A Shocking Tour Through Europe: Cultural Differences That Felt Like Backward Progress

Introduction

My first visit to Europe in 2003 was a watershed moment of cultural awakening. Coming from the United States, I was struck by several aspects of European culture that seemed outdated and inappropriate. This article delves into these experiences and how they challenged my perceptions of modernity and progress.

Unlimited Ice and Free Refills: A Sip of American Luxury

One of the most jarring aspects of my visit to France was the lack of unlimited ice and free refills for cold drinks, a luxury often taken for granted back home. In my travels, I found that even a single ice cube in a glass of water was considered a privilege. Throughout my stay, I was constantly thirsty, longing for my US standard of cold, refreshing beverages. This experience highlighted the different cultural priorities in the provision of basic amenities.

The Smoking Culture Shock

When I studied abroad in Spain in 2002, I encountered a smoking culture so pervasive that it seemed backward compared to the US. Although smoking had been banned in most public places in the US by the late 1980s, in Spain, it was openly accepted, even indoors. This stark contrast with what I was accustomed to was both shocking and hypocritical. It was ironic to see the criticism Spaniards directed at Americans for our unhealthy dietary habits, yet they embraced the damaging habit of smoking with less scrutiny. In 2011, Spain banned smoking in nearly all public places, a drastic shift that felt like an overnight transformation.

Culture Shock in Europe: A Feeling of Overcrowded Continuity

What struck me as particularly jarring was the feeling of a continuous human presence in Europe, which is starkly different from my origins in an uncharted area. When I traveled to France in 2003, I felt like there was nowhere that had not been trodden by human feet—everywhere I visited in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa felt dense with human history. This overwhelming sensation was both comforting and unsettling. To some, it may be viewed as a positive aspect of a rich cultural tapestry, but to me, it felt like an unrelenting clamor.

A Disturbing Incident in Zagreb, Yugoslavia

One particularly disturbing incident from half a century ago, in 1973, occurred in Zagreb, Yugoslavia. I witnessed a scene that was both chaotic and entirely lacking in moral or social norms. At a train station, a larger and more aggressive man bullying a smaller man who was visibly cowering. Despite the presence of bystanders, no one intervened. The larger man pushed the smaller man down and kicked one of the parcels he was carrying, causing glass to shatter. In an even more shocking turn of events, the larger man left the scene, smiling at the onlookers, who then clapped as if approving of his actions. The entire scenario felt like a throwback to a time without basic human decency or support for one another.

Conclusion

My experiences in Europe provided me with a broader perspective on cultural norms and the evolution of modern society. While some aspects felt regressive, they also illustrated the depth and complexity of human interaction and cultural practices. Understanding these differences is crucial for navigating the rich, diverse landscapes of the world, and for valuing the unique cultural legacies that each region carries.