Cultural Faux Pas Indians Should Avoid While Traveling in Europe & the USA

🌍  Cultural Faux Pas Indians Should Avoid While Traveling in Europe & the USA

Traveling to Western countries like those in Europe and the USA can be an exciting and enriching experience. However, while packing your bags and planning your itinerary is important, so is being culturally aware. Certain everyday habits that are common in India might come off as rude, strange, or inappropriate abroad.

To help you avoid awkward or embarrassing situations, here’s a list of cultural faux pas that Indians should steer clear of while traveling in Europe and the USA.

👞 1. Not Respecting Personal Space

In many European countries and the U.S., personal space is sacred. Standing too close during conversations, leaning in, or touching someone (even casually) might make people uncomfortable.

✅ Keep at least an arm’s length distance in public queues, transport, and conversations.

📢 2. Speaking Loudly in Public

Indians are known for expressive conversations, but in Western countries, loud talking in public spaces (especially trains, cafes, or libraries) is considered disruptive or impolite.

✅ Keep your volume low in shared spaces, especially when on calls or in groups.

📸 3. Taking Photos Without Permission

From clicking strangers to taking selfies in sacred places—what may be harmless in India can be seen as invasive or disrespectful elsewhere.

✅ Always ask for permission before photographing people, especially in rural Europe or religious spaces.

💰 4. Ignoring the Tipping Culture

Tipping is expected in the USA, typically around 15–20% in restaurants, salons, and for services like taxi rides. In Europe, tipping varies by country but is still appreciated.

✅ In the U.S., not tipping is seen as rude. In Europe, check if the service charge is included before tipping extra.

👟 5. Wearing Shoes Indoors (When Not Appropriate)

While in India it’s common to remove shoes indoors, the practice varies abroad. Some homes in Northern Europe or Canada expect you to remove your shoes, but in many American homes, wearing shoes inside is fine.

✅ Follow the host’s lead or politely ask, "Would you like me to take off my shoes?"

🕐 6. Being Late for Appointments or Meetings

Punctuality is highly valued in Western cultures. Showing up late—even by 5–10 minutes—for a meeting, dinner, or tour can be seen as disrespectful.

✅ Arrive on time or 5 minutes early. If you’re running late, inform the person immediately.

🍽️ 7. Wasting Food or Asking for Too Many Customizations

Ordering too much food, leaving leftovers, or over-customizing your meal at restaurants is frowned upon in many parts of Europe and the U.S.

✅ Order wisely and finish what you take. Don’t over-complicate food orders unless you have dietary needs.

🛑 8. Talking About Religion, Politics, or Personal Wealth

These topics are considered private or sensitive in the West, especially when meeting someone for the first time. Flaunting success, comparing salaries, or discussing caste/class can come across as arrogant or intrusive.

✅ Keep conversations light and respectful—travel, food, and hobbies are safe bets.

🧻 9. Expecting Indian Toilet Facilities

Many travelers are surprised to find no water spray or bidet in public restrooms. Western countries often rely solely on toilet paper, and bathrooms may lack hand showers.

✅ Carry a small bottle of water or portable bidet if needed, and always keep tissues handy.

🤷 10. Assuming Everyone Understands Indian English or Hinglish

Phrases like “postpone,” “kindly do the needful,” or “only” at the end of sentences can be confusing to native English speakers.

✅ Use simple, neutral English when speaking with locals. Avoid Indianisms in professional or formal settings.

🙅 11. Cutting Lines or Bargaining in the Wrong Places

Queue-jumping is taken seriously in the West. Similarly, bargaining in supermarkets, restaurants, or public transport is not acceptable.

✅ Always wait your turn and only negotiate in appropriate settings like flea markets (and politely).

🧑‍⚖️ 12. Casual Attitude Toward Rules

Jaywalking, skipping subway tickets, or ignoring basic signs (like “Don’t Touch” in museums) may seem harmless, but can lead to fines or legal trouble abroad.

✅ Follow rules—no matter how small they seem. Western systems are strict about public conduct.

🌍 Final Thoughts

Traveling is not just about sightseeing—it’s about understanding and respecting other cultures. Being mindful of how your behavior is perceived in the West can go a long way in making your trip smoother and more enjoyable.

By avoiding these cultural faux pas, you represent India with grace and open the door for meaningful cross-cultural connections.

✈️ Ready to travel smart in 2025?

Visit AbroadSaathi.com for travel tips, cultural etiquette guides, and expat resources tailored for Indians going abroad.