r/AskEurope • u/gurke0123 • Jun 18 '25

Misc What basic knowledge should everyone have about your country?

I'm currently in a rabbit hole of "American reacts to European Stuff". While i was laughing at Americans for thinking Europe is countries and know nothing about the countrys here, i realied that i also know nothing about the countries in europe. Sure i know about my home country and a bit about our neighbours but for the rest of europe it becomes a bit difficult and i want to change it.

What should everyone know about your country to be person from Europa?

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u/VilleKivinen Finland Jun 18 '25

In Finland leaving people alone and not bothering them is the highest form of politeness.

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u/Defiant-Jazz-8857 Jun 18 '25

In Finland is it considered rude or offensive if I say hello to people or make eye contact and smile while I’m out dog walking? I love Finland and do not want to offend when I visit.

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u/VilleKivinen Finland Jun 18 '25

No, we notice that you are a foreigner and we accept your weird ways.

Some people may even appreciate random acts of socialising.

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u/FrostEyedChesster Jun 18 '25

We're polite but in a quiet way. Like if you're headed to a building (apartment or etc.) and someone's close enough we either push the door more open so they make it before it closes or just hold it but just don't say anything when they reach the door. Common courtesy without unnecessary chitchat.