19 Things That Will Shock You When You Visit the U.S. for the First Time
Visiting the U.S. for the first time can feel like stepping into a new world. From larger-than-life portions to the all-out obsession with tipping, many things in the U.S. are just…different.
Whether you’re from Europe, Asia, or anywhere else, certain cultural norms might shock you. Some will be small surprises; others will leave you totally confused. But that’s what makes travel exciting, right?
Let’s dive into 19 unexpected cultural shocks foreigners often experience when visiting the U.S. You’ll want to be ready for these!
1. The Size of Everything
Everything is bigger in the U.S.—from the food portions to the cars. Visitors are often amazed at how much space Americans seem to have.
Even grocery stores feel like sprawling megamarts. It can take time to adjust to the sheer scale of things.
Be prepared to be overwhelmed at first!
2. Tipping Is a Must
Tipping is not optional in the U.S.; it’s expected. In restaurants, the standard tip is around 15-20%, which can catch foreigners off guard.
Even for small services, like getting a drink at a bar, you’re expected to tip. If you don’t tip, you might get some dirty looks.
Always keep extra cash on hand!
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3. Endless Refills
Order a soda or coffee, and you’ll be offered free refills—something not common in many countries. It’s a small thing, but it surprises a lot of visitors.
You can drink as much as you want without paying extra. Just say yes when they ask if you want a refill!
4. Over-the-Top Customer Service
In the U.S., customer service can feel almost too friendly. You’ll be greeted with big smiles and lots of questions about your day.
For some, it feels genuine; for others, it comes across as insincere. It’s a far cry from the more reserved interactions in other countries.
Don’t be surprised if you’re treated like a long-lost friend.
5. The Love of Drive-Thrus
Americans love drive-thrus, not just for fast food but also for pharmacies and even banks. You can do so much without leaving your car.
For foreigners, this level of convenience can be both amazing and baffling. It’s all about speed and efficiency.
Just roll down your window, and you’re good to go!
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6. Sales Tax Isn’t Included
When you see a price tag, remember that sales tax isn’t included. The price you see is not the price you’ll pay.
This can be confusing for visitors from countries where tax is already factored in.
It can feel like a surprise extra charge at the register.
Always expect the final total to be higher than what you see.
7. Huge Personal Space
Americans like their personal space—lots of it. Standing too close to someone in line might make them uncomfortable. It’s common for people to stand a good distance apart, even in social situations.
Be mindful of giving others their space. It’s a subtle, but important, cultural cue.
8. American Flags Everywhere
Foreigners are often amazed by the number of American flags on display. You’ll see them in front of homes, schools, and businesses.
Patriotism is a big deal in the U.S., and the flag is a symbol of that. It’s not something you see to this extent in many other countries.
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9. Air Conditioning at Full Blast
No matter the season, indoor spaces in the U.S. are often kept freezing cold. Air conditioning is cranked up everywhere, from restaurants to shopping malls.
Visitors are often caught off guard by how cold it can get indoors. Always carry a light jacket, even in the summer.
10. Obsession with Ice
Americans love ice—lots of it. You’ll get a glass full of ice with most drinks, even if you didn’t ask for it.
In many other countries, ice is rare, but in the U.S., it’s almost mandatory. If you don’t like it, you’ll need to request no ice.
Otherwise, get ready for an icy beverage!
11. Friendly Strangers
Americans are often seen as unusually friendly by visitors. Strangers might strike up conversations, compliment your outfit, or ask about your day.
For people from more reserved cultures, this can be surprising. It’s part of the casual, outgoing American attitude.
Don’t worry, they’re just being nice!
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12. The Importance of Credit Scores
In the U.S., your credit score is everything. From renting an apartment to buying a car, your credit score can make or break you.
Foreigners often don’t realize how deeply embedded this system is in American life.
It’s a unique and sometimes stressful part of U.S. culture.
13. The Pledge of Allegiance
Hearing schoolchildren recite the Pledge of Allegiance every morning can be a shock to foreign visitors. In many countries, such overt displays of nationalism are rare, especially in schools.
It’s a daily ritual in many parts of the U.S. It’s a glimpse into the patriotic spirit of the country.
14. Massive Grocery Stores
Supermarkets in the U.S. are huge compared to those in many other countries. You can find everything from electronics to fresh produce under one roof.
Foreigners often feel overwhelmed by the sheer size and variety. It’s a one-stop shop for almost anything you need.
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15. Healthcare System Shock
The U.S. healthcare system can be a shock for visitors. Unlike many countries with public healthcare, you’ll pay for medical care out-of-pocket unless you have insurance.
Even minor medical visits can be expensive. It’s always a good idea to have travel insurance when visiting the U.S.
16. Portion Sizes Are Huge
Meals in the U.S. are often much larger than what visitors are used to. A single plate can feel like a feast meant for two or three people.
It’s normal for Americans to take leftovers home, but for foreigners, the portions can be overwhelming. Prepare for big appetites or lots of takeout containers.
17. Round-the-Clock Convenience
Many places in the U.S. are open 24/7, from grocery stores to fast food chains. Visitors from countries with more limited hours are often surprised by the level of convenience.
You can get almost anything at any hour of the day. This kind of round-the-clock availability is rare elsewhere.
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18. College Sports Craze
The passion for college sports in the U.S. can be shocking to foreigners. Huge stadiums, roaring crowds, and millions of dollars are poured into university teams.
For visitors, the idea of college sports being such a big deal can be baffling.
But in America, it’s serious business.
19. Bathroom Stalls with Gaps
One small but unsettling shock for many foreigners is the design of public bathroom stalls in the U.S. They often have large gaps at the top, bottom, and sometimes even the sides.
It can feel like a lack of privacy compared to more enclosed designs in other countries. It’s a quirky, but common, part of American public restrooms.
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