I have met quite a few American tourists and I can honestly say that not one of them was rude or arrogant in any way. Just one thing, and it may sound ridiculous to you but please don't ware your hat or cap indoors and certainly not at the dining table as it's considered very rude.

I am a Bulgarian, we have amazing food and nature, and we are always kind and helpful to tourists :) So, if you haven't been here - don't miss it! :)

Wow, spot on. Also control your volume! We were in a cafe having breakfast in Athens talking quietly and a group of eight women came in all trying to talk over each other. Our waiter rolled his eyes and actually apologized to us. Everywhere we have been in Europe the conversations are much more muted and not like eating in a Fridays

I am from Greece and I think American people are probably the best tourists Very kind and smiley people. Thank you😊

It drives me nuts when Americans don’t change to the local currency and think that all countries should accept American dollars.

I have learned that a bank’s ATM inside a bank is safer than any, ATM outside! There are lots of scams with ATMs not in a secure location, like a bank office.

I’m a Singaporean living in Italy, totally agrees with ‘Humility and us being guests’, I guess the bottom line is Respect begets respect.

Using local greetings and short sentences are key signs of humility and respect, and it's phenomenal what you will achieve by doing so!

As Europeans (Irish) our experience of US visitors both to our country and the numerous ones we visit is overwhelmingly positive. The only issue is the speaking volume - The times I had to put on noise cancelling headphones while reading to help drown out a conversation from several rows behind me on the trains is still fresh in my mind from our most recent trip

I don't mind paying for ice or going to the toilet. What puts me off going to the US is the tipping culture. It's a pity US employers don't have to pay employees a living wage. I'm Australian. Thanks so much for your advice. Great video.😊

HUMILITY! We've traveled all over Europe over 25 years, and have never had any hostility towards us as Americans. Nik's advice is on point!

You hit the nail on embracing new experiences and unique differences l. I hear Americans all too often missing the whole point of travel and beauty of a country by comparing it to their home town. I feel sorry for people like that. They’re missing out!

Learning the local culture and customs is a big, big step toward having a better experience. A colleague of my is French and before my first trip to Europe, she told me that it's basic courtesy to say hello ("bonjour") to the shopkeeper when you enter the shop. It's actually rude to ignore them and just walk in and start browsing. It actually makes sense, you're elevating them from being a servant to being a peer by recognizing them and saying hello. I did this every time I walked in a store and got a pleasant "bonjour" back. I'm sure they're used to American tourists not saying hello but they appreciate it when you make the effort.

I'm an American who really appreciates your comments about being polite and cultivating humility. We need to be good citizens of the world and curious about and respectful of other cultures if we want people to like us!

Hi Nik, just pointing out that you don't pay for water in a French restaurant if you simply want tap-water. Ask for "une carafe d'eau" (a jug of (tap) water). Pronounce "d'eau" like "dough" that is used to make bread!

Being loud on a train is very annoying. In Japan, they don‘t like loud conversations neither.

We always, whenever possible, make it a point to visit a local grocery store. It’s interesting to see what is different, and surprising to often see US brands there as well. We often take things back to our hotel room to try.

I’m going to Italy for 2 weeks this summer and I’m soooo excited! I’ve never been out of the US and I love Italy’s culture and language so it’s the perfect place for my first trip

I think the different restaurant/cafe/bar atmosphere also kind of contributes to the "Europeans are rude to Americans" myth. They are used to the North American way of doing things where restaurants want customers to eat quickly and leave so they can use the table again, and where staff are reliant on tips. When you grew up expecting everything being very quick and waiters being over-the-top in friendliness and chatter and are constantly asking you if you need anything, in Europe it can come off as bad service, slow, or cold and aloof.

Hungarian here, I live and work in the center of Budapest, so I encounter many tourists daily and have also worked occasionally as a guide. I have absolutely nothing against Americans - they are generally very friendly and while they might not know too much about my country they usually seem genuinely interested to learn which for me is a big plus. Most of the tips in this video are spot-on. Regarding the currency, proper, bank-affiliated ATMs will charge a withdrawal fee but will give you a good exchange rate, whereas at change booths, the rate will be worse but there is no one-off charge. So try to get by with one or two large ATM withdrawals and use the exchange booths for small amounts if you miscalculated things and need just a bit more cash. A big yes to the public transport as well, and I would like to add: don't limit yourself to the metro! The metro will definitely be the best option in Paris or London where there are dozens of metro lines and the surface traffic is horrible. But in Budapest and many other Central-European cities, we have trams that also avoid traffic and are much more dense than the metro network, and some will even be a great sightseeing experience. (Buses are of course also an option.) So you're making a big mistake if you try to go everywhere by metro just because you don't want to bother figuring out the other options. The only thing in the video I actually disagree with is the usefulness of learning the language basics. While I certainly appreciate the intent, and it might be a fun thing to do anyway, learing to say hello or sorry in the native language will have zero practical added value - these things can be understood from the context and for anything more complex you will need to find an English speaker anyway (which is not difficult to do in any big city in Europe). Oh, and about the water: while they certainly won't give you any free mineral water in restaurants in Europe, you're perfectly entitled to ask for tap water (which in the vast majority of Europe is perfectly fine to drink). They don't advertise it, and you might even get a disapproving look from less polite waiters, but they can't really say no. I've decided to stop paying for mineral water I don't need years ago and never have problems with this - you just have to work up the nerve to ask. Although, on second thought, this might not be an option for Americans who are generally not willing to drink anything that's above freezing point, even in winter 😅

I cheered when Nik mentioned Pimsleur! I swear by that program. Not only do you learn important words and phrases, but you learn great pronunciation. I took their course in Czech for a trip to Prague and people there thought I was Czech. I have taken their European Portuguese (which I will likely repeat) and currently doing their Spanish course for an upcoming trip to both Portugal and Spain. No, I'm not paid by them to say this, just a very happy customer. By trying to speak in the language of the place you're visiting, even if it's not very good, you will be treated so much better than someone who shouts and expects to be served in English.

Completely agree about not over stuffing your itinerary. So tempting - for us to get to Europe from New Zealand where we live is such a big commitment but the best memories from a trip to Italy was of things we found while just wandering the streets. If you do book things it's a good idea to make them early in your day leaving the rest of the day with no timetable.

one of our best experiences was in Barcelona, we walked into a local restaurant and asked the waiter to tell us what to eat it was fabulous. We tried all kinds of foods and wines we would not have thought to order and the waiter was so nice to us. Try the local cuisine!

When I went back to studying in my late twenties (adult education scheme), I would often meet tourists on the train to school. I would almost always try to break the ice, because they would most often times seem really open and interested. A far cry from my fellow Belgians. You could, more often than not, be looked at funny because you want to start a conversation with a stranger. With regards to Americans, this is the complete opposite. I usually joke that as a European, when you sit in a diner and say hi to the person sitting next to you. They would more likely than not start telling you their life story. Breaking the ice in the US is easy and I love it! Would one day hope to live there. 🙂

Dutchman here - number 8 is absolutely SPOT ON. Just chill out and be a nice person (not the same as being polite!) and you'll be fine. It's like visiting someone else's house: if you try to keep your prejudices at bay and respect their house rules, you're probably going to have a good time and get along great. People know you're in a different country across the globe, so as long as you're making an effort, you'll find them willing to forgive what might technically be a faux pas otherwise.

I do get a kick out of stopping in the local McDonalds as the menus are all very unique to the particular country. I don't actually eat there; just see the menu.

This is really fun and interesting to listen to as a European (Scandinavian) and, yes, regarding #8. Exactly what you said. I couldn't care less what country someone is from, as long as they're being respectful and nice. I'd also say that even if some of us - depending on the country - may seem unapproachable at times most Europeans will stop and try to help/answer questions regarding direction, restaurant recommendation, culture, etc. if you just ask us. But, as you said, the chance of getting help will go way up if you begin with e.g. "Excuse me, do you speak English?" in the local language - whether it's a random person on the street or a store clerk - 'cause it's just a nice gesture. Personally I only remember having met one American tourist in my life and he was really nice. Edit: In Sweden, if you order coffee, a lot of places (not all, but you can just ask beforehand) will not charge for a refill. There's even a word, "påtår", which means to getting a refill after you've finished your first cup of coffee.

Nik, I've watched several of your videos and am very impressed by your recommendations and ability to communicate clearly, thoughtfully, and respectfully. Fantastic work. I'm impressed that your videos aren't about "look at how cool my wife and I are because of our travel," or "buy this thing we get a commission on." Instead, your videos and approach are (kind of like Rick Steves) very inviting with the desire to help people have wonderful cultural experiences. Bravo!

Great video man!!

Love ur videos! Thanks 🙏🏻

This is so helpful! Thank you.

Great tips!

Excellent !!

Great advice!

Great tips. Thanks

Nicely presented.

Had to hit the replay n save. Ty for the money info

Great information, many thanks :)

Love your approach..

This is an excellent video! Thank you so much for all the great tips!

Sir, your videos are awesome... thank you, and keep them coming.

I agree 💯. Great approach to the subject.

Agree!! Really good tips. Thank you :)

Thanks!

One of the best ways to see a country in Europe or the UK is to see it as you walk from inn to inn or village to village. The average walking speed is 3 mph so you'll see what you didn't expect. We were the only Americans for the most part on the walking trails of Switzerland. We met wonderful people and saw the beauty of the countryside, places where most would not go. We walked through the farms and villages of the Cotswolds last fall---a great mix of tourist villages, but also being able to peek into the lives of those who live there. Great video!! "Amen" to all your tips. Eat the food of the places you visit with an adventurous spirit. If you can't, don't visit France :) LOL Always visit the grocery store and the open markets to sample new things!

Very good tips🇫🇮

Couldn't have said it better. Thank you!

Perfectly said Thank you heaps

Great philosophy and well presented information. Buon viaggio!

WOW you nailed it.

Love love love Rick Steves!!!

Great tips!🇺🇸

love the part about humility, well said

your video very helpful. I am a straight shooter, love your video. no fluff.

Keep the great, informative, thoughtful videos coming. You are so well suited to communicating successfully this way. Best Wishes.

You guys have some good stuff. I'm sharing this (and other's of your) videos in some Facebook groups.

Thanks for the tips, we leave for Europe this weekend Whoot Hoot!!!!

Love Pimsleur method for learning language

🏆🏆🏆🏆🏆 LOVE this. Thank you for the tips on currency - though the entire video is bang on.

Having just finished my first Europe trip. I totally agree to whatever you said

Love your words on virtue and respecting the country! Priceless!

Spot on

YOU BEING THE TOUR GUIDE

after 5 trips to Europe, this video I totally agree with!!

Humility. YES.

Great video! Lots of wonderful advice that I hope people heed. I like to do a lot of research and always study on Duolingo prior to my trip.

Spot on - embracing new experiences and distinctive differences. 10 common travel mistakes that can be easily avoided. Great tips and very helpful. Keep that content coming.

Thanks a Million for this vlog... very informative and a lot to consider. I've subscribed! :D

Wonderful video and extremely helpful. Doing a Danube Christmas Market river cruise later this year. This will be my first time to Europe.

Lots of great advice here - truly appreciate the etiquette for American tourists tips especially. 🙏

wow! Very interesting. I have listened to several of your vlogs and they are all full of interesting and relevant information. Thanks for the life lessons on how to be with the locals. I completely agree with you. I’m a french Canadian so I hope that my english traduction was ok. 😅THANKS

Great tips and advice. I love the point you made about being humble and kind when visiting another country. Our family visited NY for the first time last year. I remember some people saying how "rude" New Yorkers were. That couldn't be further from the truth. We had a great experience and some of them even helped us out when we needed directions or wanted recommendations. Don't judge people or have a preconceived bias because of what others have said. We're taking a trip to Europe and Asia in a few months. We can't wait to embrace the local cultures, cuisines, etc...

Nik, thanks for your concise, clear and helpful tips in this vid. Will check out your other travel vids. Subbed!

I'm watching from the Philippines 🇵🇭 Thanks for the video!!

Your videos are amazing. Thank you! I’m planning to visit Europe in the next month. You are teaching more than tips to travel you are offering a positive message for the people to enjoy the life, be happy to have this great opportunities to travel and be kind and open to others.

We tipped in UK and Greece and they were surprised and very thankful

Be in the moment...I've planned many holidays inspired by a booK or film which often means it is regional...very good video thanks, and I'm in UK these points apply to me too

As a European now living in Canada I say that you are 100% right. Europeans don't dislike Americans period, they dislike loud, arrogant Americans who expect everything to be the same as at home and complain loudly and rudely if it's not. As you said "act like a guest, be kind and humble". Embrace the differences and be adventurous, that is what travel is all about. I was in Mexico last month and saw these exact problems/people and the reaction to them by locals.

I haven’t traveled to anywhere but England, but I am planning to visit Europe in my retirement. Such great points from you! And your point about being humble sold me on your whole approach to traveling. Such a GREAT point!!!!!

Great tips! We have traveled extensively in Europe and always try to focus on a smaller area for 2 weeks. And, we no longer rent a car. Trains and buses will get us most places. When we wanted to get to smaller locations, we have been able to use taxis or hire a driver (the hotel can often help). While expensive, it’s still cheaper than renting a car. Also, in Sicily, we did something called a « tour-transfer ». The driver transferred us between cities, but made several stops at interesting sites along the way.

Definitely take your time about Rome! I've been about 40 times (I lived in Abruzzo) and I still find new things to see!

"Don't overstuff your itinerary." Amen!!!! As an American who has lived abroad, I have seen many of these mistakes including the ones about expecting "american in Europe" and "not trying the local cuisine." Great video!

Thanks for this. Thanks for letting me know I'm not crazy for doing all my research and planning. I begin obsessing over MONTHS in advance of my trip. :)

We have watched a couple of your videos and YOU DO AWESOME!!! We also wanted to tell you, you hit the nail on the head about Americans or other tourists not embracing the cuture or the full experience of what a country has to offer. Being nice, smiling, being humble etc., We have seen so much entitlement when we travel......leave it at home. Thank you for your honesty as a whole in all your videos!!! We are subscribed!

Absolutely true..be a guest in their country, be respectful

just found this channel , pretty good information , personally I like going to the pub when i travel , found some really good restaurants, shops etc from talking with the locals in the pub, yeah don't spend all day but they are a good source of local knowledge, I'm off to Nice and Lyon for the RWC so I'll be in a pub or 2 for sure , but good channel

New subscriber here. Another stellar video

I love Pimsleur too!!

I did Pimsleur for my first trip to Romania. For my second time I did Duolingo. You understand the language with Duolingo, but for just traveling and site seeing, Pimsleur was just fine! I’m going to do Pimsleur for my trip to Belgium

Great video, I usually use the Banks ATM at the airport Cheers

This is a great video. Thank you for taking the time to pull this info together. My wife and I have been travelling for 40+ years. 😮. Your point about rushing from place to place is so true. I think it’s better to focus than doing drive bys so you can tell your friends you “visited Budapest”. Manageable chunks are better. Also the home country charge card option always confused me. Thank you for that. As a Canadian, I do find some American travellers to be loud and obnoxious. But they obviously haven’t benefited from watching this video. 😂

Thank you

Beautiful, heartfelt video! Thank you! You are a passionate, compassionate human being! I appreciate and respect you my friend! ❤🦋

I'm new on your page, and enjoying hearing your suggestions. I've traveled but I think there's always something to learn by hearing another persons view. I especially loved #8: Yes yes yes. Be humble, you're a guest in their home country, leave your arrogance before boarding. Be open minded of their way of eating, drinking, playing, living. As an American, I think many of my countrymen have this paranoia that everyone is out to get them, take advantage, hates them. There are scams and pickpockets, but I have rarely ever felt concerned--never afraid--of who I was with or around, or where I was walking or riding transit. At all hours. Be sensible but open your eyes and enjoy. Keep creating, thanks.

For travel within country, we often use bike sharing services!!! Barcelona was blast on bikes! We got everywhere within the city!

I agréé about not packing too much into your trip. I’m fortunate that I can go away for a month to six weeks. I used to spend a week at each destination (towns) but now I want two weeks. That way I can really experience the local customs. Once in Bakewell, England, I stayed in a very old house. To get to it I had to pass a little cafe. Each evening the owner of the cafe would come out of his shop and hand me a homemade soup, crusty French bread and a bottle of wine. No charge! I would have totally missed this connection if I’d only stayed a night. OR, on my first trip to England I was with 12 women from my home state. We had a young cockney driver. At night the other women wanted to return to the hotel for an early night. Not me. I wanted to go out. Well this young man did not want me out after dark on my own so he took me out. Best experience ever. Guess what? 22 years later I’m going to Canterbury for his daughter’s wedding. She was 18 months old when I met her. That would never have happened if I just zoomed in and out. Take time to sit, people watch, talk to the locals, and connect. Happy traveling.

" it's on them that they didn't have a good time." Amen. THANK YOU.😊

I have found the kindest people by a simple smile and use of a bit of their language. I’ve had hotel people offer to do my laundry free of charge (of course I tip them). They have helped to negotiate the metro ticket machines and offer their seats to us older tourists.

I thought your tip to be humble is great! That could really help if you were lacking in some other aspect of preparation. Who wants to help an arrogant tourist. Thanks for the great video!

Great tips. I used Viator all the time. When I traveled to the Netheralands and visited Amsterdam and then when I visited Spain and Portugal - I used Viator a lot and made my experience amazing. Easy to go to events, save tickets on my iphone, etc.