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The beautiful thing about traveling is that it allows you to experience different cultures and learn about other ways of life. However, this wonderful opportunity comes with the responsibility to respect and appreciate the customs of the people who are hosting you.
So when a person who goes on the internet by the nickname FarmSuch5021 made a post on the subreddit 'Ask An American,' saying, "What should a foreigner absolutely not do when visiting the USA?" locals immediately started sending in their suggestions.
Considering that the United States is the third most-visited country in the world and that the travel industry directly employs 8 million Americans, it's safe to say that the discussion is relevant to both tourists and the economic well-being of the nation.
This post may include affiliate links.
#1
Don't act disrespectful around memorials. I sometimes see tourists treating memorials like tourist attractions, they're not. They aren't made to entertain tourists, they're made to memorialize those lost. Be quiet, don't mess around, certainly don't litter, and generally treat the space like it was to remember someone in your family.
SCamp 2 years ago
Yep, upvote on this X 1000. Disrespect at solemn memorials is a no go. Seeing people doing ‘look at me!’ Selfies at places like Dachau is a not on
Nikki Gross 2 years ago
The people taking selfies and posing at the Holocaust sites and museums and the 9/11 and the OKC Murrah Memorial and museum makes me want to throat punch people, especially those idiotic "influencers" looking for likes. I live in Oklahoma, close to the bombing site and know people that died that day, so that is something I take very personally.
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AR 2 years ago
This applies to ALL tourists in ALL countries. Treat sacred spaces like memorials or former camps with seriousness and respect. Letting your kids run around with noisy toy guns at Dachau is not okay (something I witnessed personally).
Stannous Flouride 2 years ago
I just came back from Japan where one of the places I visited was the Hiroshima Peace Memorial. I was infuriated by the number of people taking selfies and smiling with their thumbs up, as if seeing the place where thousands of civilians were incinerated in an instant was some sort of accomplishment. It contrasted dramatically with my visit to the USS Arizona Memorial the first time I went to Oahu. On the boat over there were many young Japanese tourists chatting and laughing and generally acting their age. But the moment the ferry docked at Memorial they were ALL silent or speaking softly. Some faced the wall with the victims' names and bowed. Others took pictures (but no selfies and no smiles) but all showed greater respect than some of my fellow Americans there. A few minutes after the ferry departed Ford Island they were back to their carefree selves. Which is how it should be.
Alecto76 2 years ago
We did not have the same experience at the USS Arizona. The laughing and carrying on by Japanese tourists did not stop. I would be mortified at any place where people died, like Hiroshima, if people were acing like that.
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GlixDrap 2 years ago
Google Tyne Cot (in Belgium). I went there on a winters day years ago - will never forget. Show respect wherever in the world.
Auntriarch 2 years ago
We went to Dud Corner. Didn't talk much on the way back
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Cyber Returns 2 years ago
I respect the memorials in any country that commemorate people who died so that we can be free from tyranny. These people took a bullet for someone they will never meet so their generations can enjoy the freedoms that they enjoy now. Never disrespect a memorial and respect the memory by making sure no one takes away the freedoms they fought for
Zedrapazia 2 years ago
Generally any memorial in any country. May it be a holocaust memorial, the unknown soldier, or whatever else, this is no place to TikTok dance on
Gavin Johnson 2 years ago
Memorial sites all around the world ought to command respect. It may not be your family laid there or being memorialised there but right behind you there’s someone who may be grieving or remembering their loved ones. It ain’t difficult is it? Show respect to every site eh?
David 2 years ago
I agree with the respect part but the are definitely tourist attractions and that is intentional. I think you mean they are not the Disneyland / Splash Mountain kind. But many thousands / millions of people visit the Viet Nam Memorial (there is even a traveling version), the Lincoln Memorial, Mt. Rushmore and so on. Our government wants tourists to visit them because it helps people get educated / remember and in some cases helps fund the upkeep of the memorial. But yes to not being a douchebag. Same goes when you visit the memorials in other countries of course.
RELATED:
#2
Don't eat meals at Burger King and gas stations for a week, then go home and claim American food is s****y.
AR 2 years ago
Avoid a lot of well known fast food because it sucks in the US (looking at McDonald's and Burger King). And don't trust food like sandwiches from most gas stations unless it's a Wawa.
Suutashi 2 years ago
Or a Twice Daily. The food from there is actually pretty good.
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Cyber Returns 2 years ago
If I go to America then I'm avoiding the fast food places. We have plenty of the exact same places here in the UK and would rather eat something unprocessed in America because, well, lets face it... Red 50? Look it up. What it does, where it's used and where it is banned. I would rather try places where they make the food from fresh ingredients. Bev would love to try an original recipe Key Lime Pie from Florida and I would love to try a freshly made Creole Jambalaya. I hear the Chicago Style Pizza is something to be admired too
Meghan Wood 2 years ago
You need to go to New Orleans. It’s the best food the US has to offer, by far.
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David 2 years ago
LOL so true. That's like going to the Philippines and only eating at Jolliebees. :) (which one might argue is better than BK)
ShellsBells 2 years ago
They recently built one in Pinellas Park, FL. I have been meaning to try it, I'll actually be in the area next week, so I just might 😃
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Redmagesyndrome 2 years ago
I'd also point out that different types of food are better in different parts of the US. If you're certain parts of Texas your better off trying Mexican food or BBQ but if you're in New Orleans, you might want to try some Gumbo or Soulfood.
Gavin Johnson 2 years ago
Do your homework, talk to the staff at your hotel, ask them where their favourites are. You’ll discover awesome food, great atmospheres and the best service / staff. You wouldn’t recommend your local McDs would you? They serve a purpose but when you are away it’s all about discovery!
Nikki Gross 2 years ago
It actually does happen a lot more often then you would think. At my former job we had visitors from all over the world and making sure that they ate at restaurants and not just fast food places was a big headache. Money was not an issue, so it wasn't about being on a tight budget and only being able to afford BK or McDonald's.
Binny Tutera 2 years ago
If you’re in the south, there are a LOT of great “gas station” restaurants- mostly BBQ.
Meghan Wood 2 years ago
I ate at 7-11 regularly in Japan and it was pretty tasty.
Load More Replies... #3
Don't antagonize the wildlife. For their sake, and yours. Some wild North American animals (alligators, bison, etc) can straight up end your a*s if you p**s them off. And that selfie with the cute raccoon is not worth the rabies shots.
Jake B 2 years ago
You’d be cranky too if you had to swim as far as they did.
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Paul Pienkowski 2 years ago
Wolves are not cute puppies, either. Don't touch the puppies if you don't want to see why Mama Wolf is a term.
Magpie 2 years ago
Same with mountain lion cubs. Those mamas are unapologetically aggressive and do not care if you unknowingly walked past their cubs. Even if you can't see the cubs, if you are too close, they will come at you.
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SkyBlueandBlack 2 years ago
Seriously. That raccoon WILL f**k you up even if it's healthy. And that poor squirrel that fell out of the tree twitching could easily be dying of bubonic plague; don't get near it. Coyotes are NOT puppers. And it's amazing how far skunks can spray -- and they're great at aiming.
Anaïs Grobin 2 years ago
Coyotes are a serious problem where I live. So are black bears and moose, both of which can kill and have killed.
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oddly_informed_raven 2 years ago
a note about bison-repeat after me: DO NOT PET THE FUZZY COWS.
Susan Reid Smith 2 years ago
Don't pet any of the cows! I figure that cattle on the open range are wild animals too. They get right of way. All animals do for us.
Load More Replies... AR 2 years ago
I can't stress this enough: Wild animals are dangerous in the US. I know in much of Europe there aren't apex predators left, but they exist here. Do NOT go near them, avoid big herbivores like bison, and be very careful with small critters like raccoons because of rabies. There's even the small chance of bubonic plague in some areas of the west. Also, USE BUG SPRAY. Ticks with Lyme Disease are real as well as Lone Star Ticks whose bite can make you allergic to red meat. And of course watch out for poisonous snakes and spiders.
SkyBlueandBlack 2 years ago
Not just rabies, either. In 2015 Yosemite had an outbreak of plague. As in bubonic. There are a handful of cases each year. Hantavirus is another fun one; that's an airborne virus spread by rodent droppings. Mortality rate is around 80%, IIRC, like ebola, but luckily very rare. Oh, and we've had a couple locally transmitted cases of dengue recently in Southern California, so get bug spray if you're coming here.
Load More Replies... Meghan Wood 2 years ago
Could we not locate a photo of an actual bison with someone about to get yeeted?? Much more appropriate and happens a few times a year. I don’t know why people get close… they are absolutely terrifying.
lily jones 2 years ago
True, I'm thinking cassowary but emus could probably also do some damage
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William Teach 2 years ago
Bunch of idiots were hugging a young bear in the NC mountains, well, that road and area is now shutdown for a few weeks. And they were lucky that momma bear did not show up
#4
Don't go to the upper Midwest during winter, unless you are Russian or Nordic, you are not prepared for that degree of cold.
Don't go to the Southwest in summer.
Definitely do not rent a minivan and try you luck cross country in death valley. I'm looking at you Germans.
that one guy 2 years ago
In St Louis our temperatures went from below freezing to about 26.6C (80F) in a day. Its really fun living here. St louis is at the perfect spot where cold air from Canada and warm air from Mexico collide, causing crazy weather.
Holly Marley 2 years ago (edited)
The comment about the Germans is in reference to a very sad situation in 1996 when a german family was trying to save time to get from Death Valley to Yosemite by taking dirt roads and jeep-trails. Their minivan got stuck in sand in a very desolate spot, they apparently tried to walk out, and their bodies weren't found for 12 years.
Catherine 2 years ago
Yep. Michigander here. Our winters are no joke. Please don't try to drive in snow or ice if you haven't ever done so before.
SkyBlueandBlack 2 years ago
RIGHT? The clue is in the name, people. Y'know where Californians don't go in the summer? Death effing Valley! It doesn't just GET hot; it's around 50C MOST OF THE SUMMER. The temps at night in the summer are in the high 30s. If you're not acclimated, you will be suffering way too much to enjoy it. I still don't know what that German family was thinking.
Ylime 2 years ago
"Don't go to the upper Midwest during winter, unless you are Russian or Nordic..." What about us Canadians?
geezeronthehill 2 years ago
Most Canadians live south of the 45th parallel. Warmer there than the northern tier of the prairie states. Folks from Alberta know the drill.
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David 2 years ago (edited)
This is good advice for Americans as well. When I worked IT, a customer in North Dakota told me a family moved there from (some warmer state) during the summer, then were shocked when winter came because they didn't do their homework. He said they didn't last a year - moved back out of state.
Magpie 2 years ago
We were stationed in Maine when I was a kid (Army brat), but we came directly from Germany. The first winter was still brutal. The following summer a family got transferred to Maine from Puerto Rico. Those kids wore long pants and jackets that first summer and were absolutely miserable in the winter (dad had been stationed in PR for a long time, married a PR woman, and had kids; those kids had never been further north than southern Florida). And winter in Maine lasts a long time (there's only 2 seasons in Maine: winter and black fly).
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Roy Briggs 2 years ago
F**k the upper Midwest, don't even play with Montana or the Dakotas, wind-chill alone will kill you.
AR 2 years ago
Avoid the northern states in winter and the southern states in summer. Learn what to do during a tornado, watch out for hurricanes, prepare for insane humidity in the southeast and stay hydrated in the southwest. Not climate related, but be careful to acclimate to high altitudes and be prepared for how intense the sun can be.
Meghan Wood 2 years ago
Someone died in Death Valley this year. The temperature was 126F, and it appeared his air conditioning went out part way through the drive. He rolled down the windows, and died.
#5
Don’t apologize for not having perfect English! I love hearing people people speak English when it’s not their first language, and you probably speak it better than a lot of native speakers. A lot of Americans are very friendly and love to help, so we wouldn’t have any problem trying to figure out what you’re talking about even if it’s not perfectly clear.
I speak some French and some Spanish and I guarantee that almost anyone who comes here speaking English as their second or third language is doing way better than I am at either of those languages, so be proud of your English!
AR 2 years ago
The vast majority of Americans have no problems with foreign tourists. If you do experience jerks, know that they are the minority, especially in bigger cities. And please don't judge us too harshly if an American says or asks something stupid about where you're from. Our educational system is in crisis...
Gavin Johnson 2 years ago
Jerks are available in every colour and creed. 😀 As a Brit I loved my three weeks in the U.S., plenty of folks said stuff about my accent, 99% were funny or fascinating, the 1% I’ve already forgotten about!
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SCamp 2 years ago
I’ll be honest with you and say I and my family had a hard time being understood in the US with our Aussie accents and we have what would be described here as mild Aussie accents. No, I didn’t say ‘choise’ I said do you have any cheese?!
BoredPossum 2 years ago
Well, aussie English is difficult. It took me a month to start understanding what my colleagues were saying.
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no (she/them/gremlin) 2 years ago
Ngl if you have English as a second language or smt, ur probably speaking better (and politer) than others… trust me we have some rlly dumb ones in murica.
Michael Largey 2 years ago
If we Americans were insistent on perfect English, we'd have stayed part of the British Empire.
R Dennis 2 years ago
I always tell tourists "Your English is better than my (Insert native language)." Fun story (though a little sad in the food choice)... I was on a work trip in Chicago and I overhear a family speaking French and they wanted to go to Wendy's. They come up to me and are asking in very broken English where it is. I respond in French (though not perfect) that I don't know, but I will ask a worker nearby. The look on the dad's face was priceless. Anyway, there wasn't one nearby and I gave them directions to the nearest one, also in my best high school/college French.
#6
Don't f$&k with cats. We love our cats. Even the stray ones.
David 2 years ago
If you are the kind of douche that likes to torment animals, please go torment our bison. They are up for it and will return the favor.
Rhinocersauce 2 years ago
Those poor bison need a break! They're correcting idiots on a weekly basis.
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Alecto76 2 years ago
Based upon my observation of the BP community, no matter what country/background, I would not be worried about my cats.
Elwood Schwartz (it/that) 2 years ago
That may be so, but keep your cats away from children/teenagers. They are evil and will probably torture and murder it for fun.
Load More Replies... Michael Largey 2 years ago
Never mind the owners. The cats will take you out themselves if you f**k with them.
keyboardtek 2 years ago
The stray cats are the top killer of wild birds. Please keep your cats indoors.
#7
Do not touch people just because you've never seen that race of people before. Do not rub their skin, don't touch their hair, don't poke them, all of this without permission that is. Definitely don't take pictures of people without their permission or stand next to them to get a picture without asking them. People of a different race aren't zoo animals and shouldn't be treated that way regardless of your lack of exposure to them.
Eric Brown 2 years ago
Most stereotypically it's Asian people that do this.
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SkyBlueandBlack 2 years ago
I'd also like to add that homeless people are also not zoo animals. Skid Row is not a zoo.
CatLady 2 years ago
So much this. If you are there, bring a box of sandwiches or cookies to give out, sit down next to them, talk to them, treat them like human beings, because they are.
Load More Replies... Jac Sp 2 years ago
Hard agree on this. My overriding memory of going to Tunisia when I was 2 years old is people stroking my head and face. I had white blonde hair when I was little and very pale skin. It happened again more recently also in North Africa, (Morocco this time) but defo not as bad as when I was a child. I don't like people touching my face at the best of times so it freaked me out.
Nikki Gross 2 years ago
At the lab that I worked in we would have visitors from all over the world on a regular basis. I'm 5'3", have very pale skin with lots of freckles, dark brown hair and blue eyes, so it was most commonly occurred with our Asian and some of the visitors from places like Ghana that always wanted to take pictures. They were fascinated with my pale skin, freckles and blue eyes for some reason and I'm not really sure what was so unique about them. But yes, random pictures did happen.
#8
Something that I hear is common in Asia but is a huge no-no here; is commenting on another persons weight or appearance. In most circles this is highly frowned upon in the US.
Also, people in the US like having their own personal space. So when you’re standing in line for something don’t get right up on somebody. Keep enough distance while not too far that people will think you aren’t standing in line.
MayaGeGe 2 years ago
So my advice would be 1) Don't be a d*ck (obviously) 2) If you really want to be one, and are visiting a very cosmopolitan US city like NYC, L.A , expect at least someone in your surroundings to understand the language you're speaking.
Tabitha 2 years ago
And 3) If you decide to be a d**k, expect to pay consequences for it. Like being bodily thrown out of the store, restaurant, or wherever.
Load More Replies... David 2 years ago (edited)
Two ladies in a PI laundromat type place where staring at my eyes. I have hazel eyes and Filipinos do not. One lady says to me, "You're cute! You're fat but you're cute!" I laughed. I don't think she was hitting on me because she was way younger than me. Just being blunt in an Asian kind of way. I wasn't offended because I already knew I was fat so the cute part was just a bonus. But that is not something I would say to a stranger in the USA.
Cyber Returns 2 years ago
Pretty much the same in the UK. Call someone fat and you can get laid out in one punch and respect the queueing system while letting the person in front have breathing space (if your going to get THAT close then wear a condom buddy) and no queue jumping
MayaGeGe 2 years ago
When I was a kid I made a 'mean spirited' comment about a couple in the elevator to the top of Rockefeller center, in French. Obviously they happened to be a French couple. Dude was laughing but, man, that was a looooong ride for me to the top. Taught me a good lesson about behaving in public.
Lara Verne 2 years ago
I think that commenting on someone's weight or appearance is bad idea, no matter where you are.
Xenia Harley 2 years ago
When I taught young children, I used to tell them an arm length away from other people, as children sometimes have trouble with personal space, and how far to be from other people.
JayWantsACat 2 years ago
I second the personal space. The line's not gonna move faster by you breathing on the back of my neck. Also, stand to the (usually) right side of escalators so people can walk past.
Flora Wolfe 2 years ago
I've literally seen people fight due to one standing too close and refusing to back up or backing up then getting back in their personal space. If I can touch you, you are too close. The weight thing is pretty much cultural. A lot of Asian countries are full of people who aren't obese while the USA is loaded with obese people. I feel sorry for obese people because it's so difficult to find decent food in much of the USA, especially in the southeast where everything is deep fried it seems.
Breadcrumb. 2 years ago
Asian weight comments are wild and the older the woman commenting the more ruthless. My friends boss who she loved like a mother..would grab her belly fat and say "when you find husband?!"
#9
Don't go off trail when hiking or backpacking. Going off trail contributes to the degradation and erosion of natural spaces. We have a lot of wilderness in the states and we'd like to keep it wild and pristine
Mike Fitzpatrick 2 years ago
Not to mention the possibility of getting lost and causing a headache for first responders having to be deployed to find and rescue people leaving the trail.
SkyBlueandBlack 2 years ago
And those searches sometimes taking months. Yes, even if you go missing in the mountains near Los Angeles. Hell, sometimes it takes YEARS to find lost hikers, even famous ones.
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Noname 2 years ago
And we have poison ivy in North America (US/Canada) Learn how to identify it! I've met a few French who went camping in upstate NY and got a mysterious rash that took weeks to heal, and their Dr and pharmacist back in France didn't know how to treat it because poison ivy doesn't exist in Europe.
BJ Hage 2 years ago
Leaves of three? Let it be. Hairy rope? Don't be a dope. ( Poison ivy has three leaves and it can also grow up on trees as thick, heavy, fuzzy vines that may or may not have leaves )
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Spittnimage 2 years ago
If you get lost answer your phone even if you don't know the person calling, it could be search and rescue.
lawrence Andrew 2 years ago
Reminds me of a little boy in Utah that got lost for a couple days. Every time he saw a searcher calling his name he hid because he wasn't supposed to talk to strangers.
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Shaunn Munn 2 years ago
And America's Midwest is a haven for poison ivy and poison oak. Leaves of three - leave it be!
#10
Don’t try to bribe a cop or public official.
Karri Berkowitz 2 years ago
I asked one if he was joking. He said "do u think I'm here for ur entertainment" so of course I replied with "idk r u going to start stripping". No sense of humor. My car was searched.
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Nonna_SoF 2 years ago
Unless you do it by contributions to their PACs then you can bribe the politicians all you want.
David 2 years ago
This sounds obvious but I've been to countries where bribing cops / officials was fairly routine. I never had to do it but I've heard stories. Not all cops of course but common in some places. A shipmate got ''arrested' in PI for some BS thing he didn't do. Back at the station they are insisting he pays a 'fine' and they will let him go. Finally he says, 'Okay, but I want a receipt to prove I paid it". the did not want a paper trail so ended letting him go without the 'fine'. A person from some place like that might think offering a bribe was expected and not something likely to get them charged with another crime.
AR 2 years ago
Cops are no joke in the US for two reasons: almost all are on power trips and they have guns.
Michael Fernandez 2 years ago
Whereas in Egypt you’re expected (practically required) to bribe cops.
Steve Hall 2 years ago
Don't bother the police, they are working. They are not there to give directions or to be a travel guide.
Boris Long-Johnson 2 years ago
They’re there to serve the public surely (I know they’re not but they claim to be) surely asking for directions etc fall under that?
Load More Replies... #11
I would say if you come to the US, you should come here with the understanding that from the age of 4 or 5 we are taught (indoctrinated) nationalism. The American Flag is in the front of every classroom and we say a pledge to it every day. I knew the Pledge before I knew how to spell my name.
That being said, coming here and striking up a conversation with the average American about all the reasons *YOU* think the US is a mistake or failing, ect, ect, is just going to make you look like an a*****e. No matter how informed you believe you are about our politics, you don't actually live here, you don't understand the nuances. A lot of foreigners who try to lecture me about American Politics don't even really grasp how big the US is.
Secondly, stop berating Americans about not traveling outside the US. Again the US is MASSIVE. Every state is not the same, we may all generally speak the same language, but it is not the same dialect. Each state can be VASTLY different from the next state. Every state has their own culture, thair own laws.
Also, we don't get federal mandated holidays. Most of us work paycheck to paycheck and if we miss a day of work due to illness, we miss a day of pay. Our minimum wage hasn't been risen since 2009 and the cost of living has gone up over 23%, so the very idea of traveling out of the country is at best a once in a lifetime opportunity for the majority of us and at worst a pipe dream.
Nope 2 years ago (edited)
To the 1st (very long) point: Just think of it like your family....you can talk s*** about them all day, but if someone else does, it's on.
Rostit. . 2 years ago
unless they are actively helping change the situation their input is not wanted.
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Russell Rieckenberg 2 years ago
How did the abbreviation "ect" suddenly become so common? It's "etc" people! It's short for "etcetera" , not "ectetera. "
Vix Spiderthrust 2 years ago
Because people who don't read books say "ecksetra", not "et cetera".
Load More Replies... R Dennis 2 years ago
Traveling internationally for many countries is a few hundred dollars... For me and my wife to go to Mexico (next country south) is a couple thousand. Our first trip to Europe (England, France, Iceland) was done relatively cheaply and was $8000... that isn't money most people I know can afford.
jdtimid123 2 years ago
Even just state to state is in the thousands depending on the state.
Load More Replies... Kelly Scott 2 years ago
Besides, when you tell us how bad the US is, a lot of us would have to agree with you and to be honest, that hurts to say it. So please, if you have to tell us we suck, do it gently.
Cyber Returns 2 years ago
If I visit American my main interests would not be politics, healthcare, gun control etc. The questions I would ask would be about good places to eat, drink, museums, recreational areas, fun spots, the closest toilet etc. Also I would make sure I'm not doing anything wrong that would get me into trouble. I would also ask what funny/strange obscure laws they have because they can be funny at times like it being illegal to walk around with an ice-cream cone in your back pocket (Alabama)
Cjo 2 years ago (edited)
I completely disagree with the statement that we are (indoctrinated). Yeah, I learned the pledge, well sort of sort of like most Americans know that national anthem, the first couple of words (you say them and then mumble the rest). I don't even remember having to say it past elementary school. And how that one thing is indoctrination I don't get it. Proud to be an American, of course, but I bet that is true of most countries until you grow up and learn that none of the leaders are that great.
MayaGeGe 2 years ago
Why would a tourist berate a random US citizen for not traveling ? I don't even understand the context here
Cjo 2 years ago
This perception has been posted quite a bit, especially in bored panda. The thinking is that because the average American doesn't have a passport or travel to other countries they must lack contact with people from other cultures and as such are more narrow minded than people in other countries that travel to other countries. What this misses is that America is not only very vast it has people in it from almost every nationality/culture. And as such just traveling in the US is probably equal or more than traveling to a limited number of countries that happen to be close by.
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Ervin Conn 2 years ago
To put the size in context - Get in your car and drive 40 hours straight (east or west). In the US it is possible you have not left the country. If you angle from Seattle to Miami it is 48 hours. The time zone could have have changed 3 times. That is like driving from Lisbon Portugal to Moscow Russia.
Alex Boyd 2 years ago
The average American is a lot more likely to want to hear what you liked or found interesting in your visit to our country. Even if we agree with you about what's wrong with the US, it isn't a good way to strike up a conversation with a local. (Of course, Americans visiting other countries should keep the same point in mind.)
Zacch Eckart 2 years ago
We are not indoctrinated by pledging to the flag. Other countries, like Mexico, have very long , very vigorous pledges to their country and state flags. Nothing wrong with patriotism.
#12
Do not bring up politics. I know you guys hear about our politics a lot, but bringing up politics in social situations can be seen as impolite and/or socially awkward.
Nope 2 years ago
There is nothing more divisive than politics in the US. If you want a 50/50 shot at making an instant enemy, express a political stance
The Darkest Timeline 2 years ago
You don’t even have to express a stance; just mention a politician and someone within earshot will snort or laugh or get angry. US politics are capital T toxic right now.
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Trisec Tebeakesse 2 years ago
We are so divided right now, you could actually start a fight, or get seriously hurt just by doing so.
eyaggelos roxamis 2 years ago (edited)
I don't get that one. Politics in every country is the one thing that affects our everyday life more than anything. That is what democracy is all about. Talking about it and taking the correct decision when you have the chance. Not talking about it is just a way passive citizens without knowledge are produced.
MayaGeGe 2 years ago
I might be wrong (U.S folks, please feel to correct or comment) but maybe bi-partisanship makes the debate a bit more tense ? While in some EU countries for instance (or elsewhere), people often switch from a party to another as elections pass and don't get too much attached to a party within the wide spectrum. And most parties share some principles (even far right and far left have quite some policies in common where I live), so you're less likely to trigger some strong reaction.
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Mamza Paulse 2 years ago (edited)
When I the us remember don’t talk abt grapes G guns R religion A abortion P politics E equality ( racial) S sexuality
intermezzono1 2 years ago
I wonder why though. i know that there is one corner that does not accept people who vote for the other one bit and even cut out people off their life if they know they vote for them, but isnt this really really intolerant, and the opposite of freedom, freedom of speech and thought? this is so ignorant
Anya Beboop 2 years ago
The media and social media in general do a ton of fearmongering and dividing here and it really got to people during the 2016 election. It hasn't stopped and the engagement of all the discourse keeps social media thriving.
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Joseph Limbrick 2 years ago
I can imagine Americans to be very passionate about politics. To be fair talking politics and religion in most cultures is a sure fire way to get into an argument .!!
#13
Don't f**k around with off-limits areas especially in nature parks and historical places.
And don't take all the crab legs from the buffet tables.
Cyber Returns 2 years ago
I feel the last one is for visitors from Asian countries as I have been to places here in the UK and saw some Asian families that are visiting the UK just grab the whole 5kg platter of king prawns and take it to the table with a look of determination reserved for soldiers on a suicide mission before being told off by the family they are visiting
Carlos Moreno 2 years ago
This Isa must, more in states with less gun regulations like florida. You will be shot if trespassing.
SkyBlueandBlack 2 years ago
You don't even need to be trespassing in Florida.
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Stevo 2 years ago
*Especially* in the South/West... I guarantee they are allowed to shoot you. Look for purple fence posts/gates... then turn around and get the hell out of there. Rednecks sometimes have guns on the off-chance that someone will be stupid enough to trespass and make their day more entertaining.
#14
Don't smoke in public buildings; this is illegal. Don't smoke in someone's house, apartment, or condo without asking for permission; this isn't illegal, but it's still extremely rude.
MayaGeGe 2 years ago
Not sure who he/she is targeting with this one. Isn't it already the case in most countries ?
AR 2 years ago
You'd be surprised. Smoking is still pretty common. Even in Germany, where the IKEA I went to had a closed in smoking section.
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Drew Betts 2 years ago
extremely rude is a massive understatement. Can you imagine a guest just lighting a cigarette in your living room!?
Michael Largey 2 years ago
Don't do anything physically dangerous in the US,. Our health system will not be your friend.
martymcmatrix 2 years ago
In the 1950's you got a side eye if you were caught not smoking anywhere inside a hospital...
K-Dawn Bennett 1 year ago
I'm a smoker so if you visit, smoke 'em if you got 'em. Most will ask me first if it's their first time visiting.
#15
Do not try to barter / haggle with retail stores (or anywhere else for that matter). It comes off as rude unless you're at a garage sale or are buying a lot of items. Doing so at a small store might be ok but definitely don't do so at a place like Walmart and expect prices to be lowered.
Drew Betts 2 years ago
Same thing here in Canada. It would be seen as aggressive and confrontational.
General Anaesthesia 2 years ago
That's where the "For your convenience, our prices have been pre-haggled" sign comes in handy.
SkyBlueandBlack 2 years ago
As a former Payless employee, don't be surprised if you are mocked for trying to haggle, especially if you keep trying after I roll my eyes and say no the first time.
Nice Beast Ludo 2 years ago
Oh God I'd love to see the reactions of Walmart workers to someone trying to haggle prices. I would be so confused
Shaunn Munn 2 years ago
If you try to haggle at a garage sale, don't be offended if the homeowner refuses. Few places accept haggling. It's culturally offensive to many.
#16
Don't try to see multiple geographically distant attractions in a short period of time. Look up travel times. You'd be surprised how many people visit New York City for a week thinking they can swing by Chicago and the Grand Canyon. Or even Boston and Philadelphia. Make sure you do your research. Anything further than 4ish hours by car is a day trip in and of itself.
Even if it is technically possible, I know I wouldn't want to spend an entire vacation bouncing from place to place with no time budgeted to actually *enjoy* those places. Don't make your vacation a "Things to See" checklist. Take time to enjoy the place you're visiting (that good travel advice in general, though).
Downunderdude 2 years ago
Once met a tourist (won't say what nationality) who wanted to visit the Sydney Opera House and the Great Barrier Reef - in a weekend. Dude! They are 1,000 miles apart!
Holly Marley 2 years ago
I once worked at a hotel in Jackson Wyo, where a couple from Britain kept calling to put their reservation off for a day. After the third day the desk clerk asked if everything was alright. The caller said they were fine but "we greatly underestimated the size of your country."
Gavin Johnson 2 years ago
Yeah, Britain can be driven top to bottom in 16 hours at a push, I’ve done it in 20 sharing the driving with a mate. Some folk can’t comprehend the scale of the U.S., or read a map! I love driving but even I’d rather see a smaller area and see it at a holiday pace rather than try are tick places that are far apart. If I win the lottery I am renting a big RV and enjoying a few months bouncing around the U.S., my Grandparents lived in North Texas for a bit in the 70s and I’d love to follow the drive they did from there up to and through the Rocky Mountains.
Load More Replies... SeaLouse 2 years ago
What? You can't see San Francisco, ride the cable cars, visit Alcatraz, hike Half Dome in Yosemite, camp, then drive down Hwy 1 along the coast to Hollywood, go to Disneyland, then swing over to the Grand Canyon, see the desert, visit the sights along the way on a road trip to Florida, Key West, Miami, the theme parks etc. then you drive up to New York, maybe a little side trip to Nashville, Memphis, go check out Graceland. Back to New York. You've always wanted to see the Big Apple and Manhattan. You then chill out a bit, take a ferry out to Martha's Vineyard, maybe Boston, then visit Niagara Falls and the Great Lakes. Bump it up a notch and go clubbing in Chicago. Next day you've got to see the plains on your way out to Mount Rushmore! Funnest trip of your life, nothing would even come close in comparison. End your stay in Seattle and the Pacific Northwest. Go see Pikes Place Market and the first Starbucks, maybe a quick little detour to Vancouver, it's literally right there!
SeaLouse 2 years ago
On your last day you should go up the Space Needle if you want to get higher, just make sure to leave plenty of time to deliver back your rental car in San Francisco and time to board your flight back home. The drive from Seattle is at least ten hours! This would be a very interesting and active itinerary, but I think it could easily be done in about a week. You just need to do the math.
Load More Replies... SkyBlueandBlack 2 years ago
Just the people who fly into LAX and expect to catch an Uber and have dinner in San Francisco, then go to Yosemite the next day and Disneyland the day after that... like, dude, no car can go that fast. Look at a map, please!
Teri Patrick 2 years ago
If you’re visiting Phoenix or anywhere in that area between May and September, for the love of God, DON’T go on a hike on any of our mountains or into any of our wilderness areas. People come here and think they can just go hiking for a coupon hours but they don’t know the terrain, the trails, or how much water you’ll need for this activity in the Sonoran Desert. I can’t tell you how many people die on a “simple hike.” JUST DON’T DO IT!
AR 2 years ago
The US is not like Europe. It is much, much bigger. It took almost 5 hours to go from Colorado Springs, Colorado, to the border with New Mexico. It can take 3 days to cross Texas depending on where you go. Orlando is 6 hours from the northern border of Florida. And so on. You might get away from seeing a bunch of things in the New England/Washington DC/Philadelphia area in a few days, but the rest of the country is very spread out. And we don't have good cross country trains.
BTDubs 2 years ago
Do you mean a country on the European continent, or that the USA is bigger than Europe?
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MezzoPiano 2 years ago
Yes to this. However big you think the US is, it's bigger. It takes nine hours (without stops) to drive from one end of my state to the other, and it's not even one of the biggest states.
#17
Don’t scream at or kick/strike/cause any harm to dogs. Dog rabies isn’t a thing here and you won’t get diseases if they come up to you. However, if you kick a dog you’re going to instantly become a horrible villain and it’s going to be next to impossible to redeem yourself. If you’re staying with a host family and you’re afraid of dogs tell them ahead of time so they can prepare accordingly. That being said in the extremely unlikely situation that you get attacked by a dog that’s escaped its yard then by all means defend yourself. If you have absolutely no dog experience I’d do some research on dog body language and posture so you learn what aggressive behavior looks like and what attention seeking behavior is.
Tabitha 2 years ago
And I will kick your a*s A LOT harder than you kicked the dog.
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Isaac Nemo 2 years ago
Kicking a dog without provocation is a crime in most (if not all) of the US and kicking your a*s in response is legal in many (should be all) of the US. I suspect more people would overlook you kicking them than an innocent animal here.
Bremusa4u 2 years ago
As the post mentioned, rabbies in dogs isn't much of an issue in the USA. However, there are many countries where straight pack of dogs are a common sight and people have grown afraid of them.
Load More Replies... BoredPossum 2 years ago
Anyone harming animals could just stop travelling. You aren't welcome anywhere, probably not even back home.
Bob Brooce 2 years ago
My dogs don't run loose, but if you were to kick one of them you're not likely to go home to wherever you're visiting from.
Rhinocersauce 2 years ago
Dog Rabies IS a thing here, just less prevalent than some other countries due to strict vaccination laws. Rabies is endemic in wildlife in the US. There is a reporting system for (detected) domestic animal cases and the info is pretty easy to access. Don't kick dogs because it makes you a bad person. Stay away from bats, raccoons, foxes and any animal behaving erratically because they can make you rabid.
#18
Don’t throw your used toilet paper in the garbage can. Please throw it in the toilet.
I was a custodian at a theme park and the amount of tourists who threw their poopy toilet paper in the trash can in the stall was unreal.
Downunderdude 2 years ago
In Australia, we rinse it and hang it on the towel rail to dry. Recycle, people!
David 2 years ago
Some countries have a lot of s**t plumbing (pun intended). I have been in a modern looking restaurant but in the bathroom they had a sign asking you to please not flush the toilet paper. Putting it in the trash can is a way of life for some folks.
Florence O'Grady 2 years ago
This statement is true. I visited Costa Rica in 2013 and the signs are in public restrooms. Our college professor told us this before we left to visit Costa Rica. If any of you visit Costa Rica, there will be trash cans in the bathrooms in people's homes, also for this purpose. Visiting Costa Rica stays in your heart forever and returning will always be a wish, hopefully fulfilled one day.
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Pantoxa 2 years ago
In many places in europe they specifically ask to use the bin and don't flush the paper
Stannous Flouride 2 years ago
In many other countries the septic systems are not designed to handle TP.
Dr Robert Neville 2 years ago (edited)
Have you been south of your own border? They have crappy sewage systems which block if you put paper down them. It's not pleasant but neither is a pyramid of fear rising out of the bowl.
Donald Crocker, Jr. 2 years ago
The exception is if they are out of toilet paper and you are having to use paper towels, paper towels would clog up the toilet so putting them in the trash is the only option, be sure to mention the tp situation to someone so they can get it fixed though.
#19
Don’t forget taxes are not included in pricing, and vary state to state.
Mike Fitzpatrick 2 years ago
And please don't complain about that fact. We are VERY aware that it's the norm where you're from and griping to the employees is just rude. They have no say whatsoever in the matter.
Tabitha 2 years ago (edited)
Plus, you’ll only be bitching at the minimum wage cashier, who is at the bottom of the hierarchy and doesn’t make those decisions. So leave the innocent alone, and try to make their day nicer by not bitching at them. Direct your anger at the right people, the ones with the power to change things, not the powerless lower level employees. This goes for all Karens and their male counterparts as well. I can’t believe I even feel the need to say it, because it’s simple common courtesy and common sense to not berate people who can’t change what you’re complaining about.
Load More Replies... SkyBlueandBlack 2 years ago
County to county, sometimes even city to city. Like, it's 7.75% where I live. It's 9.5% next door in Los Angeles County.
WindySwede 2 years ago
We have somewhere between 6% - 25% (most often 25%) depending on what it is. Food usually 12%.
Load More Replies... Steve Hall 2 years ago
Taxes also may vary from place to place within a state and there are often extra taxes on tourist attractions.
Flora Wolfe 2 years ago
I kind of wish the USA would stop separating all the taxes and fees in retail settings and just include everything in the price. It's stupid to get $10 worth of stuff and end up spending $20 due to taxes and fees and whatever other c**p they can get away with charging. Where I am, everyone is now charging "convenience fees" for anyone using debit/credit cards, even for online purchases and even if the business makes it exceedingly difficult to pay with cash. Like, my electric company closed all of their in-person payment places in the area and your only options to pay is with a debit/credit card or money order or check. Checks aren't free and neither are money orders and of course they charge $3 as a "convenience fee" for paying with a card. They make plenty of profit and it feels like a slap in the face to be charged no matter how you pay. Even the state DMV has gotten on board with "convenience fees". The choice there is pay their $5 fee or go wait for literally hours at a location.
Susan Reid Smith 2 years ago
I expect to add 10% or more of the cost of a retail item at the cash register and to pay 25-30% more than the menu price at a sit down restaurant to cover tax and tip.
Awesome At Being Autistic 2 years ago
And don't forget, from county to county and sometimes city to city, too.
#20
Never call a black American boy or girl the n-word. Usually does not end well.
I heart Boo-BI-es 2 years ago
Curious as to what made you think that? If you're speaking to a black male child you can refer to him as boy, just like any other race of American children. I can maybe see if you called a black American adult man a boy, it could be taken as a sign of disrespect, like you viewed that person as less than or inferior to their counterparts.
Load More Replies... Shaunn Munn 2 years ago
Don't use racially derogative wording for any ethnicity. Yes, some Americans do it, but they're utter boors and embarrassing to the nation
Mamza Paulse 2 years ago
I will f**k u up. Also a lot of brown people (poc who aren’t black) think they have the pass. You do not. 50% and up. That’s the rule for the pass
Roland Nijveld 2 years ago
No one should have a pass. And no one is fully black. They're all brown. Can't believe how racist your comment is
Load More Replies... TheAmericanAmerican 2 years ago
This one's shockingly true! I've had to explain this to multiple Europeans! Idk how or why they didn't get the memo!
RavenTheCat 1 year ago
Give this man an eye patch and hes demoman from team fortress 2 (please dont hate me)
#21
Don't slurp when you eat (common in Asia) and don't ask how much money we make (common in China). Both are very rude here.
Bruce Lovett 2 years ago
STOP telling people not to discuss wages. The taboo of discussing wages was created by companies to keep their employees from knowing that they are not all paid equally or fairly. By not discussing wages, employers will continue to underpay their employees and the gap between a livable wage and minimum wage will only grow. Unless people start dong the responsible thing and START discussing wages, we'll just keep slaving away, underpaid and scraping by. I take no solace in the fact that the sweat and low pay of the masses funds the one percenters yachts and space trips.
Matthew Kemp 2 years ago
I live in the States and have no interest in sharing what I make with people.
Load More Replies... Redmagesyndrome 2 years ago
Pushing the idea that you should never talk about how much we make is something created as a union busting tactic or as a way to pay to get away this paying people unequally and is something that really needs to go. Thankfully I suspect may start to fade away with coming generations.
Flora Wolfe 2 years ago
Also don't go eating a peach so loudly that it sounds like you are eating out someone.
Lara Verne 2 years ago
Well, it's pretty rude to ask how much money you make in Europe too, but that doesn't stop nosy elderly ladies from asking.
#22
Language is a big thing. I know words like "c**t" are tossed around pretty loosely in the UK and I believe Australia. It's a pretty big word here. Also, be careful about things that have different meanings in the US - Thongs are underwear to us, not shoes. And lord... don't use "f*g", even if you are just talking about a cigarette.
A lot of Americans are willing to give you a pass of understanding, since you most likely have an accent, but there are definitely people who aren't as understanding.
Cyber Returns 2 years ago
Have you met the Scottish? Their swearing is poetry
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Jake B 2 years ago
Wait, thongs can’t be shoes here any more? Glad I started calling them flip flips
David 2 years ago
I grew up hearing and using both long before women were walking around with a string up their crack. Both are valid IMO but these days I lean towards flip flops to avoid confusion.
Load More Replies... Steve Hall 2 years ago
The US is not as vocally pure at heart as you may think, you can hear foul language in any town you travel to. Only online will you find language censored.
David 2 years ago
"can" vs "should". I was in town all day yesterday and never heard a single swear word. Well, I tell a lie. I think at one point I said one in quiet conversation with a friend. But many days I hear none. But that's way different then loudly yelling "Oi! C**T!" at strangers for any given reason. Many towns are not New York city or some places in the UK. American or not, if your conversation is full of F bombs and pejoratives strangers around you will look down on you and probably try to avoid you. TLDR: Nobody said we were 'pure'. Just try not to be a jackhole when you visit.
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Michael Largey 2 years ago
And if a Brit offers to "knock you up", he is not suggesting parenthood - he's offering to come to your door. If he goes out to buy a rubber, he's purchasing an eraser.
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Midoribird Aoi 2 years ago
Thongs used to be footwear when I was a kid. It changed interpretation over time.
TheNewJenBrady 2 years ago
My mom calls flipflops zories. She always has. Anybody else ever hear them called zories? She grew up in California in the 50's and 60's. But so did my dad and he's never called them that lol
David 2 years ago (edited)
Yes to zories. But I have not heard that term in a long time. Is there Asian blood in your family? I remember the term from my youth but could not remember much about it. I googled and found the information below about the Japanese footwear. My family was not Asian, but my grandfather (and grandmother with him) was stationed in Japan after WW2 so a fair bit of Japanese stuff (furniture, some foods, some words etc) ended up being a part of my childhood. From the net == "Zori, also rendered as zōri, are thonged Japanese sandals made of rice straw, cloth, lacquered wood, leather, rubber, or—most commonly and informally—synthetic materials. They are a slip-on descendant of the tied-on waraji sandal."
Load More Replies... Haywood Jablome 2 years ago
Maryland is said to have the dirtiest mouths, but even we can't get away with saying c**t
Drew Betts 2 years ago
Here in Canada, swearing a lot even when talking to strangers is pretty normal in more rural areas but not in bigger cities. Unless swearing directed at a person thats a no go
#23
If someone offers you raccoon meat, decline.
Stannous Flouride 2 years ago
And if they introduce a significant other who looks remarkably similar to them, don't ask.
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Nope 2 years ago
However, if someone offers you raccoon meat, its a great opportunity to inquire about some illicit moonshine
William Teach 2 years ago
Huh what? Heck, I've lived in the South for most of my life and I've never been offered this
keyboardtek 2 years ago
If you are someplace in the USA where you are offered racoon meat, you must have taken a wrong turn somewhere.
DJR 2 years ago
No. I've lived in Florida and Texas for 21 of my 38 years and this is first time I've ever heard the word "raccoon" next to the word "meat".
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Sian Edwards 2 years ago
Parasites. Not sure that you can get rabies from eating racoon meat, but they do carry other parasites that might not be killed by cooking, and next thing you know, you've got a family of tapeworms living in you. A dead racoon found in the woods? Any number of transmissible diseases could have killed it.
Load More Replies... Tee Rat 2 years ago
That's a big no although when I was a kid my dad would cook squirrel. He grew up on a farm and still had the taste for it along with pheasant, quail, and rabbit. I just ate a PBJ sandwich.
Thundercuss 2 years ago
Seriously? No one here eats raccoons. At least no one I have heard of.
Ervin Conn 2 years ago
I have heard of plenty. There was a new article about people hunting urban raccoons in Detriot. I tried it. They are NOT delicious.
Load More Replies... #24
Leave their kid outside a bar in a stroller while they run inside for a quick drink. (No, this is not a joke response. I am completely serious.)
Happy_Pandalover 2 years ago (edited)
I know they do this in nordic countries. But usually, don‘t do this anywhere else in the world. 99% of the times people will be benevolent, but you don‘t want to experience the other 1%. Same with pets.
CatLady 2 years ago
I have a friend who worked casino security. Amazing how many ppl dumped their kids in the lobby. I think it's illegal now. At least they have a sign up saying that they'll call the police if a child is left unattended.
Sand Ers 2 years ago
When I was a child the casinos our parents went to had child care areas. Is that not a thing any more?
Load More Replies... Michael Largey 2 years ago
Even if they brought the kid in with them, don't drink and drive - not even a stroller.
Jane Hower 2 years ago
Happend to a neighbor of mine when she was a young mother in Canada. She left little one in stoller, did some shopping, and went home without him. Town was small enough they knew who the baby belonged to. Talk about EMBARRASSED!!!
Andrew Arons 2 years ago
I lost a child this way. He was sixteen at the time. I was stuck in that bar for hours until somebody got around to kidnapping him.
The Rouge Beast 2 years ago
Quick drink? They used to leave us outside in the park all afternoon.
#25
Don't stare at people, don't lecture people about your country and how things work there.
Nerenahd Dhaneren 2 years ago
I live in Switzerland. It is actually the other way around here. People will stare at you until their eyes start bleeding dry. And if you stare back... Boy, they'll put a big smile and greet you loudly. It's a small town thing, but they do it even in the big cities.
Cyber Returns 2 years ago
Sort of a 'I don't know who you are but I'm dying to find out, please say Hi with your eyes' type of thing?
Load More Replies... Tabitha 2 years ago (edited)
Please realize that every country has its pluses and minuses. Your country might be better in some ways, and s**t worse in others. Oh, and don’t go thinking the US is the only place in the world where racism lives. Your own country has its own prejudices against certain groups of people too, generally immigrants from your country’s former colonies. Your country has its own dirty little secrets, which means you are not superior. So come off your high horse, get the f**k over yourselves, and just be a fellow human. We’ll like you so much better if you leave your elitist attitude at home.
Alecto76 2 years ago
With the European visitors I know, this is not an issue. But it defineitly is online. Don't rub it in how you have free healthcare, and education and a genuinely democratic government. Most of the people (at least in large cities) are well aware of what we don't have. Scared of medial bills for even the simplest things, buried under student loans, horrified by our own government. You're preaching to the choir. And before anyone says "vote for other people" realize we unfortunately have a 2 party system and the BS that is the elctoral college. This is how Trump got elected even though the majority of Americans voted against him.
XanthippeⓐWulf🇨🇦️️🇬🇧 2 years ago
That's really the point, I gather. It's not ok for Americans to criticize other countries (nor is it ok for other countries to criticize them), and the criticizing of other countries is not something that we have found to be common in the US. Unfortunately, social media & the internet exist, giving a platform to the handful of Americans and from the cother end non-Americans that spew hateful garbage that each think is representative of the other's country. Isn't it rather sad that we find ourselves in this place, making an argument for the Ok to tear someone else down 🫤
Load More Replies... #26
It can be okay to discuss politics if you’re maintaining an open mind or genuinely curious as to how something works, but please don’t do the cliche condescending “lol you guys are gun nuts” “your healthcare is insane, does a band-aid cost $5,000 lol”. Not only are many of these issues sometimes very contentious, but you probably wouldn’t like it if Americans came to your country and s**t on it either. You may disagree with many of our current laws or cultural norms (as with many Americans), but making snide remarks or the “well in MyCountry™️ we do it better” is likely going to be perceived as rude and in poor taste.
Also, it is a big no-no to disrespect service members here. Most Americans, in my experience, generally accept that not all of our wars/conflicts have been justified or worthwhile, so some criticism on that may be fine - but it is usually considered very offensive to speak poorly of individual members of the armed forces or to mock their service.
AR 2 years ago
Support the military members, not the military complex. Many American military members come from low income backgrounds because it was our only way to get out of it. And a lot of us aren't about going out and killing people, we want to get a steady income, money for college, free healthcare, and maybe travel. But also don't hero worship (looking at fellow Americans here). Thanking us for our service is completely unnecessary. Many of us cringe at it.
Stannous Flouride 2 years ago
I always cringe at being thanked. I used to say, "I was drafted, it wasn't a choice." but now I just say "Thanks." to end the conversation.
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Nikki Gross 2 years ago
This!!! I just wish people online would take this advice, because the amount of bashing of anything American that happens on this site is ridiculous. It is getting to the point that I completely avoid some posts because I get sick of hearing how much we suck and sometimes I even avoid coming onto BP. If you are from the Southern US it's so much worse, we are all racist, homophobic, religious gun nuts that are into cousin loving, worship Trump and have the IQ of a squirrel that's been hit by a car.
BTDubs 2 years ago
I don't think anyone should pick on a single country. And not all Americans are homophobic/racists, but on the topic of trans rights, people in the USA have a long way to go. A poll found that 60% of Americans believe that gender and sex are (and will always be) assigned at birth, so that's very disappointing...
Load More Replies... BrownTabby 2 years ago
My rule for service members is that I will leave them alone as long as they don’t try to claim that survivors of things like child abuse, DV or rape don’t really have PTSD and are trying to steal attention and resources from veterans. If they pull that s**t around me, all bets are off.
SkyBlueandBlack 2 years ago
True. The soldiers don't decide where to go; most of them are just trying to get out of the barrios.
Gavin Johnson 2 years ago
Veterans in the vast majority of western nations have worked hard, sacrificed family time and missed some important moments we will have taken for granted, they rarely get a fair shake when they’ve left the forces just look at the charities we have to support them after their service, some of them carry the scars inside and they are rarely paid a King’s ransom for what they have done. Be kind, it costs nowt!
Zacch Eckart 2 years ago
We know our healthcare needs fixed. We also know or should know that the NHS system is also broken. We don't care to have to wait months to years for important tests like MRIs. There are good reasons why Canadians come by the thousands for healthcare here.
#27
Whatever you do, do not cut in line. We see it, and you will get called out for it, perhaps even attacked for it.
Nope 2 years ago
Due respect to the OP, but I think most visitors are familiar with the concept of a queue.
Isaac Nemo 2 years ago
Respectfully, no, several countries (particularly in Asia) are well known for not having a queueing culture
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keyboardtek 2 years ago
In China, the crowds are so huge that if you pause one second in a line, five other people will jump in front of you. They have zero concept of taking turns. It is every man for himself.
BrownTabby 2 years ago
Again, this thread is for “things specific to tourists”, not “things Americans do just as much if not more”.
Shaunn Munn 2 years ago
What I think is terribly rude of fellow Americans is having one person hold a spot in a line for a slew of buddies. Potty breaks are OK, but don't let your entire baseball team cut in with you!
Apatheist Account2 2 years ago
Sadly, one has seen people failing to queue in the UK, yet we pride ourselves on being world leaders in the art. This is one of the downsides of immigration unfortunately.
#28
Don't treat every person you meet like the complaints department of the country. Where do you expect this conversation to go? A random person you're talking to isn't going to be able to change anything, so you're just complaining without any solution.
karen kerslake 2 years ago
A really intense American lady once tried to argue with me over where I was from. She asked, I said Wales in UK. She said 'So you're from England, right?' I very politely corrected her and explained where Wales is and its proximity to England. Her answer 'Well that's not right, you must be mistaken'. I said it was time for me to leave to which she said ' that's not what they taught me in school and USA has the best education in the world'. Once again said my goodbyes and this time left. Found it very amusing at the time but also a little rude and unfriendly. There are also rules about what Americans shouldn't say to visitors.
#29
Idk if they have this outside the US and Canada but in the mens, you always leave an empty urinal in between you and another person using the other one, eyes straight forward. It’s not homophobic it’s just how things are. Idk how it started. We also take the 10 items or less rule very seriously in our grocery stores.
Cyber Returns 2 years ago
Absolutely! Always leave an odd number of urinals between yourself and any other person if possible. The more the better
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Rick Seiden 2 years ago
NO TALKING IN THE MENS ROOM. If you are having a conversation with a friend on the way in, it stops when you cross the threshold on the way in, and resumes when you cross it on the way out.
Megan Curl 2 years ago
100%. However, the signs in the stores will always say x items or less. Just a fact.
Load More Replies... Michael Largey 2 years ago (edited)
The real reason is that men's aim in public is not any better than it is at home.
#30
We don’t negotiate as a whole. Small businesses are typically ran on lean margins and couldn’t negotiate if they wanted to So don’t get mad when we say no, no and NO. Had a Jamaican yesterday negotiate with my employe for 20 minutes.. by the end of it; the price was $20 more expensive lol 😂
Flora Wolfe 2 years ago
Only fair. I think there's a story concerning Benjamin Franklin with a similar outcome. Someone wanted a book of his for less than asking price. Ben basically said no and raised the price for wasting his time because the potential customer demanded to see Ben himself to ask him about a discount.
Load More Replies... Tabitha 2 years ago (edited)
Yard sale, flea market, bazaars, oK. Even some small shops, like secondhand or thrift stores, maybe. Anywhere else, forget about trying—-and FFS DO NOT b***h about paying the local/state sales tax! It’s not the store’s fault, they have to charge it and pay it on the the local/state government. Blame them instead of the store, and especially not the poor minimum wage cashier behind the counter, who isn’t making enough money to have to put up with your s**t.
Thatkamloopsguy 2 years ago
We are going to have to start doing this in the autoparts industy. I'm completely fed up with the whinners.
Willem Andries Oosterhof 2 years ago
Then also don't be mad when you think the tip is too low...
#31
Don’t be a d**k and assume you know everything and that the Americans need your guidance on American issues.
SkyBlueandBlack 2 years ago
I feel like it's more often Americans doing this in other countries. I've met plenty of people from other countries, and I don't think a single one of them have done anything remotely like this that I've seen.
Oleander 2 years ago
You've met "plenty of people from other countries" who don't act like this. How many Americans have you seen doing it? We can't count the BP comments, of course...the Not-American Panda with a lot of vocal opinions about the US is a common animal 'round here.
Load More Replies... Nerenahd Dhaneren 2 years ago
This is an universal thing, bro. Nobody wants foreigners telling them how to run their country or their lives.
Shaunn Munn 2 years ago
Know-it-alls can come from any nation. America earned a bad rep in many countries because of our pushy attitudes. Suggest all Americans read "The Ugly American", by Eugene Burdick and William Lederer. I hope we're not that bad anymore, but I have heard fellow American travelers speak quite offensively in other countries.
iseefractals 2 years ago
Clearly, america has it's affairs well in hand. Everyday better than the last...ffs
Oleander 2 years ago
Point taken. Now can you explain how being a d**k to an American will improve things?
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#32
I will add one. When you are asked where you are from, do not be vague. Do not answer "Europe" or "Asia" or MyCountry™ Be specific. If you come from a large country, identify the region. If you feel your country might not be familiar to Americans, you can sort of give an idea like "I am from Slovenia, it is a small country to the east of Italy". Give people some means of figuring out where it is from.
Nope 2 years ago
Believe it or not, many of us are genuinely interested in other cultures. You may make an instant friend & get a free coffee or beer out of the exchange. (We are nothing if not willing to pay for entertainment)
SkyBlueandBlack 2 years ago
Right! Yes, your accent clued me in that you're from Germany; I'm wondering if you're from, like, the Black Forest or Hamburg or something (and yes, I know that if you're from Bavaria you'll say so immediately). I *might* even be mentally comparing your accent to those of other people from your country that I've met over the years (if you're British I definitely am).
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BrownTabby 2 years ago
My buddy my pal, if people don’t want to tell you the details, then the details are none of your goddamn business.
Apachebathmat 2 years ago
I think I would come off as condescending if I said ‘ I’m from England, next to wales, under Scotland And just off to the right of france’
XanthippeⓐWulf🇨🇦️️🇬🇧 2 years ago
This made me chuckle, but believe it or not it's rather helpful. My partner is from Liverpool and the Scouse is strong in that family. When people hear him speak they often want to know what part of the UK? England. Where in England? Liverpool. Where The Beatles are from? Yes god damnit! Lol. A lot of people are fascinated with the regional British accents, and might be curious about where, exactly, you are from.
Load More Replies... Ace 2 years ago
Why? It's not my problem if some Americans can't tell Sweden from Switzerland.
martymcmatrix 2 years ago (edited)
Isn't Sweden the capital of Switzerland? Greetings from 🇩🇪
Load More Replies... David 2 years ago
Meh - temper this advice with common sense regarding where you are from and what is going on when you visit. If you are from Gaza or Russia it might avoid confrontation to be a bit vague. I LIKE to hear where people are from but it's not required if you have reason to be cautious.
MezzoPiano 2 years ago
And don't assume we've never heard of it. We've all seen those "Americans don't know geography, haha" youtube videos. They're don't look it, but they're staged.
BarkingSquirell 2 years ago
I get that, but I once had an appointment with a bank manager and asked where he was from originally. He said, "Africa." I answered, "yes, but where (italics) in Africa?" He paused an looked at me with interest and said he'd been in the country for 12 years and had never been asked. So it does go both ways and some are just not interested enough to specify.
martymcmatrix 2 years ago (edited)
I come from Germany. The federal state in which I am allowed to live is both a parliamentary republic and a partially sovereign constituent state of the Federal Republic of Germany. 🙋🏽
#33
Be aware of your surroundings and speak in a low voice don’t be obnoxiously loud in public and on your phone speaking extra loud. Say excuse me and thank you. Someone in customer service can still tell you to f**k off if your rude. They’re not beneath you just because they may not work a office type job
Nerenahd Dhaneren 2 years ago
OMG, this might just be the most ironic thing I've read this month. Americans are notorious for being obnoxiously loud when abroad. I'm pretty loud myself, so I can totally recognise my peers 🤣🤣
BrownTabby 2 years ago (edited)
Don’t scold the rest of the world about something your own people win the gold medal at, pal.
Cyber Returns 2 years ago
Are you sure this is in the right place? This sounds like a reference to what Americans should remember in the UK
martymcmatrix 2 years ago
»HELLO??? NO, I CAN'T TALK RIGHT NOW, I'M IN THE RESTAURANT! PLEASE WHAT??? YES! NO!!! IN THE RESTAURANT! HELLO? YES, I CAN HEAR YOU VERY WELL! SORRY?! WHAT? WHERE ARE YOU??? NO, I TOLD YOU, I CAN'T TALK RIGHT NOW, I'M IN THE RESTAURANT. NO, IN THE RESTAURANT!!!«
#34
Spend every conversation comparing Europe to the US, or stiff waiters/bartenders on a tip.
AR 2 years ago
*Tip wait staff in the US.* Our wait staff and bar tenders don't have to be paid more than $2.13 at the federal level, and even state laws that make it higher aren't enough. They depend on the tips and will continue to do so until politicians decide to treat them like humans. Don't be a jerk, tip 20%.
iseefractals 2 years ago
If there's a party of 10 people that run up a $1000 bill over the course of an hour.....that you, a waiter have spent less than 10 minutes serving food that someone else has prepared, does not entitle you to a $200 tip. Hell, you're not entitled to a $20 tip on a $100 order. 20 years ago the rule was tip 10% for standard service 15% for outstanding service....but now, somehow the expectation is 20-25% as the bare minimum. Deluded entitlement that's not winning anyone over.
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Shaunn Munn 2 years ago
Assume you will pay 20% above menu price. Look at it as being the employer of your wait staff. Also, check the tax rates for the state and city you patronize. We Americans want fairer price clarity as much as any visitor. We know it's ridiculous. We also have politicians who refuse to listen to us. They become brain dead the minute they assume office.
BrownTabby 2 years ago
How bout this: I’ll stay quiet about your janky restaurant system while on American soil if you don’t treat me like the complaints department for The Rest Of The World. Especially when a) your own people printed up fake $20 notes with bible tracts saying servers are greedy for wanting tips, and b) out of the four guided tour companies I booked with, only one deigned to actually tell me that they pay their tour guides a tipped wage.
Kraneia The Dancing Dryad 2 years ago
Sounds like you found some winners 😆
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Apachebathmat 2 years ago (edited)
I understand that wait staff depend on these tips (at least I do now) however this concept is completely alien to a lot of other countries, don’t get mad with visitors for not knowing, in the uk for example, the price you see is the price you pay and a tip is up to you, I found having to work out what something actually is going to cost me quite anxiety inducing, and the guilt of wondering if you have tipped enough horrible. Also visitor will more than likely on a budget and tips will eat into that quickly, especially if you weren’t expecting it
Tabitha 2 years ago
We know that already, so there’s no need to beat that dead horse. Believe me, the majority of Americans—-pretty much everyone but one-percenters and republican politicians—-would like to see EVERYONE paid a fair and livable wage for their efforts, and we’re trying to make that change. But until it happens, don’t screw over the people who need tip money to live— and STFU about it to them as well. Basically, if you wouldn’t like to hear it or deal with it at your job, then don’t ring it up at theirs.
Load More Replies... #35
If you are going on private property for some reason. You are trespassing and the owner has the right to shoot you in certain situations. Stay with your group. This country is massive and diverse.
David 2 years ago (edited)
NO. The owner does NOT have the right to shoot you. PLEASE for the love of god stop spreading this kind of b******t. In the states that allow "UP TO lethal force" for certain situations, those situations are not for trespassing. It is for stopping really bad crimes like rape or murder. My state is one. I can NOT shoot you for stepping on my grass or even stealing my rake. I say this because I've seen sad stories about some home owner who thought they "knew their rights!" and ended up going to prison. That said - trespassing is still a crime and if some yahoo shoots you it won't be much comfort that they might get arrested for it.
Tom De Paul 2 years ago
You can use deadly force in Texas to stop someone from fleeing with stolen property or to prevent theft itself. The use of such force must be reasonable under the circumstances. And you don't have to retreat. This is known as the "Castle Doctrine."
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XanthippeⓐWulf🇨🇦️️🇬🇧 2 years ago
No it's not. We currently live in Texas right now, and despite what people think, people don't just go around randomly shooting trespassers here. No, I don't care if your uncle's cousin's sister's boyfriend shot a trespassers that one time in 1973. I wish people would stop perpetuating this myth. 😒
Load More Replies... Purplescales 2 years ago
Don’t cross the purple painted trees, a lot of people in the Midwest take that very seriously, and will shoot because they’re very solitary and don’t want anybody on THEIR land.
Shaunn Munn 2 years ago
Gun laws are not that lax. Best read up on gun laws of the states you will visit. But do keep out of private property. The laws are mainly for fellow Americans who think they can sneak on private land and steal property, have underage parties with alcohol, lay pelt traps or shoot wildlife. We're our own worst enemies, and are probably a big problem in nations that allow through access, like the countries of the British Islands.
Lalalallal 2 years ago
As an American please do not do this. You should not ever shoot someone this is BS. I think people who do this should go to jail.
Flora Wolfe 2 years ago
Very few places allow a property owner to just shoot a trespasser. What the laws are vary by state. To put it simply where I am, if there is a no trespassing sign, keep out. If there is no sign, there is no trespassing unless the owner or a representative of the owner says to leave. If you remain after being told to leave, it becomes a felony here. The only time lethal force is allowed in my area is with self-defense and only if there is a genuine threat or a genuine perceived threat. If a trespasser isn't apparently armed, this means no lethal force allowed. Even if they are armed, you can't just shoot them unless they pose a threat to your life. Even then, the investigators will look at how you shot them and if there is defensive wounds or if you shot them in certain areas (like the side or back), they will likely rule you were not justified in using lethal force. OF COURSE, all this being said, there are crazy and armed people out there and some will shoot you for simply trespassing
David 2 years ago
Not really. I don't agree with TX being able to shoot for property theft but I do agree with my state re being able to shoot for someone trying to murder/rape you / burn down your house. If a person makes me choose between me and them, I choose me. But also keep in mind that many of these laws only allow as much force as necessary to stop the crime. So while that MIGHT end up being lethal, if simply hitting them in the knee with a bat and calling the cops while they sob on the ground is enough to do the job, then if you go head and kill them that is murder.
Load More Replies... #36
Don’t bring outside food into a restaurant, especially a nice one, just because others in your family wanted other food. No one wants to smell your child’s McDonald’s nuggets.
AnkleByter 2 years ago
Just because some US citizens might do some stupid s**t in another country, doesn't mean we ignore that them (or anyone else) doing that same stupid s**t in the US is not acceptable. It's not acceptable in many places, but we don't know if it's acceptable in someone's home country, just that the majority of us here, consider it not to be, here in the US. "Americans" do probably the same amount of stupid s**t in other countries as people do visiting here from those countries. But this is about the US and what, most of us, find not to be acceptable here. Get over the whole "dis the US any time I get the chance" shpeal already.
Load More Replies... SkyBlueandBlack 2 years ago
What? No, that's... wait, what do you think the police are for? But no, most restaurants don't allow it and will ask you to leave.
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#37
Depending on what area you're in, there's a slight chance you'll see somebody open carrying a pistol. Don't worry, there's a near zero chance that person will even pull that pistol out of their holster.
keyboardtek 2 years ago
Higher chance around elementary schools and shopping malls.
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David 2 years ago
Open carry people are usually the law abiding ones. Yes, not always, but if someone is planning to rob a liquor store or some other cliche' crime, they do not advertise they have a gun until they are pointing it at the cashier.
Michael Largey 2 years ago
Openly carrying a gun without a present purpose may not indicate intent. But it may tell you more than you want to know about their personality.
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TotallyNOTAFox 2 years ago
That there were more mass shootings (4+ victims) than days in 2023 isn't really a trust building statistic though
Barbara Kelly 2 years ago
It's the "near zero" chance that worries me to the point of not visiting the U.S.A. . Too many stories of gun violence and threats made with guns. Imagining an enraged "Karen" ((M or F) with "open carry".......yikes!!
Michael Largey 2 years ago
I have a "near zero" chance of being killed in a traffic accident in the next year. But over 40,000 Americans will die that way in the next twelve months. A near zero percent of a very large number is still a large number.
Load More Replies... Jac Sp 2 years ago
Nah I'll continue to worry about any time I see anybody carrying a gun if you don't mind.. Even our police aren't armed as standard here so it freaks me out even when I see them with guns, generally at airports.
Miss Kat O 2 years ago
If they have zero intention of using it, whats the point in carrying it?
Rostit. . 2 years ago
zero intention of using it illegally or immorally. i know a woman who saved her kids from a out of control pitbull with their pistol.
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#38
Avoid asking extremely personal questions such as how old are you, how much money do you make, how much go you weigh, why aren’t you married, how much did your car or clothes cost, is your jewelry real, etc. Realize that the price for most items or restaurant food doesn’t include the price of tax. Also for a fancier sit down restaurant it will include neither tax nor tip.
The Original Bruno 2 years ago
Similar to the part about replying kindly to small talk: Chatter between strangers is called "small talk" for a reason. Don't inquire about huge, weighty issues with people you barely know. When an American asks if you're enjoying the weather, that doesn't mean they feel like opening up to you about if you think your 30-year-old cousin is gay because he isn't married.
Alecto76 2 years ago
I looked very young at 30. I went to Belgium to visit my step-father's family. His cousin liked to play "Guess how old Alecto76 is." She played that with a monk relative, who was so surprised at the answer, he head-butted me. I don't know why, but I was fine, and sore, with it.
Donna Peluda 2 years ago
What is the tax margen? I know it varies from state to state but aprox.
CrunChewy McSandybutt 2 years ago (edited)
It is a huge range. And not only does it change from state to state but city to city if we're talking about sales tax. The sales tax in New York is 4%, while in New Orleans it's 9.5%. And Oregon has no sales tax.
Load More Replies... Barbara Kelly 2 years ago
The "let it all hang out" USA media culture ( hello, Jerry Springer and others!) has changed everyday interactions to the point where it seems that nothing is Too Much Information. Civility, dignity and respect have sadly faded from common discourse.
#39
Don't hit on someone just because they smiled at you
Nope 2 years ago
Note: This entry was changed from "Don't hit someone just because they smiled at you". A significant distinction.
David 2 years ago
LOL. It has been changed but what you said is how my brain read it anyway.
Load More Replies... Shaunn Munn 2 years ago
Contrary to the movies and popular culture, American women aren't easy pickings. We smile because our parents taught us to do so to be polite.
Kioh81 2 years ago
Especially the further south you go in the country. We are pretty friendly and will talk to almost anyone but that absolutely does not mean to run with that and we're "easy" or open for hitting on or harassing.
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DeoManus Argentem 2 years ago
We smile and nod down when we make eye-contact with somebody we don't know. We smile and nod up when we make eye-contact with somebody we recognize.
#40
On the very off chance religion is brought up, be respectful. Our freedom of religion laws lead to a lot of different churches in the same area, and people tend to get incredibly defensive of their religious views when challenged. And if someone doesn’t want to talk about it, be respectful of that, too.
Downunderdude 2 years ago
Look, I don't want to be patronising, but some of these seem to me to have been written by Americans who haven't travelled very much. I don't think there is ANY country where it is ok to 'challenge' people about their religious views.
Flora Wolfe 2 years ago
If someone walks to express their freedom of religion to me, that is fine. I will express my freedom of no-religion to them. Freedom of religion does not mean you have a right to not be challenged. Thanks to my religious upbringing, I could probably destroy your beliefs in your religion. I will not, of course, unless you force me to, since you have a right to believe in whatever.
#41
If staying in a private home, as a guest: Do not begin cleaning it. Do not tidy or mow the yard. (All this spontaneously, without being asked first, or asking.) That will be insulting. You are saying the house is too dirty for your taste. Worse, that it is so horrible that you can't even wait to be settled in, before cleaning it. If you want to be of some help, simply ask "is there anything I can help with?" And then obey the answer. Usually it will be "No, you are a guest, please be comfortable." "Can I help with the dishes" after a meal -- that is another common question. Most will say no. Some will say yes. You do not have to ask it. Usually a guest is treated as a guest and is not expected to do household chores.
Downunderdude 2 years ago
'Usually' - but not always? 'Well, we fed y'all. Now get out there and plough the top forty'
Weirdo with Internet 2 years ago
Well especially with family it's like a small task like helping clear the table or feed the dog. Not too demanding but helps out
Load More Replies... XanthippeⓐWulf🇨🇦️️🇬🇧 2 years ago
When my MIL visits and wants to clean, I'm like hells yeah, party on lady! We have a cleaning service so it's not like our house is dirty by any stretch of the imagination, but she's one of those mums that lives to fuss over people, and I am not stomping on that woman's joy.
Shaunn Munn 2 years ago
Unless you married into the family, just stay in place and converse. Tell us about your wildlife, museums, parks, favorite places in your country. Ask the history of whatever you want to see in America. Yes, the European influence here is far more recent, but there's tons of history behind First People Nations. Thousands of years!
#42
Get out of your car if you get pulled over. Basically keep your hands on the wheel once you've shifted into park, until they come to you.
ILoveMySon 2 years ago
DON'T exit the vehicle. DO keep your hands on the steering wheel visible to officers.
Nope 2 years ago
Thank you for the clarification. I just had terrible visions of a visitor misinterpreting this advice.
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Dan Banks 2 years ago
Keep you hands on the wheel, do not move around, when asked for paperwork tell the officer what you are going to do. " my license is in my pocket, I am reaching into my back pocket" move very slowly. Even with this advice be aware the US has the highest rates of incarceration in the world every police interaction is a chance for them to feed the machine and feed it they will.
Rick Seiden 2 years ago
Say, "sir" or "ma'am" to the officer. If you have to reach for anything, ask permission first. "My license is in my front pocket. Is it OK if I get it?" "My insurance is in my glove compartment, is it OK if I get it?" Remember, we are a very gun centric country, so if you suddenly reach for something, the officer may assume it's a gun. Letting them know what you're doing before you do it helps them to feel safer. But don't be surprised if you see they have a hand on the butt of their gun. Especially if you are not white.
Rick Seiden 2 years ago
And yes, as someone born and raised here in the US, this sucks. It's awful. It's discriminatory. But, it's also reality.
Load More Replies... Shaunn Munn 2 years ago
When the police ask for paperwork be sure to tell them where it's located and ask if you may reach for it. Otherwise, hands on wheel. Too many officers killed and wounded by pullovers who grab for firearms.
Kelly Scott 2 years ago
Put your cigarette out and turn off the music. If you have to reach into your glovebox or purse, let the officer know first before you do it. And for God's sake, do what you're told without back talk. If you're told to get out of the car, get out of the car. If you're told to stand a certain way, stand that way and don't be a jerk about it. Many of us have been stopped by the police for one reason or another and we've lived to tell the tale by being compliant and telling the truth. If you don't think you've done anything wrong, that's what the courts are for.
#43
Don't crowd up around people when in line or viewing something. We like our personal space.
BJ Hage 2 years ago
I loved the whole social distance thing during C-vid. I would love for that to come back forever (not C-vid; but the whole 6 feet thing? Yes, please)
K-Dawn Bennett 1 year ago
Oh, I was telling people it was 6 miles...oops!
Load More Replies... #44
Shoot massive snot rockets into a trash can in a crowded area at JFK. 🤮 yuck
Nope 2 years ago (edited)
LOL...indeed! If you feel the need, please use a trash can. Side note: Somewhere along the way, a clever fellow invented "tissue paper". Just sayin'...
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and_a_touch_of_the_’tism 2 years ago
Someone needs to tell my brother this… and he doesn’t even bother with the trash can.
Nice Beast Ludo 2 years ago
Message to my brother-in-law- don't do that in my shower ever again either. And you wonder why we don't let you spend the night anymore
Brazen 2 years ago
There were several men where I used to work who would do this on the floor and then smear it with their shoes. I had to teach them to use kleenex, and the women from the same country as these guys used to wipe it on the women's bathroom stall wall...where there was toilet paper handy. It really was gross.
The Original Bruno 2 years ago (edited)
Sorry, Oscar. I didn't know it was occupied. (Am I the ONLY person here who didn't think that looked like a Sesame Street set?)
#45
If you are a man, don't walk up to a woman and start talking to her unless she is in a group, or you are in a bar or club or other place that kind of thing is expected. But a man approaching a solo woman on the street or in a shop is likely to make the woman uncomfortable.
XanthippeⓐWulf🇨🇦️️🇬🇧 2 years ago
A lot of these things that are being posted seem to be personal things, and not "American" things. Though I'm not American, I live in the states, and I feel like most women are fine with you talking to them, depending on the situation. Late at night, walking down the street, no don't try to approach a random woman; I believe thats common sense anywhere. But if I'm in the grocery and you need help, or it's broad daylight & you stop and ask for directions I don't see anything wrong with that. Is that just me?
Shaunn Munn 2 years ago
I think you're right. Some of us have had horrific or scary interactions. I was in a different country as a young women and had a man hit on me because I smiled and nodded at him. I guess in that country I was giving him carte blanche. Had to have our local guide intervene. I was brought up to be friendly and acknowledge when someone looks at me. I'm also a Boomer, so I suppose parents are more careful these days when raising daughters.
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Tabitha 2 years ago
That really depends on the circumstances and the man’s approach. There’s no issue with politely asking if she can help you with directions because you’re lost, or something completely innocent like that. It’s when the other stuff starts coming into play that the woman will become uncomfortable. She’s being nice by giving you directions. She’s not interested in immediately jumping into bed with you.
Em 2 years ago
Unless it is late at night and/or there is NO ONE else around, this is nonsense. Approaching a woman on the street in broad daylight is perfectly fine. Obviously don't start hitting on her apropos of nothing, but there's no reason to be afraid to ask for directions or whatever.
Rhinocersauce 2 years ago
Ask a man first. It makes us uncomfortable. And, speaking as an American who has traveled, men are a lot more forward in some other cultures (looking at you, Italy) and we don't like it. Take the advice.
Load More Replies... Lara Verne 2 years ago
But what if man needs to ask for directions and there's only one woman around?
#46
Don't be rude to people making small talk.
The Original Bruno 2 years ago
To put it a little more distinctly: recognize that Americans try to make people feel comfortable and familiar by talking about mundane things.
iseefractals 2 years ago
Just because YOU want to make pointless conversation, does not mean anyone else does. Some people are busy, some people just aren't interested, and it's considerably more rude not to take the hint because "me me me!"
#47
Don't ever ask anyone how much money they earn or have. Avoid money topics in general (like how much did your house/car cost) to be on the safe side. Keep at least an arm's length physical distance from anyone you are speaking to. Same if you aren't speaking to them! Avoid conversational topics including religion, politics, and Covid mitigation measures (all three are very sensitive topics here and can quickly blow up in your face unless you are very careful). I would also avoid topics related to race/racial stereotypes/news stories tied to race unless you know the person REALLY well. We have a certain kind of language and manners we use when discussing these topics that many people from abroad (especially non-native English speakers) aren't familiar with, and you can quickly offend without meaning to. Also, try to shower every day and always wear deodorant , any kind of natural body odor is considered a faux pas here.
Apachebathmat 2 years ago
I had a very nice American lady tell me (an undertaker) that it was all a farce and 5G and microchips etc, covid was fake news etc, I didn’t want to upset her so I just listened, I absolutely knew saying anything to the contrary would have caused her to implode.
Jennifer Checki 2 years ago
Ah yes, sadly we have a lot of those people in the US.
Load More Replies... Bruce Lovett 2 years ago
No matter how much or how little you make, NEVER be ashamed of it. People need to be encouraged to discuss how much they make, don't give in to the propaganda of not discussing wages. The taboo of not discussing wages is what keep them from rising. No employee should ever be ashamed of what they make, but they should be ashamed of what value their employer places on them. If we don't openly discuss wages, we are part of the problem and we will never see improvement.
The Original Bruno 2 years ago (edited)
OP isn't talking about discussing your pay with your co-workers; you know the heirarchy at work, and talking about pay is merely talking about fairness. But in many OTHER contexts, talking about pay is a power play to assert you're higher up the social ladder than others. America has no caste system, and you're likely to find very strong negative reactions whenever someone tries to impose one. [Sadly, this isn't at all true in DC, and probably untrue in California. People won't say how much they make, but they are CONSTANTLY trying to say, "you should get to know me; I'm influential." I'm from New York. Say to a New Yorker how awesome their shows are, and they'll tell you what a great deal they found ("Can you believe PayLess had these for $20? Payless! $20! And they look so dainty, but you could get your foot stuck in an escalator, and these won't tear!"). Say that to a Washingtonian, and they'll tell you what super-snobby store they got them from. ("Yes, why go to Niemenn Marcus, when Soulier specializes in shoes? I buy there EVERY week!")
Load More Replies... Shaunn Munn 2 years ago
The Covid naysayers here are so strongly opinionated that they can get the disease and be on their deathbeds and still insist it's something else. Absolutely crazy how some of us will die on an anthill and claim it's a mountain.
TheStormIRide 2 years ago
Politics and covid? hell, in Poland you do not start discussing mayonaise. Yes, the condiment. This will blow up very quick into a raging argument that is followed by things like 'if i want to taste vinegar i will dring a glass of it' replied by 'well same goes for canola oil, goddammit' and then it will just get worse.
keyboardtek 2 years ago
Safe to only talk about the weather and where is a good restaurant then?
Donna Peluda 2 years ago
Isn't it amazing how religion has been able to get built-in protection against people calling out there BS.
#48
Don't point at people, especially with one finger. It's considered rude. You can point at things or animals. For people, you can nod your head that way, or wave your entire hand toward them. It seems silly, but we teach children this from really young, and I've seen people get really upset over it.
Em 2 years ago
Never heard this cited as something that would bother Americans; usually the other way around. I was trained in the hospitality industry to always point with two fingers or an open palm, because we might have guests from outside the US who would find a one-finger point very rude. Never seriously heard it before that.
SkyBlueandBlack 2 years ago
Ah... open palm is rude in some cultures. FYI.
Load More Replies... MrsFettesVette 2 years ago
Pointing is seen rude here in the Northeast, too. (An exception might be something like pointing out an object in nature or an architectural detail, but it's always rude to point at a person).
Load More Replies... DeoManus Argentem 2 years ago (edited)
This is maybe the best one I hadn't really thought about - maybe took it for granted! The "chop" (extending your hand with all fingers vertical and the thumb extended upwards) is definitely the polite way to point or guide someone! Edit: I worded it badly, meant all fingers extended in the intended direction of guidance and the thumb perpendicular (in a chopping motion)
#49
Forget to tip.
SCamp 2 years ago
Heaven forbid I’d forget to do the business’ job for them and supplement their employees’ wages
MrsFettesVette 2 years ago
We all know it's terrible, but it's also not the servers fault that their employer doesn't want to pay them adequately, and they shouldn't be penalized.
Load More Replies... 
BlueBlazer999 2 years ago
And take those feet where? Many live paycheck-to-paycheck.
Load More Replies... #50
You know how you go to someone’s house and you don’t say rude things or try to act superior or don’t learn the customs….that part
What do you think ?
Gavin Johnson 2 years ago
If you visit the U.S. (as I did), do your homework, arrive with an open mind, be respectful and you’ll have a great time. The bad stuff is way, way less than the media will have you believe and the good stuff us way better than you know right now. There’s so much to see, some awesome food and if you treat folk right there’s some great conversations to be had. It isn’t hard to have a great holiday in the U.S.
Alecto76 2 years ago
Don't hesitate to ask a question, to say you're unsure of something because you are visiting from wherever. Outside of kicking animals, I don't know an American who wouldn't immediately forgive whatever faux pas and welcome you.
Rostit. . 2 years ago
yeah, in reality, we dont give a damn. we are too busy worrying about paying for things and living our lives. if you accidently call an elevator a lift, we wont bat an eye.
Load More Replies... Cjo 2 years ago
I hope several of these suggestions get removed if one expects this to be a guide to the US. Some are stating something so obvious that I hope it wouldn't be needed to tell anyone. Others are definitely stating opinions that are very much not generally true, more that person's opinion. And some are downright conflicting with others.
MayaGeGe 2 years ago
Or it's targeting nationals of a very specific country but I'm really scratching my head
Load More Replies...
Rostit. . 2 years ago
sure ignore one of the places with the largest amount of cultural and geographic diversity in the world. just be ignorant!! what a stupid comment.
Load More Replies...
LokisLilButterknife 2 years ago
BoredPanda staff: “What’s going to require the least amount of work from us and p**s the most amount of people off? Hmm, how about another listicle bashing users from the United States that we stole off Reddit! Those dumb Americans will never know what hit ‘em’ and we won’t have to lift a finger.”
Nils Skirnir 2 years ago
One key. Don’t visit US without travelers medical insurance. And get a good, reputable plan that’s easily recognized in US. Accidents and medical emergencies happen. In US you might even not be treated w/o it and if you are treated it will be expensive.
megamarkd 2 years ago
A lot of this is common curtesy and a good amount of it comes off as racist comments. Growing up and living in the most frequented tourist city on this island, I've come to understand and accept that complaints about tourists are often excuses to lump particular nationalities into a stereotype and then start hating on them. Not condoning it, just saying I can't change it by saying "you are being a soft-racist by saying that all of them do what you've seen happen once or twice down at Circular Quay during the olympics"
Gavin Johnson 2 years ago
If you visit the U.S. (as I did), do your homework, arrive with an open mind, be respectful and you’ll have a great time. The bad stuff is way, way less than the media will have you believe and the good stuff us way better than you know right now. There’s so much to see, some awesome food and if you treat folk right there’s some great conversations to be had. It isn’t hard to have a great holiday in the U.S.
Alecto76 2 years ago
Don't hesitate to ask a question, to say you're unsure of something because you are visiting from wherever. Outside of kicking animals, I don't know an American who wouldn't immediately forgive whatever faux pas and welcome you.
Rostit. . 2 years ago
yeah, in reality, we dont give a damn. we are too busy worrying about paying for things and living our lives. if you accidently call an elevator a lift, we wont bat an eye.
Load More Replies... Cjo 2 years ago
I hope several of these suggestions get removed if one expects this to be a guide to the US. Some are stating something so obvious that I hope it wouldn't be needed to tell anyone. Others are definitely stating opinions that are very much not generally true, more that person's opinion. And some are downright conflicting with others.
MayaGeGe 2 years ago
Or it's targeting nationals of a very specific country but I'm really scratching my head
Load More Replies... Rostit. . 2 years ago
sure ignore one of the places with the largest amount of cultural and geographic diversity in the world. just be ignorant!! what a stupid comment.
Load More Replies... LokisLilButterknife 2 years ago
BoredPanda staff: “What’s going to require the least amount of work from us and p**s the most amount of people off? Hmm, how about another listicle bashing users from the United States that we stole off Reddit! Those dumb Americans will never know what hit ‘em’ and we won’t have to lift a finger.”
Nils Skirnir 2 years ago
One key. Don’t visit US without travelers medical insurance. And get a good, reputable plan that’s easily recognized in US. Accidents and medical emergencies happen. In US you might even not be treated w/o it and if you are treated it will be expensive.
megamarkd 2 years ago
A lot of this is common curtesy and a good amount of it comes off as racist comments. Growing up and living in the most frequented tourist city on this island, I've come to understand and accept that complaints about tourists are often excuses to lump particular nationalities into a stereotype and then start hating on them. Not condoning it, just saying I can't change it by saying "you are being a soft-racist by saying that all of them do what you've seen happen once or twice down at Circular Quay during the olympics"
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