Here’s what Europeans really think about American tourists — and why they tolerate us
The rumors are true.
According to a recent poll of European tourism experts, many citizens of the old country view Americans as “rude” and “entitled” — which might not be a total surprise.
Reportedly, these experts were recruited by representatives from four of the most heavily visited European countries — France, Greece, Spain and Italy.
They’d been tasked with surveying tourism workers and locals to find out where the “best” and “worst” tourists hail from. In turn, these experts gave their reviews of visitors from Australia, Germany, the US, the UK, Spain, Italy, China, and France.
So while American tourists were criticized — we were in good company, at least.
But they weren’t just shaming travelers for kicks. This roundup comes amid an uptick in complaints from European locals overrun by the global tournami with countries from Italy to Spain rolling out various policies to curb the influx of international riff-raff (Read: Venice, Italy’s policy limiting large tourist groups in the sinking city).
Without further ado, here’s what locals from these top four destinations had to say about Americans.
Americans
According to the French?
Contrary to depictions in “Emily in Paris” and other popular media, the French don’t totally despise us. Marie-Cécile Ruault-Marmande of the National Museum of Pre-History in the Dordogne praised our exuberance and hunger for culture.
“Even after two hours, they [Ameicans] remain enthusiastic and eager for more,” she gushed. “They appreciate very detailed explanations, exhibiting a great capacity for amazement.”
“They always smile and seem happy to be alive,” added Elena Murtas of Aups Tourisme in Provence.
Our only demerits, per French sources, are that American tourists in Paris are reticent about the French cheek-kissing greeting, require aircon, and turn our noses up at offal and other French delicacies.
According to the Spanish?
Apparently, the Spaniards don’t share this whimsical view of US tourists with the aforementioned Seville guide citing our lack of respect for local customs, along with our historical and cultural ignorance.
According to one source, an American tourist asked if Franco was “still” the King of Spain — causing a local to shake their head in disbelief.
According to the Italians?
We aren’t viewed much more favorably by Italians — but their opinions are mixed. “The sort of high-end Americans who stay at the Four Seasons are among my most difficult clients,” one tour guide told Nicky Swallow.
“They are self-entitled, rude, demanding and will keep you waiting for hours.”
However, another guide lauded American tourists for leaving big tips and appreciating Italian food, wine and culture.
According to the Greeks?
Given our shared love of democracy — not to mention our countless military bases there — it’s perhaps no surprise that we’re kindred spirits with the Greeks.
Just like the Italians, the Cretans loved our generous tipping culture.
Many also noted how they looked forward to visits from Greek-American immigrants who’d moved to the US for a better life post-war.
However, Greeks and Italians dislike when Americans take endless selfies on roofs and trample others to get the perfect shot.
