Do you remember the first time you spent the night at a friend’s house? Were you amazed at the different habits they had? Some families eat breakfast together before work and school, others grab something as they head to the car. The point here is that as you grow up, your family seems normal no matter if they are or not. You do not know any differently. The same is true about living in the U.S. Unless and until you live abroad, you may be surprised at things we do in the U.S. that are simply NOT NORMAL according to other countries.

Living in Europe as an American retiree or expatriate opens the door to a plethora of cultural revelations. One quickly learns that the daily rhythms, societal norms, and lifestyle choices in the United States can be starkly different from those in European countries. Here are some unique aspects of American life that stand out vividly when viewed from across the Atlantic:

1.The U.S. is loud. 

Commercials are aggressive and yell at you a lot. Whether it’s the local car dealer, kids’ cereal, or a new movie, you will notice how “in-your-face” U.S. advertising is. You may not realize this until you are away from it for a while. After spending several years abroad, I turned on the television in our hotel room upon our return. I had to turn the volume down. I felt like I was being assaulted.

2. Advertising of Drugs on TV

In the U.S., pharmaceutical commercials are a common sight on television, urging viewers to "ask your doctor" about various medications. These ads often feature a lengthy list of potential side effects, delivered at breakneck speed. In Europe, however, such direct-to-consumer advertising of prescription drugs is largely prohibited. The absence of these commercials in Europe underscores a fundamental difference in how healthcare is marketed and perceived, AND is a welcome relief.

3. Outrageous Healthcare Expenses

The American healthcare system, notorious for its high costs, becomes a topic of frequent conversation among expatriates. In the U.S., medical bills can reach astronomical figures, even for routine procedures. European countries, in contrast, typically offer universal healthcare systems, providing comprehensive coverage at a fraction of the cost. The stark difference highlights the financial burdens faced by Americans and the peace of mind enjoyed by Europeans when it comes to healthcare. As we get older, our reliance on healthcare grows exponentially, and we notice the expenses associated with illnesses and chronic conditions even more. The first trip to a doctor once you return from living in Europe is a SHOCKER!

4. Car Dependency
The U.S. is a car-centric society where public transportation is often limited, and sprawling cities necessitate driving. Many Americans cannot imagine life without their cars. Conversely, European cities are known for their efficient and extensive public transport networks. Walking and cycling are also more common due to compact urban planning. Most families we knew in Europe had only one car between them, and even then, the car often sat idle. This reliance on cars in the U.S. contrasts sharply with the more pedestrian-friendly and transit-oriented lifestyle in Europe.

5. Work Culture and Vacation Time
Americans are known for their strong work ethic, often characterized by long hours and minimal vacation time. Standard U.S. employment contracts typically offer just two weeks of paid vacation annually, if any. In Europe, however, work-life balance is highly valued, with employees enjoying four to six weeks of paid vacation each year. This cultural emphasis on leisure and personal time in Europe starkly contrasts with the often work-dominated lives of Americans. What this means for retirees is that the friends you make who are still working will be available for events and trips much more often than you may be used to in the states.

6. Limited Language Skills
While multilingualism is common in many European countries, where citizens frequently speak two or three languages fluently, Americans are often monolingual. The vast geographic size of the U.S. and the predominance of English contribute to limited language learning. Living in Europe highlights this gap, as expats are frequently impressed by the linguistic abilities of their European friends and colleagues. The majority of people you will meet know at least 2 languages, maybe more. You will also notice products in stores will have labels and ingredients listed in multiple languages. I once saw 8 languages on a shampoo bottle. EIGHT!

7. Retail Hours and Consumer Culture
American convenience stores, open 24/7, cater to a culture of instant gratification. In contrast, many European shops and businesses close early, especially on weekends, reflecting a more relaxed pace of life. While the limited shopping hours in Europe emphasize the value placed on personal and family time, something that feels markedly different from the always-open mentality in the U.S., you will miss not being able to run to the store for something at 11pm.

8. Food and Dining Experiences
Fast food is a staple of American life, with quick service and drive-thru options ubiquitous across the country. In Europe, while fast food is available, there is a stronger emphasis on leisurely dining experiences, fresh ingredients, and local cuisine. The European approach to food often focuses on quality and tradition, contrasting with the convenience-driven American food culture. Additionally, when you are not driving, you don’t think about getting food to go. This is not limited to “fast food,” but also with chain dining restaurants like Chili’s or Applebees. There are very few of those as well.

9. Social Services and Welfare
European countries generally have more robust social safety nets compared to the U.S. Universal healthcare, generous parental leave policies, and extensive social welfare programs are hallmarks of European systems. Americans living in Europe often find themselves amazed by the level of government support available to residents, highlighting the differences in societal priorities. For instance, all public transportation is generally in good repair, clean, and free from graffiti. (there are some notable exceptions).

Conclusion
Anything can become “normal.” What’s normal for us, is not the same for other cultures. When we lived in South America, our children’s grandparents sent a package of Christmas presents. The package arrived, but many of the items had been stolen. When we told this to our friend, their response was, “Yes, everyone knows the mail service steals from packages.” It was normal there, while in the U.S., the mail is almost sacrosanct.

Living in Europe offers Americans a unique lens through which to view their homeland. The contrasts in healthcare, transportation, work culture, language skills, and everyday conveniences reveal much about the underlying values and priorities of each society. These experiences not only broaden one's perspective but also foster a deeper appreciation for the diverse ways in which communities can be structured and lives can be lived.