"Ordering water with a meal in Europe can feel surprisingly complicated for Americans who are used to the "tap water by default" approach. You may sit down expecting a quick pour of cold water, only to find that nothing arrives or that the server looks puzzled when you ask. That small moment of confusion can easily turn into an awkward back and forth if you're not familiar with how water service works across the pond."
"Several other travel guides reinforce this guidance, noting that while you can request tap water, you need to ask the right way. In France, ordering une carafe d'eau (a jug of water) politely signals you want tap water, while in Germany, the word Leitungswasser (tap water) does the same. These small linguistic cues make a big difference, helping travelers avoid dissatisfaction and navigate water service just as locals do."
"Once you've mastered the water situation, Rick Steves has another recommendation for choosing where to eat in Europe. Look for handwritten menus with short lists of dishes presented only in the local language. A small menu usually means the kitchen focuses on a few items made well with fresh, seasonal ingredients. Handwriting often signals that those offerings change based on what's available. And when the menu isn't translated, it's a good sign the restaurant caters to locals rather than tourists."
Ordering water with a meal in Europe can confuse Americans accustomed to tap water by default. Bottled water, often carbonated, is commonly preferred and can avoid fees or refusals associated with tap water. Learning basic phrases for sparkling and still, or for "with gas" and "without gas," prevents misunderstandings. Requesting une carafe d'eau signals tap water in France, and asking for Leitungswasser works in Germany. Short handwritten menus in the local language indicate kitchens focused on a few well-made, seasonal dishes and that the restaurant primarily serves locals rather than tourists.
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