10 Everyday West Virginian Habits That Wouldn’t Fly in Other Countries
We all have stuff we do every day without even thinking about it.
But did you know some everyday West Virginian habits would totally weird people out—or even offend them—in other countries?
Yup! Things that seem super normal here, like tipping or wearing shoes inside the house, could make you stand out big time if you tried them somewhere else.
These are some American habits that just don’t fly in other parts of the world.
Serving Giant Portions
You know how some American restaurants serve meals that could feed an entire football team?
Yeah, that’s not how it works in many countries. Our portion sizes are legendary, and probably not in the healthiest way.
In a lot of other countries—like Portugal and Thailand—the meals are smaller, and people focus more on flavor than stuffing their faces.
It’s more about enjoying the food and stopping when you’re full, not when you’re too stuffed to move.
If you’re traveling and your plate looks a little smaller than you’re used to, don’t worry. It’s not a mistake. That’s just how the country does things.
You can always order more if you’re still hungry. But honestly, smaller portions probably aren’t the worst thing for most of us.
Tipping Like It’s Mandatory
In the U.S., tipping is just… a thing. You tip your server, your hairdresser, the pizza delivery guy, even the person who hands you a coffee at the drive-thru.
It’s basically expected, and if you don’t do it, people might think you’re rude.
But in a bunch of other countries, tipping isn’t really a thing—and in some places, it can even be seen as insulting. Like in Japan, if you try to tip, someone might try to give the money back. They take pride in doing a good job without expecting extra cash.
And in many places across Europe, the tip is already included in the bill.
So if you travel abroad, don’t assume you need to drop a few bucks every time someone helps you. Look up the local customs first so you don’t come off as a confused (but generous) tourist.
Wearing Your Shoes Inside
A lot of Americans walk right into the house with their shoes still on. We do it all the time, especially if we’re just running inside for a second.
But in tons of other places, indoor shoe wearing is a big nope.
In countries like Vietnam, South Korea, and even Sweden, wearing your outside shoes indoors is a big no-no.
People usually take them off at the door and switch to house slippers or socks. It’s about keeping things clean and showing respect for the home.
So if you’re visiting someone in another country (or even just a super clean friend here), play it safe—kick off your shoes and keep the dirt outside where it belongs.
Talking to Random Strangers
Have you ever chatted with someone in line at Walmart or made small talk with a stranger at the gas station?
Totally normal in the U.S., right? Americans love a friendly chat.
But in other countries, that kind of casual talking can come off as super weird. In places like Sweden or Germany, people usually keep to themselves in public.
If you start talking to a stranger, they might think you’re being nosy or just… odd.
So if you’re somewhere new and nobody’s talking, don’t take it personally. Smile politely, and maybe save the weather talk for back home.
Driving Absolutely Everywhere
We love our cars here. Going to the store two blocks away? Better hop in the car.
Need coffee? Drive-thru.
Dropping off a package? Drive-thru again.
It’s just how a lot of towns are set up.
But in other countries, especially in big cities like Paris or Tokyo, people use public transportation all the time. Trains, buses, bikes—you name it. Some folks don’t even own a car, and that’s totally normal.
If you’re traveling and don’t see many cars, don’t be surprised. Just grab a metro card or rent a bike.
It’s actually kinda fun to get around in a new way—and no fighting for a parking spot!
Expecting Free Refills
Okay, let’s talk drinks. In the U.S., when you order a soda at a restaurant, it’s often unlimited. You get a refill without even asking.
But in many other countries, free refills aren’t a thing. You order one drink, you drink it, and if you want more… you gotta pay for it.
And don’t expect a huge glass either—drinks come in smaller sizes, and even water might cost extra.
So if you’re traveling, enjoy your drink, but sip it slowly. That second Coke might cost you more than you think!
Filling Your Cup With Ice
In the U.S., we love our drinks ice cold. We fill the glass with more ice than liquid sometimes. It’s just how we do it, especially in the summer.
Ice = happiness.
But in other countries? Not so much.
A lot of places, like Italy or China, serve drinks with little to no ice. Some people think ice is bad for digestion. Others just think it’s weird to water down a perfectly good drink.
So if you get handed a room-temp soda overseas, don’t freak out. It’s not broken—it’s just how they serve it.
You might even start to like it.
Going Through a Roll of Paper Towels a Day
American kitchens are basically stocked with endless paper towels. We use them for wiping spills, drying hands, cleaning counters, blowing our noses—you name it.
But in a lot of other countries, people are way more into reusable cloths.
Paper towels are seen as wasteful. Some folks use dish towels for everything, and they last way longer.
If you’re traveling and can’t find a roll of paper towels, don’t panic. Just grab a cloth, rinse it out when you’re done, and boom—clean and green.
Being Loud in Public
Let’s be real—Americans have a knack for being super loud. Whether we’re talking on the phone, laughing with friends, or just excited about something, we tend to speak up.
But in a lot of other countries, being loud in public is rude.
In places like Japan, Switzerland, or Thailand, people try to keep things quiet and respectful, especially in public spaces like buses or restaurants.
If you’re visiting a country known for being quieter, take your voice down a notch.
You don’t have to whisper, but shouting across the table isn’t necessary either.
Asking “What Do You Do?”
This one seems harmless in the U.S.—we ask people what they do for work all the time. It’s a go-to question when you’re getting to know someone.
But in some countries, that question feels too personal or even rude.
In countries like the Netherlands, people don’t usually bring up work in casual conversation. It can feel like you’re being judged or sized up.
So if you’re trying to make friends abroad, maybe ask about their favorite foods, hobbies, or places to visit instead.
You’ll still get to know them—just without being awkward.
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