14 Common Cultural Shocks Foreigners Experience When Traveling To The US
If you traveled abroad, you surely experienced several cultural shocks that made you reconsider the habits and traditions of your own country. Even though we rarely think of this, this is exactly what happens to thousands of tourists entering our country daily. If you have ever wondered what cultural shocks our fellow Europeans, Asians, and Africans may experience when visiting us, here is a list for you. Below are 14 common shocks people face when traveling to our country.
Tip Alert
One of the most surprising aspects for many newcomers is the tipping culture in the US. Unlike in many countries where service charges are included in the bill, tipping is expected in most service industries in the US. The standard tip is usually some percentage of the total bill, whether at a restaurant, for a taxi ride, or even for a haircut. Failing to tip appropriately can be seen as a sign of poor manners or dissatisfaction with the service.
Portion Shock
If you come from a country with modest food portions, prepare to be amazed by the size of meals in the US. American restaurants are known for their generous portion sizes, often significantly more significant than what you might be used to. The sheer volume of food on your plate can be both a delight and a challenge, as it is easy to overeat or feel overwhelmed.
Friendly Chat
Compared to many other countries, the people in the US tend to be more approachable and welcoming towards strangers. It is common for someone to initiate a pleasant conversation with you while waiting in line or sitting next to you on public transport. While this friendliness can be refreshing, it can also feel intrusive if you are not used to such open social interactions.
Drive-Thru Experience
Americans highly value convenience, as demonstrated by the widespread popularity of drive-thru services. The drive-thru culture is widespread, from fast food and coffee to banking and pharmacy pick-ups. The experience of encountering such services can be truly remarkable, especially if you are from an area where they are uncommon or not available at all.
Casual Wear
Getting dressed up is not a thing in numerous regions of the US, especially in areas that are not major metropolitan areas. It is not uncommon to see people wearing athletic wear, flip-flops, or even pyjamas in public. This relaxed approach to dressing might come as a shock if you’re accustomed to more formal or stylish attire in everyday settings.
Space Boundaries
Americans value personal space and may feel uncomfortable if someone stands too close. This personal space concept varies from culture to culture, but maintaining a reasonable distance during conversations and while waiting in line in the US is generally appreciated. The boundaries can differ depending on the individual relationship, but it’s typically best to maintain a comfortable distance when interacting with others.
Patriot Pride
Patriotism is evident in the US, with the American flag displayed prominently in homes, businesses, and public spaces. National holidays like the Fourth of July are celebrated with great enthusiasm; they are days filled with festivities, parades, fireworks, and community gatherings as people come together to honour the nation’s independence. This level of national pride can be surprising if you are not used to such overt displays of patriotism.
24/7 Convenience
In the US, convenience stores, supermarkets, and even some restaurants are open 24/7. They deliver customers with 24-hour access to their services and products. This round-the-clock availability of goods and services can be both a novelty and a convenience, especially if you come from a country where most businesses close early in the evening and remain closed on Sundays.
Diverse Accents
The US is a melting pot of cultures, and the enormous variety of accents genuinely reflects the rich diversity of people and cultures you will encounter. The delightful tapestry of accents reflects this affluent type of individuals and civilization. From the Southern drawl to the New York twang and the Midwestern lilt, the variety of American accents can be fascinating and challenging to understand.
Health Costs
One of the biggest shocks for many newcomers is the US healthcare system. The US has a predominantly private system, unlike many countries that have universal healthcare. Healthcare can be costly, and navigating insurance policies and medical bills can be daunting. It’s essential to have travel insurance and understand how the system works to avoid unexpected costs.
Car Culture
While major cities like New York, Chicago, and San Francisco have robust public transportation systems, many other parts of the country rely heavily on cars. In suburban and rural areas, public transportation options can be limited or non-existent, making car ownership almost a necessity. This reliance on personal vehicles often leads to longer commutes and higher transportation costs.
Sports Craze
Sports are deeply ingrained in American culture, shaping values and capturing hearts; football, basketball, and baseball are top-rated. Enthusiasm and passion for sports can be seen in the massive stadiums, packed sports bars, and lively game day celebrations. If you’re not a sports fan, this enthusiasm might be surprising, but it can also be a fun way to experience American culture.
Imperial System
Foot, yards, pounds… None of these make sense to most tourists visiting our country. Despite most of the other countries having long adopted the metric system, we still follow the imperial one, making it quite hard for those who were born and raised abroad to understand how long they still need to drive, whether or not they put weight on their trip, and how tall their date is.
No Trains
While the USA has a railway system, it cannot be compared to the European one. When travelling from state to state, most Americans opt for flights or simply drive for hundreds—sometimes thousands—of miles. This may seem absurd to Europeans, who may be used to a much more efficient train system, sometimes connecting even the most secluded villages to the country’s capital.
Visiting the US can be a delightful and eye-opening experience. Understanding the cultural differences beforehand can help you easily navigate your trip and make the most of your time in this diverse and vibrant country. Embrace the unexpected and savour every step of the journey as you discover what makes the US unique.
