SouthernWorldwide.com – The upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup is providing international fans with a unique opportunity to experience the diverse attractions of the United States, Canada, and Mexico. With 48 national teams set to compete, many supporters are embracing the chance to immerse themselves in the local cultures of the host nations.
German fans and influencers Freddy and Fiago have been actively sharing their discoveries across various American locales, including Georgia, Tennessee, and Chicago, Illinois, on social media. As England prepares for its opening match on June 17, English fans are also embarking on their own explorations, with some making notable stops in Florida.
One such discovery for German fan Freddy was a popular Southern breakfast chain, renowned for its Southern hospitality and waffles. This establishment became a focal point of his journey as he explored American spectacles outside of Europe in anticipation of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Freddy’s visit to this particular breakfast spot in Georgia proved memorable, even though he arrived at 1 a.m., well outside traditional breakfast hours. He opted for a side of hash browns, showcasing a different approach to the iconic menu.
Another significant culinary encounter for Freddy was his visit to an American fast-food giant, Taco Bell, during his travels in Atlanta. He shared his experience on X, describing the restaurant as “The holy land” and posting a picture of his order, which included chips with nacho cheese and the distinctive Baja Blast drink.
Freddy’s enthusiastic caption for his Taco Bell experience clearly conveyed his high level of satisfaction with the fast-food offering.
His culinary adventures didn’t end there, as Freddy also made a stop at Wendy’s. Alongside his friends, he sampled a variety of menu items, including burgers, crispy chicken sandwiches, and cheese fries.
An intriguing discovery for Freddy was an American soda fountain offering a wide array of flavors, such as strawberry Sprite and vanilla Coca-Cola. He humorously documented his indecision when choosing a Sprite flavor to accompany his meal on X.
Having already experienced Waffle House, Walmart, Taco Bell, and Wendy’s, Freddy sought recommendations from the internet for further stops before his arrival in Houston. His followers offered a variety of popular suggestions, including:
1. Buc-ee’s Gas Station:
This popular gas station chain is a common stop for travelers on Southern highways, boasting up to 120 gas pumps and a unique food selection. Buc-ee’s offers exclusive items like house-made fudge, Texas-themed merchandise, and even its own mascot.
2. Tiger Stadium, LSU
While Freddy planned to attend a friendly match between Argentina and Algeria at Jordan-Hare Stadium in Auburn, Tiger Stadium is recognized as one of college football’s most iconic venues due to its impressive size and vibrant atmosphere.
3. Bourbon Street, New Orleans
A premier tourist destination in Louisiana and the broader South, Bourbon Street is celebrated for its renowned culinary offerings, such as beignets from Café Du Monde. Visitors can also expect to find beaded necklaces tossed from balconies and a lively street jazz scene.
Freddy continued his journey into Tennessee on Monday, enjoying a nearby lake before settling in Chattanooga. He watched Game 3 of the NBA Finals at a local Chili’s and even visited the Spanish National Team’s hotel, although the team was away for a friendly match in Puebla, Mexico.
On the day before the World Cup’s commencement, Freddy witnessed Argentina’s victory over Iceland in a friendly match at Auburn’s Jordan-Hare Stadium. While he saw Lionel Messi score, Freddy expressed greater fascination with the overall experience of an SEC (Southeastern Conference) event.
In response to Freddy’s requests for travel advice, U.S. Men’s National Team center-back Chris Richards recommended a visit to Milo’s Original Burger Shop, a fast-food chain based in Alabama.
Finn Agostinelli, also known as Fiago, a soccer influencer from Germany, has been captivated by Chicago, Illinois. Agostinelli began sharing his American experiences on June 5, 2026, and over four days, he explored American culture, cuisine, sports venues, and landmarks.
He drew a comparison between American hot dogs and German bratwursts, showing a less enthusiastic reaction. However, his visit to Chicago’s famous restaurant, Portillo’s, proved to be a sweet revelation, leading him to dine there two more times.
Fiago also attended the U.S. Men’s National Team’s final preparation match against Germany, held at Chicago’s Soldier Field on Saturday.
Regarding landmarks, Fiago visited the Chicago River, the Cloud Gate sculpture (affectionately known as “The Bean”) in Millennium Park, and the Rainforest Café, which had unfortunately closed during the COVID-19 pandemic.
“I respect how proud Americans are of their country,” Fiago commented in a post on X, featuring a picture of a large American flag displayed at a Macy’s store in Chicago.
“They do everything right here,” he added in another post, expressing his positive impressions.
Beyond Freddy and Fiago from Germany, some English fans have also been documenting their sightseeing adventures in America. English fan Paul Gregory shared his experience at the Kennedy Space Center in Florida, highlighting exhibits related to the Space Shuttle Program and the Apollo Moon landings.
A quintessential purchase for any extended road trip or a long day out, an X user named “John” tried his first ‘Big Gulp’ soda from 7-Eleven. John described it as one of his most enjoyable discoveries in America to date.
