyone to hear what they say and to perhaps be impressed. I don't know. Probably not. But that's what it feels like. Italians are loud. But most other Europeans are quiet and discreet both in restaurants and on public transport.

[@Chris-lc4bo]

They don't want you to really hear, most of us are used to blocking other noise and people out when chatting with friends at the table, they are zoned into the conversation, most US Americans don't even know they speak loudly.

[@tkozikow]

More than just breaking in your shoes is actually having a pair of shoes that are good for walking. We walk 20-25K steps per day on most trips and have learned that some shoes are better than others. My current favorite pair are not going to win any fashion awards, but they are super comfortable on the longest days. Also, leave the trucker hats, basketball shorts, and Senor Frogs t-shirts from Cancun at home. You don't need a completely new and expensive wardrobe,, but the more you look like a tourist the more likely you are a target for pickpockets and scams. There are a lot of churches in Europe and many have a dress code. Long pants and covered shoulders are not too much to ask for. Finally, respect your surroundings and remember that you are a guest. I was stunned by the number of people at Auschwitz taking Instagram glamor shots.

[@awaytogether]

Great points, Tim. Couldn't agree more.

[@laurievanzon2126]

What kind of shoes do you wear to walk so much?

[@lulyjones9199]

In Málaga, Spain we had a laundromat nearby. We did laundry 2xs for a period of 15 days. Had clean clothes on our return to USA. Who wants to travel long distance with dirty laundry?

[@lisalu910]

On the itinerary point, I notice that the brief schedule you flashed on the screen has you coming into Milan then going back out of Milan. I almost never fly in and out of the same airport, because that has you backtracking, In the same amount of time, you can see one more city if you fly out of a different airport. For example, into Rome and out of Milan. Into Milan and out of Nice. Into Paris and out of London. It might not always be possible depending on your airline and your destinations, but whenever possible it is a great way to add in another city without spending time going back to Point A.

[@leah_taylor]

Thanks for the tips! I'm in my hostel in Portugal right now, so this is a great video to keep in mind :). Obrigada!

[@oldbroadabroad6619]

I remember a group of Americans loudly complaining the mac and cheese they were eating wasnt like the US. In a historic, traditional Scottish restaurant. They amount of us that glanced at each other with knowing looks....

[@awaytogether]

Makes me so sad

[@krisanderson9823]

Brilliant video! You covered pertinent tips beautifully.

[@thecleaningteacher638]

Great tips! Would you consider making a video (or video series) all about travel insurance (health, auto primary vs. secondary, trip interruption, etc.)? Your experience and common sense would be helpful!

[@WaypointofView]

These are some really great tips! Thanks so much for sharing!

[@kbarnes6855]

Great tips! I enjoy your channel - always learn something. 👍🏻😀

[@Span91423]

Excellent video. I have traveled a lot and everything you list is absolutely spot on

[@phillipabowe5349]

Great tips! 👍

[@pattymitchell1870]

I always appreciate your videos. Thank you! One thing about travel insurance: we are seniors and some companies will not insure anyone over 70. I found a company that does, but people should know it does cost more and you can't get quite the coverage as younger travelers in some instances. I went ahead and bought an annual insurance plan, since that seemed to be a better way to go. I couldn't do it through a link you provided on another video, though. I walk at least 5 miles almost daily and walking on our trips is a total joy!

[@morganhullinger400]

You guys definitely have the best travel channel out there right now. Leaving in two weeks for TA cruise and stay in Europe after and your videos have been just what we needed to get all ready! Hoping you guys get more and more subscribers due to the excellent content you are putting out there for us to watch and learn from!

[@awaytogether]

Morgan - thanks so much for saying that. We hope you have an amazing trip!!!

[@GenxGypsy1968]

I just wanted to stop by and say how fantastic this video is…so many golden nuggets of advice. I think you hit this one out the park 👏. Bravo!!

[@awaytogether]

Ah! Thanks so much, Christi!

[@juditmihalovits4641]

@GenxGypsy1968, Hi, Christi. ☺️ just letting you know… I’m following your channels too. ☺️👍

[@martacancela7681]

Like @hrw3mom103 said: “I’m American and travel abroad often. I have heard that besides our accents and clothing, how we stand and eat make us easily identifiable.” I may add: Just the way Americans eat (+ eating/drinking as you go) makes them obvious. Not using fork and knife... One arm always under the table... Eating with your hands... Asking for ketchup, mayo and sauces with (literally) everything... Oh, and ice. All drinks have to have ice on them. Plus the ubiquitous baseball caps.

[@labtechsuperstar]

I don't know how they figured it out in Italy...one time I was with FAMILY, and I didn't dress "American" (i.e. I had a nice top and pants, non-sneaker shoes)...and I didn't even speak. But people picked me out right away. 🙁 But everything @martacancela7681 said is true. I find it so rude to ask for things like ketchup, etc when it's not offered or on the table. Would it really kill someone to try different food?

[@lisalu910]

@@labtechsuperstar In Italy, I walked into a small grocery store one day. I was dressed very neutrally and didn't stand out in any way (no backpacks, cameras, baseball caps, etc.). I was by myself, so not speaking to anyone, I didn't so much as open my mouth. AND I am of 100% Italian ancestry so I am genetically similar to the people who live there. But when I approached the checkout stand the cashier immediately greeted me in English. I was dumbfounded. How did he know???? I still don't know what gave me away!

[@keithclifton392]

Great suggestions! I would add another: don’t take personal safety for granted, even in supposedly “safe” places. My phone was stolen in broad daylight on a recent trip to London only because I let me guard down for a second.

[@juditmihalovits4641]

Nick is right about start walking and try to get in shape before your trips. I thought I was in decent kind of shape before my London trip, & still I got too sore. By end of the day we just Crashed we were so tired.

[@andyt8216]

I may be biased being British, but black for “nasty” diesel and green for, at the time when it came out, “greener” unleaded petrol just makes more sense to me!

[@SausalitoVicki]

Nik, thank you for your GREAT point about building up stamina prior to a trip to Europe. I’m going to start walking!🚶🏼‍♀️

[@jessied4210]

Try TrainPal. They have really low priced tickets and train cards to make your trips easier.

[@MarkBH70]

I'd learn 'please' and 'thank you,' plus other words in the local language. Attitudes vary in different countries.

[@Mabel461]

And please don’t wear base caps in restaurants or private homes.

[@connycatlady7429]

And take your jakets off in restaurants.

[@merrillundgren1790]

Great video Nik!!! I was looking at your list of to-watch videos and see the one from 9 months ago with Allie and liquids for TSA. Can you make a video about the more restrictive liquid requirements in Europe (talking to you, Paris and London) and the exceptions for “medications” (and what that means!. Thanks!

[@jean-pascalesparceil9008]

Hello! For France, EU countries and some others, like Switzerland, it is 1/10 of a liter per liquid and all little containes should be packaged in a transparent plastic bag wuit a closure system like zip-lock. Exceptionnaly, baby food/drink and medications = liquid (in that case) prescription drugs (one might have to show the prescription). The safety check is done by minimum wage employees, "if you pay peanuts, you get monkeys"...

[@PatNeedhamUSA]

You're totally right about the abundance of walking! My all-time weekly step count record was from last December (198k) when i was in Athens and Madrid.

[@stilsweet9579]

OMG I had that same problem in Europe with putting the wrong gas in the car. It was many years ago when there was not travel insurance available. Thanks for the channel. Very helpful for traveling. Everyone should listen.

[@jessied4210]

I think TrainPal offers comprehensive discounts and aftersale services. Love it!

[@bretaskinner3143]

During your segment on phones, my head reminisced about what we used for our first trip to England in 1995: paper phone cards you purchased then used at pay phones. I don't remember where you bought them, perhaps convivence stores. My mistake is usually packing "just in case" stuff. Although, our last trip, Iceland in December, we did somewhat fill our check luggage, then I padded with a box of tissues. I was so happy to have that box when I caught a cold ;)

[@ChaRles-me3bb]

#7 you said it perfectly ‼

[@UrbanMiller]

“Comparison is the thief of joy”. God, that’s so true. Love that quote! Great video once again man! I live by your never bringing a checked bag rule. Traveling without a checked bag is the way to go.

[@jean-pascalesparceil9008]

On the topic of walking, there are a lot of cobbled streets in old towns' centers in almost all European countries, so it's important to practice some walking on uneven surfaces.

[@gerrieriihimaki6446]

“Leave your arrogance at home!” Yes, yes, yes!!! One of my pet peeves with American travelers anywhere. Thank you.

[@hrw3mom103]

Oh America is far from the only country who has arrogant citizens. 😂

[@michaelplunkett8059]

Ditto ours for Europeans.

[@CharPatterson-ge5hq]

👍👊​@@michaelplunkett8059

[@erzabetf9544]

That’s hilarious. American arrogance pales in comparison to … German, French, Italian, Spanish, Greek, Turkish … I could go on. Focus on yourself a little more, and you might notice your own arrogance - a pet peeve of mine about anyone making foolish comments on KZbin. 😂

[@julieanncheshire9960]

"It's like accelerated personal development if you allow it to be." ABSOLUTELY

[@mettenorsk8433]

My favorite move quote is from the Interview. One of the main characters is at an airport; there’s a long line and he says: I’m American. I have to go first …. Spot on😮

[@Xuvetyn2]

Just wanted to let you know that the advice to check trip insurance was really helpful. We have a trip to Copenhagen, Amsterdam, and Paris in late November, and we bought insurance with our flight. This prompted me to check what we purchased, and it includes medical, but not much. I may look into purchasing a separate medial plan, just to be safe. Thank you for the prompt!

[@labtechsuperstar]

Check with AAA/CAA. I'm Canadian and I always buy travel insurance from them. They have packages for medical/interruption/cancellation/baggage. It came clutch for a time we travelled from Florence to Dublin. They 'lost' the bags and we needed 'emergency' clothes.

[@HollyPlake]

My dad made the same mistake with diesel in France. My mom, little sister, and I were able to accompany him on this business trip. Thank goodness he had a business customer nearby that we could stay inside the business while the car got fixed.

[@angmut43]

So true what you say Am Australian here. I just hope that your audience takes in what you say.

[@paulv2200]

You are right on with #7. Keep an open mind and you will discovered many wonderful new cultures.

[@tkozikow]

Non-chain boutique hotels can be nice, but an even better option in many places, especially for a longer trip is Airbnb. They are often in neighborhoods outside the CBD, but with good bus, tram, or subway service. Walking around you can find the coffee shops and restaurants where locals eat. Speaking of restaurants, you probably want to avoid any with a menu outside in multiple languages with pictures of the food. Most of it is going to be overpriced and mediocre. Also, keep in mind that some dishes like spaghetti and meatballs or chicken pamasean are uniquely American dishes and should not be on any European menu.

[@hassanalihusseini1717]

No!! Taking Airbnb annoys many Europeans and even (as f.x. in Barcelona) sparks hatred against tourists as Airbnb people take living space from locals. And strangely everyone pretends to like the locals. So... stay in hotels and boycott Airbnb.

[@virginianalangan6786]

Walking before travel for sure and comfortable shoes is important.

[@sharonmaske3540]

My son lives in Lisbon. I wasn't as fit this year as last. When I get home it's gonna be back to walking up 4 flights of stairs every day to prepare me for the hills in this beautiful city.

[@Zurich_for_Beginners]

About Point 9: It depends. In Spain you don't stand out at all when you speak loud.

[@markalexander6517]

In Spain, it depends. I always recommend to take a reading around you. I've been in loud bars in Spain where everyone is loud.

[@sebastianrucker4967]

Some good things you mentioned but about your sponsor, you may want to mention that they don't allow tethering

[@casaraku1]

People make their plans thru the tourist agency and stay on the tour bus or its a place on their selfie (bucket) list...as long as they speak english at mcdonalds....when i travel, i can always here americans... and i do not talk near them... I don't want to be associated with "Tourist" esp. groups...i travel quietly alone and try to pick up some local phrases....10 countries in 10 days... Me, 1 country per week and that is only a small part....I like to rest and relax.

[@lisaworkman1041]

I know Unbound Marino is a sponsor… but $88 for 1 t-shirt is ridiculous… now they’re asking for $158 for a pair of shorts 🤔🙄😳👎 I didn’t care how wrinkle resistant they are!!!

[@yaowsers77]

I prepared for walking. I did not know about the hills in Edinburgh and didn't prepare for those!

[@conniekershaw4412]

I swear there are hills everywhere in Europe. Last time we were in Spain, my husband kept saying, "Why is everything uphill both ways?" hahaha

[@yaowsers77]

@@conniekershaw4412 that's hilarious! Lol I'm dreading Portugal. Everything is uphill both ways and sideways apparently!

[@travelwithdebandnick]

hi, deb from tasmania australia :) great video :) id love to travel to europe one day :) ive just subscribed to your channel, nice to be onboard :)

[@SteveGrin]

lol @ the gas pump, I did the opposite (in Germany) , put diesel in a gas car - fortunately I caught it about 10 liters in (I noticed the smell) and switched to the highest octane gas they had. It ran, rough, but topped it off daily with high-test and got through it without incident.

[@awaytogether]

Hah Steve - we can be brothers in hysterically unfortunate gas pumping decisions together!

[@ESUSAMEX]

I have traveled a lot and l lived overseas for almost two years. Europeans who think Americans are loud have not been with Greeks, Spaniards, Italians or the Turkish. And they sure haven't been near any Latin Americans. Europeans who live in the US have told me that they view American "loudness" as confidence now that they have resided in the US. And they never noticed the difference between the two until moving to the US.

[@AllyMcLesbian]

Don’t forget Chinese tour groups. I’ve always found them to be the absolute loudest.

[@ESUSAMEX]

@@AllyMcLesbian True. Every time I order Chinese food, the workers sound like they are screaming once they begin to speak Chinese. Their English is not loud, but their Chinese sounds like a screaming bloody murder.

[@MichelleDiana]

I’m from Denmark and I think Dutch are the loudest🫣

[@user-je123]

You're absolutely right, there are big regional differences. The good principle also applies in this area: behave like a guest. That regulates a lot.

[@hellomycating]

The Europeans that complain about being loud are usually Germans, Austrians, Swiss, etc... You won't find many people in Spain, where I am from, complaining about talking loud...

[@richiejohnson]

Slightly off topic, but reserving a rental car will not keep them from renting your car to someone else! Just because the office is open until 7 pm, if you show up that late in the day in high season, they aren't waiting for you. l have seen this happen THREE times to fam and friends

[@kristajeanne572]

I used to live in London and the thing about Americans often being too loud is absolutely true. I'd usually hear my countryfolk before I'd see them. They'd also break the unspoken rule of not chatting with strangers on public transport. The Brits were always polite about it, but I could sense a bit of annoyance. I always found it a bit amusing. I think it's a good idea to maybe read up a little bit about what is considered good manners in a place you're going. It'll score you points and make you friends, plus it's just the kind thing to do.

[@bironbrunelle5186]

I love talking to strangers...it does freak out some.

[@alipainting]

It depends. I've had some memorable chats with Brits on trains and on the street. But if they don't respond enthusiastically it means they are introverted so leave them alone. Same as everywhere. The best part of travel is meeting fun people 😊

[@lisalu910]

Funny because I have a friend born and raised in Paris - a very "Parisienne" woman in her 50s. She is way louder than me, an American, and she will talk to ANYBODY. We recently went on a trip to Quebec together, and she walked right up to people in the streets and asked for directions, chatted up servers in restaurants, spoke to people on the train - I was the quiet one! It is kind of a stereotype that only Americans are loud because that is not always the case.

[@bxmusic31]

I generally didn’t have any issues with these subjects on the list. However I will say as a New Yorker #1 was a breeze lol. 😂 I walk so much I never have to train because it’s a normal daily activity lol.

[@dorisgilman920]

WOW, Nick my hubby and I have done. He fueled it up and I wasn't paying attention. On the way to my parents home by the car stalled. Luckily we had some fuel in it. Luckily it didn't ruin the engine. Live and learn. We usually avoid the Tourist spots.

[@crystalv-b8400]

Hello, I would like to inquire about your thoughts on tour groups. I am considering booking one as a graduation trip for my son. Thank you for your time and consideration.

[@wd1598]

10 days is perfect - split between two cities is perfect

[@verenama6519]

Number 9: This is really the most disturbing thing about tourists from the US. They shout like they'd give a lecture in a large room, even if sitting next to the person they talk to. Even in a restaurant or a bus we have to hear their unnecessary loud voices from meters away. The reason might be a mixture of self-importance and no consideration for other people. They think they own the place and are not aware that there are other customers in the cafe or the train. It seems to me they don't understand the difference between private space and public space and just act as if everywhere was their private space. LIke the American lady who talked loudly about her difficulty to poop when travelling. In a bus from the gate to the aircraft. No escape.

[@mehmd1913]

Right back at you.

[@bdawn3519]

I made the mistake of bringing a large suitcase once. Never again!

[@battle_p9291]

All great points and advice brought up in this video! I too have learned from the mistakes I've made in past travels to Europe. Take a "Like."

[@auntagatha2509]

Would love to collect points and miles but I cannot find a credit card that offers this in the UK, very frustrating! Any ideas?

[@76ers]

1:28 - Also not just any cheap sneakers. Invest in some lightweight soft cushion sneakers e.g. Skechers

[@keawarren]

Skechers ballet style flats have saved me numerous times when I needed something to wear with a dress but walked 10 miles earlier that day.

[@lulufaceman3014]

My Skechers were comfortable but the soles a bit too flexible for cobblestones. Look for comfort and a firmer sole.

[@Demetri450]

Research & plan!

[@scubasteve1555]

Just a heads up, Verizon now has international data included in their $65/month plan. So for those already on Verizon they don't need another sim nor extra costs.

[@margaretpittman9650]

I have 12 travel pass days built up ready for my trip to Europe next month! 2yrs ago I went to Paris for a week and no extra charges, so awesome! 👍

[@conniekershaw4412]

Yes, I also had 12 days built up on my Verizon plan. It was so easy, no new number. I love it.

[@SCUBA_5teve]

Hey. Nice name. We just used the plan in Europe. Was hassle free!

[@scubasteve1555]

@@SCUBA_5teve Awesome, thanks!!! I'm an American living in Germany for work and was paying the $80 a month for international coverage. When I found out they included it in their $65/month plan I switched. So many apps and websites do 2-FA now and it's just such a pain to switch all that.

[@lisalu910]

The AT&T International Plan with unlimited data is $10/day.

[@elizabethpetrie2732]

All good tips, many based on common sense. May I also point out that many European destinations are not nearly as accessible to people with mobility issues. Think cobblestones streets, high curbs, steps, and so on. Also, not all public transportation systems are easily accessible either.

[@Subdood04]

These are really good tips. We lived in Spain for a few years in the 1970s and learned a lot of this. And I have traveled a lot (for years now) to EU, Asia and Australia. My wife will vehemently disagree with you on the large bag size! 😂

[@beccagrove4559]

With Holafy does it cost people from home to contact you?

[@user-te7lw5ro2f]

Always love the tips from Nik and Allie…..I’m about to head off on my first Europe trip…I’m very excited at age 66…

[@awaytogether]

Have an amazing trip!!!!!! Happy travels

[@JD-zt3nr]

Nik. Holafly only gives you data. No phone number means no local calling. What do you do for making local calls or sending sms messages to people back home. Going to be in the highlands of Scotland and Wi-Fi will not always be available. Was planning to get a SIM from a local carrier using a pay as you go plan, once i arrived in edinburgh . What do you think?

[@christophe83unam]

Watching this video from Paris. Excellent comments!

[@awaytogether]

Wow, thank you!

[@petek5523]

I’m bringing one medium size check in case and one small carryon bag cause I don’t want to wash my skivvies in the hotel sink. Checking a bag isn’t the end of the world like most people make it out to be 😅

[@awaytogether]

Definitely not the end of the world!

[@MissRed92837]

Swivel suitcases are super. I often even check in two suitcases because I fill one up with European food I take home.

[@lisalu910]

It's not just checking the bag that is the issue. Clearly you haven't been to Europe yet, or you'd already know that! But I'll give you a sneak peek - it is hauling those bags through the airports, hauling them in and out of taxis, buses, trains, and metros. Hauling them down rough sidewalks and cobblestoned streets. Hauling them up stairs or cramming them into minuscule lifts. Fitting them into small hotel rooms. Take whatever you want, but remember you'll be carrying it everywhere you go! (Maybe you're a big strapping guy and that doesn't bother you, but it is a struggle the rest of us can do without.)

[@lisalu910]

PS... Europe is part of the developed world, you're not going on a safari to Africa. There are laundromats, hotel laundries, and laundry facilities in many Airbnbs. There are plenty of opportunities to wash your clothes.

[@petek5523]

@@lisalu910 I don’t go on holidays to do laundry, I go on holidays to get away from it. If I were travelling for months on end, that would be a different story but not for a week or two. Thanks for the geography lesson btw 😊

[@alexmello9192]

im going on an EU tour, will be going through many countries over 6 weeks..whats my best option for phone service in so many different places

[@bironbrunelle5186]

At home I take 2 walks a day (dog) and ride 100km a week but after 8 hours walking about Paris I WAS so sore ……

[@matzis]

which restaurant in Rome do you get lost trying to find??

[@monicarogers4494]

Hey Nik u say to turn off roaming on our phone. Don’t we need roaming if we purchase and eSIM ?? Help I’m confused!

[@awaytogether]

You'll want to turn data roaming off for your home plan. And then yes, make sure cellular data + data roaming are on for your new plan.

[@drinkbeerandtravel]

Great video. You have a name for that favourite Roma restaurant of yours lol? Thanks.

[@kbarnes6855]

Yes! Name please? I’m going to Rome next month and would love to find good restaurant off the tourist trail.

[@awaytogether]

DM @nkennett on instagram. I don't want it overrun :)

[@awaytogether]

DM @nkennett on instagram. I don't want it overrun :)

[@gubsak55]

There are so many great restaurants in Rome. I have not been to Rome in 25 years, but back then, you should always arrive before 8 in the evening. At 8 (20:00), all the shops closed and the restaurants were filled with locals within 20 minutes. 😊

[@robertjames-life4768]

Just did a week at an all-inclusive resort in Cabo (wasn’t my idea) spent several dinner events talking with the cruise-ship/resort mentality crowd. I feel so bad for them as their idea of travel is so touristy and they never really get real experiences.

[@Subdood04]

Be careful about the rental car tip. There are 5 countries where Amex will not cover you for car rentals. Ireland is one of them. It was an expensive lesson. While it’s not continental Europe, it is Europe. Was an $1800 mistake. The insurance would have been about $250.

[@awaytogether]

Yikes - expensive lesson for sure. Yes, got to make sure your particular country is covered.

[@alexwaynemiller]

Going to have to make sure I’m not talk-screaming when I get there! 📢

[@awaytogether]

What did you say? I CAN'T HEAR YOU!!!!!

[@Alex-bq2vs]

It helps to speak other languages. When the manager of a Sicilian hotel found out I was Canadian, he asked, "Parlez-vous francais?" I replied in French and spoke with him telling him that my wife was born in Sicily. When she entered the room, he spoke to her in Sicilian dialect. He then gave us 20% off the room rate! Later that day, we went for lunch in a small restaurant. My wife spoke to him in Sicilian dialect. We had a small lunch each with a litre bottle of water and another half litre bottle. We asked for the bill, but the owner replied, "No charge!"

[@ZForce5496]

I sometimes feel a bit prickly when someone tells me to avoid tourist area. I, like many Americans, don’t have the resources to travel abroad often. I go abroad maybe once every two years and usually do a different country every time. My time is limited. The first things I want to see are the places I have read and heard about my entire life. Yes, I know enough to go off the beaten path for meals (although sometimes I am too tired to explore too far after a day of seeing the sights), but I want to see the museums and historical sites and parks and natural wonders. I will never be a local in a foreign country, so let me be an American respectfully enjoying another country. There is a good chance I may never return to that place again, so I want to spend my time seeing what matters to me. It’s okay to be inauthentic.

[@JuneAdams-li9sy]

My European experience indicates that my voice is not loud. It is, though, not LOCAL. And that's why Europeans notice it.

[@edwardfersch9661]

What are kicks?

[@susans7091]

I checked price for your recommended Holafly for Ecuador and it said $29. But I couldn't figure out if that is per day, per month, or what?

[@awaytogether]

There should be price breakdowns by time period. e.g. 5 days, 10 days, etc.

[@ericthered760]

@3:25 - OK, so what color where the pumps for diesel there ??

[@TheIdlesurfer]

Usually black for diesel but the pumps and handles are marked as petrol or diesel. But do yourself a favour, learn the local word for petrol and diesel, because in Spain and Portugal the garages fill your vehicle, even motorcycles. They also have the grades. In much of Europe, France especially ,and UK , Ireland not so much, you pay at the pump, and American Express works virtually nowhere.

[@barrysteven5964]

Fascinating video even for me as a Brit to watch. Yes, our diesel pumps are black. Green pumps are for unleaded petrol (gas). All this is incredibly good advice. To be fair, most American visitors are lovely, polite and deeply interested. But there are also a few who don't get the outside world, haven't done the research and are baffled that they can't pay in American dollars for example. Another tip. If a local asks you where you are from start by saying America or the USA. Don't just come out with just the name of the state you're from. It implies that everyone knows all about your country and what the states all are. Usually we actually do, but don't just assume. And one last tip, learn the basics of the metric system or at the very least don't expect other people to do the conversions for you and definitely don't get annoyed with them when they can't.

[@ChristianMiller-sf9xj]

What is your favorite restaurant in Rome? I’m heading there in a few weeks.

[@awaytogether]

DM @nkennett on instagram - don't want the place overrun.

[@lisbetsoda4874]

Also observe reasonable table manners - no elbows on the table, don't shovel your food in, don't speak with your mouth full of food.

[@kzarz0219]

I was in Porto and the locals were just as loud.

[@dorothywillis1]

Only three of these could possibly make anyone seem rude. And judging by what I heard in Europe the people there talk just as loudly as people do here and Europeans are just as guilty as any other tourists of 2 and 7.

[@lisalu910]

I just met a French friend in Quebec for a two week vacation. She is a "refined" Parisian, I am supposedly one of those uncouth Americans. But. guess who is the one who talked LOUDLY? Guess who is the one who'd stop people randomly in the streets and strike up conversations? Not me!

[@everydaynormaltraveler]

Great video, and as an European I can confirm all of the mistakes. I find especially common to hear that all of Europe is the same - like a single country. However, I never thought of Americans as loud - the people from southern Europe - Italy, Spain, Greece seem to bear the crown of the loudest :P but the truth is you can always somehow, I don't really know how, tell that the person is from the US :P

[@awaytogether]

I originally had a line in this video about Italy and Greece also for loudness but didn't want to get blasted about it so I removed it haha

[@hrw3mom103]

I’m American and travel abroad often. I have heard that besides our accents and clothing, how we stand and eat make us easily identifiable.

[@awaytogether]

For real! I've read that one of the first thing the CIA teaches operatives in other countries is how to stand differently, and notably to stop leaning on things (apparently we do that a lot too).

[@conniekershaw4412]

@@awaytogether Yes, my family is from Spain and my mother drilled me about standing up straight. We Americans slouch all the time. Now I wish she had yelled at me more about standing up straight! When in Europe I do notice the difference. Europeans in general have way better posture than Americans. Yes Spaniards are loud so are Italians and Greeks.

[@SusanMcBrayer]

What is the name of your favorite restaurant in Rome? I'm going back there in October and I much prefer restaurants frequented by locals. Grazie!

[@awaytogether]

DM me at @nkennett on instagram - don't want word to spread too far. :)

[@alicechampagne7091]

I’m SO glad you mentioned our American volume issue. Even airports in Europe are quiet. It’s so nice to be able to actually have a conversation with another person without having to shout over the background noise like in our restaurants and public spaces.❤

[@rpse24]

Number one is sooo weird 😂😂😂

[@user-bv6ls9vc6o]

Interesting way to learn to dont make those mistakes

[@maxm1584]

Holafly can't be used as a shareable wifi hotspot 😔

[@KMShaffer]

Yep, and you need a newer phone for eSim too. Where will I be able to find a physical Sim Card in Italy I wonder?

[@beverlydunne1605]

@@KMShaffer At the airport (best) when your come out to the Arrivals area or look for Vodaphone (or other) shop near your hotel in Rome.

[@trexrt]

When travelling abroad where do you wash your clothes?

[@eclairtreo]

We just wash in the hotel bathroom sink. We take a few inflatable hangers and an elastic clothes line. Use shampoo or even bar soap. Works fine.

[@MissRed92837]

Larger hotels have laundry service. Many tourists clean their clothes in the hotel rooms bathtub.

[@lisalu910]

Laundromat.

[@west8864]

Many Airbnbs have a washing machine

[@ClearWaterArizona]

You can switch to an international plan for 1 month then switch back to your original plan $20