There are obviously cultural differences - and it is part and parcel of travel.

When I first moved to the USA, I was horrified (! - much younger then and less well traveled, clearly very protected - HA) that waiters would remove plates from some in the party while others were still eating. Wow, in my country that would be incredibly rude. OK, learnt that.

A few years later, one of my bosses is passing through Copenhagen and is asking travel advice (smart guy, he specifically asked how to blend in a little bit better, and what to see/do). He came back and told about a marvelous dinner at a small place where they sat down at 5 pm and just stayed all night. They had three courses, drinks, coffee and the staff just stayed happy. He was as shocked as I had been at the rush.

Now, when I am in the USA, I am usually by myself - I love how if it is busy or I want to get going, this is very easy, just ask for the bill early and they'll help you out the door quick. Or if it quiet, many places (road side diners, mostly) are happy for me to sit there with my guide book or their wifi for another 20 min.

And then comes the assumptions: Last month was my first trip to Canada. I had not even considered that the wait-style would be different from the USA (sorry, but that is the truth), and yet we found in Québec Province that it was much like Europe. Which was awesome, as my colleague and I got to sit and relax after a busy day with the students.

BTW, although in my country you do not have to tip, when abroad I do tip. And until I remember to look up what I'm supposed to tip, I probably tip high. But invariably, eating out is still cheaper than at home, so ok.

The other things on the original list as just rude.

DanishFlyer