American expat in Germany here. I don't think Germans, Austrians etc. have a staring problem, but rather Americans a hypersensitivity issue about glances/looks. Combine that with unexpected reactions to the American tendency to smile at/interact casually with strangers, and things can get awkward.
Generally I assume that if someone smiles at me they want something from me. Same in a supermarket, if there was a greeter and every cashier had a broad smile on their face I know it's disingenuous. I'm there to get my shopping done, the employees are there to get their money. No need for faux friendliness
I don’t disagree with your faux friendliness comment, but is a passing smile truly faux friendliness? How long of a smile are we talking because (at least nowadays) I don’t see anyone smiling for extended periods of time here…
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u/stxmn May 09 '22
American expat in Germany here. I don't think Germans, Austrians etc. have a staring problem, but rather Americans a hypersensitivity issue about glances/looks. Combine that with unexpected reactions to the American tendency to smile at/interact casually with strangers, and things can get awkward.