In the U.S., it’s common to see people carrying take-away cups of coffee wherever they go. However, in many other countries, such as parts of Europe and New Zealand, this habit is far from the norm.

In countries like Italy, the coffee ritual is about more than just getting your caffeine fix. Italians often stand at a bar to enjoy a quick espresso, savoring the moment before moving on with their day. In Austria and France, it’s customary to sit down and leisurely enjoy your coffee, often paired with a pastry. This isn’t just about the coffee—it’s a lifestyle choice rooted in culture and community.

This difference in coffee culture can be surprising for Americans who are used to the hustle and bustle of grabbing coffee on the go. In many places around the world, coffee is a social experience, an opportunity to connect with others and enjoy a moment of calm.

Take South America, for example. In Brazil, coffee is often enjoyed over long conversations in cafes, rather than taken on the run. Similarly, in Guatemala, coffee is traditionally served in ceramic mugs without milk, and people take the time to sit down and enjoy it with family or friends.

In India, coffee breaks are social events, often enjoyed away from the desk with colleagues or friends. It’s a shared experience, not just a quick fix to get through the day.

Even in the Philippines, where coffee culture is more relaxed, cafes are social hubs where people gather to escape the heat and spend time together. Unlike the fast-paced, grab-and-go culture of American coffee shops, coffee in the Philippines is about community and taking the time to enjoy the moment.

In Europe, the size of coffee drinks and the pace of life influence how people consume coffee. In Italy, a cappuccino or espresso is typically small and easy to enjoy at the cafe. In contrast, in the U.S., large drinks from chains like Starbucks are often consumed on the go, with people sipping their coffee while driving to work.

This difference in coffee culture is also tied to environmental concerns. In the U.S., the emphasis on takeaway coffee leads to significant waste. Some coffee shops, like Stumptown, encourage customers to enjoy their coffee at the cafe by offering a discount for drinks consumed on-site.

In the end, while American coffee culture is about speed and efficiency, many other parts of the world value a slower, more intentional approach to coffee. It’s a reminder to take a moment, sit down, and savor your coffee—something that might just surprise you.