These 18 Things Shock Non-Americans About the USA
Visiting the United States for the first time can be a culture shock for many non-Americans. From everyday customs to larger cultural practices, the U.S. has plenty of surprises in store for international visitors.
While some experiences are amusing, others are downright baffling, but all contribute to the unique character of life in America. For those unfamiliar with the country, here are 18 surprising experiences that non-Americans might not expect when they visit the USA. These insights might make you see the U.S. from a different perspective.
1. Enormous Portion Sizes
Non-Americans are often shocked by how large food portions are in the U.S. From supersized fast food to oversized restaurant meals, American servings are much bigger than what’s typical elsewhere.
2. Free Refills
In the U.S., getting free refills on soft drinks is a common practice.
Visitors from countries where refills aren’t free often find this a pleasant surprise.
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3. The Amount of Ice in Drinks
Americans love ice in their drinks, and non-Americans are often surprised by how much ice is used. In many countries, drinks are served chilled without excessive ice, but not in the U.S.
4. Sales Tax Not Included in Prices
The listed price is rarely what you end up paying because sales tax is added at checkout. This can be confusing for non-Americans, as many other countries include tax in the listed price.
5. Tipping Culture
Tipping is expected in most U.S. service industries, often between 15-20%. For non-Americans who come from countries with little or no tipping culture, this can be an adjustment.
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6. 24/7 Convenience Stores
The concept of stores that are open 24 hours, seven days a week, is surprising to many non-Americans. In other countries, businesses typically close earlier or have limited hours, but in the U.S., convenience is key.
7. Friendly Small Talk with Strangers
Americans are known for their friendliness and small talk, even with complete strangers. Non-Americans, especially from countries with reserved cultures, may find this unexpected.
8. Drive-Thru Everything
In the U.S., it’s not just fast food that has drive-thrus—there are drive-thru pharmacies, banks, and even liquor stores. This convenience-oriented culture can be a surprise for visitors.
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9. Big Cars and Trucks
Non-Americans are often taken aback by the sheer size of American cars and trucks.
While smaller vehicles are more common elsewhere, the U.S. loves its large SUVs and pickups.
10. Patriotism Everywhere
Flags, national pride, and patriotic expressions are seen everywhere in the U.S.
The level of overt patriotism can be surprising for non-Americans from less visibly patriotic countries.
11. Air Conditioning Everywhere
Americans love their air conditioning, and it’s found in almost every indoor space.
Non-Americans, especially those from milder climates, may find this a bit excessive or unnecessary.
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12. Wide Open Spaces
The vastness of the U.S. can be overwhelming, with wide-open spaces, long highways, and huge national parks. Non-Americans from more densely populated areas may be struck by the country’s sheer size.
13. T.V. Commercial Breaks
Television in the U.S. is filled with frequent commercial breaks, often interrupting programs multiple times. Non-Americans accustomed to fewer or shorter breaks may find this frustrating.
14. The Legal Drinking Age of 21
While many countries allow alcohol consumption at 18 or younger, the U.S. legal drinking age is 21. This can be surprising for non-Americans, especially young travelers who are used to more relaxed alcohol laws.
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15. The Ubiquity of Fast Food
While fast food exists around the world, it’s omnipresent in the U.S. Non-Americans might be surprised by just how many fast food chains there are and how ingrained they are in daily life.
16. Huge Grocery Stores
Supermarkets in the U.S. are often enormous, offering a vast variety of products.
Non-Americans are often amazed by the sheer scale and selection compared to grocery stores in other countries.
17. The Diversity of Landscapes
From deserts and mountains to forests and beaches, the U.S. offers an incredible range of landscapes. Non-Americans are often surprised by the geographical diversity within a single country.
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18. The Right to Bear Arms
The prevalence of guns and the American gun culture can be shocking for non-Americans. While many countries have strict gun laws, the U.S. has a unique relationship with firearms that surprises visitors.
These 18 experiences reflect the diversity and uniqueness of life in the United States, offering non-Americans a glimpse into what makes the country distinct. Whether it’s the little things like free refills or the big things like wide open spaces, visiting the U.S. is bound to come with a few surprises.
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