After all the stories about rudeness in Europe my wife and I marveled at how we never saw it. I think you reap what you sow when traveling. The two things we did that I believe helped the most were.... Learn "Do you speak English?" "Hello" "Please" and "Thank You" in the local language. Asking someone if they speak English, in English is assuming they do and people find it offensive. The next tip is one I learned from my wife..... When greeted by someone in a hotel, restaurant or store and they ask, "How are you?" she will answer and then looking them in the eye ask how they are. At least half the time they are surprised and all the time they are friendlier it seems. You can try this at home and I promise you will notice a difference in how you are treated. My wife has a lot of class, I don't know why she married me.
Posted by
Sacramento, California U.S.A.
10595 posts
I couldn't agree more. I always assume that people who are always having problems with people who are rude should look in the mirror.
Posted by
St. Louis, MO USA
1976 posts
I agree also. In regards to the "How are you?" section of your post - A lot of people in service occupations (retail stores, restaurants, whatever) in the States ask "How are you?" but it's more of a greeting than a real inquiry. But if they ask me, I say "Fine, how are you?" and a lot of them seem surprised that I'm interested in how they're doing. It's a polite way of interacting.
Posted by
Oak Park, Illinois
4535 posts
I can't answer your last question but your post is right on. Many European cultures expect that level of pleasantry exchange. France in particular. Anything less is considered rude and they will treat you as such and is a major reason why many Americans think the French are rude.
Posted by
Bromley, Kent,, UK
1829 posts
When entering or approaching the counter in an Italian shop we always use the appropriate greeting for the time of day.