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We often read of things that are totally normal in America but look super crazy to the rest of the world. Like free refills, medical debts, the sheer portion sizes, you name it. But hey, the place and time is everything when it comes to which things we view as typical and which ones raise our brows.

So this time, we are setting our eyes on Europe and the weird customs, things, and manners people in its 44 countries have that look totally crazy to Americans. “What's considered normal in Europe but horrific in America?” someone asked on AskReddit, and 12.7k comments followed.

We picked some of the most telling and thought-provoking responses that prove European countries are also home to a bunch of weirdos!

#1

People Share 30 Things That They Think Are Normal In Europe But Horrific In America Old things. Houses especially. "Someone died in this house" yeah no s**t Sherlock, this house has been here more than your country

flawed_yet_fun , Mike Report

#2

People Share 30 Things That They Think Are Normal In Europe But Horrific In America The metric system

rmbl88 , pxfuel Report

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samyobado avatar
Sam Yobado
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Favorite metric system quote is by Josh Bazell. “In metric, one milliliter of water occupies one cubic centimeter, weighs one gram, and requires one calorie of energy to heat up by one degree centigrade—which is 1 percent of the difference between its freezing point and its boiling point. ... Whereas in the American system, the answer to ‘How much energy does it take to boil a room-temperature gallon of water?’ is ‘Go f**k yourself,’ because you can’t directly relate any of those quantities.”

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#3

People Share 30 Things That They Think Are Normal In Europe But Horrific In America Taking the bus. There is so much stigma around public transport in the US, especially busses, and in Europe it's just a totally normal way to get around because nobody wants to deal with driving and parking in a big city.

Also from an employer's perspective: 25+ vacation days minimum for all employees and unlimited sick days. The absolute horror.

Zack1018 , Pofka Report

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gloeiend_1 avatar
October
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

This! When I was a nanny in the US, the family I worked for was always nagging me for using public transport. I never unederstood what the big deal was.

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Mike Crow
Community Member
2 years ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I believe that it has to do with their view of someone’s status. To Americans if you take a bus it means you can’t afford a car and therefor has a lower status than others.

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Baralai XIII
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Hmm, I live in Pennsylvania and public transportation is a huge thing around here. Especially in the city. It’s not frowned up, it’s actually extremely useful and helpful for a lot of folks. The bus drivers are usually really kind too

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K. Anderson
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

The east coast is much better for public transportation. I think because there is more traffic & parking is hard & expensive. It’s easier to use than driving. In most places in the US it’s less convenient than driving. Lots of waiting & transferring & waiting making you late

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WilvanderHeijden
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

European cities were build when cars didn't exist. The roads aren't designed to handle rush hour traffic. They also never thought of parking lots and parking spaces. Owning a car in big cities is heavily discouraged by excessive road taxes, massive parking fees and complete bans of cars in certain parts of the city. That's why the Netherlands has more bicycles than people.

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Sara Rosen
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

ummm..... wha? Taking the bus is as normal as normal gets in the US. My morning bus commute in D.C. is full of professional folk wearing their suits and ties.

dontlook avatar
Don't Look
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Yeah…. And dc is absolutely the different city in the states. So many diplomats, specialized government, the ratio of overweight to fit is nearly reversed to the rest of the country… dc was the most fast paced place I ever lived.

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Greg Hoggarth
Community Member
2 years ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

American cities were built with driving in mind and have a lot of parking lots, so it's not really the same situation as European cities which have scarce and expensive parking.

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Mama Penguin
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Not if you live in New York City lol. About half of NYC households don't own cars, the highest percentage being in Manhattan. With public transportation that pretty much runs round the clock plus Uber 24/7, nobody wants to deal with traffic and parking.

dontlook avatar
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Angie Ayres
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

In many American cities, it would take you 3 hours to get somewhere on a bus that you could drive to in 20 minutes.

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Dave P
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

where in the US does anyone give a hard time about Public? Never seen or heard of that. People look for housing near public, costs more because of the convenience.

dontlook avatar
Don't Look
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I grew up in an affluent area. My parents had no spare money but my peers were all getting at least a car on that one particular birthday… to take the bus was … for the laborers.

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Miss Cris
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Of course. Nature and your body don't understand ink and paper. You're ill when you're ill. If you could choose, I guess you'd never get ill.

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Nicole A
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I think it depends on the city. Lived in Boston and everyone took the subway or bus. Same with New York or Washington D.C. The older cities were planned around public transportation (or just walking). I think the newer cities were based on cars. So you'll get that elitist attitude in Los Angeles.

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Lavender Oak
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

It's not a stigma ffs. It's just that public transportation in America is s**t. Never on schedule and many places the busses only run every hour. It's also dangerous. Bus stops are few and far between. I used to take the bus home from work out of necessity and it was hell. Caught the first bust at 4pm after waiting nearly an hour after my shift ending at 3pm, since the bus stop was 3 blocks away I couldn't get the 3pm bus. So, on the bus at 4, ride around aimlessly for 45 minutes until they take us to the bus station, wait til 5 for the next bus, only 2 benches with 3 seats each for waiting and there's usually 100+ people. So that's awesome after standing all day at work. Get on the bus another 45min til I finally reach the closest stop to my house at almost 6pm, then walk a mile home, no sidewalks, so just on the grass right by a ditch on a 2 lane road, in the dark, alone. And that is in a capital city with a population of 1.5mil, not bfe.

sdeveno12 avatar
BasedWang
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Depends if you're in the city or not. Public transit is taken ALOT in the city

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Kathryn Baylis
Community Member
2 years ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I’m American, and I hope the new infrastructure bill includes a shitload of public transportation projects—-including for many rural areas. Frankly, unless I have things to do which require the cargo space in my car, or which mean I won’t be able to make any of the scheduled bus, subway, or train departure times, I really prefer letting someone else do the driving. I hate the twice daily stress of bumper to bumper rush hour traffic. Plus, if the train that normally gets me to work on time is late, it’s not my fault, so it can’t be held against me. I was just a passenger, sitting back drinking my coffee, reading the news on my tablet, and waiting to hear them call my stop.

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Smilodon, a Bad Cat
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

You must have a fabulous employer. If I'm late, no matter what transportation I use, it's my fault and I'm docked. That's the more common outcome for those of us who punch a clock.

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Lottie Florell
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Busses in the US (florida) have so little funding and are so poorly maintained there's no need to explain why it's stigmatized

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polish cow
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

of course driving and parking in a big city is annoying, but what's more annoying is the amount you have to pay for a license to get in many parts of europe. you almost can't get your license when you're 17 years old, unless your family helps you out (and not everybody has that privilege) financially i think it's WAY cheaper in america...

gabbym avatar
Gabby M
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I don't know where you visited or heard that from, but public transportation is quite normalized where I live in the U.S. (In Southern Arizona.) Also, in big cities like NYC it's necessary to take public transportation because driving around with a car and trying to find parking is near impossible. The difference I would say is that U.S. cities tend to be more spread out, so sometimes it is not realistic to take public transportation to your destination, otherwise it would take a couple hours. But for the most part, public transportation is not given a second thought.

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Nugget
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I can drive,but I take the train everywhere. Cheaper than running a car and so much less stress, worrying about parking and a car being damaged or broken in to.

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Sue_Doe
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Life-long American here. I love the buses! Thankful to have them. :-)

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RoseTheMad
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Also walking, I saw an American on r/askuk asking if in the UK/Europe we actually consider walking 30 minutes as a short walk.. yes. yes we do. But this person was apparantly appalled at the thought of walking for so long. o.O

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Big Chungus
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Our public transit doesn't run long enough to really be efficient. I think it starts maybe at 8am and ends by like 4pm...so you are basically screwed outside of those time frames

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Mike Loux
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

When I lived in Boston, public transit made much more sense than driving (and was often faster). In Austin? Not so much. And, sadly, there are a lot more places like Austin than Boston.

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Jjiinnee
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I take 2 busses back and forth every day in Boston to work. traffic is a nightmare, and parking is expensive. Most people in my neighborhood do. Not sure how this is horrific here. I call nonsense.

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Jade Lynn - Panda's Brat
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Public transportation is horribly unreliable here in my city.. and I live in Canada.

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William Teach
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

There's no stigma. Buses are generally rather inconvenient in most areas since things are spread out. I'd have to walk a mile and half to get to the bus stop, then take 3 buses to get near work. And would take at least an hour on bus. Versus 20 minutes in the car.

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Lynn
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I used the bus system a lot along with a bicycle and walking before I got a driver's license.

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Cat Crazy Lady
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Odd question. Is it expensive to take a cab in New York for example? If I were to take a cab here it's crazy expensive.

markus avatar
Markus Pfeffer
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Vacation days differ between countries. In Germany for example, the minimum is 20 days, if you work 5 days/week.

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SlartyBlartFast
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

No such thing as unlimited sick days in my country (Eastern Europe). Plus they don't pay well so you are better off using paid leave :(

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Katherine Heasley
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I loved using TriMet in Portland. It was a good way to get around without parking fees or just not being able to find parking.

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Maureen McDermott
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

We have a great transportation system. I'm on the far north side of Chicago, close two different el lines and a few bus routes. Here we prefer the train or bus rather than pay to drive and park. Plus it's good reading time :)

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Samantha Kalitzki
Community Member
3 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Hier in Deutschland hat man nicht unbegrenzte Krankentage aber könnte man mal beantragen 😅

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Dasha
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Never realised catching public transport was such a big deal in the US

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Derek May
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

That's one thing I miss about Europe is being able to go anywhere using public transportation. I live in rural Texas which means a car payment with insurance which adds to cost of living. In the little small town I live in Texas they tore down railroad tracks and turned it into bicycle and walking trail. My grandparents told me that back in the day they could take train to town. Seems like we went behind instead of forward.

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Anne Borst-Jensen
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Denmark, and a part of Europe here... Public Transportation sucks, it is mostly ppl that cant afford their own cars, that uses public transport, and kids ofc.

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Nitka Tsar
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I don‘t think most people in the US would mind having unlimited sick days and enough paid vacation days. I suppose they just don‘t know better / are not used to it / don‘t think it possible. But it is not an absolute horror to them (except for worcaholics maybe)

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Pam Akers
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Our buses in Pinellas County, Florida don't look cool like that. At all!

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Steven Blake
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I always have a stress free time travelling on the bus, but not during the school run or rush hour

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Michele M.
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

If you live in the city or the surrounding suburbs, taking public transportation is perfectly normal in America. I drive but I take public transportation to work (well, before pandemic) because it's convenient and saves gas. Plus, the commute is used for reading or whatever else you like.

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Patricia Fonda
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

In Europe you Don't have all the space like the usafor cars. Gas and inaurance can be very expensive, in somw countries.

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Mary Jeffries
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

A lot of public transportation in America depends on the density of the population. If a city isn’t very dense, the busses are often spotty and not very dependable. If you can afford a car, it’ll take you much less time and be more consistent than taking public transportation. Also, many places where only less affluent people ride have more questionable activities happen during the transport.

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Hailey House
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I think that depends on the person you're talking to and where you are talking about in America. I know plenty of Americans, myself included think that using public transportation if there is one is useful and can be wonderful. Though depending on where you're located the public transportation system could be good or bad so I definitely would pay attention to that part as well, just because a place has transportation doesn't mean it's always the safest. So to think that most think on this stigma of transportation has shown to be already debunked. Also again depending on where you live in USA you don't need a car, while in other places you do. also believing that the absolute horror of Americans not wanting unlimited sick days is and has been debunked as well.. Though because we know people, whether it is in America or in any other country, there are those who would take advantage of this idea...but I do believe of longer days as other who also share support in this too.

rdennis avatar
R Dennis
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I loved public transportation in Europe. My first time there, I was embarrassed at how bad our best versions are in comparison.

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Wendy Schkade
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I miss public transport especially the double decker. The local trains and subway . You could be anywhere in minutes. Tried local buses where I now live in the USA Never again unless absolutely necessary.

vjmarak avatar
Valerie Marak
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Could be interesting, except that the plural of bus is buses. Busses are kisses. Use a real dictionary......

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Patricia Fonda
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

24 and depends where your working when you have more and work union

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axolotl
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Yeah, i agree. I recently moved to Europe, and the bus situation is much less tight.

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China Nolan
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

European businesses must trust their employees more than American businesses.

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lydiasaur
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

huh. i see a lot of buses (probably tourist buses from flying in) in hunstville where i live

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Nojman
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Not sure where you live but where i live public transport is normal to use.

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JinxBox
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Sooo that is why our climate is busted? Take the public transport, it is simply obvious that moving 40 people in one bus is more ecological than each of them claiming right own and drive a car 😜

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Marty Sunderland
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

There is no good public transport where I live. I can't even get a cab here :(

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Susan Mercurio
Community Member
2 years ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

That's because poor people in America have to use public transportation and poverty is hated in the US. No one wants to rub elbows with the poor people on a bus.

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Daman dan
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I used to think the bus is for poor people until I move to the city. Now I'm likes no way am I driving, let's take the subway. I always think of that sienfeld episode when he didn't want to move his car because he found a great parking spot. This affects me on a new level now

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Talina Martin
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I work for a popular fast food place in the US, and we're allowed 3 sick days within a 90 day period or it "become an attendance issue." This is particularly irritating during COVID, when we're not supposed to come to work if possibly sick. So I get in trouble either way 🤷🏼‍♀️🙄😒 Heaven forbid I get sick for three days in a month. Better keep myself away from anything and everything for the next two months.

kfidei avatar
GoddessOdd
Community Member
2 years ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I don't know anyone who wouldn't LOVE to be able to use public transport. I don't know anyone who looks down on anyone using public transport, but we often feel sorry for them. The problem where I live is that there is no public transport. If you can find any, it costs more than driving a car, and requires ridiculous amounts of time... 2 hours to travel 20 miles. Also, you'll probably have a mile or two hike in the Florida heat and rain to get to the bus stop from your house, and another hike to get to your destination. Where I live, people who can take the bus to work are lucky.

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Monica Isnota Robot
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Ohio has, hands down, the absolute WORST public transportation system in the entire country. We are light years away from anything close to what other states and countries have. Even in Columbus; Ohio's capital.

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Marita Berndt
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I never needed to own a car while I lived in Germany. Win win situation. The freedom! The savings! 😁

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Jb Dean
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I LOVE the second part the BEST. America totally takes advantage of employees!!

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Thecoolbonnie
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I take the bus all the time. Ive never felt a stigma behind it? Maybe it's a city thing

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Don't Look
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I tried to figure this out for a long time, as a child. I’ve taken many buses in different countries. The ones in Brooklyn (ny) are the worst. The ones in Hong Kong are the best.

braa avatar
Bra A
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Don't take busses especially at night (like down town long Beach in califorina) (just to name one of the places) its very dangerous

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Anita Pickle
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

It depends on where you live. Many cities in the US it is very normal to take a bus.

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Sarah Garcia
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Grew up in the city, always used the bus. I am currently a school bus driver. Again, not a big difference.

jerimartin17 avatar
Jeri Martin
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I would not take the bus if you paid me. Its not safe, period, same with subway. Who wants to leave the house three hours before you have to be somewhere, and if the bus is late, your screwed.

compbackup12345678 avatar
Claire
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

how does someone take a sandwich place as a means of transportation? Apparently the one mentioned isn't stationary.

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ducklin58 avatar
Rosemary Moreland
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

In Australia, you can use the bus, train, tram, ferry or private car or taxi, depending on what s available in which city or town.

ljdia avatar
Liv
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

The post said "bus", but many comments say "public transportation". I'm glad they do. What about the subway, suburban trains (trains within cities and suburbs), just to name the most basic? It's so easy to travel in Europe inside of a city, or between cities (with exceptions - there are some out of the way that are only accessible with buses unfortunately) and between countries. With subways and trains it's faster and less stressful to get somewhere because there's no traffic, no red lights, and no parking, and the trip is oh so smooth and relaxing (unless it's rush hour and we have the unhappiness of going the same way as most workers, then it might be tight). We can just lay back, read, browse the internet, sometimes even snack/drink (not on subways tho), and wait for our stop which should be within a 15min walk at max to our end destination. NY (and Boston etc,) does have this, but in most cities I've been in the US I felt completely trapped unless I had a ride somewhere.

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Richard Savage
Community Member
2 years ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Lived in Toronto for several years. It was walking, bus, or subway. That's what everyone does. No big deal. I haven't heard of it being a problem for our neighbours to the south either.

bmaeb4063 avatar
Brooklyn
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Um... There are busses here... There are just more cars

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A. Jones
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

yeah, I don't get the stigma as a US personn. Riding the bus is okay and can be entertaining at times.

faithhh02 avatar
Faith Hurst
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Horrific? This is literally how I get around any city I visit in any country. We have huge public transit systems all over the country. I own a car because I live on a mountain and I work at the bottom of it. I've also driven through 3 countries and 48 states and seen them from roads you will not find on public transportation systems.

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Mrs S
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Lived in Europe for many years and loved the mass transit. Always on time, good connections, clean cars

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Stefaan De Clerck
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Not sure about this. Where I live, having a car is very important. Yes, public transport is used outen but their are people who refuse to take public transport and go everywhere in their car. Some 'Europeanen cities trie to ban cars because off the huge bills to maintaine roads. Not Evernote agrees with this policy.

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K. Anderson
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

The buses in the US suck because in most places normal people are the minority in public transportation. In the US buses tend to be used by poor people, homeless people & crazy people and bad ass teenagers

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Bama Belle
Community Member
2 years ago

This comment has been deleted.

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Full of Giggles
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I live in Phoenix. Our average daily temperatures in the summer are between 110 to 115F (43-46C). Nobody wants to wait 30-45 minutes in the heat for an oven on wheels. All busses are equipped with a/c but it doesn’t always run efficiently if at all.

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Claire
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

'nobody'. Some might, you don't know. Have you met literally everyone on earth?

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Don't Look
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I have experienced it both ways but I can tell you some significant issues…. One being that buses aren’t actually available to so much of the population in the states. If I want to catch one right now, I have to walk about a mile to a different street, wait at the bus stop and honestly I’m not entirely sure where it would take me. On the other side of things, a lot of people here have given a stigma to the bus system. The social understanding is that poor people take the bus. It’s completely inaccurate. Of course that’s actually not true and the poor IF you live in a big city.

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Aubrie Allen
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

So many jobs ask you how you're going to get to work and if you say the bus, they just pass you over.

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Flip
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Really? They encourage us to take the train and bus. They pay that. If you insist on taking a car (pollution), they only pay a portion, except when you carpool with others.

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Hexenfox
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I actually agree with this. Seriously. Before I moved to Norway I recall mentioning to a coworker (in the US) that I was taking the bus to meet a friend for drinks. This was before Uber and it's cheaper than a taxi. Coworker told me I was white trash for taking a bus. Seriously.

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Rand Hayeck
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2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Europe is SUPER UNPRODUCTIVE heck I wouldn't even know what to do with the mandatory "down time"

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Suzanne Clark
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

The bus system in America stinks! I tried to take the bus to work but it turned a 20 minute car trip into 1.5 hours--no thanks.

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Heather Menard
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I had to take I is to the orthodontist when I was 16. My mom's boyfriend was an asshole and wouldn't take me. One day there was a guy sitting next to me masturbating. I told my mom under no circumstances was I taking the bus again.

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Claire
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

you told your mom? wow. Sad when a person can't deal w/ things them . . .

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Linny H
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2 years ago

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25 vacay days and unlimited sick days? Yeah. That is ridiculous. Unless you're a lazy slug.

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Sara Rosen
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2 years ago

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#4

Songs with swear words being broadcasted on the radio, or swear words not being covered with a beep tone on tv. It’s always felt weird to me that Americans are all about being free and freedom of speech but then again they are scared of some stupid words.

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#5

People Share 30 Things That They Think Are Normal In Europe But Horrific In America Pro union laws. Pro worker labour laws. Mandatory paid vacation days (including fines for companies if the workers don't take their vacation days or get them payed out. They NEED to actually leave work legally for around 25 days per year).

AgarwaenCran , Alex Kotliarskyi Report

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LH
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2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Rested and healthy employees = higher productivity. Who'd have thought?

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#6

People Share 30 Things That They Think Are Normal In Europe But Horrific In America Letting kids go to school or walk around the neighborhood by themselves without supervision.

A Dutch family moved to the USA and their kids went to school on their bikes like they always do, after a while the police showed up on their doorstep and child protective services letting them know they’re being irresponsible and to not do that again.

ik101 , Elizabeth Report

#7

People Share 30 Things That They Think Are Normal In Europe But Horrific In America Mailman doesnt leave packages unattended on your porch. He eather gives you it on the doorstep or you go get it at the post office. Much less infureating than getting it stolen or thrown accros your yard by a mailman...

haberg6 , MobiusDaXter Report

#8

People Share 30 Things That They Think Are Normal In Europe But Horrific In America Taking of your shoes when getting home.

Fliggan , Cade Martin Report

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James016
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2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I'd rather not have muddy footprints/ dirt from outside around the house.

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#9

People Share 30 Things That They Think Are Normal In Europe But Horrific In America I don't know if this would horrify Americans as I've never heard it discussed, but where I live in Europe (Luxembourg), voting is mandatory and you can get fined for not voting in an election. You can still spoil your ballot, so you don't have to decide between lesser evils if you don't want to, but you have to make the effort to go to the polling station or submit a postal vote. It guarantees a high voter turnout and by extension more representative elections, coupled with a proportional voting system so we're not locked into a two-party mess like the UK or the US - not that it's without its issues of course, but I think it's an improvement.

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#10

People Share 30 Things That They Think Are Normal In Europe But Horrific In America Being expected to know another language other than English.

Coygon , Thirdman Report

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MiriPanda
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2 years ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I think they meant: While it is normal for Europeans to speak at least one language other than their mother tongue, Americans are not expected to speak any other language than English.

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#11

At least in Germany, nudity. No one cares if you're naked, no one thinks you're a sex offender, no one thinks it's even sexual to be naked unless you're actively having sex, and no one makes it weird.

You can be naked in public parks to soak up sun, on beaches, swim naked in lakes. Saunas are all naked, mixed sex areas in spas and saunas are naked with no issues and in general, it's just not an issue.

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Tassenküchlein168
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

At least where I live in Germany it’s NOT usual to be naked in parks or bathing naked in crowded places, except they’re designated as nude areas. Topless is tolerated in most urban parks, if you don’t Walk around. Otherwise it’s a "Public nuisance", which is an administrative offense and is punished by a penalty fee.

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#12

People Share 30 Things That They Think Are Normal In Europe But Horrific In America From what I’ve heard, allowing retail workers to sit. I’ve heard it’s regular for people to be sitting in Europe as cashiers, but in the us it is seen as lazy. Only store I know of that allows it is Aldi and that’s because it helps their cashiering metrics.

whovian1087 , Wolfmann Report

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Natalie
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2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Seen as lazy, huh? So the management only have standing desks?

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#13

You don't have to answer your phone on vacation.

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#14

People Share 30 Things That They Think Are Normal In Europe But Horrific In America The number of rooms in the description of apartments. 1 room in the US usually means 1 bedroom, a living room ,and separate kitchen. Was shocked when I realized it means everything inside one room in most European countries

coolth3 , Bromford Report

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Robert T
Community Member
2 years ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

In the UK we normally describe properties as 1 bed, 2 bed etc. and give a separate count of other rooms. Studio is normally used to describe rooms of mixed use. So a 1 bed studio apartment will normally be a combined kitchen, living and sleeping space with a separate bath- or shower-room.

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#15

People Share 30 Things That They Think Are Normal In Europe But Horrific In America Open borders.

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Robert T
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I remember one work trip where I was in Germany, just over the border from France. All the staff were French and commuted across the border daily. Hell, we even went back across the border for lunch each day!

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#16

Not being super patriotic.

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Got Myself 4 Dwarves
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I love being Scottish, I love living here, the people (mostly), the accepting and open culture, the sarcastic swearing humour, that we can take the piss out of ourselves - but I don't feel the need to fly a flag on my doorstep or cover myself in Scottish symbols and scream about my freedom and rights and chant some verse every morning - im sure there are plenty of Americans who also think that the stereotypical over the top patriotic American is as odd as outsiders do - but they do tend to be the loudest

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#17

Long paid parental leaves and month long holidays (vacations).

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WilvanderHeijden
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Fun fact: These are all things that Unions achieved and next the government made them law. Some Americans would go bat shyte crazy over that. "The government has no right to force 25 mandatory vacation days on me!!!!"

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#18

People Share 30 Things That They Think Are Normal In Europe But Horrific In America Oh man... europe has so many different countries. Something that is completely normal where I live could be frowned upon as soon as I cross the next border. But in general we tip for good service, not bc we have to. A rude waitress won't get tipped by me. Also we usually remove our shoes before we enter a home. And yep, "free" healthcare.

ghost882 , Lee Haywood Report

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Roxy Eastland
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Absolutely, what's acceptable in Spain wouldn't fly in Denmark and vice versa. All countries have their own cultures. The first time, years before the internet through reading American magazines, I came across 'Europe' being referred to as a homogeneous whole I was extremely confused. I was also highly entertained by all the adverts stating 'Everyone in Europe is using this product' for something I'd never seen in my life.

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#19

People Share 30 Things That They Think Are Normal In Europe But Horrific In America Not giving your debit/credit card to your server but doing it yourself

Ok-World-4822 , HLundgaard Report

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Jon Steensen
Community Member
2 years ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

It prevents them from copying you card information and using them to commit fraud by buying stuff online with your creditcard information. In fact I think we ought to memorise the control numbers on the back of the card and then remove them for the card. Having them there is like writing the pin code on the card with a marker, it is just making abuse way too easy.

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#20

People Share 30 Things That They Think Are Normal In Europe But Horrific In America Sitting a foot away from a complete stranger and then completely ignoring them.

skelebabe95 , TheOtherKev Report

#21

People Share 30 Things That They Think Are Normal In Europe But Horrific In America Americans get so bend out of shape over naked children running around the beach.

On every beach in Bulgaria I've been, naked children is the norm, women sunbathing in monokini is considered absolutely normal, while naked men are okay only in the nude sections of the beaches. And every beach has a nude section.

gerginborisov , Charlottees Report

#22

Smaller food portions

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#23

Not enrolling your kid in extracurricular activities. In Europe, some kids are enrolled in a sport or club and the older ones are mostly responsible for getting there and figuring out their schedule. In America, some parents are so obsessed with kids sports that the whole family's existence revolves around it, or they get judgemental when they hear that a kid isn't involved in any sports or clubs.

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lenka
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I am in the Netherlands and almost every kid I know does some kind of extracurricular sport. There are also special subsidies to make sure every kids even from low income families can participate. But we dont tend to get obsessive parents here.

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#25

Putting mayonnaise on french fries instead of ketchup.

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#26

People Share 30 Things That They Think Are Normal In Europe But Horrific In America Almost every car having a manual transmission. when i visited ukraine, i only saw rich people with automatic cars

_doofus25_ , Rutger van der Maar Report

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Moodles
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Personally, I dislike automatics. It makes me feel like I'm driving a go kart. If you're going to drive a car...well...drive it!

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#27

People Share 30 Things That They Think Are Normal In Europe But Horrific In America Charging for water at a restaurant.

dpstreetz , Pixabay Report

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brukernavn340
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

In Norway you'll get tap water when you ask for water, and that's free.

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#28

Bidets? I was born and raised in the US and I think they're efficient and far more hygienic than TP, but apparently most other dudes in this country think it's gay to clean up after your business is done lol

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Ole Peder Amrud Hagen
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

The only really gay thing I know is falling in love with someone of the same gender as yourself. If cleaning your ass after you've been to the toilet is 'gay' to you, you have some real issues.

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#29

People Share 30 Things That They Think Are Normal In Europe But Horrific In America In Germany, looking for a apartment doesn't automatically mean it will come 100% with a kitchen. 90% they don't have them in and you have to buy them yourself.

Ok_Context_732 , Marco Verch Report

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Lila Launehase
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

That's one of the most stupid things in Germany. The kitchen should belong to the apartment.

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#30

People Share 30 Things That They Think Are Normal In Europe But Horrific In America Underage drinking seems more of a crime in the US - in most cases of a kid is caught with alcohol in the UK it's just confiscated and poured away. Strictly speaking the age you can drink alcohol is really low as well, so long as you're home with a parent I think it's like 5/6. When you're in a restaurant you're also allowed low percentage alcohol like cider with a meal so long as you're with an adult.

AugustineBlackwater , Ketut Subiyanto Report

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Francis
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

in germany you're allowed to drink beer/wine with 14 when you're parents are around, at 16 without them and everything else at 18

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