5 Reasons Europeans Think America Sucks And Why They’re Wrong
As a European transplant to the United States, I’ve gained a unique perspective on the cultural differences between our two continents. Growing up in Europe and later settling in Bonners Ferry, Idaho, gave me a firsthand look at how my peers viewed American culture. While many Europeans have certain misconceptions about the USA, I’m here to debunk 5 common myths that lead them to believe America ‘sucks’.
Americans suck at geography
While Europeans often poke fun at Americans for their geographical skills, it’s not entirely accurate to conclude that Americans are inherently bad at navigation. The widespread misconception likely stems from a handful of viral videos showcasing individuals’ struggles with pinpointing specific countries or continents on a map. These challenges often involve flipping the map or asking participants to identify places they’re unfamiliar with.
It’s essential to recognize that these scenarios don’t necessarily represent the average American’s geographical knowledge. In reality, many Americans possess a solid understanding of their country’s regions and can navigate their way around familiar territories.
Do They Really?
When planning trips across the United States, many travelers rely on a US map to navigate the vast regions and states. However, this assumes that Americans are well-versed in their own country’s geography, which may not always be the case. In fact, I’d argue that our geographic knowledge is often compared unfavorably to other countries. But perhaps we’re being unfair? After all, the United States spans a similar area to Europe when considering its physical size and regional divisions.
Just as Europeans don’t necessarily know every state in America, Americans may not be able to pinpoint specific European cities or countries on a map either. It’s crucial to recognize that geography is a complex and multifaceted topic, and it’s unfair to assume one group excels at it while another falters.
American Food sucks
While Europeans often perceive America as a land of abundance, with burgers, fries, and soda flowing freely, it’s understandable that this reputation might lead some to assume Americans lack culinary prowess. However, is it truly fair to say they’re inept in the kitchen? The answer lies not only in the variety of American cuisine but also in its cultural significance. As we delve into the world of American food, a different picture emerges.
American Food Beyond Burgers
As I traversed the United States, my culinary journey took me beyond the realm of American classics like burgers. The rugged coastline of Maine introduced me to the delectable world of lobster rolls, while the Southern states revealed their rich tradition of slow-cooked gumbo. Meanwhile, the Northern regions spoiled me with fresh catches of succulent salmon.
My travels taught me that there’s a whole lot more to exploring America than just grabbing a quick bite at a fast-food joint – hidden gems await discovery in every region!
Americans Don’t Cook Fresh Produce
In Europe, cooking is an integral part of our culture and daily routine. As a French individual, I can attest that cooking fresh meals every day is a norm, with eating out reserved for special occasions. This stark contrast to American habits, where ordering in or dining out seems to be the preferred option. However, this stereotype about Americans’ love for fried and oily food might not tell the whole story.
Americans Do Cook Fresh Produce
In stark contrast to my expectations, the small town of North Idaho where I reside is filled with families who regularly cook meals using fresh ingredients. While I had envisioned a quintessential American experience, what I found was surprisingly down-to-earth. The local community even boasts a communal garden where residents grow their own vegetables, fostering a strong sense of cooperation and self-sufficiency.
It’s not uncommon for me to share stories about this phenomenon with friends back in France, who often find it hard to believe that Americans do indeed cook with fresh produce.
You Need A Car No Matter Where You Are
While Americans are known for their love of cars, it’s no secret that the country has a limited public transportation network compared to many European countries. The question on many minds is: what options are available for getting from one place to another without relying solely on personal vehicles? Take the example of the East Coast – can you hop on a train from New York to Florida? Unfortunately, it’s not as straightforward as taking a train from Paris to Rome or Berlin to Munich.
However, this doesn’t mean Americans are completely car-dependent. There are alternative modes of transportation available, and in some cases, they may be more convenient than driving.
You Don’t Always Need A Car
While it’s common to associate car ownership with freedom, it’s not always necessary in the USA. Take New York City, for instance, where an extensive public transportation system makes it easy to navigate without a vehicle. The metro, taxis, and buses provide ample options for getting around, and the subway system helps alleviate traffic congestion. It may not be as comprehensive as London’s tube network, but it’s a reliable alternative.
Similarly, Chicago is renowned for its walkability, with many neighborhoods easily accessible on foot. Of course, this changes when considering rural areas like North Idaho, where car ownership becomes more practical, akin to situations in remote French or Irish villages.
Americans Suck At Education
While there may be some variation in perception, many Europeans hold the view that American schools fall short when it comes to educating students. One common criticism is that the academic standards in American high schools are not as rigorous as those found in Europe, resulting in a perceived lack of preparedness and knowledge among American high school graduates compared to their European counterparts.
Americans Don’t Suck (Completely) At Education
Having navigated the education systems in both America and France, I’ve developed a unique perspective: Americans don’t necessarily excel or falter at education – they simply approach it from a distinct angle. As someone who has studied in both environments, I firmly believe that a harmonious blend of the two would be ideal. American high schools offer a more comprehensive curriculum, with students having the option to take electives like pottery and art for academic credit.
These non-academic classes may not seem as rigorous, but they provide invaluable opportunities for students to develop skills, build confidence, and foster creativity. In contrast, French education systems tend to prioritize solely scholarly subjects such as mathematics, languages, and history, leaving little room for extracurricular activities or creative pursuits.
While there are many differences between the two approaches, it’s essential not to conflate our European strictness with a notion that one method inherently ‘sucks’.
16 Surprising Differences Between French And American High Schools
While American high schools are well-known for their proms, homecoming games, and Friday night lights, the education system in France takes a distinct approach. Did you know that there are 16 key differences between French and American high schools? From the structure of the academic year to the curriculum and extracurricular activities, these variations can greatly impact the student experience.
In this article, we’ll delve into the fascinating world of international education and explore the surprising differences between French and American high schools.
12 US Culture Things Europeans Just Don’t Understand
Despite being two sides of the same Atlantic, Americans and Europeans have distinct cultural norms that often leave room for misunderstanding. From food habits to social etiquette, there are several practices in the United States that may puzzle Europeans. Here are 12 examples: