Americans Abroad: Facing New Barriers in Europe—And How Humility and Empathy Can Open Doors

For decades, Americans traveling, studying, or working in Europe often enjoyed a warm welcome. The combination of cultural curiosity, economic clout, and an idealized image of “the American spirit” made it easy to feel at home abroad. But in recent years, that easy rapport has begun to shift.

The reasons are layered. Some changes stem from political and cultural divides within the U.S. itself—the polarization, the rise of misinformation, and the perception of a declining commitment to global cooperation. Others are a natural byproduct of Europe’s own evolving challenges: stricter immigration policies, economic pressures, and an increasingly competitive job and housing market that can make foreign arrivals—Americans included—seem like part of the problem rather than the solution.

And sometimes, the barriers are of our own making. Too often, Americans arrive abroad without a deep understanding of local history, laws, or customs, assuming things will “work like home.” In tourist-heavy areas, there’s growing frustration with visitors and new residents who unintentionally disrupt local life—whether through loud behavior, overuse of short-term rentals, or indifference to cultural norms. Even well-meaning expats can be seen as out-of-touch if they treat their host country as an “exotic backdrop” rather than a living, breathing community.

So how can Americans counter these trends and build real connections in Europe? The answer is in humility and empathy. As always...

Humility means acknowledging that we are guests—and that our way is not the only way. It’s about asking questions before making assumptions, learning the language even imperfectly, and respecting the rhythms of local life.

Empathy means seeing the world from the other side of the table. If you move to Lisbon, how would you feel if rising rents pushed lifelong residents from their neighborhoods? If you work in Paris, can you understand why a colleague might bristle at casual stereotypes about French culture?

By practicing humility and empathy, Americans abroad can transform perceptions—from being seen as entitled outsiders to being valued members of the community. That shift doesn’t happen overnight, but it starts with simple daily choices: supporting local businesses, respecting traditions, building friendships across cultures, and showing a genuine interest in the place you now call home.

In an era of heightened global tension, those who travel and live abroad aren’t just representing themselves—they’re ambassadors, whether they like it or not. And in that role, the greatest currency isn’t the dollar—it’s respect.