Ever feel like America’s rulebook was written by someone with a dartboard? Across the pond or down under, things get even wackier. Let’s take a walk on the wild side of global “Do’s” that are definite “Don’ts” in the Land of the Free. Are you ready to find out just how bizarrely different the world can be?
1. Kinder Surprise Eggs, US vs. Planet Earth
America says choking hazard, the world says chocolate with a side of fun. Ever smuggle chocolate eggs just for the thrill?
2. Public Drinking, US vs. Germany
Strolling through Berlin with a brew is just another Tuesday. Try that in NYC, and it’s ticket time. Cheers to freedom, or nah?
3. Jaywalking, US vs. UK
In America, jaywalking is the walk of shame. In the UK, it’s just walking. Who knew crossing the street could be so rebellious?
4. Drinking Absinthe, US vs. Czech Republic
America fears the Green Fairy, but in Prague, it’s just another spirit. Ready to chase the fairy on a Euro trip?
5. Hitchhiking, US vs. New Zealand
America sees a thumb, thinks danger. New Zealand sees adventure. Fancy a free ride through Middle-earth?
6. Kinder Eggs, Again
Because they’re worth mentioning twice. America, land of the free, home of the banned chocolate eggs.
7. Plastic Bags, US vs. Rwanda
America debates, Rwanda acts. Plastic bags are a no-go. Ever thought your shopping could be so controversial?
8. Raw Milk, US vs. France
In America, raw milk is practically a narcotic. In France, it’s just breakfast. Got milk… vending machines?
9. Online Gambling, US vs. UK
America can’t decide, while the UK bets on open and regulated. Fancy a wager on American indecision?
10. Dual Citizenship, USA vs. The Chill Countries
America taxes you worldwide. Other places, like Canada, let you globe-trot without the IRS on your back. Feeling patriotic yet?
11. Cannabis, USA (Federal) vs. Netherlands
America’s still on the fence, but Amsterdam rolls out the green carpet. High time for a policy change?
12. Pet Ferrets, California vs. The World
California fears ferrets. Elsewhere, they’re just slinky pets. Ever felt like your pet choice was too radical?
13. Euthanasia, USA vs. Belgium
America debates morality; Belgium offers a choice. A matter of life and death, or just personal freedom?
14. Exploring Antarctica, USA vs. The Adventurous
Americans face hoops and hurdles. The rest of the world? Just pack and go. Who knew penguins were so exclusive?
Norms Aren’t Always Normal
So, there you have it—a world where American norms are anything but normal. Whether these global green lights make you want to pack your bags or just shake your head, one thing’s clear: the US isn’t just another country; it’s a whole different universe of can’t-dos.
The post 14 Global Norms the U.S. Won’t Tolerate first appeared on Career Step Up.
Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock / Andrii Iemelianenko.
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For transparency, this content was partly developed with AI assistance and carefully curated by an experienced editor to be informative and ensure accuracy.
