Americans love small talk
If you’re a solo traveler in the United States, you should prepare for small talk, which is a common activity among Americans. They are known for their talkative nature and will engage in conversation with anyone, including strangers. This culture often takes foreigners by surprise, especially if they come from a country where limited communication is the norm. Nonetheless, small talk can be a fantastic way of meeting new people and making friends during your trip to the U.S. Keep in mind, however, that some people may find it too intrusive, so it’s essential to respect boundaries.
Tipping is expected
In the United States, tipping is not an optional practice as it is in many other countries. In the U.S., service staff, such as waiters, taxi drivers, and other hospitality professionals, depend on tips for their wages. For solo travelers, calculating the right amount of tip can be a little challenging, but the standard percentage is between 15-20% of the total cost of service. If you have an excellent experience with the service, you may choose to tip higher, but if the service was subpar, it’s okay to tip less. At the same time, it’s important to ensure that you are financially prepared to include tipping in your budget for a smooth trip in the United States.
The legal drinking age is 21
In the United States, the legal drinking age is 21, and any person below that age is not legally allowed to purchase alcohol or drink in public places. This might be a surprise for solo travelers from other countries with lower drinking ages. To prevent difficulties when buying alcohol or going to bars, tourists need to have proper identification, such as a passport, to show their age. It is essential to follow these laws to avoid landing into legal problems during your trip to the U.S.
Americans love their personal space
A typical American cherishes his personal space and respects that of others. Visitors should note how Americans behave in lines, public transportation, and in social gatherings. In these instances, you can expect a reasonable distance between people, and the use of loudspeakers or shouting is not usual. Depending on where you’re from, it may take some time to adjust to the significant difference in personal space culture. However, it’s important to adapt fast to the American way of things to avoid any awkward situations.
Americans are always on the move
Americans are a highly mobile society, and time is often of the essence. As a solo traveler, you should always consider time when planning your itinerary as it can affect your overall travel experience. Rushing through things can be stressful and is not ideal for anyone, so be sure to give yourself plenty of time to get around. Public transportation is also an option, but it’s always wise to plan ahead and research the best options available.
No smoking in public areas
Smoking is generally not allowed in most public areas in the United States. This includes restaurants, bars, and parks. There are specific designated smoking areas for smokers to enjoy their cigarettes, so they should make note of these spaces in their destination cities. Additionally, some states have even stricter smoking laws, such as prohibiting smoking within a distance of 25 feet from public entrances or patios. If you are a smoker, be sure to respect the smoking laws and regulations in the United States.
American politics can be divisive
American politics is a hotbed of controversy, and it’s not unusual for political discussions to become heated. As a solo traveler, it is best to avoid political conversations with strangers as political views can become deeply entrenched and may cause offense. Politics is a complex issue, and one person’s opinion may be vastly different from another. Therefore, to ensure a peaceful, non-offensive conversation, it is always best to avoid such discussions, especially with people you do not know very well.
Public transportation can be limited
While most major cities in the United States have a decent public transportation system, many smaller cities and towns may not be as efficient, which can limit your travel experience as a solo traveler. As a result, it’s crucial to research your transportation options ahead of time and keep track of the schedule to avoid getting stranded in a new place. It is also advisable to plan for alternative options like taxis or ride-sharing services if there are no other options available.
Service dogs are common
Service dogs are ubiquitous in the United States, and they are often allowed in most public spaces. They are known for their ability to provide assistance to people with disabilities, and therefore they highly valued. However, if you have a fear of dogs or are allergic to them, you may come across various service dogs in public places such as hotels, restaurants, and other public areas. It’s always best to keep your distance from these animals or notify the owner of your discomfort since they are highly valued in American culture.
Car culture is a big deal
Car culture is a significant part of American culture, and many cities are designed for commuting by car rather than walking or using public transportation. This can be a bit challenging for solo travelers who enjoy walking and exploring on foot. If you plan to visit the United States, it’s important to have a car if you intend to do some touring outside large cities. At the same time, if you intend to walk, it’s crucial to find areas designed for pedestrians to avoid causing accidents or getting lost.
