Culture clashes are common for Europeans visiting the United States, as although there is some cultural closeness, the differences between the two are evident. Europeans often feel a certain distrust of Americans, who have an ethereal and relatable image of the most powerful nation on the planet, which has often demonstrated a sheriff complex. Similarly, Americans are prejudiced against Europeans.
One of the latest cultural clashes occurred on Twitter when an American waitress complained about the meager tip she received from Spanish customers. The waitress suggested that Europeans should be banned from traveling until they learn how to behave, which provoked mixed reactions.
In Spain, tipping is not as generous as in the United States, where it is a common practice due to the low wages of hospitality employees. In the United States, tips are calculated as a percentage of the final bill and are expected to be more than generous. Amounts considered normal range from 15% to 25%, and anything less is seen as impolite. Although this custom is not legislated, it is deeply ingrained in American culture.
Despite cultural differences, both Americans and Europeans have prejudices and stereotypes about each other, and both sides have defended their points of view in the tipping point conflict.