Did you know that Europe produces over 1,800 distinct varieties of cheese? Or that in the EU, workers enjoy a minimum of four weeks off each year, excluding holidays?
Europe is a land where ancient castles and winding cobblestone streets coexist with high-speed trains and charming outdoor cafés. Every corner is steeped in history and tradition, offering a striking contrast to the modern hustle and neon glow of American cities.
Let’s explore some things you’ll find more commonly across Europe than in the States.
Castles
The European landscape is rich with historical castles, remnants of a feudal past that are largely absent in the US. These ancient structures are often nestled in scenic locations and are integral to Europe’s tourism and cultural heritage. In contrast, American historical architecture skews towards industrial and modern eras due to its younger history.
High-Speed Trains
Europe boasts an extensive network of high-speed trains like the TGV in France and the ICE in Germany, which connect major cities with speed and efficiency. The US, however, relies more heavily on cars and planes for long-distance travel, with only a few high-speed rail options, primarily on the East Coast.
Smaller Cars
In Europe, narrow streets and high fuel prices make small, fuel-efficient cars more practical and popular than in the US. Americans tend to prefer larger vehicles, such as SUVs and trucks, which are suited to wider roads and lower fuel costs.
Ancient Ruins
Europe is home to numerous ancient ruins dating back thousands of years, such as the Roman Forum or Greece’s Acropolis. These historical sites are integral to Europe’s identity and are often accessible to the public for exploration. The US, with its shorter non-indigenous history, cannot parallel this depth of ancient heritage.
Outdoor Cafés
Sidewalk cafés are a ubiquitous sight across Europe, emphasizing the continent’s cafe culture, which fosters leisure and social interaction. In contrast, American dining often leans towards more fast-paced, indoor environments. The prevalence of outdoor cafés in Europe speaks to a lifestyle that values slow dining and community.
Multiple Languages
Europe’s diversity in languages within a relatively small geographic area contrasts sharply with the predominance of English in the US. It’s common for Europeans to speak multiple languages, a necessity driven by neighboring countries with different languages.
Bicycle Lanes
Cities across Europe invest in extensive bicycle lane networks, supporting a culture of cycling for daily commuting and environmental conservation. While some US cities are beginning to embrace bike-friendly policies, the scale and integration in Europe are far more advanced. This infrastructure reflects a strong commitment to sustainable urban mobility.
Public Squares
Europe’s cities are known for their central public squares, which serve as key gathering places for social events, markets, and public discourse. These spaces, such as Rome’s Piazza Navona or Madrid’s Plaza Mayor, are steeped in history and public life, unlike the more car-centric urban developments in the US. Public squares are pivotal to European urban design.
Royal Residences
Unlike the US, which has no monarchy, many European countries still have royal families with palaces that are significant both historically and politically. The continued presence of monarchies adds a layer of traditional governance and cultural identity.
Paid Parental Leave
Europe leads in offering extensive paid parental leave, significantly more generous than policies found in the US. This support reflects a societal value on work-life balance and family care, which is embraced across European nations. American parental leave policies vary widely by employer and lack the standardized government support found in Europe.
Historical Churches
Europe’s cities are peppered with historical churches that are architectural masterpieces as well as places of worship. These buildings often date back centuries and are more numerous and historically rich than those typically found in the US. Their preservation and continued use in community life highlight a deep connection with historical and religious roots.
Public Healthcare
Universal healthcare systems are standard across Europe, providing residents with access to necessary medical services largely funded by the government. In contrast, the US healthcare system is a mix of public and private sector involvement, often making healthcare access more dependent on employment or private insurance.
Strict Smoking Bans
European countries enforce strict smoking bans in public places, including restaurants, bars, and sometimes even outdoor public spaces. These regulations are more comprehensive and strictly enforced compared to the US, where smoking policies can vary significantly between states and cities.
Metric System
The metric system is used universally across Europe for all forms of measurement, which contrasts with the US’s adherence to the imperial system. The uniform use of the metric system across Europe simplifies trade, education, and scientific research.
Legal Drinking Age
Most European countries have a legal drinking age of 18, and in some cases, even younger for certain types of alcoholic beverages. This is lower than the US national legal drinking age of 21, reflecting different cultural attitudes towards alcohol consumption and responsibility. The earlier introduction to moderate drinking is seen as a way to teach responsible alcohol use.
Soccer Fanaticism
Soccer, or football as it is known in Europe, is the most popular and fervently followed sport across the continent. In contrast, American football, baseball, and basketball hold more sway in the US. The passionate support for soccer clubs and national teams in Europe manifests in widespread public viewings, massive stadiums, and a deep-rooted fan culture.
Energy Efficiency
Europe generally has higher energy efficiency standards for appliances, vehicles, and homes, driven by stringent environmental policies. These standards are part of a comprehensive approach to combat climate change, reflecting a strong commitment to sustainable development. The US, while making strides, has not yet reached the same levels of energy efficiency regulation.
Kebab Shops
Kebab shops are a common and popular fast food option throughout Europe, originating from the continent’s strong Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cultural influences. In the US, while kebabs are available, they are not as integrated into the late-night food scene as in Europe.
Train Network
Trains are a common mode of long-distance and commuter transport in Europe, seen as a practical, efficient, and environmentally friendly option. The extensive rail network contrasts with the US, where car travel and domestic flights are more common due to larger distances and less investment in national rail.
Saunas
Especially in Northern Europe, saunas are a cultural institution, often found in homes, apartments, and public swimming facilities. This tradition, particularly strong in countries like Finland, is not as prevalent in the US, where saunas are mostly seen as amenities in luxury spas.
Village Festivals
Europe’s village festivals, often celebrating local history, harvests, or saints, play a crucial role in community cohesion and cultural preservation. These festivals can include processions, traditional dancing, and local food, which are less common in the US, where larger commercial festivals are more prevalent.
Roundabouts
Europe’s roads are dotted with roundabouts, which are used extensively as a means to manage traffic flow efficiently. Unlike the US, where stop signs and traffic lights are more prevalent, roundabouts reduce the need for stopping and starting, which decreases traffic delays and pollution.
Wine
In many European countries, it is common to find a wide selection of wine in ordinary supermarkets at various price points. This accessibility reflects a culture where wine is a routine part of dining, unlike in many US states where laws restrict the sale of alcohol in supermarkets. Europe’s relaxed regulations about wine sales denote a cultural integration of wine into daily life.
Political Parties
European political systems often feature a multitude of parties that represent a wide spectrum of political beliefs, in contrast to the primarily two-party system of the US. This multiplicity allows for a broader representation of views within governments.
Cheese Varieties
Europe boasts an incredible diversity of cheeses, with each country and region offering its own specialties that reflect local traditions and tastes. This variety far surpasses what is typically available in US supermarkets, where cheese selections are often more limited and less regionally distinct.
