If you've ever traveled abroad, you may have noticed that life outside the U.S. often runs by a different set of rules — and sometimes, those differences make a lot more sense. From smarter infrastructure to saner work-life balance, people who've lived or traveled abroad are sharing things they wish America would adopt.

Here are some of the most insightful and surprising suggestions from expats and the Community:

1. Real Vacation Time (Looking at You, Germany)

In Germany, 25–30 paid vacation days is normal. Compare that to the U.S., where taking a full week off can feel like asking for a favor.

2. Budget-Friendly Air Travel

Europe’s low-cost airlines make hopping between countries dirt cheap. One traveler scored a flight from Barcelona to Dublin for just 3 euros.

3. Volksmarching in Germany

A wholesome tradition where groups walk scenic 10K routes with snack stops along the way. A fun and healthy way to explore the countryside and connect with others.

4. Asian Convenience Stores = Actual Convenience

In places like Japan and South Korea, convenience stores offer full gourmet meals, barista-made coffee, mail services, ticketing, and more. They redefine the word “convenient.”

5. Passeggiata: Italy’s Evening Ritual

Every evening, people take relaxed strolls through town to socialize, people-watch, and unwind — no destination, no rush. Just community and calm.

6. A Beer at Lunch? Not a Big Deal

In many European countries, enjoying a glass of wine or beer at lunch isn’t frowned upon — it’s just part of the meal, not a moral dilemma.

7. Department Store Food Halls in Japan

Forget food courts. In Japan, department stores offer a basement wonderland of gourmet options — bento, tempura, desserts — all beautifully presented.

8. Unified Adulthood Age

In the U.S., you're a legal adult at 18… unless you're drinking. Abroad, many countries set 18 as the age for all adult decisions — period.

9. Pregnancy Perks (Portugal Gets It)

Expecting mothers in Portugal get special parking, line-skipping privileges, and even separate customs lines. A little dignity goes a long way.

10. All-Inclusive Price Tags

What you see is what you pay. In Europe and Australia, sales tax is already included in the price — no mental math at the checkout required.

11. Clean Streets by Design

In Tokyo, cleanliness is a priority. Workers (often older adults) sweep sidewalks and pick up litter — creating jobs and pristine streets.

12. Affordable, Universal Health Care

In Costa Rica, even paying out of pocket for contacts cost one traveler far less than it would in the U.S. with insurance.

13. Work-Life Balance as a Right, Not a Perk

In Europe, taking time for life outside work isn’t a “benefit” — it’s standard practice, and companies are structured around it.

14. Public Transportation That Works

Outside the U.S., it’s normal to navigate cities without a car. In many American towns, it’s nearly impossible.

15. Dogs at Dinner

In France, well-behaved pets are welcome in most restaurants. It’s a more relaxed, inclusive attitude toward animal companions.

16. Malls with Grocery Stores

In many Latin American countries, malls include grocery stores. Logical, right? One stop for all your errands.

17. Rethink Tipping Culture

In Europe, tipping is optional and based on service quality — not an expectation to supplement underpaid wages.

18. Long, Leisurely Lunches

In Brazil, lunch is the biggest and most relaxed meal of the day. In the U.S.? Often eaten at a desk in 12 minutes flat.

19. Slower Isn’t Lazy

Many European countries embrace slower workdays and mid-day breaks — not as laziness, but as balance.

20. Open-Container Laws

In Germany, it’s normal to walk with an open beer in hand — and no one bats an eye.

21. Minor Conveniences That Add Up (Hello, Japan)

From semi-private toilet stalls and public transit that works, to vending machines with hot coffee and gourmet convenience store meals, Japan is packed with thoughtful features that make daily life smoother.

22. Parental Leave That Actually Supports Parents

European countries offer generous maternity and paternity leave — often months, not weeks — so families can actually bond and recover.

23. Bike-Friendly Cities

Amsterdam and Copenhagen show what’s possible when infrastructure prioritizes bikes over cars. It’s safer, healthier, and better for the planet.