It’s always exciting to be flying to the States. It’s exotic cuisine, peppy vibe, chaotic streets, globally renowned shopping, grand bonanzas and underrated romantic destinations- all make it worth every penny.
While there is so much to do in exploring a new country and new culture, certain boundaries and rules must be respected to have an entertaining holiday.
For a happy and pleasant vacation, here are some things you should never do in America.
1. Over travelling
It’s surely is tempting to leave your footprints on most of the places in the US. But here is the fun fact, the continental United States is larger than Europe, and thus, travelling everywhere in a short span could make you ready to drop. It has gorgeous cities like Arizona, Washington and New York, and wrapping all the tours in one go could overload.
2. Drink and Drive
It is not acceptable at all! If the police find you guilty, a hefty fine is issued right on your face.
3. Smoking anywhere
It is everyone’s right to breathe clean air and with this philosophy, many places in the USA have banned smoking. The workplaces and public places are witnessing a great initiative of being smoke-free.
4. Showing a middle finger
OH, It’s the USA- everything is cool here! If you are visiting with this mentality, you might get a setback. Pointing a middle finger to someone can get you killed in the USA. And we ain’t kidding. While other gestures like putting a thumbs up, having hands in the pocket or using a left hand are perfectly common.
5. Getting too much into other space
Hugs are not one of the favourite gestures of Americans. Greeting with handshakes are acceptable but don’t go forward to kissing and hugging people around. If you find the other person taking a step back, you can recognise that you are entering into his space. Avoid confrontations like peeping into other’s phones, wearing dark glasses, etc. Also, be careful of how you hold your limbs in a crowded bus or train.
6. Not tipping
It is not your local restaurant where you can skip without tipping at all. Tipping in large could be culturally sensitive in many European or Asian countries, but American culture doesn’t work that way. Whenever you are receiving any kind of service, you must tip about 12-20 per cent of the amount.
7. Silence in conversation
The uncomfortable zone builds up with Americans when a conversation is followed by a long silence. They appreciate the effort taken to have a mindful and interesting conversation. A silence of more than 3 seconds could be weird and if you are tending to have a problem with language, make use of the fillers like, Oh Sure, Yeah, And then, etc.
8. Jokes on race and gender
Few things can catch the eyes of the locals. One of these is discussing race, gender, sexuality, colour or weight. Your strong opinions on any of these topics could not end well, because someone or the other is bound to get offended. So, the best escape is simply nodding or carrying a pleasant smile.
9. Talking about politics
When you are interacting with people you know very well, taking a side could not harm. But being an outsider, sitting with a group of strangers, and taking a strong stance on a political candidate could arise issues. Nothing is better than enjoying the conversation.
10. Staring at woman
Making women uncomfortable with staring, gawking and flirting can invite the police. If you are interested, approaching them kindly and with courtesy is the key. If a woman is inviting you over, take it as a friendly invitation. Do not get misled with such requests by a female.
11. Talking about disliking football
Soccer is better than football, you say it and you get a pitiful look. You have to like football here as no one would hear anything against it. Also, nobody will take your lecture on football. Do not preach your virtues of what you know extra besides American football. Just love the game and people will love you back.
12. Comparing your country with America
Americans have a belief that their country is the best. And if you combat this thought bringing in your country and your values to be top-notch, you might get it back. So, go with the flow and do not intervene in their “we are superior” chats.
The USA is a masterpiece and one can spend a lavish holiday, only with certain inhibitions in mind. Apply for US visa online, find yourself a great deal with Rayna and revel in a magical trip.
