American tourists are known for their enthusiasm and curiosity when traveling abroad, but sometimes their actions can cross the line into the bizarre or disrespectful. Here are some real-life examples of American tourists behaving in ways that have raised eyebrows internationally:
1. Throwing an Electric Scooter Down Rome’s Spanish Steps
In 2022, a 28-year-old American tourist caused significant damage to Rome’s historic Spanish Steps by hurling an electric scooter down them. The incident resulted in approximately $26,000 worth of damage, and the tourist was subsequently banned from the site for life. (The Independent)
2. Driving Across Florence’s Ponte Vecchio
In January 2023, a 34-year-old American tourist was fined €500 for illegally driving a car across Florence’s Ponte Vecchio, a medieval pedestrian bridge renowned for its history and architecture. The act was widely condemned as disrespectful to the city’s cultural heritage. (CNN)
3. Performing the Nazi Salute in Germany
An American tourist was arrested in Dresden, Germany, after performing the Nazi salute in public—a gesture that is illegal in the country due to its historical connotations. The tourist, reportedly intoxicated at the time, was also physically assaulted by a passerby before being taken into custody. (Grunge)
4. Defacing the Colosseum
In a widely publicized incident, an American tourist carved his initials into the walls of Rome’s ancient Colosseum. The act of vandalism sparked outrage both in Italy and internationally, highlighting the importance of respecting historical monuments. (indy100, Grunge)
5. Stealing Artifacts from Pompeii
Two American tourists were caught attempting to smuggle a 60-pound artifact from the ruins of Pompeii out of Italy. The theft of such a significant historical item underscored concerns about the preservation of ancient sites and the responsibilities of visitors. (Explore)
6. Taking Nude Photos at Angkor Wat
In 2015, two American sisters were deported from Cambodia after taking nude photographs at the sacred Angkor Wat temple complex. The incident was deemed highly disrespectful to the cultural and religious significance of the site. (indy100)
7. Damaging a Statue at the Vatican Museums
An American tourist visiting the Vatican Museums became irate after being denied a meeting with the Pope. In his frustration, he knocked over two ancient Roman busts, causing damage estimated at €15,000. The tourist faced charges of aggravated damage for his actions. (The Independent)
8. Breaking a Finger Off a Statue in Florence
An American surgeon visiting Florence’s Museo dell’Opera del Duomo accidentally snapped a finger off a 600-year-old statue of the Virgin Mary while attempting to compare it to his own hand. The incident raised questions about visitor interactions with priceless artworks. (Explore)
9. Returning Sand and Rocks to Iceland
In a more conscientious act, a mother and daughter from Virginia took sand and rocks from Iceland’s Reynisfjara beach to show to a school class. Upon learning that removing natural elements from the beach was prohibited, they mailed the items back to the Icelandic Tourism Board along with an apology note. The board appreciated their honesty and returned the items to nature. (Condé Nast Traveler)
10. Vandalizing a Construction Site in Tokyo
In 2017, an American tourist was arrested in Tokyo’s Shibuya district after being caught on camera vandalizing a construction site’s wall with graffiti. The tourist admitted to the act and faced legal consequences under Japan’s strict laws against vandalism. (Grunge)