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15 Things to Know Before Visiting the United States

If you’re planning to visit the United States allow me to share my travel experience to assist you in that regard. There are a few things you ought to know to make your trip smooth and enjoyable. Now, the weather is as diverse as the accents, so pack appropriately because it can be hot as a jalapeño in Texas and chilly as a snow cone in Alaska. Tipping is customary in restaurants, so be sure to leave around 15-20% for your server.

Speaking of Texas, the portions at diners are as big as the Great State, so bring your appetite along. Cash is king in some places, but most folks prefer plastic, so notify your bank ’bout your travel plans. And lastly, remember, we drive on the right side of the road, so keep your eyes peeled on the road and enjoy the ride! Join me in exploring 15 things to know before visiting the United States.

1.  The US is a Land of Cultural Diversity

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The United States prides itself on being a melting pot of cultures, made up of diverse traditions and customs. As a visitor, you will likely encounter people from all walks of life – varying races, ethnicities, religions, and more. It is important to keep an open mind, practice cultural sensitivity, and embrace this diversity. Americans appreciate when newcomers approach differences with respect and thoughtful curiosity.

Seek to understand, not just tolerate, perspectives and customs that are foreign to you. Discrimination has no place here. Approach conversations with locals to learn about the richness of America’s cultural landscape – the food, music, holidays, values, and day-to-day life that make each community unique. Depart with a greater sense of intercultural appreciation. Understanding and celebrating distinctions across color, creed and background is what strengthens the ties that bind society.

2.  In America Tipping is Expected

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As a visitor, understanding tipping norms is imperative so as not to inadvertently shortchange waiters, hairdressers, cab drivers, and bellboys. At sit-down restaurants, tipping 15-20% of the total bill is considered standard. The same percentage applies to bartenders. For taxis, tip 10-15% of the fare and $2-5 for airport skycaps or hotel bellboys who assist with luggage.

Valet attendants should receive $2-5 when retrieving your car. And at salons or spas, stylist and masseuse tips generally fall between 15-20%. Of course, feel free to tip above 20% for exceptional service. While tipping customs takes adjustment for visitors, American service workers deeply appreciate this extra income, which allows them to earn a living wage.

3. Prepare for America’s Varied Climatic Conditions

Given the vast landscape, the U.S. experiences great variation in climate and weather patterns depending on the region. Do not expect consistency in temperatures or precipitation as you travel about. While southern Florida sees ample sunlight year-round, northern corners of Maine, Washington and Michigan contend with bitterly cold winters complete with mounds of snowfall. The Midwest sees extremes – sweltering humidity in summer and subzero chill in winter. Hawaii enjoys tropical warmth buffered by ocean breezes while the Southwestern desert contends with oven-like heat.

Coastal California is largely temperate, while inland areas bake in the 100s during summer. Mountainous regions tend to be cool and crisp. With such diversity, conduct weather research when packing for any U.S. destination. Bring proper seasonal attire – warm coats, gloves and boots for wintery locales along with breathable, lightweight fabrics for steamy zones. Check average rainfall too, ensuring waterproof outerwear or umbrellas as needed. Prepare to flexibly layer items should fickle weather patterns blow through.

4. This is how the US Healthcare System Works

Understanding America’s complex healthcare system can save international visitors hassle and money while ensuring accidents and emergencies receive prompt, quality treatment. Rules, insurance norms and costs for doctors or hospital visits vary enormously from state to state. As a non-U.S. citizen without the standard insurance coverage held by locals, you will face exorbitant out-of-pocket medical bills should an issue arise unless equipped with comprehensive travel insurance and contingency funds.

This is vital, as charges for even minor treatment may easily exceed thousands of dollars. Know your insurance benefits. Locate nearby medical facilities that accept your specific carrier should an unexpected health situation occur. Keep emergency room contacts and urgent care centers on hand to avoid costly ambulance fees. Bring copies of prescriptions, insurance forms, IDs, and contacts for assistance. Despite high costs, America offers top-notch healthcare. 

5. American cuisine reflects the Diversity of the Country

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American cuisine reflects the diversity of its people and culture with influences from around the world. From hearty comfort foods like barbecue, burgers, and Cajun dishes to delicate pastries, fusion cuisines, farm-to-table seasonal offerings, and innovative molecular gastronomy, there is great variety to experience. Don’t miss trying authentic regional specialties like New England lobster rolls, Chicago deep dish pizza, Nashville hot chicken, Tex-Mex flavors, and more.

The multicultural communities across the country have also contributed flavors from around the globe – be sure to sample Italian pasta, Chinese dim sum, Indian curries, Mexican tacos, sushi and so much more during your stay. With so many culinary delights, it’s an exciting chance to let your taste buds travel too. 

6.  Remember, Sales Tax is Separate from the Displayed Price Tag

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The price on the tag, menu or placard does not reflect the full amount visitors will pay on American goods and services. Unlike some nations, sales tax is not built into listed rates. Instead, varied percentages based on state and municipal districts get tacked on during the final purchase. For example, a $50 meal may ring up as $54.50 after factoring in appropriate sales tax. Similarly, a 5-10% tax applies atop tagged prices at hotels, retail establishments, tourist sites, and entertainment venues.

Do your math ahead when budgeting. Roughly account for an extra 8% beyond tagged costs for decent ballpark figures. Or consult area-specific sales tax charts online to precisely gauge the total due when out shopping or dining. Sales tax proves easy enough to anticipate if you comprehend it’s not included upfront.

7.  Remember Americans  Drive on the Right Side  

The open roads present visitors with boundless freedom for adventure and convenience for self-guided roaming at one’s pace. Before grabbing keys, familiarize yourself fully with localized traffic rules to avoid hefty tickets or accidents. Regulations often fluctuate from state to state – from posted speed limits to usage laws for seat belts, car seats, mobile devices or alcohol. Crossing state lines may suddenly change what constitutes a finable offense so research each destination’s mandates. Study up on right-turn procedures which differ internationally.

Some key universal laws include bans on texting or holding phones while operating vehicles. Hands-free devices are needed in many states if using navigation apps. Also, strict legal limits exist for blood alcohol levels – well below the threshold for impairment or intoxication. If drinking, know your limits and arrange alternate transportation. Lastly, international visitors may legally drive using their homeland license assuming no language barriers for road signs. However, securing an International Driving Permit adds an extra, universally recognized validation to carry. 

8. Use of Public Transportation to Move Around

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Navigating any new town often poses challenges, but public transportation can provide visitors ample options for getting around near and far while reducing rental car costs. Extensive networks exist in busy metropolitan hubs like New York City and Chicago where locals heavily rely on subways, trains and buses for crammed commutes. Meanwhile, towns with sprawling landscapes often offer limited public transit, making rental cars a smarter though pricier choice.

Research each destination’s offerings ahead of time. Consider geography, density and tourism popularity when assessing if trains and buses sufficiently serve the areas you will explore. For quick jaunts between neighborhoods or as airport connectors, public transit provides affordability, efficiency and a channel for absorbing local culture.

9. United States National Parks and Nature Reserves

America is home to 62 extraordinary National Parks and hundreds more stunning natural sites managed for preservation across millions of acres of vibrant ecosystems abounding with diversity. As guests Gamboling amid these treasures, adhere to rules that protect habitats, wildlife, and natural resources for generations to come. Practice Leave No Trace ethics when exploring delicate terrains, taking care not to damage or remove plants, cultural relics or landforms that leave permanent scars. Give a wide berth to wildlife, limiting disturbances to their natural behaviors.

While rules focus on conservation, they need not hamper the enjoyment of beholding America’s resplendent beauty. Partake in ranger-led adventures tailored to minimizing human impact while igniting our sense of wonder in the natural world. When outbound, prepare properly for remote terrain devoid of services so you tread lightly upon the land while drinking in rich rewards.

10.  In Case of Emergency in the US…….

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Before traveling, familiarize yourself with emergency contact information and procedures. Note the emergency services number, 911, which can be dialed free of charge anywhere in the country to request medical, fire, or police assistance. Also identify the contact details and location of your country’s embassy or consulate near your destination, which can provide support to citizens if an emergency arises. Keep copies of your passport, travel documents, and medical insurance information on hand as well. During your stay, remain alert about your surroundings and watch for warning signs.

11.  Familiarize Yourself with American Cultural Norms

Gaining awareness of American cultural tendencies can lead to more positive interactions during your stay. Americans often appreciate direct communication and speaking plainly about needs or concerns. They also value punctuality for social and business engagements, so plan to arrive on time. Allowing adequate personal space during conversations is also essential – an arm’s length distance is generally comfortable.

While Americans can have an informal interactive style, politeness still goes a long way so courtesies like “please” and “thank you” are appreciated. Subtle cues in body language and tone can also vary cross-culturally, so an open and respectful attitude is key. Considering these norms around communication, timeliness, personal boundaries and etiquette can help you adjust and support more meaningful connections as you meet people and navigate different settings in the United States.

12. American Currency and Payment Methods

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The official currency in the United States is the U.S. dollar, issued in paper banknote and coin form in a variety of denominations. While credit cards and debit cards are widely accepted at most larger stores, restaurants and hotels across the country, smaller locally-owned businesses may operate on a cash-only basis. Thus it’s recommended to carry some amount of cash on hand for flexibility, including smaller denominations like $5s, $10s and quarters for items like tips, public transportation, food carts and vending machines.

Traveler’s checks function similarly to cash. Confirm card acceptance and availability of ATMs to take out cash near your lodging or destinations you plan to visit. Being prepared with different payment types helps ensure you can readily and conveniently access goods or services.

13.  One Country many Time Zones

When arranging your travel itinerary and schedule within the United States, carefully consider the time zones covered to avoid conflicts. The continental U.S. observes six time zones, from Eastern Standard Time to Hawaii-Aleutian Standard Time, so departing or arriving flights may advertise varying local times. You may experience significant jet lag adjusting across these zones, especially when coming internationally.

Review the time differences between locations and schedule ample transit time to account for lengthy flights traversing extensive geography. Confirm meeting times in advance and clarify which time zone is being observed to prevent unnecessary hassles. Understanding the far reach of U.S. time zones will help ensure your plans align smoothly with each step.

14. The United States has Stringent Alcohol Laws

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If you choose to purchase or consume alcohol in the United States, be sure to verify and abide by local and state regulations, as laws related to alcohol use, sale times, open container policies and licensing vary substantially nationwide. While some states permit alcohol sales 24 hours a day, others restrict sales to certain hours or days of the week.

The minimum legal drinking age across the country is 21 years, and patrons should carry valid ID and refrain from supplying alcohol to underage individuals. Many states prohibit transporting open containers of alcohol in vehicles. Failure to adhere to regulations could result in alcohol confiscation or citations, so verify guidelines at points of sale or consumption to avoid any issues. Just take care to enjoy alcoholic drinks legally and responsibly. 

15. Beware of United States Security Measures

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In public areas and transportation centers, be prepared to undergo security screening procedures aligned with U.S. safety standards. At airports, strictly follow TSA guidelines regarding prohibited items in carry-on luggage while anticipating thorough screening of your person and property. Arrive well in advance to accommodate bag checks and technology scans. You may also encounter metal detectors or bag searches at entry points of government buildings, museums, sports stadiums or concert venues.

Comply with all instructions from security personnel; failure to cooperate may result in denied entry or additional screening. While these measures may represent unfamiliar or inconvenient hurdles for visitors, they aim to preserve guest safety in heavily populated sites. Maintaining patience and understanding when navigating security checks will ease the process.

Embarking on a journey to the United States is a thrilling prospect, but being well-prepared is essential. From understanding the diverse culture the 15 things highlighted in this article serve as a comprehensive guide for visitors. By familiarizing themselves with the local customs, legal requirements, and practical tips, travelers can enhance their stay and create lasting memories in this vast and diverse country. Whether it’s exploring iconic landmarks, immersing in local traditions, or embracing the unique charm of each region, armed with this knowledge, visitors can confidently navigate the intricacies of the United States and make the most of their unforgettable journey.