In America, we expect everything to be open for us on holidays. Have it your way. Without onions, lettuce, tomato, but leave the pickles and ketchup annnnd can I also have a side of ranch? Also, I expect these condiments free of charge and if you offend me in any manner...I demand to speak to your manager!
In Europe...consider yourself lucky if the restaurant is open and serving food, they refilled the vending machine, the public toilet is free and smart if you remembered to stock up on non-perishables in your hotel room (Refrigerators? Don't even think about it. Although American inventors paved the way for this invention...it was actually a German that perfected the technology for household use. Which I find a bit ironic, but I digress...).
At least they take their holidays seriously...no one works and no one complains about it.
What a great un-American lesson in patience and humility. Plus, those condiments are just excess calories.
Don't get me wrong. I love being an American and would gladly fight a polar bear, left-handed to defend my citizenship. But I also believe that everyone can benefit to learn a thing or two about how the rest of the world chooses to live and WHY they do it that way. You don't have to agree with it, but please don't choose to be ignorant. You would be surprised how outside knowledge can change your perspective. The world is a big place.
The information you can get from social and news media is one thing. But remember you're developing an opinion based on the interpretations and biases of a secondary source. So I insist that you go out there and experience it for yourself. Travel. I'm not saying you have to go half way around the world. Trust me, there's plenty of diversity a train or bus ride away. Talk to different people. Everyone has a unique story. Perhaps all of this may change or influence your own.
Hmmm...must find a vending machine.
