No, We Don't All Wear Berets: People Around the World Debunk Myths About Their Countries

Visiting a new country can feel like stepping into another world. But somewhere between the exciting food and fascinating new routines, you often realize that not everything you’ve heard about a place is true. Thanks to movies and social media, we often arrive with a long list of expectations already formed.

That’s exactly what sparked an online discussion when someone asked, “What’s something foreigners think is common in your country, but really isn’t?” People from around the globe chimed in to set the record straight, and the replies were a funny, surprising reminder that stereotypes rarely tell the full story.

Stereotypes vs. Reality: From Polar Bears to Berets

Many of the most common myths are tied to national symbols. For instance, while many people associate Finland with the indestructible Nokia 3310, one user stated simply, “People don’t use [them] anymore.” In Norway, you won't be running into polar bears; according to a local, they only live on the remote archipelago of Svalbard, and even there, the towns are safe.

Cultural clichés also took a hit. In France, berets are “usually only worn by bald people,” and mustaches are not so common. In Spain, bullfighting is far from a national pastime. A user explained that many of the country's bullrings are now used for concerts or are simply abandoned. And if you're in Germany, don't expect to see Lederhosen and Dirndl everywhere. As one German pointed out, “It’s Bavaria only!”

A Deeper Look: Beyond the 'Slumdog Millionaire' Myth

Sometimes, stereotypes are shaped by a single, powerful piece of pop culture. Rakesh, a 19-year-old who gives guided tours of Mumbai's Dharavi settlement, says many visitors arrive with ideas formed by the movie Slumdog Millionaire. “They wanted to see poverty the way it was shown in the movie,” he says.

The reality, Rakesh explains, is far more complex. “The first thing people tell me is that they didn’t know Mumbai was so developed,” he says, noting their shock at seeing massive malls and luxury buildings right next to Dharavi. He also challenges the misconception about employment. “Some tourists honestly believe that everyone here is unemployed or begging,” he explains. “They’re surprised when they learn about the small-scale industries we have,” from leather and textiles to recycling. But what surprises foreigners most, he adds, is the strong sense of community among the more than one million residents. It's a side of Dharavi that rarely makes headlines.