Traveling to the U.S. can be super exciting, but it’s good to know about local customs. These 18 suggestions will help you handle social situations better, show respect for cultural differences, and get the most out of your time in America.
Misunderstand American Football
If you’ve ever been invited to watch a ‘football game’ here, chances are they’re talking about American football, not soccer. This sport is a big deal in American culture, especially during fall and winter. Learning the basic rules can help you join in conversations and enjoy the experience. Don’t be shy about asking questions – lots of fans love explaining the game to newcomers.
Smoke Wherever You Want
Interestingly enough, smoking rules are pretty strict in many parts of the U.S. Some cities even ban smoking in parks or on beaches, so remember to look for designated smoking areas or ask before lighting up near others. It’s all about being considerate to non-smokers and avoiding those pesky fines.
Assume Prices Include Tax
Unlike many countries, the U.S. doesn’t include sales tax in displayed prices, which can lead to shock at the checkout. Keep in mind that the final cost will be higher than what’s on the price tag. Each state also has its own tax rates, so it’s smart to budget a little extra for your purchases.
Leave Queues
Americans take their lines seriously, and cutting in or trying to skip ahead is a major mistake. Whether you’re waiting for coffee, entering an attraction, or boarding public transport, always join the back of the line. Patience is a virtue here, and respecting the queue shows you’re considerate of others who’ve been waiting their turn.
Forget to Remove Your Shoes
Many American homes have a ‘no shoes’ policy, which keeps floors clean and shows respect for your host’s space. Some households might not follow this rule, but it’s always polite to ask. When you’re invited over, just check if they prefer you to leave your kicks at the door.
Skip Tipping
You may not know this, but servers and service workers in the U.S. rely heavily on tips. This means that leaving without tipping is a big no-no and can really hurt someone’s income. In fact, Wonderlustingk notes that most folks aim for 15-20% of the bill at restaurants. Don’t forget about bartenders, taxi drivers, and hotel staff too.
Ignore Personal Space
Americans really value their bubble, and you’ll soon notice people keeping their distance when chatting or waiting in line. Getting too close can make others uncomfortable, so try to stay about an arm’s length away. This goes for conversations, riding the bus, or even casual run-ins on the street.
Disregard Indoor Voice
Speaking loudly in public places is often considered inappropriate in America. People here will appreciate it when you keep your voice down in restaurants, on buses, or in other shared spaces. Being mindful of your volume, especially during private chats, goes a long way.
Show Up Unannounced
Believe it or not, spontaneous visits aren’t as welcome in the U.S. as they might be elsewhere. Most Americans prefer to plan their get-togethers well in advance. A quick call or text before visiting friends is the way to go here, as it gives them a chance to tidy up and ensures you’re not interrupting anything important.
Discuss Sensitive Topics Casually
For those who aren’t aware, Americans can be pretty private about certain subjects, especially with new acquaintances. Politics, religion, money, and personal health are often considered sensitive areas. While deep discussions can be great, it’s best to read the room first. Start with lighter topics and let others lead into more serious stuff if they want to.
Underestimate Distances
It’s no surprise that the U.S. is huge, but many visitors don’t realize just how vast it is. Distances between cities can be much greater than you might expect. Planning a road trip from New York to Los Angeles? That’s about 4,000 kilometers and takes days of driving. Do your homework on travel times and distances to avoid any unrealistic expectations for your trip.
No Tipping at Bars
Tipping isn’t just for sit-down restaurants, bartenders also count on tips as a big part of their income. A good rule is to tip $1-2 per drink ordered. This practice ensures good service and is just part of the bar culture here. Skipping the tip might result in slower service or some disapproving looks from staff and other customers.
Don’t Follow Bathroom Etiquette
Many of us don’t think about restroom etiquette, but it’s important in the U.S., and here are some rules to follow. Stall doors often have gaps, but peeking through is not acceptable. Wait your turn outside, and always flush. In busy restrooms, try to be quick and courteous. And please wash your hands thoroughly – skipping this step is seen as unhygienic and disrespectful.
Expect Stores to Be Open 24/7
Did you know that not all stores and services in the U.S. are open 24/7? Some large chains and urban areas offer non-stop services, but it’s not the norm everywhere. Most places close earlier than you might expect, especially in smaller towns, so it’s worth checking operating hours in advance to avoid any disappointment.
Forget to Research Tipping Services
In the U.S., tipping isn’t just for restaurants and bars. People like hotel cleaners, tour guides, and hair stylists often count on tips, too. It’s a good idea to check what’s normal to tip for different services before you travel. This way, you can better plan your budget and show you appreciate good service. Keep in mind that, in many cases, people expect tips as part of their pay, not just as an extra for doing a great job.
Assume Free Refills Everywhere
Free refills on soft drinks are common in many U.S. restaurants, but it’s not a universal policy. Some places, especially fancier ones, might charge for each drink separately. Checking the menu or asking your server about the refill policy is a simple step that can help you avoid any surprises on your bill or awkward moments.
Misunderstand the Concept of States
Each U.S. state has its own unique laws, customs, and sometimes even accents. What’s perfectly fine in one state might not work in another. This applies to everything from alcohol rules to traffic laws. Understanding these differences will help you navigate local customs smoothly.
Don’t Think About American Holidays
When you’re planning a trip to the U.S., keep in mind that certain holidays might affect your travel plans. On special days like Thanksgiving or Christmas, many shops and attractions may have different opening hours or even shut down completely. Also, holidays such as Independence Day come with their own special activities and traditions.
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