Don't forget to pay when using the restroom — 6 things to watch out for when traveling in Europe

By Rita

Traveling in a foreign country can lead to many unexpected situations. Small mistakes might cause slight embarrassment, but overdoing it can sometimes lead to truly awkward moments. Below is a list compiled by the U.S. Huffington Post titled6 Behaviors That Will Make You Look Ridiculous in Europe. Tourists, take these warnings seriously and don’t overlook them!

▲ Traveling in Europe (Photo / Darzie / Illustration)

1. Bringing Too Much Luggage
Walking through the Paris metro or along the canals of the Netherlands with an oversized suitcase is bound to be frustrating, as the pathways in these places are not very wide. Just don’t do it.

Solution:
What Should You Pack for a Trip Abroad? Follow These Five Steps from Safety to Packing
Three Packing Hacks Recommended by Travel Experts and Flight Attendants
Four Types of Items You Don’t Need to Bring on Trips — Stop Packing These in Your Suitcase

2. Dressing Like You’re Going to a Sports Game
“Don’t wear sneakers in Europe” is an old saying in the tourism industry. While modern travelers prioritize comfort, European streets showcase a variety of casual yet stylish outfits. But remember, casual doesn’t mean sloppy. Wearing flip-flops or crocs says “I’m a tourist,” and you’re sure to get charged extra when dining out.

Solution: Whether you go casual or not, Europeans tend to dress a bit more formally on a daily basis. If you want to wear casual shoes, think carefully about how to pair your upper outfit to avoid ending up in an awkward situation.

3. Tipping Too Much
Tipping 18% to 20% is actually a bit too high, though tipping just one or two euros isn’t the norm either.

Solution: Before your trip, check information in travel guides to understand the service charge ratios on bills in various European countries, and do some homework.

Do You Have to Tip When Traveling Abroad? A UK Study Reveals Global Tipping Customs
How to Tip? Just Follow These Principles!

4. Being Loud
Speaking loudly is considered impolite in Europe.

Solution: Always be mindful of your volume, especially on public transportation and in crowded cafés. If you really can’t hold it in, head to nightclubs or dance halls to let loose.

5. Complaining About Food
If you go to a restaurant in Europe expecting the same service habits as back home, you might be in for a disappointment. Different customs begin with service — in Europe, waiters typically bring the bill only after the meal is finished.

Solution: Learn about local dining etiquette beforehand, adapt to the customs, and maintain a positive attitude.

6. Complaining About Paying to Use the Restroom
Paying to use the restroom may sound like a violation of basic human rights, but it’s quite common in Europe. Think of it this way: the fee goes to the cleaning staff.

Solution: Stay calm and always carry some spare change.

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