Okay, hear me out, because I never thought I’d be writing a love letter to McDonald’s either.
Back in the US, McDonald’s was never really my thing. I’d “indulge” maybe once every four months, usually out of desperation, and even then, I’d feel slightly judged by my own conscience. I know the ingredients aren’t exactly screaming health, so I mostly avoided it. It was never a go-to, more like a last resort.
But in Europe? McDonald’s has somehow become my safe space. And yes, I’m serious.
When you’re traveling, constantly moving, navigating new languages, new systems, new everything, there’s something oddly comforting about a place that works the same no matter where you are. McDonald’s has become my unofficial travel office. Reliable, free, strong Wi-Fi. Clean bathrooms. And best of all, minimal human interaction. I walk in, tap the kiosk, choose table service, sit down, and breathe. No awkward ordering. No language panic. Just vibes and fries.
I’m not saying I’m trying McDonald’s from each country, although… I kind of have. Each country does it a little differently, and it’s honestly fascinating. So far, Vienna, Austria is winning. Fast service, clean presentation, and somehow everything just looks… nicer? European efficiency strikes again.
There’s also something nostalgic about it. McDonald’s and Starbucks remind me of home, even when I’m thousands of miles away, running on train schedules and Google Maps. They’re familiar in a sea of unfamiliar, and sometimes that’s exactly what you need when you’re tired, overstimulated, and just want to sit somewhere predictable.
So no, McDonald’s isn’t suddenly a health food, and it’s not replacing local cafés or incredible European food. But when you’re traveling, it’s a comfort stop. A reset button. A place to charge your phone, your laptop, and, honestly, yourself.
And if that means I’m sitting in a McDonald’s in Europe, sipping a Coke, answering emails, and pretending I’m not emotionally attached to the Wi-Fi? So be it.
So quick travel tip: if you’re desperate for Wi-Fi, clean bathrooms, and a comfort snack or coffee, just go where everyone else goes. Order something small, sit down, and breathe for a minute. I never thought I’d say this, but this might be the only time I’ll publicly recommend McDonald’s. And honestly, now I get why travelers always end up there, especially in touristy areas. It’s predictable, warm, affordable, and you know exactly what you’re getting. Sometimes when you’re tired, lost, or just need a break, familiarity wins.
But I am genuinely curious. Why does everyone stop at McDonald’s, even in the most touristy areas? Tell me your reasoning.
Love always,
American Girl Meets World
