Frederick is a young American man who spends his time in Europe, studying in Geneva and visiting family in Switzerland. He understands the strict social codes of the European upper class and considers himself a proper gentleman. He finds himself captivated by a decidedly unrefined American tourist, though he continually struggles to categorize her character and intentions.

Daisy is a lively 17-year-old American traveling through Europe with her mother and younger brother. Raised in Schenectady, New York, she expects to enjoy the same active social life abroad that she experienced at home. She openly converses with men without a chaperone, completely disregarding the rigid etiquette enforced by wealthy expatriates.

An unnamed observer who relays the story from the periphery. This figure possesses a subjective view of the events and maintains a detached distance from the primary action. They provide commentary on the cultural clashes taking place among the wealthy tourists.

Frederick's wealthy aunt maintains an apartment in Rome and regularly stays at exclusive Swiss hotels. She firmly believes in keeping a strict distance from newly wealthy, unpolished travelers. She suffers from frequent ailments and uses her high social standing to shut out anyone she deems improper.

An elegant American woman who hosts gatherings for expatriates at her Roman residence. She initially welcomes visitors from the States but quickly turns hostile when high-society rules are broken. She aggressively attempts to force compliance to protect the reputation of her social circle.

A mild-mannered, frequently ailing woman from New York traveling abroad with her two children. She exercises almost no authority over her daughter's social calendar. She appears entirely ignorant of European high-society expectations regarding chaperones and general propriety.

A rambunctious, outspoken young boy who detests Europe and constantly proclaims the superiority of Schenectady. He refuses to study, preferring to roam freely around the hotel grounds and speak bluntly to adults.

A handsome, charming Italian man who spends his afternoons walking and talking with a young visitor. He happily ignores the disapproving glares of the expatriate community to continue his public outings around Rome.

The professional courier hired by the traveling American family. He acts with an informal familiarity toward his employers that scandalizes upper-class observers in their Swiss hotel.