Every country has its own set of ~unspoken rules~ that only people who live there really know about. I came across this Reddit thread where u/Praglikasked: "Americans of Reddit, what's something anyone visiting the US for the first time absolutely must know about or be aware of?" and I nodded my head at a lot of the responses.
So whether you're planning on visiting the US for the first time or just want to better familiarize yourself with the culture, read on for some of the very honest answers.
1."Don't get out of your car if you're pulled over by the police unless directed to do so."
2."Tax is added to the shelf prices at the checkout."
8."You drive five hours in the US, you’re basically still in the same place. You drive five hours in Europe, everyone’s talking funny and the cheese is different."
9."When we ask, 'How's it going?' we don't need a literal answer. It's just a greeting. I went to college with a guy from Germany and this confused him quite a bit when he first got here. He thought people wanted to know about his whole day."
12."Personal space. Do not get right up behind someone standing in line. If you're lucky, you'll just make them uncomfortable. Unlucky, and you may find yourself in a fight."
13."Public restrooms are free…usually. Though, it is common courtesy that if you use the restroom in a store or fast food place, you buy something — even if it's something small."
14."While walking down the street, people will randomly make eye contact and then smile. No, you don't know them, this is just their way of being polite. They expect you to smile back and then break eye contact."
15."If you visit a National Park, don't mess with the wildlife. Buffalo (even cows) can kill you. Most rabbits carry enough parasites and viruses to make you very ill. Also, carry enough water with you — the parks don't always have drinking water readily available at every rest stop. If water or mud is bubbling and you don't feel heat standing next to it, DO NOT touch it. It can still burn!"
16."People have different personalities depending on what part of the country you’re in. In Louisiana, you have great conversations with folks at the bar. In South Carolina, I might invite you over to their house. In New York City, they’re going to ignore you. In California, they’re only interested if it benefits them."
18."In 98% of areas you go to, you’ll need a car. The 2% where you won’t are NYC, Boston, Chicago, and DC."
19."Depending on where you're going in the US, be aware of ticks and mosquitoes. They can have Lyme disease and other diseases that can easily get you really sick. And with healthcare costs in the US, you don’t want that."
