While there are many similarities between Europe and the U.S., there are also many things that are different. This can range from smaller things, such as electric kettles, to bigger things, such as affordable healthcare. Here are 18 things you’ll find all over Europe but not in the U.S.
No Clothes Dryers
Clothes dryers are less common in Europe, especially in warmer climates. For example, Business Insider writes, “While some Americans in Europe have pointed out that there are dryers available in the countries they’ve moved to, they say it’s more common in their experience for people to hang their laundry out to air dry.”
Electric Kettles in Kitchens
Electric kettles are a standard appliance in European kitchens. They’re used frequently for tea and other hot beverages, including coffee. Hot drinks are drunk on a regular basis in Europe, so they’re much more convenient. They aren’t as common in U.S. households, as Americans prefer to boil their water on the stove.
Absence of Window Screens
Europeans don’t use screens for their windows but will still leave them wide open. It can lead to issues with insects in the summer, so other forms of pest control are incorporated. This can include sprays and repellents. Europeans enjoy outdoor living, which is why screens aren’t seen as a necessity.
Lack of Central Air Conditioning
Air conditioning is rare in older European buildings. Many people will use portable units or make do with no air conditioning at all. It’s a sharp contrast to the American way of living, which has a preference for central air conditioning. As Europeans enjoy outdoor living, it’s something that isn’t needed so much.
Walkable Cities
Europe has many more walkable cities compared to America. Urban designs have favored pedestrians, which means less reliance on cars. There are many public spaces and amenities that a person can access by walking. It promotes a healthier and more sustainable way of living.
Public Transportation Usage
National Academies Press writes, “Even the smallest Western European cities have more transit service than many larger American cities.” Europe has extensive public transportation networks in cities and rural areas. Public transportation has been integrated into everyday life and is used by all demographics.
Generous Vacation Policies
Europeans have more mandatory paid vacation days compared to Americans. Many countries offer 20–30 paid days off per year. In fact, Europeans are even encouraged to take time off. It’s a huge contrast compared to American vacation policies, where the work-life balance isn’t as generous.
Casual Attitudes Toward Nudity
Europeans are less prudish when it comes to nudity in the media and public places. Many beaches in Europe allow women to go topless, as nudity in this form is seen as non-sexualized. Europe has different social norms compared to America when it comes to body exposure.
Pro-Worker Labor Laws
Workers in Europe have stronger protection than those in America. This is thanks to protective laws put in place. Union and labor rights are more established, which allows workers to have a say when it comes to their employment. For example, employees can expect levels of sick pay and other benefits.
Unsupervised Children Outdoors
It’s common to find children walking to school by themselves or playing outside alone. In Europe, children have more independence from a younger age. The continent has different perceptions of safety and also has more tightly knit communities, which means children can walk to places on their own.
Smoking Indoors and in Public
There is more of a cultural acceptance of smoking in Europe compared to America. For example, Euractiv writes, “Some local authorities have attempted to take a stricter approach, but enforcement was usually poor or was hampered by a lack of political will. A full smoking ban outdoors does not exist anywhere in Europe.”
Accessibility to Historic Sites
Europeans have direct access to historical sites, including interactions with ancient buildings and artifacts. A prime example of this is in Rome, where people can go inside the Colosseum. In most cases, Europe has been able to balance preservation with public access, which allows rich historical environments to be incorporated into everyday life.
Affordable Healthcare
The healthcare systems in Europe are considerably more affordable than in America, as countries either have universal or subsidized healthcare systems. It means there may be a low cost or no fee at all for medical services. It’s a huge contrast to the U.S., where healthcare expenses are considered unaffordable.
Affordable Higher Education
Higher education in Europe has lower tuition fees and more government support compared to the United States. It means that student debt becomes less of a burden, giving people a better chance of heading off to university. Europe has made sure that higher education can be accessible to anyone who wants it.
Friendliness and Community
Europeans are considered to be far more friendly than Americans. There are different social and hospitality etiquette rules in Europe. They’re more open to social interactions, even if those interactions are with strangers. This is how they create strong community bonds that make towns feel more tight-knit.
Multilingualism
It’s common for Europeans to speak more than one language. This is supported by Euro News, which writes, “About 65 percent of the continent’s population can speak at least one language other than their native tongue. As a comparison, only about 20 percent of adults in the U.S. are able to.”
Bike-Friendly Infrastructure
There are extensive cycling paths and facilities in European cities, which help to create a more eco-friendly environment. Many people use bikes as part of their commute to work, which also helps them incorporate more exercise into their daily lives. Many cities also have the option to rent bikes and pay for them through apps.
Room Temperature Water in Restaurants
It’s normal to serve water at room temperature in European restaurants, especially in colder countries. Ice-cold water isn’t always readily available like it is in the United States, and this is mainly due to cultural differences, as Europeans don’t always prefer ice-cold water.
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