Guys I have Patreon where I post mostly travel blogs in Japan and updates on what i'm up to in real time, and I just want to make more friends from the US so when I get to visit USA I could meet many of you ! I will appreciate it from the bottom of my heart ! www.patreon.com/timothyjamestravels
DM me if you'd like to visit Cleveland! We have a spare room in a beautiful suburb! Also, I read that Cleveland has the most similar climate to the mountainous regions of Japan. My wife is Filipino and we'd love to share cultures! Edit: Also, on a note to another or your videos, we have a large Amish population about an hour drive from us!
DM me if you'd like to visit ST. Louis Missouri! From there you could visit Chicago, IL, it's a bit of a drive but not that bad. Or visit Memphis,Tennessee lots of fun to have on Beal street and visiting Elvis's home an car museum.
Lol, fellow ohioan above. Space: yes, in public Americans prefer their space. Brushing shoulders is kind of fine, but most prefer to not do that as it is seen as a sign of wanting a conflict or fight. But there are also people like recent immigrants or some descended ones that are touchy with family. I'm one of those people, which is the only reason I mention it. Public transportation: with some suburbs there is some decent bus routes and stuff, but not perfect or everywhere. And to be fair, we have plazas, which are sort of like extended malls in the open air? I think that's the best way to describe it. Also, there are some bus companies that take you cross country or long distance, Greyhound is a big one, but that is for 100 miles or more between mid-size cities to large ones. Rented car is better for route tracing, and sight seeing. Someone else said below, and I want to make sure you that know. Do not hitch hike! It's not safe, even for natives. Too many people have gone missing or been murdered. Go with a friend, do not go alone. The country is so large it is preferable to keep safe with numbers. Ypu can use Lyft or Uber, but that's very expensive. Rent a car/van, it's safer, and lasts for longer. Distance: day trips, yep. Very familiar in the Midwest, or anywhere outside of a major city really. But just to be specific about geography, the original colonies are more dense than the Midwest. And the west coast is similarly society packed. The prairies, a general term for states from about Nevada to the Missippi or so is basically farmland and ranches, and really only has local stuff. Have fun trying to decide which to prefer, nature or city, because the country has both. Oh, and as a side note. Cleveland, Ohio has a gem of a nature park in the form of "the valley" or the Metroparks. They have their own rangers and rules-ish, paved paths with street markers, and unpaved ones for intrepid explorers. Very hilly/cliffy so watch yourself off pavement. And, the paved path will come next to and cross the road, and it is very curved. People drive down there at at least 35-45 mph, watch wait listen. Look through the trees there. But that's mostly only if you're interested in nature. There are a few places called "nature centers" where you can learn about the local wildlife, etc. and they also have guided tours and merchandise stores. Also, Lake Erie, semi-clean except for Algea blooms. If it's not summer or late spring, don't go swimming. But Edgewater beach has lots of clean sand and is only just outside of Cleveland. Also, if in Cleveland, visit the Rock and Roll hall of fame, the Flats is a local neighborhood with great food and entertainment. We have a great set of museums too. The Botanical gardens, University Circle is a thing, look it up... Sticker price: states have their own government because the country is so massive. Hope that helps explain why the taxes are different. Tip: the waiters/waitresses earn max $5(? Is it $3?) an hour. Not enough to live on by the way. Tip is direct to waiter/waitress, or can be split by who's on shift. It depends, I don't think there is a specific law for it. Also, fast food. If they are standing behind a counter with a register to take your order, likely a fast food restaurant and won't or shouldnt get asked for tip. (Fast food can be defined as, if they offer an option of "to go" when you order. It's likely fast food. Otherwise, it's a restaurant) Free stuff: chips to table at restaurant. Yes, they are legally required to tell you if you're getting charged for this extras. (The menu will tell you, even if it is in kind of small print, what us extra) Which is why it is safe to accept these. Also, portions can be absolutely massive. They will allow you to take this food with you, they will have containers specifically for it. And, they will possibly give you a container for the freebies. And drinks from a bottle, or not from what is called a "tap", is paid for by the glass instead of one time only. Cigarettes and alcohol: no alcohol is allowed to be drunk in public, or cover the label. I think this law was a compromise for the prohibition ammendment, cause drinking alcohol was immoral, and if no one knew then it was only on you. It's fading, but you can get a ticket for that I think. Keeping ID and money close is as good idea here as in Paris. Keep it somewhere secret and/or hard to reach. At least out of sight, and not in an outside pocket. Don't talk: gun control and politics. Yes, also, racism. I wasn't sure if you knew that was included in politics. Assumptions: remember. This country is known as "the land of the free" because of the immigration and original independence. Don't be overly wary unless you're given good reason, but don't be too free with personal info too. Culture: true, New Orleans is because of the originating culture, that mixed in with what freed slaves had moved there . There is no straight one kind of culture, again massive country, each state is kind of like a European country. The metaphor, "melting pot" is very true. But they tend to stick around each other, and share areas. Forced like the Native Americans (sometimes called Indians, not true, but they also have a rich history. look some of their burial mounds up, or their cities in the New Mexico desert, etc.) Or not forced like anyone on the West Coast. How are you: we are a private people, privacy is a right and all that jazz. So, asking that question is just a prt of a polite greeting. Especially from an employee, as you may know. (I literally just found your channel, this is why I'm being so detailed). Fancy hotel: hotels will shaft you, or screw you over, or trick you. Unlike at restaurants, the food there is never free, neither is the room service, mini bar, or mini fridge (if you're 21). But if you're staying for multiple days to stretch your legs at a 3 or more star hotel, keep the toiletries. (Shampoo, body wash, small things like that that come with the room are considered a necessity and are free.) Local food: not just that. Ask locals for their local favorites of even your favorite Japanese or Asian food. You can laugh or cry at the accuracy or not of the local ones. Sick: this is why we go to work when we have a fever at or below 100 F. Anything over that is enough to stay home. Also, for broken bones or bad cuts, drive to the ER yourself, and only if it's bleeding uncontrollably. Learn first aid at home first, and keep a kit with you on the trip.. Another reason to have a friend, ambulance trips are expensive. Having at least 2 people who can drive and switch off when driving more than 1-5 hrs, (there may not be a hospital nearby, or you need to drive long distance. Also, anything under a mile or within sight of where you parked the car is fair game for walking. Gas is kinda expensive here, use it wisely) 50 states: yes, confusing. But I think,, that they think that it's 50 on the mainland instead of 48, and add Alaska and Hawaii to make 52. I've made this an essay. I'm very sorry: only a hit more: Also, a cop may pull you over and try to trick you with fancy or tricky english. If it doesn't make sense at first, do not give a positive or negative response. They may ask again, do the same thing. Ask if you can go. I'm not sure what cops can pull you over for in Japan, but in the U.S. it includes having lights go out on your front and rear. Don't use your phone in the car as the driver, put on a seat belt, some places (down to cities even) can give you a ticket for that. I also think you need at least a license from one of the states to drive in the U.S. but I could be wrong. Plan your trip route, stay in touch with your family at least daily. And like I said, don't go alone. Not only is it more fun, you'll be safer. To long; didn't read: some of this is explaining. I'm typing on my phone,, sorry about formatting. Cleveland, Ohio has history and is super cool, I'm sure Cincinnati and Denver Ohio are too. And overall, have a friend with you at all times. Be cautious, but not wary about things. And I'm naturally a paranoid person, so balance your wariness out yourself is my best advice.
You are right -- a 15 to 20-percent tip is RIDICULOUS. And, waiters and waitresses here expect it even when they give shitty service and screw up your order. You are NOT required to leave 15 to 20 percent. Mark Wolters travels all the time so he is probably saying that to gain favor with people in the service industry.
When I (American) was on a study abroad in Japan I noticed that our concepts of personal space were quite different. Subconsciously my Japanese friends would step closer when talking to me, and subconsciously I would back away because they were in my bubble. Eventually I realized we were slowly moving across the room. 😂
Unless in a highly crowed space, my (American) personal space used to be arms length at least. Handshakes used to be normal. Casual touching, hugs, and kisses are reserved for close friends and family. If a stranger in the US is standing close or touching you they may be flirting.
Another thing he didn’t mention, when you ask someone “how far is the next town” or “where is the nearest gas station?” Your answer will most likely be in minutes instead of miles. Edit: thanks to one of the replies for reminding me of this, but it will most likely take longer than that to get there if your not speeding and if you don’t know an area please don’t speed, we have some tight curves that you can’t see around and if your going too fast you will cause an accident. A family from out of town did this over by the church and a family friend of ours ended up getting decapitated when they hit him head on, the family was fine but it could’ve been much worse. Please don’t speed if you don’t know the area,
Where I live, "how far is it?" will be answered as "how long should we budget to get there?" You have to admit, most of the time when someone asks how far, they're actually planning to use that to find out how long it would take. So we just skip the middle step. Besides, around here, distance and time are not very dependent on each other. Getting to work is ~20 minutes. Coming home the same route is ~40 minutes. So I go a different way that's longer, but usually ~30 minutes.
It's relative. Compared to Japan, we probably are more touchy. And I have read that in certain places, a hug is the "hajimemashite, dozo yoroshiku". But not in most of the US.
@@Xubuntu47 ... No it's not. You don't hug people you are meeting for the first time in most situations. The only scenario I could think of that might be okay would be during holiday gatherings but even then that would be for when everyone leaves.
@@firebreathingmoonbeam3961 It is not part of my experience, either. I am just relaying what others have reported. Treat it as second-hand hearsay. But the point is there is variability. It's a big country, with many social groups and subgroups. "Don't touch the Americans" is a safe generalization, but doesn't tell the whole story.
One thing I have not seen mentioned: *Clothing sizes are different!!* Hold it up or try it on so you know exactly what you're getting. Don't just buy your normal size and expect it to fit. We tend to be wider and taller here, so our sizes are bigger and the general proportions of T-shirts may be different. This is especially true for women's clothes, if it's not a T-shirt then the stated size is just a vague approximation and you need to check if it fits. If one brand says a blouse is medium, a different brand may decide that blouse is large, another may decide it's xxs. For bras cup sizes are also different, our B cup is often considered a C cup in other countries. And some companies intentionally mislabel the cup and band size as a sales gimmick. It's a mess.
it's funny putting this into practice in the reverse. i bought a shirt from japan, specifically because that was the only place you could order it from, thats not important just context, and i had to go up like 2 sizes for it to fit, and even then it was still a little tight. i'm really glad i already knew about the sizes before ordering otherwise i would've ended up with a shirt that was basically a bra once i put it on
@@user-fe8gx3ie5vi live in NYC, with one of the most complex public transportation system in the world, and trust me, it's not. You can decide to wait to sit for a bus and expect 10 minutes or even an hour for the bus to arrive. Our subway stations were mostly built 120 years ago, and with our random weather, from freezing winters to sweltering summers take a toll on the stations. Fixing these problems usually result in parts of the station not being available for half the year, trains being re-routed or even not working at all. Example, right now, the 6 train doesn't travel The Bronx in the weekends, and you have to take a free shuttle bus to travel the route of the normal subway schedule.
Unless your Hispanic/Latino it’s not uncommon for older women (around their 30s or so) to either literally kiss your cheek or just put their cheek against yours and kiss the air (to a make a noise) while hugging you.
He’s blowing the cigarette thing way out of proportion. It’s illegal to smoke in most, if not all, restaurants or stores but plenty of people smoke outside. As an American, I’m still figuring out the culture! It’s such a mixing pot of different cultures in cities but nowadays it’s offensive if certain cultures are not represented.
@@kriskeleigh6956 I think it probably depends on where you are in the US. Where I'm at in California I assure you he's spot on. As a single example I once saw a mother completely lose her shit at a grocery store manager because her young children had to walk through a small cloud of cigarette smoke walking into the store. Now to be fair to the women the people smoking by the front door shouldn't have been there (in California you have to be something like 15 feet from any public building entrance when smoking) but her flipping out was a huge overreaction. I felt bad for the store manager.
Culture in the US depends on where you are. The whole world lives here. Like Ohio tends to be very Germanic and Eastern European, and a lot of French. When I moved south it was completely different.
Lotta my family grew up between Georgia and South Carolina. My Dad moved to Louisiana and said it was like a whole different country. Just goes to show how different the culture is by State, even within the same region.
@@mickeymickey9914 Hadn't met many people of Irish descent in Ohio, but yeah probably. In our town, lots of descendants of the Hessians who went AWOL in the Revolutionary War of all things, and lots of Eastern Europeans who escaped all the craziness of the Balkan states from history. So it was like living in those countries, lol.
Most of us Americans don't judge distance by miles, we judge it by time to get to the destination. The reason is a mile in the city takes way longer to travel than a mile in the country. My in-laws that live in a large city think traveling 1-2 miles is a long distance and where I live you can travel 15-20 miles in the same time it takes them to travel 1-2, so we would say the destination is 15-20 min away.
This is absolutely true. It’s very common that when you ask for directions they say it’s about 20 minutes down ______ road. Or ____ city is about 30 minutes east on the highway.
Not for those of us real city livers. We have bikes and a mile is a mile, unless there are giant SUVs in your way. They’re homicidal for people who cause the traffic they complain about. Public transit is cities is preferred because of climate crisis that all the ahole SUV drivers are causing. Many cities are now like the burbs because of the ridiculous amount of cars people drive here even when they don’t need to. It’s sucks.
As an American, I would like to add something to the “personal space” thing. It is a very big deal to us, yes, but it’s different for different people. For example, I would rather stand somewhere than sit at a bench with a stranger. But if I had a close relationship with someone, I would sit right next to them and start a conversation, and probably hug them.
Some people here don't know the meaning of "personal space", unfortunately. The amount of people that have gotten right in my face to talk is astounding.
@@ragingraichu219 I know right. Ive had people almost bash my face with theirs, holding their hand out as if Im gonna touch them, and say something. I know theyre probably not bad people but dude just get the fuck away from me and act like I dont exist.
12:00 When it comes to culture in America, remember that we have Amish, American Indian Reservations, China Towns, ghettos, the Bronx, Texas, horse parks, Jewish communities, California surfers, Silicon Valley... the list goes on.
There are 50 US States, 48 of them are what we call 'The Continental United States' (meaning they are all connected together on the main landmass that is the US). The other 2 States are Alaska, and Hawaii (which are not connected to the main US landmass). There are also 14 US Territories scattered throughout the Caribbean Sea and Pacific Ocean that don't tend to get much recognition :(
yea, i have a feeling that because are always discussing if peurto rico and dc should be states they might get confused and count them as well which is where they are getting 52 from?
The "continental" United States includes Alaska (because it's on the same continent.) The 48 is called the "contiguous" United States because they are touching. (Sometimes also called the "the lower 48.") ... See Google or Wikipedia or really anything
@@mikechevalier4023 It'd most likely have the city itself reclaimed by its nearest state save the essential parts so no parts of the Federal Government can be under the power of a State
Here's another tip!!! People RARELY say "oh I'm driving 10 miles away", people almost always say "Oh I'm driving 5 minutes away". I NEVER say how many miles I'm traveling, I always talk in times. 1 hour away, 30 minutes away, etc :) Also! I definitely agree about the local restaurants! Every state has their own cuisine, and the only way to experience it is from the local food ^_^ Edit: Woah! 1.1k likes! I've never been this popular before lmao. Hi everybody ✌
Yeah, I noticed that, too. If we're going any distance here, we rarely say how many miles we're traveling. We say how long it takes to get there, as you mentioned.
It is probably because it is just a more universal and effective way of conveying distance especially around cities or other traffic hubs. Unlike "It is 3 miles away" saying it is "8 minutes away" gives you a sense of the traffic or average speed limit and doesn't restrict you to metric vs imperial. I grew up in the Chicago suburbs, so this is almost entirely how people talk as far as traveling.
My cousins live in Boston. They’re technically not very far apart, but it can easily take 30 minutes to go from one house to the other. Time makes more sense.
I love in northern Virginia and even time is screwed up. The hospitals I work at could be 15 miles away and take 2 hours to get to because of traffic. I used to live in the Midwest and 45 minutes away meant about 45 to 50 miles based on speed and was more consistent. DC area we all know based on what time of day it could be a 10 minute drive or hour.
As an American, I love that channel. He is on point with everything. We do smoke but it’s not very common and most people don’t approve of it. On the food, don’t be afraid to ask us. We’re typically friendly with tourists
The culture in the US is exactly as you mentioned. It’s not straightforward. We’re a melting pot of many many cultures and histories, and we’re all very proud of it.
The reason the culture isn't as straightforward is because the US is an adapted mix of many, many different cultures. Plus, like he said, the US is more like a continent than a country in many ways. Each of the 50 states has their own unique elements, rules, & traditions. It's like 50 countries that decided to unite into one for defense and trade.
A lot of people talk about santuary cities in the USA. A place where they are more welcoming to immigrants or refugees. The USA by itself is almost a sanctuary country. A whole heck of a lot of people come the USA from everywhere in the world looking for a better life. Those peoples cultures are certainly coming along for the ride to the USA
sameee in my country and honestly i don’t like it. i wish i was born in a homogeneous country where i could proudly say “my country’s culture” without refering to so many different cultures of so many different places around the world...
no, it's not "like 50 countries...", states are actually fairly uniform. Regions are where more notable cultural differences exist. Northwest, West coast, Southwest, the South, Midwest, East coast
Dang that made me laugh! So true about the zoo concept!! :) The thing is I am Canadian and while I have in the past had quite a rivalry with the US, now I am just more curious about the whole culture of the US. I would love to go and visit it again one day.! There are some super neat people from there! Cheers! :)
Watching this now (2023) the tipping situation has gotten much more confusing for visitors, as a lot of bigger companies have started adding tipping as an option at checkout which unfortunately can make some people feel obligated to tip whenever they are asked. However, the general understanding for locals is that tipping is only obligatory if its a nice sit down restaurant and you are treated well, and maybe a few other smaller businesses if they treat you well, which businesses can vary depending on who you ask.
@6:30 Tips are supposed to go straight to the wait-staff, some places pool the tips and divide it evenly between them I believe, but generally the waiter/waitress who was serving your table gets the tip you leave. @8:00 Dude's right about most public establishments not allowing smoking on their premises, but he greatly exaggerated how anti-smoking people are. Plenty of folks in the US smoke cigarettes and the attitude about it depends largely on where you are. @14:15 It is true, we are masters of the mighty hamburger and BBQ, but each region has something special as well, even different regions within states. Here in California for example, it's all about Cal-Mex, wine, and avocados, and of course it's hard to beat the fresh seafood of the central coast.
Think of Fahrenheit as "percent hot" 100F is just about the hottest people can bear for extended periods of time, and 0F is just about the coldest we can handle for a while.
Exactly, it’s like when someone asks you your pain on a scale of 1-10 and ten is the worst and one is the least. Just put 1-100 and make 100 the hottest and 1 the coldest
The best explanation I've heard for the various temperature systems: Farenheit is the temperature of people; Celsius is the temperature of water; Kelvins is the temperature of atoms.
Hugging and affection is reserved for friends and family. You don't expect a stranger to touch you. Hitchhiking is dangerous and not usually allowed. Tipping is because restaurants are historically allowed to underpay their waiters because they expect the majority of waiters to get their pay from the tips. (So yes, tips go to the waiters not the restaurant).
@@sirsteam6455 No, tipping incentivizes better customer service because the customers directly pay the bartender/waitress/waiter for the quality of their service.
@@CrowDawg11 That a pitiful excuse for the keeping of a horrendous and manipulative system because tipping is not law and thus a person can refuse so even with good service pay is not guaranteed and furthermore it is not the customers responsibility nor obligation to pay the works of another's industry that is the responsibility of their employer alone.
@@sirsteam6455 It is terrible we don't pay servers a living wage and there are efforts to change this. But in the meantime, the wait staff do need the tips. BTW, you only need to tip for table service. Fast food places do not expect a tip.
@@sirsteam6455 It is exactly the customer's responsibility to pay for the goods and services they receive. They pay the restaurant for the food and they directly pay the individual who provided the service for said service. You can jabber on with all the hyperbole you want but the fact remains that *good* waitresses/waiters/bartenders routinely make more in one night of work than many people make in a week. It is NOT the big problem you and people like you try to make it out to be by disingenuously focusing on the paystub but ignoring the actual income. I have friends who are bartenders and they universally agree that they don't *want* the tipping system to be replaced by some sort of minimum wage because then they would LOSE INCOME. They are not the poor, manipulated victims you want to make them out to be. I know people who don't even work in the field their college degree is in because they make MORE money bartending! The only people who don't make much money off tips are the ones who *fucking suck* at providing service people are willing to tip for.
There is a slight difference between the US and the UK with "You alright?" In the UK, it's just a greeting, like you said. In the US, people would take it as a genuine question. We would worry we gave you the impression that there was something wrong. There are a lot of little differences between UK and US phrases like that.
To give some perspective on size using travel times; I live in northern Utah. If I wanted to to to Las Vegas which is in Nevada, the state directly west of Utah-that road trip is a 8 hour drive. That is, 8 hours if you do not stop for bathroom breaks or meals or just to get out and stretch and if the roads are not too crowded. the sheer size and time it takes to really travel just across the US is also why many in the Us do not travel abroad very frequently, if ever. the time and cost is too high for many folks to be able to do this, which is why you see a lot of older US tourists who are retired and have saved to travel, and college aged tourists who are not currently studying and have funds usually from their parents to travel before starting college and then working 10,20,30 years before they get a real chance to enjoy travelling abroad again as even if they make enough to afford it, the generally will not be able to get enough time off to really travel and take in the culture of various places.
I should know. Once everyone was grown up (and especially once we all moved out), my mom started traveling a lot more. My dad and his wife have also been traveling a lot recently. All of them are pushing 50 or just at it.
@@johnjon4688 that's the reason most states made it illegal, in the 60s-80s there were a number of murders/murderers related to hitchhiking, not necessarily a huge number of them but they were very high profile and so the states made hitchhiking illegal.
This is exactly what I was coming down here to say. We got a lot of long stretches with very few people and that makes it easy for bad people to take advantage.
Virginia looks the other way with "sluggers" when taking the HOV to DC. You go to a car park, the driver calls out the location where they are going and 1 or 2 sluggers get in that are going the same way and you all have the mutual benefit of being on the HOV, dodging traffic and reducing emissions. So, it depends on where, the state, and area.
Local food also doesn't necessarily mean American food. For example, if someone was visiting California from anywhere other than Mexico or Texas and they wanted something to eat, I'd point them to a taqueria. I might also point them to one of many Asian eateries as well depending on where they were coming from. Good local food really kind of depends on the background of the people in any given location.
Yes, and different regions have their own versions too. Chicken & waffles in Maryland will be different from the same dish in any other state in the South. Also, while most Marylanders will argue that our state is in South, we all secretly know that we are mid-Atlantic (neither North or South). I’ll also say that the DMV (D.C./Maryland/Virginia) is one of the most diverse food destinations in the U.S.
As an american, I don't even know what american food is. It's really easy to generalize the food of any country but it usually just comes down to the styles of each common dish and the foods that "originate" in that country.
Something to keep in mind about eating out , especially in a full service restaurant: you're probably going to get two + servings from your meal because the portion sizes tend to be huge. Huge. It is completely acceptable in almost any place to ask for a to-go container for your leftovers, so if you have access to a fridge to store the leftovers for a day, you can get two or more meals from one outing. That does bring the per-meal price down.
There indeed a ton of smokers in the states. The reason for smoke free spaces is because such business owners or us as children many of us had three common experiences: 1 is a smoker smoking directly in our face while also smelling foul. 2 is a dog chasing or threatening us, if not actually injuring us while also smelling foul. 3 we had authority figures or parents rant about politics in ways that were either wrong, or some were right but were overbearing and wouldn't tolerate even sensible questions. We have a space for number 1 but don't have a space for 2 and 3.
Don't be afraid to ask someone for help. For the most part, we are very friendly here and love being helpful. It's not uncommon to turn to a stranger next to you and ask them for directions or give them a compliment. Most Americans love to talk, and if you mention you're a foreigner, they'll likely be even more eager to help you.
This is true. If you want help we are usually happy to give it. We might not offer help if you look like you need it, because we usually prefer to mind our own business. At least that’s how I see it. Please forgive some of us women who refuse to speak to random men on the road, especially if it’s getting dark and we are headed to our car.
Kind of a funny story about that. In like 2012 I went on a flight that involved a connection and then the initial flight was delayed a bit. My boss at the time would occasionally send us "text bombs" where he'd use an app to send the same message 100 times in a minute. I was sitting in the front row and talking to the flight attendant (very small plane and her seat was like 3 feet away from the front row) and she told me that as soon as we landed I could turn on my phone and check the gate. Of course when I turn on my phone I'm getting interrupted every second by a text message coming in. I say "dammit, my boss sent me a text bomb" and then immediately start freaking out explaining to the flight attendant what I meant. She chuckled because she knew what it was and understood that I wasn't saying anything threatening and didn't meant to say the word on a plane. I managed to make my connecting flight with a few minutes to spare. Even though I haven't worked there in years, my boss sent me a text bomb a month or so ago saying "Hope you aren't on an airplane. Lmao"
@@krazysamurai kind of is? 911 and similar events were particularly huge in america and they shook our nation. It's not good to do anywhere but if there's a worst place it's the US.
As an American this video is fascinating seeing as I've grown up with all this information in my subconscious. Also in regards to tipping, some restaurants take the tips away from the servers (which isn't fair in my opinion) since a lot of waiters rely on their tips because their paychecks are so low.
Another note about short distance, we can measure things in the amount of time it takes to get there. "oh, it's like a 30 minute drive" rather than distance. Cause then we could also say "or 50 with traffic".
On the “touching” subject. There is one exception to this rule. That is if you’re offered a hand shake. If you deny the shake or give a limp hand shake, that can be seen as rude. Least here in Texas 🤠
Yes exactly! A handshake is one of the more common physical interactions, be firm, as firm as the person giving said hand shake. It’s a similar concept as two dudes doing the head nod, it’s an indication of respect!
Yes. Firm handshake, please. Especially if you are a man. Dead fish handshake is seen as unmanly. Ladies have two options: Businesslike - return the firm grip to be on equal footing with your counterpart. Or, the palm-down demure style, "Here, briefly hold my fingers" routine if you're going for the dainty look. And if you're in Texas, be on the lookout for the bonecrusher handshake. A real man will treat a handshake as a test of strength.
Yeah in Baltimore you give dap (variation of the handshake) after almost everything you agree with. For instance, I say “them Jordan’s dope” you say “already” and dap me up
Same! America is just too big. Most signs in a region won't even have the miles. You will only see signs along the highways with "how many miles until the next big city." Because of this, this is why we use minutes
Here In Montana there is no sales tax so it’s easier to shop! Tips are expected at sit down restaurants or maybe coffee shops, but fast food and gas stations don’t really expect tips. Though they are nice. Cash tips go directly to the waitress or waiter usually, tips on a credit card are often divided up to the workers
I'm from the States, so I can share views from the video you showed: Yes, we like our personal space, which generally means not within three feet or less, but that's a human preference, not just here. As for the touching, lol, not sure what he means, because a lot of American are okay with hugging strangers if they click and bond, especially in the south. Transportation in the big cities is good. Not sure why he said that. The smaller places, yeah, he's right. With Uber and Lyft nowadays, no problem. Yep, he's right about the sales tax being different in various cities and states, and he's also correct about tipping a minimum of 15%. I can admit it's crazy, but it is what it is. Some managers and owners of restaurants allow the waiter or waitress to keep their tips, but more and more are saying that they have to split it among their coworkers. Lots of free food, which is why so many of us are fat, lol! Cigarettes are frowned upon now, mainly because of so many anti-smoking commercials over the last few decades. I hardly know anyone who smokes, because, honestly, it's a nasty habit. I'm laughing at you clapping about the topic of politics. Nope! Avoid it! I have heard since I was a kid in the 70's on up until that you should never talk about religion or politics, and if you do, be prepared to get into arguments. I wouldn't define what he said as "culture," but he's correct in that there are specific food, events, behavior, etc. in specific sections of the U.S. I am what they call a "foodie," which basically means I try all types of cuisine. There are many to choose from, so don't worry! My favorite is Mediterranean, and just in my city alone, there are over a dozen restaurant that caters to such pallets. As long as you wash your hands and avoid food trucks (not all are bad, by the way, but you have to question some), then you should be fine. Unfortunately, if you require medical assistance, especially in an ER, the amount to pay is INSANE!! When my son was a teenager, he had to stay in the hospital for 36 hours, and by the time he left, I was handed a $21,700 bill. I didn't have insurance, so they allowed me to pay it out over several years. Many people don't pay if they don't have insurance, so that's the reason the cost keeps going up and up and up and up every single year. If you come back to visit, I would suggest a few locations to check out, because they have so many fun things to see and do: Austin, Texas San Antonio, Texas Branson, Missouri Orlando, Florida Las Vegas, Nevada
Here’s some things I can clear up as an American: 1. Personal space is required for strangers and people who specifically say to not touch them. However if you are familiar with then, generally it is okay to hug but not kiss! Unless you are their significant other 2. Do not hitchhike! For placed that do not have public transport, which is anywhere that isn’t a downtown type area, you will need to provide your own transportation. Most Americans have cars, it is essential to get around 3. Tipping goes straight to the waiter/waitress for the most part. It is necessary because employers only pay their waiters a couple of bucks, most of their wages come from tipping so please tip. Side note: tipping is only for restaurant staff, not fast food, drive through or pick-up/to-go 4. A lot of Americans smoke however it is frowned upon in public, in order to smoke you should go to a designated smoking area. The only people I have seen smoking in a place they shouldn’t be are super trashy folk (I said what I said) 5. There are general staple foods in America like hotdog, hamburger, pizza etc. but most of the delicious food you will eat is local. For example, in New York one of the food trucks serve chicken over rice, one of the best trees foods I’ve eaten. However, I’m from the Midwest and we don’t get that here, instead we have stuff like biscuits and gravy, country fried steak, pulled pork, bbq, etc. definitely do some research on the food wherever you plan to go in the U.S. Some other do not’s I recommend are: don’t talk about finances, always say bless you even to strangers, always say excuse me (it’s just good manners), if someone or even a stranger says hi or gives a head nod or smile please give one back if you don’t it will seem like you are a cold person (unless you are okay with that). Always keep an eye on your belongings depending on where you go in the country, it can and will be taken (personal experience from traveling). Cover up when you cough or sneeze (I know some countries don’t care but we do!). Americans are friendly! If you need a photo taken or a small favor like “can you help me carry this to the register” even a stranger will help you :) That’s all I can think of for now, good luck and have fun whenever you decide to come here!
Yup. It really is totally normal to be able to go up to a stranger and ask a question. I once had someone who had just moved here ask me what day trash day was. I wasn't from the same town but I told him his next door neighbors would know. I'm not not sure if they would have figured out what he was asking because he kept saying trash with an "i" sound, but they sure as heck would have tried.
I think the general bad stigma around smoking is a good thing and should be more commonplace in Europe. In the UK for example, you can find people who are dying from lung cancer smoking outside hospitals.
@@Alienguy500 There are certainly some exceptions, but here in the US smoking is only common within the extreme poverty class and the most uneducated parts of the country. Its seen as a very low class and filthy habit.
@@lijohnyoutube101 I think that is heavily dependent on where your at. Some areas may see it as low class and other don’t. I know many people who are not low class at all who smoke. It’s definitely not just a poor persons habit, especially since cigarettes are an expensive habit in the US. I think the major difference here versus the rest of the world is the restrictions on public smoking. It’s still very common in other countries to see people smoking inside restaurants, but in most states that has been banned. There are a few who still allow it though, they just have a smoking section.
My only issue with the “Does and Donts” of America is that there are 50 unique States with their own culture and people, so it’s really hard to generalize Americans when it’s pretty much a different place from state to state, well for the most part
Prices on goods where tipping is expected reflect the low or non existent base wage of the server. Japan and other countries may not expect tips but thats because a living wage is built into the cost of the food. You're not saving money eating out in such places, you just pay more to support that workers wage. The tips also usually go to the waiter/server youre handing money to, but some places pool tips, like night clubs that can be a thing. Also, don't need to tip on pick up orders or at fast food places, only at sit down restaurants or for services like having your car detailed or maybe at a hotel when someone carries your luggage up.
Its so interesting to see a foreigner's perspective on the U.S.. I never really thought about how others view our customs and as mentioned in the video, that they don't necessarily realize we have kind of regional cultures depending on where you are.
As far as the whole thing about Americans hugging and kissing and other types of physical contact, that's mainly with people who you're intimately familiar with
I would say the one exception to this can be the south (think Kentucky, Tennessee, Georgia, Alabama). Many southern people, especially women are very touch oriented, even with people they just met. It is there way of being friendly. But this is a good general rule.
In a place like New York City, people are not concerned with personal space, as long as there’s not a random stranger TRYING to get close to someone. In the Midwest, like Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, people are SUPER afraid of human contact unless you are family or very close friends
@@jems390 that particular one is true to a certain degree, seeing as I live in Alabama myself, but there are some people who aren't the touchy-feely type even in the Southern States, such as Alabama
@@karlsmith2570Totally agree. I just meant generally it is less weird in those states vs. some place like CA, NY or OR. And for any people hoping to visit our country, I just want them to know that; while we are all american, there are still cultural differences across the states.
Tipping in the U.S.: if it's fast food, where you order at the counter (like McDonalds) you're not expected to tip. If it is a restaurant where you have a server who takes your order and brings your food to you, then you are expected to tip 15-20%. The tip goes directly to the server, as they are paid a very low wage.
I've heard expected tipping has been bumped up to 25-30% now due to inflation and a lagging minimum wage. The waiters and waitresses seriously get paid TRASH. It sucks for us, yeah, but it also sucks for them when they do their very best to make you happy and someone who "isn't a tipper" comes along and makes it so they've only made $3.25 that hour while retail workers and everybody else gets $10. I mean, if they're lousy at their job and don't check in on you often, that makes sense, but if the food is bad, that really isn't their fault. They just deliver the dishes, so don't take it out on them.
15-20% is a high tip in the south, and 25-30% is unheard of. the expected amount depends on several factors, but even with inflation and shit, 25-30% is incredibly generous
@@lunayoshi even with inflation the same 15-20%is inflated at the same time as the food prices just raise so therefore the 15-20% is going to be more. You can always tip lower or none if you felt the service and or food was not good. 15-20%is normal to high tipping amount
I’m 2 years late, but tips NORMALLY go right to the server. Some places split it and that kind of behavior is generally frowned upon. It’s best to tip with cash bc if you use a card to tip or write it on the receipt the restaurant may take it from them.
Being an American I loved watching this I was raised in Wisconsin in America, I now live in Illinois where my family is from I love hearing different perspectives from people In other country on ours! Interesting take :)
Main thing, which wasn't in the video, DON'T LEAVE ANYTHING UNATTENDED. Lock everything up, hold onto everything. If you're in a city, keep your wallet in your front pocket and most of your cash hidden. Theft is real here
Conversely, if you're in a suburban area, you can get away with not locking your car in a publicly visible parking lot and have no issues. The urban vs non-urban divide is the single biggest divide in all of the US, more so than states, regions, ethnicities, or anything else.
A lot of people do smoke in the states but there is kind of an expectation to be respectful of other people when smoking. People who don't smoke really do not like the smell or second hand smoke.
Pretty much agree with this comment thread - I personally smoke, but as long as you're considerate about where you're smoking and whom you're around, people will often just mind their business lol
Lots of people smoke in the US. Unfortunately it's become socially acceptable for nonsmokers to be openly rude or hostile to random strangers with a cigarette. If you smoke, you're usually fine outside, hiding behind something, 100 yards away from everyone...:)
@@steph1522 ive smoked since i was 11, so, 33 years, but trying to quit now after having delta, my lungs were really messed up. i shouldnt even vape, but at least its easier on my system.
Whenever you come here to the USA, I wish you a fun, safe, and amazing time! Because even with some of the bad reputation of our country, there's still plenty of good things and times to be had here. And... if you travel by vehicle around the Eastern side, don't be shocked if you see people driving with a refrigerator or mattress in the back of their truck. 🤣
I live in the country... When I was in high-school, an upperclassmen had a couch on the back of his truck He'd pull up to school with his buddies on the back lol One of the weirder things I saw not too long ago was a man in his underwear driving with a case of beer on a moped
I know this video is 2 years old and you may already know this but when it comes to tipping it depends on the restaurant. In some restaurants the waiters/waitresses do what is called “pooling tips” where everyone puts their tips together and the tips get evenly divided among them. In other restaurants the money does just go strait to your waiter/waitress.
Yes, the US is almost as big as Europe, it's pretty massive for just one country. I also find it interesting when people realise that the US only has about 4% of the world's population, because the US has such a massively disproportionate influence on the rest of the world, it feels weird that the population is pretty small, just half of Europe's (but that's to be expected, given that the population is mostly based on European migrants). But that's also a testament to their strengths and natural resources (not just the land but the people). A great, united nation!
@@nore3 Well said. It is also a testament to the people that much of the rest of the world wants to move to the US and other European-based countries. Obviously there are other great countries and peoples, but it is the European areas people flock to.
The sheer size and low population density is one of the reasons why publish transport isn’t developed. It’s also why cellular coverage isn’t always good.
Same! I live in Texas and grew up in Oklahoma & one of my fave thing to do when we got foreign exchange students was take them on a road trip from where I lived in southeastern Oklahoma into a town called Texarkana. That way they can technically say they've been to 3 states lol but then if show them how far it is to places they've heard of. It was loads of fun.
Important note about tipping - it’s only expected in a sit-down restaurant with a server bringing you your food. So if you’re broke and want to eat out, fast food or a deli is the way to go.
Also note that even with tips, eating out at a casual American restaurant is usually pretty cheap. In fact, almost all shopping is cheaper than Japan or many other countries if you actually do the math. Now, that's not to say there aren't very fancy restaurants with very fancy bills to match, but you can pay as little as $15-20 a person for dinner at some places, even with tip. The prototypical example would be Applebee's two for $25 menu, where you get two entrees and an appetizer to share for $25. Now, you do have to add drinks and tip on top.
Pretty much places that give you personal special service is where tipping is expected. So visiting a place to get a haircut, sit down restaurants, some hotels that help you with baggage (usually only expensive ones.)
Servers are also generally paid less by the hour and are expected to make up for it in tips. It's harder for people with less money but we still love to eat out. I myself am a terrible cook. 😬
14:00 To answer your question about American foods, restaurants are going to have similar items: pizzas, hamburgers, tacos, chicken fingers, salads, pastas, and you only will tip at sit-down restaurants, not fast food places. But if you were to cook at home, traditional home-made dishes would be: green bean casserole, mashed potatoes, corn pudding, stuffing, chicken dumplings, potato salad (it's not a salad), meatloaf, and steaks cooked on a grill. Outside of traditional dishes, you're going to have grocery store bought items like pot pies, cereal, frozen pizzas, frozen chicken wings, yogurts, deli meats for sandwiches, pastas, pancakes, eggs, bacon, and loads of canned soups.
For ferenheit a good thing to remember is the temperature is sort of like a percentage of how hot it is, so like, 100 F is 100% hot, don't go outside about 100, and 0 F is 0% hot, Don't go outside below 0, 50 is kind of medium
In most places (at least in California) people won't even use miles to indicate distance, it's usually time. e.g How far is this town? It's 30 minutes away. and then you can qualify with or without traffic. Generally this is because miles don't paint an accurate picture of what's going on. A mile in the heart of L.A is vastly different from a mile on the freeway.
I think that depends on where you live. I live in a pretty rural area. Traffic here is just having other cars sharing the same road at the same time. There is no slow downs ever, even when there is an accident. Here we use miles. I think that is because everything that is worth going to is within 30 minutes maximum from where ever you are.
@@fulmerduckworth8281 that’s fair but a tourist is probably gonna to a pretty metro area. It’s probably a better rule of thumb for them to just assume hours
“But where does the tip go?” To be blunt, it varies. Most places, it goes directly to the person that helped you to improve their terrible pay from the business. But some restaurants take all the tips to divide them among everyone there. So there’s no sure way to know beforehand which that place does.
This is very true, it varies by restaurant. In my experience, the lion's share of the tips the server gets, they keep...but they're often expected to "tip out" into a pot that gets divided up to the kitchen staff/busboys. How much the server is expected to tip out is, again, variable.
I've worked at multiple restaurants where you make below minimum wage (like $4 an hour when I was younger) and they just assume you will make enough in tips to get to the minimum wage. Sometimes they keep track of it and pay extra to get you up to the minimum if you didn't make enough in tips. Other times they will just assume you made enough in unreported cash tips to get you there. It's a way for restaurants to get around the expectation that you get to keep your tips. Yes you do technically, but they take a sizable percent of it as a discount on what they pay you in wages.
When I worked in restaurants most of the time when we tipped out we paid a small amount to the bussers (basically anyone that helped us on the floor). But because the bussers made minimum wage or higher, it was a small amount. I will say that when I go to a restaurant and find out that they do full on “tip sharing” (that is, the tips are all collected at the end of the night and divided equally among the staff), I refuse to go back to that restaurant. It’s such an easy way for managers to steal money from servers and it means that some servers can sit around and do nothing while others work their butts off and they make the same money. That’s not fair. And a couple of times I’ve found out that the management takes the tips at the end of the night and pockets it and just pays the servers minimum wage. Those times I encourage the servers to quit and I blast the restaurant online because the management is straight up thieves and scammers.
Waiters and waitresses usually make around 2.75 hourly wage and they’re expected to make the rest from tips. Tips usually go straight to the employee, but sometimes they are accumulated through the night and split evenly among the front of house. It’s considered pretty taboo for tips to ever go back to the restaurant. All chefs and prep cooks usually make hourly wage.
On tipping: That only applies to eat-in restaurants with servers. It does NOT apply to fast food chains or for carry out orders. In the case of bars and nightclubs, remember you should always tip the bartender (or the server) who hands you your your drink.
Technically, a state IS a country. The usa is a federation, aka a collective, of nations. We just never actually say this. That's why the states are as big as countries, because they are. Remember, they're not like provinces or regions, because states are in the usa by choice as individual units and can withdraw if they successfully complete a succession action, which Texas has been attempting for a long time.
@@Queer_Nerd_For_Human_Justice yup. that's why it's called the "United States of America." we are a union of semi-autonomous nation-states/commonwealths. It's a pretty unique system. Good luck to Texas too, they have been trying to secede for decades. California citizens have been trying to split up CA too in a bunch of ways. Would be great popcorn-style entertainment if either ever actually did.
@@ShaudaySmith Honestly it's a broken system if the states that want to succeed never manage to do it. Texas and California are very different, from eachother and from the rest of the usa, and would probably do fine on their own. I legit want them to be able to. I want to see what happens.
Sorry, but while technically true, it just isn't so in reality. Some differences survive, but compared with Europe the US is very uniform. Globalization has been the fact here for a long time, and it shows.
@@Queer_Nerd_For_Human_Justice its not... ONE NATION.. INDIVISIBLE... texans and some others might THINK that butt i assure ur the federal gov HIGHLY DISAGREES.. european union is different nations that joined.. USA is a single nation that divided itself for better managment reasons.. exception like texas that joined while the rest of the states just got carved OUT OF THE US... on the flip side.. most EU nations JOINED while only few are the og's that absorbed everyone esle so its more or less the same thing just reverse in how it happened.. also country IS SOVERIEGN the states are not.. they share power with the fed... also PRINTING MONEY IS A BIG PART OF BEING INDEPEND NATION... the FEDS not states do that... by ur logic.. 16 states of germany are countries themselves..
“How’s it going?” or “how are you doing?”is an actual question, but people don’t expect an in-depth answer when they ask. All you’re expected to say is “not bad” or “pretty good” or just “good”. And it’s polite to ask “how about yourself?” or something back. It’s not just “hi” like he said.
I feel like it depends on what greeting you use and where in the US you live. For example, I live in California and I don't have enough fingers to tell you exactly how many people tell me "How's it going?" when I am on my morning walk or jog. They don't expect an answer at all, it is treated as a simple "Hi" or "Hello". Now, if someone tells me something along the lines of "Hi, how are you?", that is indeed treated as a question and an answer of any length is expected. But that's just my experience, it could be very different depending on the state or even city that you live in.
I hate it when someone says one of those and immediately starts talking/asking a question, not even a breath or pause after it. It's like, what's the point of asking a question if there's no time to answer? I get this a lot my job. x.x I don't like small talk, but still.
I kinda hate how you can't even be honest when answering the question anyway. Like if you're having a bad day obviously you shouldn't say "bad" when a stranger or aquantince says "how are you" but at the same time it's like what's the point in asking that question then anyway? Lol.
@@krisvelivia People say "It's been a rough day for me, how has your day been?" all the time. I have the options of saying "Oh no, I hope it gets better, ttyl" all the way to "Oh no, sweetie! What happened?"
He's right, I live in the capital of Texas, which is in the middle of the state. If you want to get to another state or the coast, you will be driving for at least 9.5 hours non stop in any direction. And don't get sick!
quick little add-on: the tipping culture typically only applies to sit-down restaurants. if it’s a takeout fast food chain, tipping generally isn’t a thing. sometimes there’s a tip jar by the register that people throw their spare change into, but it’s not obligatory. even then, 15-20% tipping is really good service. 25% is amazing, outstanding service. but if a waiter or waitress is really bad, you can tip them 5-10%. if they’re absolutely horrific, you don’t have to tip them at all, but that’s a real rarity. i’ve lived here 20 years, and i’ve never tipped below 15%. but i would if the situation called for it! the states are a melting pot, so you can expect all sorts of food as a result. i guess the most american cuisine i can think of is fusion food, i.e. mexican-asian fusion. but you don’t find them often. so, if you’re not from the states, here’s a run down of the type of cuisine you can expect from popular areas of the US! california: the big one, and where i’m from! so i know a thing or two about this. japanese food and asian food in general, i.e. ramen, teppan, boba and sushi, is pretty good in southern orange county, particularly in irvine. but the quality of seafood throughout california is excellent. northern california has chinatown, which you can guess has good chinese, and san diego has little italy, which has good italian food. we also have good mexican food that we call “baja mexican.” it’s a fresh twist on traditional mexican food and consists of a lot of flame-grilling (like street tacos / carne asada), avocado, cilantro rice and black beans. the south (east of mississippi): lots of heavy, rich fried food. think fried chicken, chicken and waffles, mashed potatoes, corn, biscuits and gravy. you will NOT find a lot of fresh vegetables here (that’s mostly california. 90% of the agriculture happens there). it’s good comfort food, but i’d you’re like me, you cannot eat too much of it. southwest (texas): two things come to mind: BBQ and texmex. BBQ is authentically american; it’s essentially a lot of different cuts of meat (in texas it’s mostly beef) cooked in an earthy way on an outdoor grill, smoker, etc. and smothered in tangy, vinegary BBQ sauce. yum! but again, very heavy. texmex is texas’ take on mexican, which is much less like authentic mexican, as opposed to california. lots of assimilated BBQ, retried and baked beans, cheese, and they use more flour than corn tortillas. chicago: PIZZA! do not leave chicago without eating a deep dish pizza!!! and don’t freak out when you see it. in comes in a dish to keep the crust together, and it looks like a pie. yum yum yum!! i hear the greek food in chicago is good, but i don’t know much beyond that. new england (northeastern US): good seafood! maryland is known for its decadent crab. but lobster and prawns are very prevalent in dishes here too. eat some clam chowder; it’s what they’re known for! new york: complete opposite of chicago, theyre actually known for a mean thin-crust pizza. new york is one of the most diverse cities in the US, so you’ll find a “town” for all sorts of cuisine. hope this helps!
As an American, my advice is this when shopping: with the price of each item, round up to the nearest dollar and then add an additional dollar. That is how I manage to never overspend.
The "Don't smoke in the U.S." point had me, as an American, confused. There is some stigma around smoking as people here view it as unhealthy (for good reason) but it is not weird or uncommon for people to smoke here. You do have to be careful about *where* you smoke, though, as some people may get offended if you smoke around them and there are various laws in different areas that ban smoking in certain areas of public gatherings (such as restaurants, etc.) because of the dangers of second hand smoke.
I feel like alot of people I know, including myself, get instantly bothered when they can smell smoke. Like if I smell cigarettes I want to tell whoever is smoking to f off. They disgusts me and most people I know can say the same.
Well outside places like casinos, smokers have pretty much been banished from most public location. There is definitely a lot of smokers in the US but you generally are not allowed to smoke near people anymore and they all got pushed off into the corner.
@@Lilitha11 not true at all, I light up wherever there isnt a no smoking sign, if you dont like it you can move. No one shuns me to a corner or gets mad.
@@jordanhicks5131 amen! Usually those that look down on us are filling themselves with junk food, soda and other crap. Pick your poison, I only answer to one for whatever I do!
Only tip when you are in a sit-down restaurant and if you can cash only, that way it goes directly to the waiter/waitress. In the US restaurants are allowed to pay servers much less than the minimum wage and they depend on the tips as part of their salary. Some restaurants take the tips away from the servers if you tip using a credit card, which is why I recommend using cash. You're also supposed to tip someone who delivers food to your house. You can stick with 15% (even 10% if it's not great food/service) or higher if it's very good. Some take-out places or food carts/trucks will have a tip jar on the counter where you can put in a $1 or $2 if you really liked the food/service but in that case, it is not expected or required.
I feel like this is also because the distance is not necessarily directly in line with how long it takes to drive there. If you're driving somewhere in a less populated place, your time to get there will be significantly less than if you're navigating a crowded city, even if the actual mileage is the exact same.
I only recently discovered that this is a regional thing! I've always given distance in minutes or hours, but my husband and his entire friend group are from California and always gave distance in miles prior to moving to Texas. We discussed this not too long ago, and are assuming it has to do with traffic? Like, in LA, depending on the time of day you're driving to a place, it may take you twenty minutes or an hour 😬.
@@ambera4002 I'm from Southern California and everyone I know gives estimates to places in minutes. I don't even know the miles distance to anywhere in the area, but I can tell you if it usually takes 20 minutes to drive there.
That is what I kind of remember from my childhood in the 80's and 90's. I for some reason was taught 52 when I was pretty young and I remember Puerto Rico and either Guam or Panama. But by the time I was a in my late childhood 8+/preteen 11? it was 50 state.
Smoking in the US used to be horrible to the point cars were manufactured with ashtrays built into the door handle on the inside. After realizing how bad even second hand smoke is for others there has been a big shift in it’s acceptability.
The tip goes to the waiter/waitress. Most bills will include different tip percentages for you to consider. You don’t have to tip if the service is poor. But most servers provide good service.
A lot of people in the states do smoke but there was such a big deal made about "second hand smoking" People generally don't smoke in public. and a lot of non smokers don't like the smell of smoke. So If you're going to smoke you just have to be really careful about where.
Boom! I have asthma, you light up around me and I will tell you to leave or put it out. That said, I will also tell you that I have asthma and why you can't smoke around me and that you could land me in the hospital. Non smokers are quite intolerant of smokers though these days in the US. Also as a kid I got burned by a stranger's cigar, so I am really Leary of smokers.
@@RiverWoods111 The thing is places that do allow smoking usually make it pretty plain that they do. I live in Pennsylvania for example. Here if a bar makes less than 20% of its revenue from food sales they can allow smoking, or if they install a separate location with its own independent ventilation system. There is a local rural bar near our home we go to that is that way. There is a smoke free dining room and then there is the bar side that is smoking. There is no access between the two without going outside. I quit about 8 years ago but it has never bothered me or my wife, so we often go to the bar for a few beers after a long day since the prices are cheap and its less than a 10 minute drive. Sometimes we both enjoy a cigar with whiskey so this is the place we go to. Overall these kind of places are less than 5% or all places in the state, so there are plenty of choices that aren't this way. For the most part it's more common in rural areas. Other states are different.
@@RiverWoods111 there's many cases where people like you just walk up to someone who's smoking that's not even near you or even bothering you and start harassing and bashing the person for smoking cigarettes I've had it done to me many times and I love how you people use asthma as an excuse my adopted father has asthma and he smoked cigarettes and guess what it doesn't bother him so how the hell is it bothering you and I like to know how is it bother you people that claim to have asthma when the person's hardly ever even near you you guys usually walk up to the person smoking cigarettes and start harassing them and I know this for a fact cuz it's been done to me so many times I'll just be sitting there on the side of my building on the sidewalk smoking my cigarette where no one is even around and then Here comes somebody walking down the sidewalk oh no you can't smoke near me I've got to asthma no one told you to come near me in the first place no one told you to walk down the sidewalk where you saw me smoking a cigarette if you see someone smoking cigarette walk the other way
Laws surrounding advertisement and sale of tobacco has gotten more stringent over time. I remember Joe Camel hanging around on billboards when I was a kid, seeing vending machines for cigarettes, and getting asked "smoking or non-smoking" in restaurants. Now? Nary a billboard in sight, you have to ask the clerk for cigarettes and show ID and most restaurants don't have smoking sections. Some places have even banned smoking at indoor public establishments altogether and have designated how far away "smoking areas" can be from the entrances. So people do smoke still, but the number has decreased and those that do have basically been banished to the outdoors away from others.
The reason you can't really think of an American food ties back into the "there isn't only one culture" thing -- each region, state, and sometimes even city has its own signature foods. The guy in the video you're reacting to makes some mention of it with classic New England and Southern dishes, but even something as basic as a pizza is very different in New York, Chicago, Detroit, or California.
or even Mexican food in the US, while we call it Mexican, it very much is American in nature. Cali-Mex is completely different than Tex-Mex (the clearly superior of the two foods) Oh and in the south, BBQ is the hallmark of American food. but its vastly different in each state, and again in Texas, it will be different based on where in Texas your getting it from.
Heck Chicago style pizza in Minnesota is completely different than what you would get in Chicago Illinois, so yes place to place, state to state, and region to region the same type of food will be different. If you love sweet tea in the south you will hate it in the north. its basically a totally different thing. A big Thing to remember is America is a melting pot of culture. so think of it as we are always changing and blending in to eachother. so food, people, everything changes from place to place.
California all the way to Texas and everything between those two states have very deep ties with Mexico and their immigrants so it's not uncommon to see lots of Mexican shops there.
Tipping mainly depends on the establishment. Most waiters get the tips from whichever tables or customers they serve but some establishments pool all the tips and then dish them out evenly between all the waiters for that night. As for 15-20%, I've found personally, as a customer and waiter, that it may be a bit excessive depending on the order, most waiters are happy regardless of the tip size, generally despite working in the service I tip between 1-3 USD.
The Tip goes straight to the waiter- preferably in cash even though you can add it to credit card. Really - don’t add it to the credit card tab- a lot of servers complain they won’t receive it. Keep cash on hand for that purpose. In the space on the credit card bill- write the $0 and write “left cash” so someone doesn’t fill it in after you leave.
"If you're in countryside...just hitchhike, right?" NO! Most people in America own their own car, or know someone who does... and gets rides from people they KNOW. (Or you could use a ride-sharing service like Uber or Lyft). NO NO NO hitchhiking. Tips in America (mostly) go straight to the waiter that you are handing the money to. The servers don't make much. When I was a server a few years ago, we made around $3 per hour (just enough to pay the taxes out of our paycheck, basically) - I think minimum wage at the time was around $9 per hour. The money a server makes is primarily from tips.
You made it sound like waiters don't make much overall lol We make a good paycheck if, and only if you are good at your job, that is the point of the tip system, we provide a better service for the chance to earn a great tip at the end. Overall, yup, we keep that tip, not the company, if anyone has their company keep their tip, report them.
@@oliverwalsh135 no it's not, it's to provide a great service incentive. Tipping allows one to make even more than $15 hr and hopefully provides a better service to the customer.
I find myself backing away from close talkers, or foreigners who have a much smaller bubble. Where I live in Minnesota, your personal bubble is about 5 feet in each direction.
In some parts of the US it is more acceptable to give someone a hug, pat their back, kiss their face (rarely happens REALLY depends on where you are) if your friends or a friend's friend or if you just have dinner with them. But it happens most often with friends parents or something. In SOME parts of the US.
That's not universally true. Cultural expectations and social taboos vary by region. Depending on where you travel, people will become genuinely offended if you flinch from a hug or don't move in for a handshake.
When you asked What's that? Let me help out on a few of those monuments and places. 12:27 Montezuma's castle located Camp Verde/ AZ 12:35 Sponge Docks located in Tarpon Springs/ FL If you are interested in other places to visit in the US that are lesser known great towns/monuments I recommend; Charleston/ SC- You can actually go into an Aircraft carrier, an old Civil War Island fort and a decommissioned slave market. Seattle/ WA- Space Needle for dinner, underground city ruins and take a fairy to Canada. St. Augustine/ FL- Oldest town in the Continental US, go to the top of a lighthouse, go into an old Spanish fort Flagstaff/ AZ- Go to several ancient Pueblo people ruins, 1 hour away from the Grand Canyon, 40 minutes away from the giant meteor crater. Helen/ GA- Bavarian style town with wonderful October beer festival, Lazy river inner tubing in summer, tour a decommissioned gold mine, in the center of Wine country Georgia.
yeah in the us it’s expensive to eat out, all restaurant i’ve heard of give all the tips to the works usually about 30% to chef and 70% to your server, sometimes a few dollars a night for the busier
Lmao! “If you’re in countryside, just hitchhike, right?” Hitchhiking is not a reasonable or safe way to travel in the US. Any sane person would not pick up a stranger on the side of the road not in immediate need of help. You would most likely walk all the way to your destination before someone stops to pick you up. And you better be wary of who picks you up because you never know if they are a pervert or a murderer. 0/10 would I recommend this method of travel. Poor choice.
It reminds me of the hitchhiking robot that made it through Canada fine and as soon as it got into the US it was found completely destroyed and dumped on the side of the road.
@@NecrochildK One thing to keep in mind about Canada is that it's illegal to leave someone walking, at least during the winter, because being left outside in that weather can be a death sentence of its own.
@@alpheusmadsen8485 What's sad is down here in Louisiana, the heat is just as deadly as winter up there, nothing is done about the homeless and we lose lives to it every summer. But as for the hitchhiking bot, that's not a person, so picking it up doesn't present risks, but for people in America to just trash it just shows how trashy people here can be.
@@NecrochildK If you come to upstate NY, don't hitchhike. #1 Hitchhiking in NYS is illegal. People do but no one in their right mind will pick them up. People have been known to disappear, depending upon what part of the state you are in. Not a good idea.
You can smoke in the US but it's generally understood that you can't do it indoors, and try to avoid non smokers while you're doing it. A lot of people are allergic to or have asthmatic reactions to cigarette smoke (myself included) and the smell is very hard to get out of things
Always stand apart. I have allergy based asthma so I can smoke. Im conscious of the people around me... Unless they are jerks and come to me to chew me out since I always stand 6 to 10 feet from a group when I smoke.
I have an allergy and have almost ended up in the ER from an asthma attack from nearby second hand smoke. Of course smoking in public is ok just not coughing 🙄
I'd agree with this! I grew up with smoker parents and they always stood very far away from doors or high traffic areas when they did it (always outdoors!). When I hung out with someone who stood right next to a Walmart door and smoked, the reactions were very different with people telling him to screw off and bringing out security.
@@litleangelbrook Agreed. Its called common courtesy for a reason. Be mindful of those around you and in turn they should be mindful of you. If you go 10 feet out of your way to chastise someone for smoking because they are harming you... Why are you stepping into the harm zone?
The picture of the building in the the side of the cliff is part of the Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument. It is a U.S. National Monument created to protect Mogollon cliff dwellings in the Gila Wilderness on the headwaters of the Gila River in southwest New Mexico.
In the South, If we ask, "How are you?" We generally do expect an answer and will have a mini-conversation. The Mississippi Gulf Coast (Biloxi, Gulfport and Bay St. Louis) is very hospitable. We treat everyone like family. Also, since we are so close to New Orleans, the culture is extremely similar. We say the best food in the US is Southern/Cajun and we like spices and seasonings :) Don't be alarmed if you are called; baby, honey, sugar or sweetie.
Yup especially if your not doing too well people will sympathize with you might give a suggestion or try to cheer you up but most of the time they are just checking to see if you need something and if you don’t they want to move on with what they were doing which is most likely greeting guests. Unless you’re in need of help they don’t really sick around to hear how your day is going. It’s mostly a way to greet someone and see if you need their attention before they move on and stop paying attention to you.
The Ms gulf coast is a great place to visit, it's not to expensive and there's plenty to do, it also has the bonus of being a stones throw away from new Orleans. Just don't do the beach thing here, the barrier islands don't let the water wash out as well or as often, so yeah...
I've lived down here my entire life, primarily in the D'Iberville-Biloxi area. I traveled out of state this summer and was shocked by just how... off Standish everyone was.kinda liked it for a bit, but it made me feel homesick
The space thing is more about in public. When you're waiting in line, don't crowd the person in front of you, leave space between you. As an American living in South Korea, people get in your personal space all the time in public places. It's weird and uncomfortable. Also, if I give people space, people cut me in line, so that's been something I've had to learn in reverse lol
When I visited South Korea, my daughter met me at the airport and when we were getting on the train/subway to go into Seoul, she told me to just crush on the car because everyone else will...she was right. Their "personal space" is very small compared to what we, as Americans, are used to or comfortable with. So many people packed into such small countries, I guess they don't have the option to have a larger personal space bubble!
Americans tend to go for about arm length distance from others. If they HAVE to crowd into public transport, they will, but they will be VERY uncomfortable about it, so will keep eye contact and conversation to a minimum to give some semblance of space.
@@wordforger That’s why people assume that New Yorkers are rude. The only way to keep a sense of personal space in a crowded city is to make that space in your head. Could you imagine trying to smile and say hi to everyone you pass? You’d go crazy! I had to learn to undo that when I moved to the Midwest.
@@SheaTheSarcastic this is absolutely true. Theres a lot going on so we learn how to block it out, but I've never seen anybody get ignored when they asked for directions.
America is huge and diverse. It's really hard to understand all of the different types of Americans unless you've been living here and travel around the country a lot. But there is a pretty big cultural difference between the north and south.
Also depending on what state you are in, if you are under 21 and your parents give you alcohol you can drink it. Be sure to check the states laws before you do.
That phrase sucks. The asker doesn’t actually care how someone is when they ask (most the time) and the answererer is always assumed to say “good,” or “fine how are you?” Even if they’re really having a rough time. At least that’s how it is where I live
@@sonofliberty8872 Pretty much. It's more of a greeting than a genuine question, though when it's with people who know each other it's typically more genuine. It's one of those things where context matters.
About “American food”: something that’s important to note is how common it is to get food from other countries in America. Off the top of my head, in New York, Chinese food is a massive staple. Also, don’t expect those foods to taste, well, authentic. Chinese, Japanese, Mexican, Italian foods- and so many others- the recipes and traditions of making them were brought over by countless immigrants to the US, and over time, the dishes have evolved. This is due to any combination of available ingredients, money, and even just preference. Often times people complain about traditional foreign foods having become “Americanized”, but honestly it’s just what happens in a country where so many different cultures combine and share their traditions. These traditions change and adapt, and the foods we now have may not be the same as in their original country, but they have become their own thing.
This is definitely true both in the United States as well as other countries, just look at the UK and their love for curry. As trade routes and colonization grew, food was shared, adopted, and changed. However going to locally owned restaurants can definitely give the opportunity to try authentic american food. New England clam chowder, fry bread (and other native american dishes), san francisco sourdough, key lime pie, cobb salad, jambalaya, Alaskan salmon, even fortune cookies!
So accurate. In fact, an actual Chinese person would barf if offered what we Americans call "Chinese food". Same thing if you offered Taco Bell take-out to a person from Mexico. They'd look at it and be like, "What the F is that?"
along with that. stuff just tastes different in different areas. like different water (which is used in a lot of recipes) from different states makes things taste a lot different since we all have different water from the way different states filter it. like my family is from connecticut and the pizza from where we live now (tennessee) is NOTHING compared to the pizza they have in connecticut. it’s very odd but true lmao
@@silas_saga oh absolutely. The video should have mentioned to not drink the tap water unless you know where its coming from! Water really can taste so different in different states, cities, or even neighborhoods
@@VideoNOLA that's what I like to call "Chinese" and "Mexican" food if you want actual Mexican food and not tacobell I would recommend to go to the states next to Mexico especially texas
I'm a Canadian who used to work in the restaurant industry and our tipping is similar with the US. To answer your question about where your tip money goes: While some restaurant would allow the wait staff to pocket the tip 100%; most restaurant surrender their tips to management so that a portion of each tip they made that night gets put in a pool and divided up in a percentage of the pool where non wait staff, (for example as the following but not limited to: cooks, busers, expediters, dishwashers and hostesses) can get a portion of the pooled tip. Some places it's completely optional, for some its mandatory but it's good practice for the servers to reward the hard workers that helped you get that tip. I would get an extra 20 to 40 dollars every two weeks because of this.
About where the tips go, the tips usually go straight to waiters. In the US waiters make less than minimum wage since tips make up most of their income. At some restaurants, some of the tips may go to bussers and hosts, but usually not much (I’m a busser and I get around $10 from each server)
We have swamps, deserts, forests, beaches, and a rain forest. The topography in the U.S. has everything. For an extreme change, take a tour through the Florida Everglades then go to the Grand Canyon or the Arizona desert.
For temperature in Fahrenheit, think of it as percents. 100% hot is HOT. 50% hot is not hot at all but you don't need a coat unless you're sensitive to cold. There's snow on the ground at around 30% hot, and you shouldn't stay out for too long in anything above 90% hot. Anything below 70% hot is seen as a chance to break out the sweaters. If it's over 100% hot, good luck.
@@KRYMauL it makes perfect sense. From 0 - 30, cold. 31 - 40 less cold. 41 - 60 mild cold transitioning to warm. 61 - 75 warm weather, not too hot. Perfect temperatures for many. 76 - 100 Hot
for the tipping question, tipping goes directly to the waiter because they get paid basically nothing from pay wage. I.E. they only get paid the tip you give.
About the tips,if you pay in cash,it all goes to the waiter/waitress.If you pay in with card on the machine,some of it has taxes that doesn't go to the waiter/waitress.
OH! temperature tip! think of fahrenheit as a “percentage of heat” ? so like 20 is super cold, 50 is pretty chilly, 70 is nice warm and breezy, but above 90 is HELL.
clearly this comment isnt from someone in texas. because here anything below 72 is freezing, and you would be wearing a coat out of the house. 85-90 is a nice balmy day outside.
And humidity varies drastically depending on region and state. 15* F in Idaho is vastly more manageable than 30* in Florida (which happens scarcely during Winter in Northern Florida).
I've hitchhiked before it depends on where in the US you are I was in the south at the time & got a ride to the greyhound it was a small town with no public transit & everyone knew each other .. 1) don't hitchhike alone bring one other person.. 2) If you're a woman have a male with you & a knife + pepper spray 3) In larger city's just take public transit it's actually safer & easier 4) If you are LGBT avoid conservative religous areas .. It's better to just take Uber & Lift
Eh, 99.9% of the time you'd be fine to hitchhike. You just gotta use common sense. If some sketchy looking dude pulls up and you get a bad feeling, maybe don't get in his car
The tips goto the servers usually. Sometimes they pool them together but usually it's the person that is your waiter. The thing about that is, for most servers minimum wage is not a thing. It's not uncommon for them to be making $2/hour or less. So 15-20% is the standard.
Definitely some things are regional. In Georgia you are required to take your shoes off when entering a home like in Japan. Except the reason I was told you must do this is because there is red Georgia clay (dirt) which is very difficult to clean out of carpeting.
American food is global food. I live in the middle of nowhere and in the closest city, which is only about 5,000 people, we've got Japanese, Chinese, Italian, Mexican, Greek, and Indian restaurants. Also a fish and chips place.
biggest thing to me that they didn’t mention is don’t acknowledge the “Crackhead” in large cities there WILL be someone on the sidewalk dress weird or doing something very weird or both and whatever you do DO NOT LOOK OR SPEAK TO THEM
Also do not make eye contact with homeless people begging for money at stop lights unless you plan on giving them money lol. I swear they burn holes in my head with how hard they stare you down. Making me uncomfortable as HELL
With the tipping there are a lot of places where you don't have to tip as well. Fast food restaurants for example, not just McDonalds, but anyplace where they don't bring your food to your table you don't have to tip (even if there is a tip jar on the counter). If you walk in, order, and leave with your food or carry it to your table yourself you don't need to tip. Plenty of places are like this such as Panera Bread, Chipotle, Subway, and Starbucks. That being said you shouldn't be afraid to go places where you need to tip as the food is usually a lot better, and your phone can figure out the % for you. Also the menu prices might be lower than in say Europe so you'd be spending the same amount of $. Tips usually go to your server, but sometimes they are divided among all the servers/waitstaff who worked that night. You also get a lot of food at most restaurants and can take it to go if you don't eat all of it (they will give you a box). Really no one expects you to eat all of it, the portion sizes are so crazy, especially if you get an appetizer, salad/soup, and an entree. It's 100% normal to take more than half of your food back to your hotel to eat later, or if that would be inconvenient while traveling to just leave it if it's too much. Soda refills are usually free but specialty drinks or alcohol cost money if you want another, water is always free and usually you don't have to ask for it.
The reason tipping is a thing is because if a restaurant has tipping service, they can pay their waiters and waitresses less. But like others have mentioned, this is only at sit-in restaurants and coffee shops, not fast food places.
Guys I have Patreon where I post mostly travel blogs in Japan and updates on what i'm up to in real time, and I just want to make more friends from the US so when I get to visit USA I could meet many of you ! I will appreciate it from the bottom of my heart !
www.patreon.com/timothyjamestravels
DM me if you'd like to visit Cleveland! We have a spare room in a beautiful suburb! Also, I read that Cleveland has the most similar climate to the mountainous regions of Japan. My wife is Filipino and we'd love to share cultures!
Edit: Also, on a note to another or your videos, we have a large Amish population about an hour drive from us!
DM me if you'd like to visit ST. Louis Missouri! From there you could visit Chicago, IL, it's a bit of a drive but not that bad. Or visit Memphis,Tennessee lots of fun to have on Beal street and visiting Elvis's home an car museum.
Lol, fellow ohioan above.
Space: yes, in public Americans prefer their space. Brushing shoulders is kind of fine, but most prefer to not do that as it is seen as a sign of wanting a conflict or fight. But there are also people like recent immigrants or some descended ones that are touchy with family. I'm one of those people, which is the only reason I mention it.
Public transportation: with some suburbs there is some decent bus routes and stuff, but not perfect or everywhere. And to be fair, we have plazas, which are sort of like extended malls in the open air? I think that's the best way to describe it. Also, there are some bus companies that take you cross country or long distance, Greyhound is a big one, but that is for 100 miles or more between mid-size cities to large ones. Rented car is better for route tracing, and sight seeing.
Someone else said below, and I want to make sure you that know. Do not hitch hike! It's not safe, even for natives. Too many people have gone missing or been murdered. Go with a friend, do not go alone. The country is so large it is preferable to keep safe with numbers. Ypu can use Lyft or Uber, but that's very expensive. Rent a car/van, it's safer, and lasts for longer.
Distance: day trips, yep. Very familiar in the Midwest, or anywhere outside of a major city really. But just to be specific about geography, the original colonies are more dense than the Midwest. And the west coast is similarly society packed. The prairies, a general term for states from about Nevada to the Missippi or so is basically farmland and ranches, and really only has local stuff. Have fun trying to decide which to prefer, nature or city, because the country has both.
Oh, and as a side note. Cleveland, Ohio has a gem of a nature park in the form of "the valley" or the Metroparks. They have their own rangers and rules-ish, paved paths with street markers, and unpaved ones for intrepid explorers. Very hilly/cliffy so watch yourself off pavement. And, the paved path will come next to and cross the road, and it is very curved. People drive down there at at least 35-45 mph, watch wait listen. Look through the trees there. But that's mostly only if you're interested in nature. There are a few places called "nature centers" where you can learn about the local wildlife, etc. and they also have guided tours and merchandise stores. Also, Lake Erie, semi-clean except for Algea blooms. If it's not summer or late spring, don't go swimming. But Edgewater beach has lots of clean sand and is only just outside of Cleveland.
Also, if in Cleveland, visit the Rock and Roll hall of fame, the Flats is a local neighborhood with great food and entertainment. We have a great set of museums too. The Botanical gardens, University Circle is a thing, look it up...
Sticker price: states have their own government because the country is so massive. Hope that helps explain why the taxes are different.
Tip: the waiters/waitresses earn max $5(? Is it $3?) an hour. Not enough to live on by the way. Tip is direct to waiter/waitress, or can be split by who's on shift. It depends, I don't think there is a specific law for it. Also, fast food. If they are standing behind a counter with a register to take your order, likely a fast food restaurant and won't or shouldnt get asked for tip. (Fast food can be defined as, if they offer an option of "to go" when you order. It's likely fast food. Otherwise, it's a restaurant)
Free stuff: chips to table at restaurant. Yes, they are legally required to tell you if you're getting charged for this extras. (The menu will tell you, even if it is in kind of small print, what us extra) Which is why it is safe to accept these.
Also, portions can be absolutely massive. They will allow you to take this food with you, they will have containers specifically for it. And, they will possibly give you a container for the freebies. And drinks from a bottle, or not from what is called a "tap", is paid for by the glass instead of one time only.
Cigarettes and alcohol: no alcohol is allowed to be drunk in public, or cover the label. I think this law was a compromise for the prohibition ammendment, cause drinking alcohol was immoral, and if no one knew then it was only on you. It's fading, but you can get a ticket for that I think. Keeping ID and money close is as good idea here as in Paris. Keep it somewhere secret and/or hard to reach. At least out of sight, and not in an outside pocket.
Don't talk: gun control and politics. Yes, also, racism. I wasn't sure if you knew that was included in politics.
Assumptions: remember. This country is known as "the land of the free" because of the immigration and original independence. Don't be overly wary unless you're given good reason, but don't be too free with personal info too.
Culture: true, New Orleans is because of the originating culture, that mixed in with what freed slaves had moved there . There is no straight one kind of culture, again massive country, each state is kind of like a European country. The metaphor, "melting pot" is very true. But they tend to stick around each other, and share areas. Forced like the Native Americans (sometimes called Indians, not true, but they also have a rich history. look some of their burial mounds up, or their cities in the New Mexico desert, etc.) Or not forced like anyone on the West Coast.
How are you: we are a private people, privacy is a right and all that jazz. So, asking that question is just a prt of a polite greeting. Especially from an employee, as you may know. (I literally just found your channel, this is why I'm being so detailed).
Fancy hotel: hotels will shaft you, or screw you over, or trick you. Unlike at restaurants, the food there is never free, neither is the room service, mini bar, or mini fridge (if you're 21). But if you're staying for multiple days to stretch your legs at a 3 or more star hotel, keep the toiletries. (Shampoo, body wash, small things like that that come with the room are considered a necessity and are free.)
Local food: not just that. Ask locals for their local favorites of even your favorite Japanese or Asian food. You can laugh or cry at the accuracy or not of the local ones.
Sick: this is why we go to work when we have a fever at or below 100 F. Anything over that is enough to stay home. Also, for broken bones or bad cuts, drive to the ER yourself, and only if it's bleeding uncontrollably. Learn first aid at home first, and keep a kit with you on the trip.. Another reason to have a friend, ambulance trips are expensive. Having at least 2 people who can drive and switch off when driving more than 1-5 hrs, (there may not be a hospital nearby, or you need to drive long distance. Also, anything under a mile or within sight of where you parked the car is fair game for walking. Gas is kinda expensive here, use it wisely)
50 states: yes, confusing. But I think,, that they think that it's 50 on the mainland instead of 48, and add Alaska and Hawaii to make 52.
I've made this an essay. I'm very sorry: only a hit more:
Also, a cop may pull you over and try to trick you with fancy or tricky english. If it doesn't make sense at first, do not give a positive or negative response. They may ask again, do the same thing. Ask if you can go.
I'm not sure what cops can pull you over for in Japan, but in the U.S. it includes having lights go out on your front and rear. Don't use your phone in the car as the driver, put on a seat belt, some places (down to cities even) can give you a ticket for that. I also think you need at least a license from one of the states to drive in the U.S. but I could be wrong.
Plan your trip route, stay in touch with your family at least daily. And like I said, don't go alone. Not only is it more fun, you'll be safer.
To long; didn't read: some of this is explaining. I'm typing on my phone,, sorry about formatting. Cleveland, Ohio has history and is super cool, I'm sure Cincinnati and Denver Ohio are too. And overall, have a friend with you at all times. Be cautious, but not wary about things. And I'm naturally a paranoid person, so balance your wariness out yourself is my best advice.
You are right -- a 15 to 20-percent tip is RIDICULOUS. And, waiters and waitresses here expect it even when they give shitty service and screw up your order. You are NOT required to leave 15 to 20 percent. Mark Wolters travels all the time so he is probably saying that to gain favor with people in the service industry.
There is NOT a lot of over-the-top service here in the US anymore. That ship has sailed.
When I (American) was on a study abroad in Japan I noticed that our concepts of personal space were quite different. Subconsciously my Japanese friends would step closer when talking to me, and subconsciously I would back away because they were in my bubble. Eventually I realized we were slowly moving across the room. 😂
🤣😂😂😂I can see that!
Unless in a highly crowed space, my (American) personal space used to be arms length at least. Handshakes used to be normal. Casual touching, hugs, and kisses are reserved for close friends and family. If a stranger in the US is standing close or touching you they may be flirting.
I'm an American who visited Poland. The same thing happened to me over there!
I’ve heard this is why Americans are often seen as loud, because we usually have more distance between us when speaking compared to other countries.
My anxiety skyrockets if someone steps closer to me and I have nowhere to go.
Another thing he didn’t mention, when you ask someone “how far is the next town” or “where is the nearest gas station?” Your answer will most likely be in minutes instead of miles.
Edit: thanks to one of the replies for reminding me of this, but it will most likely take longer than that to get there if your not speeding and if you don’t know an area please don’t speed, we have some tight curves that you can’t see around and if your going too fast you will cause an accident. A family from out of town did this over by the church and a family friend of ours ended up getting decapitated when they hit him head on, the family was fine but it could’ve been much worse. Please don’t speed if you don’t know the area,
Especially in Southern California. It could take an hour in heavy traffic to travel 3 miles in Los Angeles
Where I live, "how far is it?" will be answered as "how long should we budget to get there?"
You have to admit, most of the time when someone asks how far, they're actually planning to use that to find out how long it would take. So we just skip the middle step.
Besides, around here, distance and time are not very dependent on each other. Getting to work is ~20 minutes. Coming home the same route is ~40 minutes. So I go a different way that's longer, but usually ~30 minutes.
This is tricky to answer. For some the next town could be an hour away, and for the locals that would be, "close" or "not far".
i forget how far dallas is but its about 3hours away
as someone who doesnt drive, everything is about 30 minutes away lol but also anything outside of my medium sized city, i will never see lol
The personal space part is right when it comes to strangers. When it’s your friends then this “rule” becomes more lenient.
Yep. A group of people may get closer to hear one another, but they will space out if the group size drops.
Yeah friends drop that all together XD
It's relative. Compared to Japan, we probably are more touchy. And I have read that in certain places, a hug is the "hajimemashite, dozo yoroshiku". But not in most of the US.
@@Xubuntu47 ... No it's not. You don't hug people you are meeting for the first time in most situations. The only scenario I could think of that might be okay would be during holiday gatherings but even then that would be for when everyone leaves.
@@firebreathingmoonbeam3961 It is not part of my experience, either. I am just relaying what others have reported. Treat it as second-hand hearsay. But the point is there is variability. It's a big country, with many social groups and subgroups. "Don't touch the Americans" is a safe generalization, but doesn't tell the whole story.
One thing I have not seen mentioned: *Clothing sizes are different!!* Hold it up or try it on so you know exactly what you're getting. Don't just buy your normal size and expect it to fit. We tend to be wider and taller here, so our sizes are bigger and the general proportions of T-shirts may be different. This is especially true for women's clothes, if it's not a T-shirt then the stated size is just a vague approximation and you need to check if it fits. If one brand says a blouse is medium, a different brand may decide that blouse is large, another may decide it's xxs. For bras cup sizes are also different, our B cup is often considered a C cup in other countries. And some companies intentionally mislabel the cup and band size as a sales gimmick. It's a mess.
it's funny putting this into practice in the reverse. i bought a shirt from japan, specifically because that was the only place you could order it from, thats not important just context, and i had to go up like 2 sizes for it to fit, and even then it was still a little tight. i'm really glad i already knew about the sizes before ordering otherwise i would've ended up with a shirt that was basically a bra once i put it on
@@Stumbo99 Yup that's how I know too lol, shopping online and reading comments before I buy
It’s also a struggle when the clothing sizes vary by brand
I bought a 5xl hoodie from some Asian store online and it was a US medium when I got it.
"I thought public transport would be very developed" I laughed so hard..........
It is in some big cities.
@@user-fe8gx3ie5vi live in NYC, with one of the most complex public transportation system in the world, and trust me, it's not.
You can decide to wait to sit for a bus and expect 10 minutes or even an hour for the bus to arrive.
Our subway stations were mostly built 120 years ago, and with our random weather, from freezing winters to sweltering summers take a toll on the stations. Fixing these problems usually result in parts of the station not being available for half the year, trains being re-routed or even not working at all.
Example, right now, the 6 train doesn't travel The Bronx in the weekends, and you have to take a free shuttle bus to travel the route of the normal subway schedule.
@@ShadowHwkX7 That's more of that shit hole's issue than the norm.
Well, it's the biggest thing here in Armenia.
Same thought. We are the ghetto of the world stop this high praise please 😂
Hugging usually happens between people who know each other very well. Strangers hugging people don't happen very often.
In fact, almost never. The only time I’ve been hugged by a “stranger” was when it was a friend of my family that I just didn’t know. I
Happens often in cali
Even a high five or handshake might be avoided by most of us Americans.
Unless your Hispanic/Latino it’s not uncommon for older women (around their 30s or so) to either literally kiss your cheek or just put their cheek against yours and kiss the air (to a make a noise) while hugging you.
@@flapjackmonster no way a 30 year old is doing that. Only 50 year olds and grandmas(like your actual grandma) do that.
He’s blowing the cigarette thing way out of proportion. It’s illegal to smoke in most, if not all, restaurants or stores but plenty of people smoke outside.
As an American, I’m still figuring out the culture! It’s such a mixing pot of different cultures in cities but nowadays it’s offensive if certain cultures are not represented.
What State and City you from?
There are designated smoking spots everywhere for a reason. It’s becoming slightly less common but it’s hardly forbidden.
@@TWHowl exactly! Like damn what he said wasn’t right!! I used to be a smoker so I know what he said was way overblown!!
@@kriskeleigh6956 I think it probably depends on where you are in the US. Where I'm at in California I assure you he's spot on.
As a single example I once saw a mother completely lose her shit at a grocery store manager because her young children had to walk through a small cloud of cigarette smoke walking into the store. Now to be fair to the women the people smoking by the front door shouldn't have been there (in California you have to be something like 15 feet from any public building entrance when smoking) but her flipping out was a huge overreaction. I felt bad for the store manager.
It's because everyone is so fuckin' fragile. Everthing is offensive, the smallest slight drives people over the edge and it's stupid as hell.
Culture in the US depends on where you are. The whole world lives here. Like Ohio tends to be very Germanic and Eastern European, and a lot of French. When I moved south it was completely different.
Lotta my family grew up between Georgia and South Carolina. My Dad moved to Louisiana and said it was like a whole different country. Just goes to show how different the culture is by State, even within the same region.
I agree as I live in California. You tend to see a lot more Hispanic culture here
@@W.Isarnorix.D definitely, southern culture is very different from DEEP SOUTHERN culture
Ohio is mainly German and Irish
@@mickeymickey9914 Hadn't met many people of Irish descent in Ohio, but yeah probably. In our town, lots of descendants of the Hessians who went AWOL in the Revolutionary War of all things, and lots of Eastern Europeans who escaped all the craziness of the Balkan states from history. So it was like living in those countries, lol.
Most of us Americans don't judge distance by miles, we judge it by time to get to the destination. The reason is a mile in the city takes way longer to travel than a mile in the country. My in-laws that live in a large city think traveling 1-2 miles is a long distance and where I live you can travel 15-20 miles in the same time it takes them to travel 1-2, so we would say the destination is 15-20 min away.
This is absolutely true. It’s very common that when you ask for directions they say it’s about 20 minutes down ______ road. Or ____ city is about 30 minutes east on the highway.
Yeah
Not for those of us real city livers. We have bikes and a mile is a mile, unless there are giant SUVs in your way. They’re homicidal for people who cause the traffic they complain about. Public transit is cities is preferred because of climate crisis that all the ahole SUV drivers are causing. Many cities are now like the burbs because of the ridiculous amount of cars people drive here even when they don’t need to. It’s sucks.
@pankobby you don’t need a car in the city. Duh
@@JDMimeTHEFIRST Vehicles BARELY have a negative effect to the enviroment tho
As an American, I would like to add something to the “personal space” thing. It is a very big deal to us, yes, but it’s different for different people. For example, I would rather stand somewhere than sit at a bench with a stranger. But if I had a close relationship with someone, I would sit right next to them and start a conversation, and probably hug them.
Some people here don't know the meaning of "personal space", unfortunately. The amount of people that have gotten right in my face to talk is astounding.
I agree. I'm american too and I don't mind hugging folks I barely know, but when we're having a conversation I prefer to be at arm's length 😅
@@ragingraichu219 I know right. Ive had people almost bash my face with theirs, holding their hand out as if Im gonna touch them, and say something. I know theyre probably not bad people but dude just get the fuck away from me and act like I dont exist.
The personal space thing is just stupid
@@samkelly8868 Wie macht?
12:00
When it comes to culture in America, remember that we have Amish, American Indian Reservations, China Towns, ghettos, the Bronx, Texas, horse parks, Jewish communities, California surfers, Silicon Valley... the list goes on.
We got so many Americans. And so much America
I like how you mention Texas as it’s own culture lol
There are 50 US States, 48 of them are what we call 'The Continental United States' (meaning they are all connected together on the main landmass that is the US). The other 2 States are Alaska, and Hawaii (which are not connected to the main US landmass). There are also 14 US Territories scattered throughout the Caribbean Sea and Pacific Ocean that don't tend to get much recognition :(
You forgot our capital city, Washington D.C. as well. It's not part of any state and has no representatives of its own in national government.
yea, i have a feeling that because are always discussing if peurto rico and dc should be states they might get confused and count them as well which is where they are getting 52 from?
Dont forget the Native American Indian Reservations which are sovereign nations within the United States
The "continental" United States includes Alaska (because it's on the same continent.) The 48 is called the "contiguous" United States because they are touching. (Sometimes also called the "the lower 48.") ... See Google or Wikipedia or really anything
@@mikechevalier4023 It'd most likely have the city itself reclaimed by its nearest state save the essential parts so no parts of the Federal Government can be under the power of a State
dude….DO NOT hitchhike in the US!! that’s how you end up on Unsolved Mysteries.. for real
Unsolved Mysteries lol, but soo true
U can tell you must be in your mid 30's lol I'm 33 and I watched tons of unsolved mysteries back in the day!
Yes. It's true. It happened to my friends mom. Also I'm in my thirties and watched unsolved mysteries. They caught her killer though.
😖 yes, hitchhiking is not a safe mode of transport. I wouldn't hitch a ride with a stranger anywhere in the world.😵
I agree
Here's another tip!!! People RARELY say "oh I'm driving 10 miles away", people almost always say "Oh I'm driving 5 minutes away". I NEVER say how many miles I'm traveling, I always talk in times. 1 hour away, 30 minutes away, etc :) Also! I definitely agree about the local restaurants! Every state has their own cuisine, and the only way to experience it is from the local food ^_^
Edit: Woah! 1.1k likes! I've never been this popular before lmao. Hi everybody ✌
Yeah, I noticed that, too. If we're going any distance here, we rarely say how many miles we're traveling. We say how long it takes to get there, as you mentioned.
It is probably because it is just a more universal and effective way of conveying distance especially around cities or other traffic hubs. Unlike "It is 3 miles away" saying it is "8 minutes away" gives you a sense of the traffic or average speed limit and doesn't restrict you to metric vs imperial. I grew up in the Chicago suburbs, so this is almost entirely how people talk as far as traveling.
My cousins live in Boston. They’re technically not very far apart, but it can easily take 30 minutes to go from one house to the other. Time makes more sense.
Yeah people are more concerned with how long it will take than the actual distance, since how many miles you can go in hour can change.
I love in northern Virginia and even time is screwed up. The hospitals I work at could be 15 miles away and take 2 hours to get to because of traffic. I used to live in the Midwest and 45 minutes away meant about 45 to 50 miles based on speed and was more consistent. DC area we all know based on what time of day it could be a 10 minute drive or hour.
As an American, I love that channel. He is on point with everything. We do smoke but it’s not very common and most people don’t approve of it. On the food, don’t be afraid to ask us. We’re typically friendly with tourists
The culture in the US is exactly as you mentioned. It’s not straightforward. We’re a melting pot of many many cultures and histories, and we’re all very proud of it.
The reason the culture isn't as straightforward is because the US is an adapted mix of many, many different cultures. Plus, like he said, the US is more like a continent than a country in many ways. Each of the 50 states has their own unique elements, rules, & traditions. It's like 50 countries that decided to unite into one for defense and trade.
Very true...its why describing "American culture" is so hard. I identify with my state as much as I do with the U.S.
A lot of people talk about santuary cities in the USA. A place where they are more welcoming to immigrants or refugees. The USA by itself is almost a sanctuary country. A whole heck of a lot of people come the USA from everywhere in the world looking for a better life. Those peoples cultures are certainly coming along for the ride to the USA
sameee in my country and honestly i don’t like it. i wish i was born in a homogeneous country where i could proudly say “my country’s culture” without refering to so many different cultures of so many different places around the world...
no, it's not "like 50 countries...", states are actually fairly uniform. Regions are where more notable cultural differences exist. Northwest, West coast, Southwest, the South, Midwest, East coast
Yea, It's a melting pot of cultures as they say. In the state I live, even different neighborhoods have their own unique cultures.
"DONT TOUCH THE AMERICANS" sounds like something you'd see on a sign at a zoo.
Dang that made me laugh! So true about the zoo concept!! :) The thing is I am Canadian and while I have in the past had quite a rivalry with the US, now I am just more curious about the whole culture of the US. I would love to go and visit it again one day.! There are some super neat people from there! Cheers! :)
If you come to the south we hug and handshake which might be why covid spread so bad here
@@bartonbella3131 I’m a swamp yankee give me a hug
😂🤣😂 we'd spit venom if you touch us like the dilophisoar in jurassic Park
@@notafraidofarmedbears2386 idk why I’m picturing people feeding Americans bread despite the “don’t feed Americans” sign.
Watching this now (2023) the tipping situation has gotten much more confusing for visitors, as a lot of bigger companies have started adding tipping as an option at checkout which unfortunately can make some people feel obligated to tip whenever they are asked. However, the general understanding for locals is that tipping is only obligatory if its a nice sit down restaurant and you are treated well, and maybe a few other smaller businesses if they treat you well, which businesses can vary depending on who you ask.
@6:30 Tips are supposed to go straight to the wait-staff, some places pool the tips and divide it evenly between them I believe, but generally the waiter/waitress who was serving your table gets the tip you leave.
@8:00 Dude's right about most public establishments not allowing smoking on their premises, but he greatly exaggerated how anti-smoking people are. Plenty of folks in the US smoke cigarettes and the attitude about it depends largely on where you are.
@14:15 It is true, we are masters of the mighty hamburger and BBQ, but each region has something special as well, even different regions within states. Here in California for example, it's all about Cal-Mex, wine, and avocados, and of course it's hard to beat the fresh seafood of the central coast.
Thank you !
Think of Fahrenheit as "percent hot" 100F is just about the hottest people can bear for extended periods of time, and 0F is just about the coldest we can handle for a while.
Exactly, it’s like when someone asks you your pain on a scale of 1-10 and ten is the worst and one is the least. Just put 1-100 and make 100 the hottest and 1 the coldest
The best explanation I've heard for the various temperature systems: Farenheit is the temperature of people; Celsius is the temperature of water; Kelvins is the temperature of atoms.
We have several consecutive months in Texas where the temperature exceeds 100F.
except I like 102-105F. Yep, Phoenix, AZ was a great place for me to live :)
@@Krieghandt I don't mind the heat actually. It is the cold that gets me.
Hugging and affection is reserved for friends and family. You don't expect a stranger to touch you.
Hitchhiking is dangerous and not usually allowed.
Tipping is because restaurants are historically allowed to underpay their waiters because they expect the majority of waiters to get their pay from the tips. (So yes, tips go to the waiters not the restaurant).
Even so tipping is just an excuse to underpay employees which is a horrid practice .
@@sirsteam6455 No, tipping incentivizes better customer service because the customers directly pay the bartender/waitress/waiter for the quality of their service.
@@CrowDawg11 That a pitiful excuse for the keeping of a horrendous and manipulative system because tipping is not law and thus a person can refuse so even with good service pay is not guaranteed and furthermore it is not the customers responsibility nor obligation to pay the works of another's industry that is the responsibility of their employer alone.
@@sirsteam6455 It is terrible we don't pay servers a living wage and there are efforts to change this. But in the meantime, the wait staff do need the tips. BTW, you only need to tip for table service. Fast food places do not expect a tip.
@@sirsteam6455 It is exactly the customer's responsibility to pay for the goods and services they receive. They pay the restaurant for the food and they directly pay the individual who provided the service for said service.
You can jabber on with all the hyperbole you want but the fact remains that *good* waitresses/waiters/bartenders routinely make more in one night of work than many people make in a week. It is NOT the big problem you and people like you try to make it out to be by disingenuously focusing on the paystub but ignoring the actual income.
I have friends who are bartenders and they universally agree that they don't *want* the tipping system to be replaced by some sort of minimum wage because then they would LOSE INCOME. They are not the poor, manipulated victims you want to make them out to be. I know people who don't even work in the field their college degree is in because they make MORE money bartending!
The only people who don't make much money off tips are the ones who *fucking suck* at providing service people are willing to tip for.
There is a slight difference between the US and the UK with "You alright?" In the UK, it's just a greeting, like you said. In the US, people would take it as a genuine question. We would worry we gave you the impression that there was something wrong.
There are a lot of little differences between UK and US phrases like that.
"You alright?" Is a genuine question while "How are you?" is not. Aren't nuances funny?
Not to mention there are two versions of American english.
To give some perspective on size using travel times; I live in northern Utah. If I wanted to to to Las Vegas which is in Nevada, the state directly west of Utah-that road trip is a 8 hour drive. That is, 8 hours if you do not stop for bathroom breaks or meals or just to get out and stretch and if the roads are not too crowded. the sheer size and time it takes to really travel just across the US is also why many in the Us do not travel abroad very frequently, if ever. the time and cost is too high for many folks to be able to do this, which is why you see a lot of older US tourists who are retired and have saved to travel, and college aged tourists who are not currently studying and have funds usually from their parents to travel before starting college and then working 10,20,30 years before they get a real chance to enjoy travelling abroad again as even if they make enough to afford it, the generally will not be able to get enough time off to really travel and take in the culture of various places.
I should know. Once everyone was grown up (and especially once we all moved out), my mom started traveling a lot more. My dad and his wife have also been traveling a lot recently. All of them are pushing 50 or just at it.
PLEASE DO NOT HITCHHIKE WHEN IN THE US, its so extremely dangerous and actually illegal now in a lot of states so never ever do that in the states.
ya, it's a good way to get assaulted. most people won't pick somebody up, and the ones that do, you don't want a ride with them.
@@johnjon4688 that's the reason most states made it illegal, in the 60s-80s there were a number of murders/murderers related to hitchhiking, not necessarily a huge number of them but they were very high profile and so the states made hitchhiking illegal.
This is exactly what I was coming down here to say. We got a lot of long stretches with very few people and that makes it easy for bad people to take advantage.
Theres a reason we have a whole stretch of road called the Highway of Tears
Virginia looks the other way with "sluggers" when taking the HOV to DC. You go to a car park, the driver calls out the location where they are going and 1 or 2 sluggers get in that are going the same way and you all have the mutual benefit of being on the HOV, dodging traffic and reducing emissions. So, it depends on where, the state, and area.
“American food” is SO regional.
Local food also doesn't necessarily mean American food. For example, if someone was visiting California from anywhere other than Mexico or Texas and they wanted something to eat, I'd point them to a taqueria. I might also point them to one of many Asian eateries as well depending on where they were coming from. Good local food really kind of depends on the background of the people in any given location.
More original then Italian Foods, tomatoes weren't discovered until they found the new world.
Yes, and different regions have their own versions too. Chicken & waffles in Maryland will be different from the same dish in any other state in the South. Also, while most Marylanders will argue that our state is in South, we all secretly know that we are mid-Atlantic (neither North or South). I’ll also say that the DMV (D.C./Maryland/Virginia) is one of the most diverse food destinations in the U.S.
As an american, I don't even know what american food is.
It's really easy to generalize the food of any country but it usually just comes down to the styles of each common dish and the foods that "originate" in that country.
In Michigan we have mostly sandwiches, bbq, and seasonal favorites like anything with apples. Also lots of pickles for some reason.
Something to keep in mind about eating out , especially in a full service restaurant: you're probably going to get two + servings from your meal because the portion sizes tend to be huge. Huge. It is completely acceptable in almost any place to ask for a to-go container for your leftovers, so if you have access to a fridge to store the leftovers for a day, you can get two or more meals from one outing. That does bring the per-meal price down.
There indeed a ton of smokers in the states. The reason for smoke free spaces is because such business owners or us as children many of us had three common experiences: 1 is a smoker smoking directly in our face while also smelling foul. 2 is a dog chasing or threatening us, if not actually injuring us while also smelling foul. 3 we had authority figures or parents rant about politics in ways that were either wrong, or some were right but were overbearing and wouldn't tolerate even sensible questions. We have a space for number 1 but don't have a space for 2 and 3.
Don't be afraid to ask someone for help. For the most part, we are very friendly here and love being helpful. It's not uncommon to turn to a stranger next to you and ask them for directions or give them a compliment. Most Americans love to talk, and if you mention you're a foreigner, they'll likely be even more eager to help you.
Yep. Meeting someone from another country can be a rare treat.
Even us introverts will try to help, even if we won't get into a deep conversation. :)
This is true. If you want help we are usually happy to give it. We might not offer help if you look like you need it, because we usually prefer to mind our own business. At least that’s how I see it. Please forgive some of us women who refuse to speak to random men on the road, especially if it’s getting dark and we are headed to our car.
Ooh yikes.
I agree with this!
He forgot don't joke about bombs in your luggage at the airport.
So true, the TSA has even less of a sense of humor than the FBI.
i don’t think that’s just an american thing
Kind of a funny story about that. In like 2012 I went on a flight that involved a connection and then the initial flight was delayed a bit. My boss at the time would occasionally send us "text bombs" where he'd use an app to send the same message 100 times in a minute. I was sitting in the front row and talking to the flight attendant (very small plane and her seat was like 3 feet away from the front row) and she told me that as soon as we landed I could turn on my phone and check the gate. Of course when I turn on my phone I'm getting interrupted every second by a text message coming in. I say "dammit, my boss sent me a text bomb" and then immediately start freaking out explaining to the flight attendant what I meant. She chuckled because she knew what it was and understood that I wasn't saying anything threatening and didn't meant to say the word on a plane. I managed to make my connecting flight with a few minutes to spare.
Even though I haven't worked there in years, my boss sent me a text bomb a month or so ago saying "Hope you aren't on an airplane. Lmao"
@@krazysamurai kind of is? 911 and similar events were particularly huge in america and they shook our nation. It's not good to do anywhere but if there's a worst place it's the US.
@@jadamcquarrie4509 They think the joke is less funny in Isreal and Ireland....and other places throughout the world
As an American this video is fascinating seeing as I've grown up with all this information in my subconscious. Also in regards to tipping, some restaurants take the tips away from the servers (which isn't fair in my opinion) since a lot of waiters rely on their tips because their paychecks are so low.
Another note about short distance, we can measure things in the amount of time it takes to get there. "oh, it's like a 30 minute drive" rather than distance. Cause then we could also say "or 50 with traffic".
On the “touching” subject. There is one exception to this rule. That is if you’re offered a hand shake. If you deny the shake or give a limp hand shake, that can be seen as rude. Least here in Texas 🤠
Yes exactly! A handshake is one of the more common physical interactions, be firm, as firm as the person giving said hand shake. It’s a similar concept as two dudes doing the head nod, it’s an indication of respect!
Yes. Firm handshake, please. Especially if you are a man. Dead fish handshake is seen as unmanly.
Ladies have two options: Businesslike - return the firm grip to be on equal footing with your counterpart. Or, the palm-down demure style, "Here, briefly hold my fingers" routine if you're going for the dainty look.
And if you're in Texas, be on the lookout for the bonecrusher handshake. A real man will treat a handshake as a test of strength.
Same here in NC
Yeah in Baltimore you give dap (variation of the handshake) after almost everything you agree with. For instance, I say “them Jordan’s dope” you say “already” and dap me up
I don’t know about anywhere else, but in California we do sort of a sideways high five that transitions into a handshake. Idk the word for it.
Most of the time, distances are measured in time. I don’t know how many miles it is to a certain city, but I know it’s 45-50 minutes.
Same! America is just too big. Most signs in a region won't even have the miles. You will only see signs along the highways with "how many miles until the next big city." Because of this, this is why we use minutes
Yeah that’s true
Yeah, with traffic and Urban sprawl distance doesn’t matter
@@rockinchik06 Give some states back to the indians, that will make it smaller. 😜😜😜
@@renatoherren4217 As an "Indian", I'll say it wouldn't help. USA is just _that_ huge and our population _that_ small. :P
Here In Montana there is no sales tax so it’s easier to shop! Tips are expected at sit down restaurants or maybe coffee shops, but fast food and gas stations don’t really expect tips. Though they are nice. Cash tips go directly to the waitress or waiter usually, tips on a credit card are often divided up to the workers
I'm from the States, so I can share views from the video you showed:
Yes, we like our personal space, which generally means not within three feet or less, but that's a human preference, not just here. As for the touching, lol, not sure what he means, because a lot of American are okay with hugging strangers if they click and bond, especially in the south.
Transportation in the big cities is good. Not sure why he said that. The smaller places, yeah, he's right. With Uber and Lyft nowadays, no problem.
Yep, he's right about the sales tax being different in various cities and states, and he's also correct about tipping a minimum of 15%. I can admit it's crazy, but it is what it is. Some managers and owners of restaurants allow the waiter or waitress to keep their tips, but more and more are saying that they have to split it among their coworkers.
Lots of free food, which is why so many of us are fat, lol!
Cigarettes are frowned upon now, mainly because of so many anti-smoking commercials over the last few decades. I hardly know anyone who smokes, because, honestly, it's a nasty habit.
I'm laughing at you clapping about the topic of politics. Nope! Avoid it! I have heard since I was a kid in the 70's on up until that you should never talk about religion or politics, and if you do, be prepared to get into arguments.
I wouldn't define what he said as "culture," but he's correct in that there are specific food, events, behavior, etc. in specific sections of the U.S.
I am what they call a "foodie," which basically means I try all types of cuisine. There are many to choose from, so don't worry! My favorite is Mediterranean, and just in my city alone, there are over a dozen restaurant that caters to such pallets.
As long as you wash your hands and avoid food trucks (not all are bad, by the way, but you have to question some), then you should be fine. Unfortunately, if you require medical assistance, especially in an ER, the amount to pay is INSANE!! When my son was a teenager, he had to stay in the hospital for 36 hours, and by the time he left, I was handed a $21,700 bill. I didn't have insurance, so they allowed me to pay it out over several years. Many people don't pay if they don't have insurance, so that's the reason the cost keeps going up and up and up and up every single year.
If you come back to visit, I would suggest a few locations to check out, because they have so many fun things to see and do:
Austin, Texas
San Antonio, Texas
Branson, Missouri
Orlando, Florida
Las Vegas, Nevada
Here’s some things I can clear up as an American:
1. Personal space is required for strangers and people who specifically say to not touch them. However if you are familiar with then, generally it is okay to hug but not kiss! Unless you are their significant other
2. Do not hitchhike! For placed that do not have public transport, which is anywhere that isn’t a downtown type area, you will need to provide your own transportation. Most Americans have cars, it is essential to get around
3. Tipping goes straight to the waiter/waitress for the most part. It is necessary because employers only pay their waiters a couple of bucks, most of their wages come from tipping so please tip. Side note: tipping is only for restaurant staff, not fast food, drive through or pick-up/to-go
4. A lot of Americans smoke however it is frowned upon in public, in order to smoke you should go to a designated smoking area. The only people I have seen smoking in a place they shouldn’t be are super trashy folk (I said what I said)
5. There are general staple foods in America like hotdog, hamburger, pizza etc. but most of the delicious food you will eat is local. For example, in New York one of the food trucks serve chicken over rice, one of the best trees foods I’ve eaten. However, I’m from the Midwest and we don’t get that here, instead we have stuff like biscuits and gravy, country fried steak, pulled pork, bbq, etc. definitely do some research on the food wherever you plan to go in the U.S.
Some other do not’s I recommend are: don’t talk about finances, always say bless you even to strangers, always say excuse me (it’s just good manners), if someone or even a stranger says hi or gives a head nod or smile please give one back if you don’t it will seem like you are a cold person (unless you are okay with that). Always keep an eye on your belongings depending on where you go in the country, it can and will be taken (personal experience from traveling). Cover up when you cough or sneeze (I know some countries don’t care but we do!). Americans are friendly! If you need a photo taken or a small favor like “can you help me carry this to the register” even a stranger will help you :)
That’s all I can think of for now, good luck and have fun whenever you decide to come here!
Yes this is spot on!!!
Yup. It really is totally normal to be able to go up to a stranger and ask a question. I once had someone who had just moved here ask me what day trash day was. I wasn't from the same town but I told him his next door neighbors would know. I'm not not sure if they would have figured out what he was asking because he kept saying trash with an "i" sound, but they sure as heck would have tried.
I think the general bad stigma around smoking is a good thing and should be more commonplace in Europe.
In the UK for example, you can find people who are dying from lung cancer smoking outside hospitals.
@@Alienguy500 There are certainly some exceptions, but here in the US smoking is only common within the extreme poverty class and the most uneducated parts of the country. Its seen as a very low class and filthy habit.
@@lijohnyoutube101 I think that is heavily dependent on where your at. Some areas may see it as low class and other don’t. I know many people who are not low class at all who smoke. It’s definitely not just a poor persons habit, especially since cigarettes are an expensive habit in the US. I think the major difference here versus the rest of the world is the restrictions on public smoking. It’s still very common in other countries to see people smoking inside restaurants, but in most states that has been banned. There are a few who still allow it though, they just have a smoking section.
My only issue with the “Does and Donts” of America is that there are 50 unique States with their own culture and people, so it’s really hard to generalize Americans when it’s pretty much a different place from state to state, well for the most part
That's probably why the guy stated in the beginning that it was general advice
Even within a single state, the cultures can be vastly different. Rural vs. Urban, East vs. West, etc.
@@Cambium29 exactly. The US is definitely not as simple as “Americans” there’s Oklahomans, Texans, Californians, etc….
Honestly the us is kinda like a union and the states are practically countries
i feel like new jersey is a whole new foreign area especially since u can’t pump your own gas or make immediate left turns
Prices on goods where tipping is expected reflect the low or non existent base wage of the server. Japan and other countries may not expect tips but thats because a living wage is built into the cost of the food. You're not saving money eating out in such places, you just pay more to support that workers wage. The tips also usually go to the waiter/server youre handing money to, but some places pool tips, like night clubs that can be a thing. Also, don't need to tip on pick up orders or at fast food places, only at sit down restaurants or for services like having your car detailed or maybe at a hotel when someone carries your luggage up.
Its so interesting to see a foreigner's perspective on the U.S.. I never really thought about how others view our customs and as mentioned in the video, that they don't necessarily realize we have kind of regional cultures depending on where you are.
As far as the whole thing about Americans hugging and kissing and other types of physical contact, that's mainly with people who you're intimately familiar with
I would say the one exception to this can be the south (think Kentucky, Tennessee, Georgia, Alabama). Many southern people, especially women are very touch oriented, even with people they just met. It is there way of being friendly. But this is a good general rule.
In a place like New York City, people are not concerned with personal space, as long as there’s not a random stranger TRYING to get close to someone. In the Midwest, like Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, people are SUPER afraid of human contact unless you are family or very close friends
52 maybe US Territory but they aren't states and some territories have been close to Statehood
@@jems390 that particular one is true to a certain degree, seeing as I live in Alabama myself, but there are some people who aren't the touchy-feely type even in the Southern States, such as Alabama
@@karlsmith2570Totally agree. I just meant generally it is less weird in those states vs. some place like CA, NY or OR. And for any people hoping to visit our country, I just want them to know that; while we are all american, there are still cultural differences across the states.
Tipping in the U.S.: if it's fast food, where you order at the counter (like McDonalds) you're not expected to tip. If it is a restaurant where you have a server who takes your order and brings your food to you, then you are expected to tip 15-20%. The tip goes directly to the server, as they are paid a very low wage.
I've heard expected tipping has been bumped up to 25-30% now due to inflation and a lagging minimum wage. The waiters and waitresses seriously get paid TRASH. It sucks for us, yeah, but it also sucks for them when they do their very best to make you happy and someone who "isn't a tipper" comes along and makes it so they've only made $3.25 that hour while retail workers and everybody else gets $10. I mean, if they're lousy at their job and don't check in on you often, that makes sense, but if the food is bad, that really isn't their fault. They just deliver the dishes, so don't take it out on them.
15-20% is a high tip in the south, and 25-30% is unheard of. the expected amount depends on several factors, but even with inflation and shit, 25-30% is incredibly generous
@@lunayoshi even with inflation the same 15-20%is inflated at the same time as the food prices just raise so therefore the 15-20% is going to be more. You can always tip lower or none if you felt the service and or food was not good. 15-20%is normal to high tipping amount
According to the law the owner has to make the difference if the tips dont push the pay over minimum wage including the salary
@@lunayoshi they will still have made minimum wage that hour the restaraunt has to make the difference if tips+base salary do not meet minimum wage
I’m 2 years late, but tips NORMALLY go right to the server. Some places split it and that kind of behavior is generally frowned upon. It’s best to tip with cash bc if you use a card to tip or write it on the receipt the restaurant may take it from them.
Being an American I loved watching this I was raised in Wisconsin in America, I now live in Illinois where my family is from I love hearing different perspectives from people In other country on ours! Interesting take :)
Main thing, which wasn't in the video, DON'T LEAVE ANYTHING UNATTENDED. Lock everything up, hold onto everything. If you're in a city, keep your wallet in your front pocket and most of your cash hidden. Theft is real here
Conversely, if you're in a suburban area, you can get away with not locking your car in a publicly visible parking lot and have no issues. The urban vs non-urban divide is the single biggest divide in all of the US, more so than states, regions, ethnicities, or anything else.
Unless you're in college, I saw people leave shit unattended and still be there when they get back loool
@Peachie c nope its definitely a city thing. Lived in rural areas all my life and never had to worry about locking things up.
@Peachie c suburbs are pretty much cities lmao
I have always lived in small towns and here people leave their cars running and unattended because it’s so cold in the winter 🤣
A lot of people do smoke in the states but there is kind of an expectation to be respectful of other people when smoking. People who don't smoke really do not like the smell or second hand smoke.
yeah people here whine about vaping too sometimes. people are rather entitled here and their self-importance can sometimes be pretty awful.
Clean Air bills are also in effect in many states, including Washington where I live.
Pretty much agree with this comment thread - I personally smoke, but as long as you're considerate about where you're smoking and whom you're around, people will often just mind their business lol
Lots of people smoke in the US. Unfortunately it's become socially acceptable for nonsmokers to be openly rude or hostile to random strangers with a cigarette. If you smoke, you're usually fine outside, hiding behind something, 100 yards away from everyone...:)
@@steph1522 ive smoked since i was 11, so, 33 years, but trying to quit now after having delta, my lungs were really messed up. i shouldnt even vape, but at least its easier on my system.
Whenever you come here to the USA, I wish you a fun, safe, and amazing time! Because even with some of the bad reputation of our country, there's still plenty of good things and times to be had here.
And... if you travel by vehicle around the Eastern side, don't be shocked if you see people driving with a refrigerator or mattress in the back of their truck. 🤣
I live in the country... When I was in high-school, an upperclassmen had a couch on the back of his truck
He'd pull up to school with his buddies on the back lol
One of the weirder things I saw not too long ago was a man in his underwear driving with a case of beer on a moped
I know this video is 2 years old and you may already know this but when it comes to tipping it depends on the restaurant. In some restaurants the waiters/waitresses do what is called “pooling tips” where everyone puts their tips together and the tips get evenly divided among them. In other restaurants the money does just go strait to your waiter/waitress.
I always find it interesting when people realize how massive the U.S is. And how much that effects all our culture and lifestyles.
Yes, the US is almost as big as Europe, it's pretty massive for just one country. I also find it interesting when people realise that the US only has about 4% of the world's population, because the US has such a massively disproportionate influence on the rest of the world, it feels weird that the population is pretty small, just half of Europe's (but that's to be expected, given that the population is mostly based on European migrants). But that's also a testament to their strengths and natural resources (not just the land but the people). A great, united nation!
@@nore3 Well said. It is also a testament to the people that much of the rest of the world wants to move to the US and other European-based countries. Obviously there are other great countries and peoples, but it is the European areas people flock to.
The sheer size and low population density is one of the reasons why publish transport isn’t developed. It’s also why cellular coverage isn’t always good.
Yeah, my state alone is larger than France
Same! I live in Texas and grew up in Oklahoma & one of my fave thing to do when we got foreign exchange students was take them on a road trip from where I lived in southeastern Oklahoma into a town called Texarkana. That way they can technically say they've been to 3 states lol but then if show them how far it is to places they've heard of. It was loads of fun.
Important note about tipping - it’s only expected in a sit-down restaurant with a server bringing you your food. So if you’re broke and want to eat out, fast food or a deli is the way to go.
Also note that even with tips, eating out at a casual American restaurant is usually pretty cheap. In fact, almost all shopping is cheaper than Japan or many other countries if you actually do the math. Now, that's not to say there aren't very fancy restaurants with very fancy bills to match, but you can pay as little as $15-20 a person for dinner at some places, even with tip. The prototypical example would be Applebee's two for $25 menu, where you get two entrees and an appetizer to share for $25. Now, you do have to add drinks and tip on top.
Pretty much places that give you personal special service is where tipping is expected. So visiting a place to get a haircut, sit down restaurants, some hotels that help you with baggage (usually only expensive ones.)
If you're broke and want to eat out, the way to go is not eating out.
What will happen if at the end of the meal I "declare" I dont have even a penny on myself.. 🙂
Servers are also generally paid less by the hour and are expected to make up for it in tips. It's harder for people with less money but we still love to eat out. I myself am a terrible cook. 😬
14:00
To answer your question about American foods, restaurants are going to have similar items: pizzas, hamburgers, tacos, chicken fingers, salads, pastas, and you only will tip at sit-down restaurants, not fast food places. But if you were to cook at home, traditional home-made dishes would be: green bean casserole, mashed potatoes, corn pudding, stuffing, chicken dumplings, potato salad (it's not a salad), meatloaf, and steaks cooked on a grill. Outside of traditional dishes, you're going to have grocery store bought items like pot pies, cereal, frozen pizzas, frozen chicken wings, yogurts, deli meats for sandwiches, pastas, pancakes, eggs, bacon, and loads of canned soups.
For ferenheit a good thing to remember is the temperature is sort of like a percentage of how hot it is, so like, 100 F is 100% hot, don't go outside about 100, and 0 F is 0% hot, Don't go outside below 0, 50 is kind of medium
In most places (at least in California) people won't even use miles to indicate distance, it's usually time. e.g How far is this town? It's 30 minutes away.
and then you can qualify with or without traffic. Generally this is because miles don't paint an accurate picture of what's going on. A mile in the heart of L.A is vastly different from a mile on the freeway.
I think that depends on where you live. I live in a pretty rural area. Traffic here is just having other cars sharing the same road at the same time. There is no slow downs ever, even when there is an accident. Here we use miles. I think that is because everything that is worth going to is within 30 minutes maximum from where ever you are.
That's how it was when I was in Minnesota, Washington, Vermont, and now Florida
Here in WV, we use minutes. It's not due to traffic, but because the windy roads require certain speeds.
That's kinda funny, when I lived in CA I lived 7 miles away from work, but it was 45 minutes away, lol
@@fulmerduckworth8281 that’s fair but a tourist is probably gonna to a pretty metro area. It’s probably a better rule of thumb for them to just assume hours
“But where does the tip go?” To be blunt, it varies. Most places, it goes directly to the person that helped you to improve their terrible pay from the business. But some restaurants take all the tips to divide them among everyone there. So there’s no sure way to know beforehand which that place does.
This is very true, it varies by restaurant. In my experience, the lion's share of the tips the server gets, they keep...but they're often expected to "tip out" into a pot that gets divided up to the kitchen staff/busboys. How much the server is expected to tip out is, again, variable.
I've worked at multiple restaurants where you make below minimum wage (like $4 an hour when I was younger) and they just assume you will make enough in tips to get to the minimum wage. Sometimes they keep track of it and pay extra to get you up to the minimum if you didn't make enough in tips. Other times they will just assume you made enough in unreported cash tips to get you there. It's a way for restaurants to get around the expectation that you get to keep your tips. Yes you do technically, but they take a sizable percent of it as a discount on what they pay you in wages.
When I worked in restaurants most of the time when we tipped out we paid a small amount to the bussers (basically anyone that helped us on the floor). But because the bussers made minimum wage or higher, it was a small amount.
I will say that when I go to a restaurant and find out that they do full on “tip sharing” (that is, the tips are all collected at the end of the night and divided equally among the staff), I refuse to go back to that restaurant. It’s such an easy way for managers to steal money from servers and it means that some servers can sit around and do nothing while others work their butts off and they make the same money. That’s not fair.
And a couple of times I’ve found out that the management takes the tips at the end of the night and pockets it and just pays the servers minimum wage. Those times I encourage the servers to quit and I blast the restaurant online because the management is straight up thieves and scammers.
Yea that’s why you should tip more, like I’m a hostess and we had to decide our tips up between 4 people and we each made like 6 dollars
But where does it go? Does it matter to you?
Waiters and waitresses usually make around 2.75 hourly wage and they’re expected to make the rest from tips. Tips usually go straight to the employee, but sometimes they are accumulated through the night and split evenly among the front of house. It’s considered pretty taboo for tips to ever go back to the restaurant. All chefs and prep cooks usually make hourly wage.
On tipping: That only applies to eat-in restaurants with servers. It does NOT apply to fast food chains or for carry out orders. In the case of bars and nightclubs, remember you should always tip the bartender (or the server) who hands you your your drink.
i see
Basically, each state is like it's own pseudo-country. And within that state, it's as diverse as a country, as states can be huge.
Technically, a state IS a country. The usa is a federation, aka a collective, of nations. We just never actually say this. That's why the states are as big as countries, because they are. Remember, they're not like provinces or regions, because states are in the usa by choice as individual units and can withdraw if they successfully complete a succession action, which Texas has been attempting for a long time.
@@Queer_Nerd_For_Human_Justice yup. that's why it's called the "United States of America." we are a union of semi-autonomous nation-states/commonwealths. It's a pretty unique system. Good luck to Texas too, they have been trying to secede for decades. California citizens have been trying to split up CA too in a bunch of ways. Would be great popcorn-style entertainment if either ever actually did.
@@ShaudaySmith Honestly it's a broken system if the states that want to succeed never manage to do it. Texas and California are very different, from eachother and from the rest of the usa, and would probably do fine on their own. I legit want them to be able to. I want to see what happens.
Sorry, but while technically true, it just isn't so in reality. Some differences survive, but compared with Europe the US is very uniform. Globalization has been the fact here for a long time, and it shows.
@@Queer_Nerd_For_Human_Justice its not... ONE NATION.. INDIVISIBLE... texans and some others might THINK that butt i assure ur the federal gov HIGHLY DISAGREES..
european union is different nations that joined.. USA is a single nation that divided itself for better managment reasons..
exception like texas that joined while the rest of the states just got carved OUT OF THE US...
on the flip side.. most EU nations JOINED while only few are the og's that absorbed everyone esle
so its more or less the same thing just reverse in how it happened..
also country IS SOVERIEGN the states are not.. they share power with the fed... also PRINTING MONEY IS A BIG PART OF BEING INDEPEND NATION... the FEDS not states do that...
by ur logic.. 16 states of germany are countries themselves..
“How’s it going?” or “how are you doing?”is an actual question, but people don’t expect an in-depth answer when they ask. All you’re expected to say is “not bad” or “pretty good” or just “good”. And it’s polite to ask “how about yourself?” or something back. It’s not just “hi” like he said.
Right. It's a greeting and the intent is usually to find out how you're doing, but an in-depth answer usually isn't expected.
I feel like it depends on what greeting you use and where in the US you live. For example, I live in California and I don't have enough fingers to tell you exactly how many people tell me "How's it going?" when I am on my morning walk or jog. They don't expect an answer at all, it is treated as a simple "Hi" or "Hello". Now, if someone tells me something along the lines of "Hi, how are you?", that is indeed treated as a question and an answer of any length is expected. But that's just my experience, it could be very different depending on the state or even city that you live in.
I hate it when someone says one of those and immediately starts talking/asking a question, not even a breath or pause after it. It's like, what's the point of asking a question if there's no time to answer? I get this a lot my job. x.x I don't like small talk, but still.
I kinda hate how you can't even be honest when answering the question anyway. Like if you're having a bad day obviously you shouldn't say "bad" when a stranger or aquantince says "how are you" but at the same time it's like what's the point in asking that question then anyway? Lol.
@@krisvelivia People say "It's been a rough day for me, how has your day been?" all the time. I have the options of saying "Oh no, I hope it gets better, ttyl" all the way to "Oh no, sweetie! What happened?"
He's right, I live in the capital of Texas, which is in the middle of the state. If you want to get to another state or the coast, you will be driving for at least 9.5 hours non stop in any direction. And don't get sick!
quick little add-on: the tipping culture typically only applies to sit-down restaurants. if it’s a takeout fast food chain, tipping generally isn’t a thing. sometimes there’s a tip jar by the register that people throw their spare change into, but it’s not obligatory.
even then, 15-20% tipping is really good service. 25% is amazing, outstanding service. but if a waiter or waitress is really bad, you can tip them 5-10%. if they’re absolutely horrific, you don’t have to tip them at all, but that’s a real rarity. i’ve lived here 20 years, and i’ve never tipped below 15%. but i would if the situation called for it!
the states are a melting pot, so you can expect all sorts of food as a result. i guess the most american cuisine i can think of is fusion food, i.e. mexican-asian fusion. but you don’t find them often. so, if you’re not from the states, here’s a run down of the type of cuisine you can expect from popular areas of the US!
california: the big one, and where i’m from! so i know a thing or two about this. japanese food and asian food in general, i.e. ramen, teppan, boba and sushi, is pretty good in southern orange county, particularly in irvine. but the quality of seafood throughout california is excellent. northern california has chinatown, which you can guess has good chinese, and san diego has little italy, which has good italian food. we also have good mexican food that we call “baja mexican.” it’s a fresh twist on traditional mexican food and consists of a lot of flame-grilling (like street tacos / carne asada), avocado, cilantro rice and black beans.
the south (east of mississippi): lots of heavy, rich fried food. think fried chicken, chicken and waffles, mashed potatoes, corn, biscuits and gravy. you will NOT find a lot of fresh vegetables here (that’s mostly california. 90% of the agriculture happens there). it’s good comfort food, but i’d you’re like me, you cannot eat too much of it.
southwest (texas): two things come to mind: BBQ and texmex. BBQ is authentically american; it’s essentially a lot of different cuts of meat (in texas it’s mostly beef) cooked in an earthy way on an outdoor grill, smoker, etc. and smothered in tangy, vinegary BBQ sauce. yum! but again, very heavy. texmex is texas’ take on mexican, which is much less like authentic mexican, as opposed to california. lots of assimilated BBQ, retried and baked beans, cheese, and they use more flour than corn tortillas.
chicago: PIZZA! do not leave chicago without eating a deep dish pizza!!! and don’t freak out when you see it. in comes in a dish to keep the crust together, and it looks like a pie. yum yum yum!! i hear the greek food in chicago is good, but i don’t know much beyond that.
new england (northeastern US): good seafood! maryland is known for its decadent crab. but lobster and prawns are very prevalent in dishes here too. eat some clam chowder; it’s what they’re known for!
new york: complete opposite of chicago, theyre actually known for a mean thin-crust pizza. new york is one of the most diverse cities in the US, so you’ll find a “town” for all sorts of cuisine.
hope this helps!
As an American, my advice is this when shopping: with the price of each item, round up to the nearest dollar and then add an additional dollar. That is how I manage to never overspend.
Sometimes I try to google how much sales tax is in that state, city or town and add that way.
That's honestly my favourite method to making sure I stay in budget lmao... I wish the price would incorporate sales tax though haha
That's a good tip!
yeah, if something is like 5.29 I'll usually be like eh it's like 6 dollars
Or you could just look at the total price you were charged on the receipt and just round up to the next dollar.
The "Don't smoke in the U.S." point had me, as an American, confused. There is some stigma around smoking as people here view it as unhealthy (for good reason) but it is not weird or uncommon for people to smoke here. You do have to be careful about *where* you smoke, though, as some people may get offended if you smoke around them and there are various laws in different areas that ban smoking in certain areas of public gatherings (such as restaurants, etc.) because of the dangers of second hand smoke.
I feel like alot of people I know, including myself, get instantly bothered when they can smell smoke. Like if I smell cigarettes I want to tell whoever is smoking to f off. They disgusts me and most people I know can say the same.
Well outside places like casinos, smokers have pretty much been banished from most public location. There is definitely a lot of smokers in the US but you generally are not allowed to smoke near people anymore and they all got pushed off into the corner.
@@Lilitha11 not true at all, I light up wherever there isnt a no smoking sign, if you dont like it you can move. No one shuns me to a corner or gets mad.
In America it’s HEAVILY taught that smoking is bad for you
@@jordanhicks5131 amen! Usually those that look down on us are filling themselves with junk food, soda and other crap. Pick your poison, I only answer to one for whatever I do!
Neat trick to convert from C to F just double C and add 30 to get a rough estimate (or subtract 30 and divide in half to go from F to C).
Only tip when you are in a sit-down restaurant and if you can cash only, that way it goes directly to the waiter/waitress. In the US restaurants are allowed to pay servers much less than the minimum wage and they depend on the tips as part of their salary. Some restaurants take the tips away from the servers if you tip using a credit card, which is why I recommend using cash. You're also supposed to tip someone who delivers food to your house. You can stick with 15% (even 10% if it's not great food/service) or higher if it's very good. Some take-out places or food carts/trucks will have a tip jar on the counter where you can put in a $1 or $2 if you really liked the food/service but in that case, it is not expected or required.
We don't use miles either, we use minutes! "Oh, the restaurant is 15 minutes away" as in how long it takes to drive there.
I feel like this is also because the distance is not necessarily directly in line with how long it takes to drive there. If you're driving somewhere in a less populated place, your time to get there will be significantly less than if you're navigating a crowded city, even if the actual mileage is the exact same.
I only recently discovered that this is a regional thing! I've always given distance in minutes or hours, but my husband and his entire friend group are from California and always gave distance in miles prior to moving to Texas. We discussed this not too long ago, and are assuming it has to do with traffic? Like, in LA, depending on the time of day you're driving to a place, it may take you twenty minutes or an hour 😬.
@@ambera4002 I'm from Southern California and everyone I know gives estimates to places in minutes. I don't even know the miles distance to anywhere in the area, but I can tell you if it usually takes 20 minutes to drive there.
@@ambera4002 Yeah in Michigan we use minutes, and when I moved to Kentucky most used miles. It was pretty confusing haha
Laughs in Texan…
The 2 “extra states” are probably the US territories of Puerto Rico and Guam. They are not states.
Theyre not states but a lot of people think they are lol especially puerto rico.
That is what I kind of remember from my childhood in the 80's and 90's. I for some reason was taught 52 when I was pretty young and I remember Puerto Rico and either Guam or Panama. But by the time I was a in my late childhood 8+/preteen 11? it was 50 state.
They are what is considered to be "US Territories"
@@kimyona9746 I want it to be
DC* and Puerto Rico. People usually forget about Guam and the US Virgin Islands.
Smoking in the US used to be horrible to the point cars were manufactured with ashtrays built into the door handle on the inside. After realizing how bad even second hand smoke is for others there has been a big shift in it’s acceptability.
The tip goes to the waiter/waitress. Most bills will include different tip percentages for you to consider. You don’t have to tip if the service is poor. But most servers provide good service.
A lot of people in the states do smoke but there was such a big deal made about "second hand smoking" People generally don't smoke in public. and a lot of non smokers don't like the smell of smoke. So If you're going to smoke you just have to be really careful about where.
Boom! I have asthma, you light up around me and I will tell you to leave or put it out. That said, I will also tell you that I have asthma and why you can't smoke around me and that you could land me in the hospital. Non smokers are quite intolerant of smokers though these days in the US. Also as a kid I got burned by a stranger's cigar, so I am really Leary of smokers.
@@RiverWoods111 The thing is places that do allow smoking usually make it pretty plain that they do. I live in Pennsylvania for example. Here if a bar makes less than 20% of its revenue from food sales they can allow smoking, or if they install a separate location with its own independent ventilation system. There is a local rural bar near our home we go to that is that way. There is a smoke free dining room and then there is the bar side that is smoking. There is no access between the two without going outside.
I quit about 8 years ago but it has never bothered me or my wife, so we often go to the bar for a few beers after a long day since the prices are cheap and its less than a 10 minute drive. Sometimes we both enjoy a cigar with whiskey so this is the place we go to.
Overall these kind of places are less than 5% or all places in the state, so there are plenty of choices that aren't this way. For the most part it's more common in rural areas. Other states are different.
@@RiverWoods111 there's many cases where people like you just walk up to someone who's smoking that's not even near you or even bothering you and start harassing and bashing the person for smoking cigarettes I've had it done to me many times and I love how you people use asthma as an excuse my adopted father has asthma and he smoked cigarettes and guess what it doesn't bother him so how the hell is it bothering you and I like to know how is it bother you people that claim to have asthma when the person's hardly ever even near you you guys usually walk up to the person smoking cigarettes and start harassing them and I know this for a fact cuz it's been done to me so many times I'll just be sitting there on the side of my building on the sidewalk smoking my cigarette where no one is even around and then Here comes somebody walking down the sidewalk oh no you can't smoke near me I've got to asthma no one told you to come near me in the first place no one told you to walk down the sidewalk where you saw me smoking a cigarette if you see someone smoking cigarette walk the other way
Laws surrounding advertisement and sale of tobacco has gotten more stringent over time. I remember Joe Camel hanging around on billboards when I was a kid, seeing vending machines for cigarettes, and getting asked "smoking or non-smoking" in restaurants. Now? Nary a billboard in sight, you have to ask the clerk for cigarettes and show ID and most restaurants don't have smoking sections. Some places have even banned smoking at indoor public establishments altogether and have designated how far away "smoking areas" can be from the entrances. So people do smoke still, but the number has decreased and those that do have basically been banished to the outdoors away from others.
@@OfficialDJTasawennateken Yep. And these same people have no problem sitting for hours in traffic, breathing exhaust fumes with nary a problem.
The reason you can't really think of an American food ties back into the "there isn't only one culture" thing -- each region, state, and sometimes even city has its own signature foods. The guy in the video you're reacting to makes some mention of it with classic New England and Southern dishes, but even something as basic as a pizza is very different in New York, Chicago, Detroit, or California.
or even Mexican food in the US, while we call it Mexican, it very much is American in nature. Cali-Mex is completely different than Tex-Mex (the clearly superior of the two foods) Oh and in the south, BBQ is the hallmark of American food. but its vastly different in each state, and again in Texas, it will be different based on where in Texas your getting it from.
Heck Chicago style pizza in Minnesota is completely different than what you would get in Chicago Illinois, so yes place to place, state to state, and region to region the same type of food will be different. If you love sweet tea in the south you will hate it in the north. its basically a totally different thing. A big Thing to remember is America is a melting pot of culture. so think of it as we are always changing and blending in to eachother. so food, people, everything changes from place to place.
California all the way to Texas and everything between those two states have very deep ties with Mexico and their immigrants so it's not uncommon to see lots of Mexican shops there.
yes you knew Detroit has its own Pizza im proud!
TBH if you ask an Italian, there is no real pizza in teh US at all.
Tipping mainly depends on the establishment. Most waiters get the tips from whichever tables or customers they serve but some establishments pool all the tips and then dish them out evenly between all the waiters for that night. As for 15-20%, I've found personally, as a customer and waiter, that it may be a bit excessive depending on the order, most waiters are happy regardless of the tip size, generally despite working in the service I tip between 1-3 USD.
The Tip goes straight to the waiter- preferably in cash even though you can add it to credit card. Really - don’t add it to the credit card tab- a lot of servers complain they won’t receive it. Keep cash on hand for that purpose. In the space on the credit card bill- write the $0 and write “left cash” so someone doesn’t fill it in after you leave.
"If you're in countryside...just hitchhike, right?" NO! Most people in America own their own car, or know someone who does... and gets rides from people they KNOW. (Or you could use a ride-sharing service like Uber or Lyft). NO NO NO hitchhiking.
Tips in America (mostly) go straight to the waiter that you are handing the money to. The servers don't make much. When I was a server a few years ago, we made around $3 per hour (just enough to pay the taxes out of our paycheck, basically) - I think minimum wage at the time was around $9 per hour. The money a server makes is primarily from tips.
You made it sound like waiters don't make much overall lol We make a good paycheck if, and only if you are good at your job, that is the point of the tip system, we provide a better service for the chance to earn a great tip at the end. Overall, yup, we keep that tip, not the company, if anyone has their company keep their tip, report them.
@@brandtc.7991 But the whole point of tipping is so that the restaurant doesn’t have to pay their employees.
@@oliverwalsh135 no it's not, it's to provide a great service incentive. Tipping allows one to make even more than $15 hr and hopefully provides a better service to the customer.
Dang you guys have $9 per hour min wage? Its still 7 something per hour here.
Hitch hiking is a spectacular way to be the next headline in the news.
Personal space is a big thing over here in the US. We get uncomfortable if a random person is almost breathing on us.
Yes a lot of people's reactions are probably going to want to get you away, and some people (albeit a few) may get aggressive about it
I find myself backing away from close talkers, or foreigners who have a much smaller bubble. Where I live in Minnesota, your personal bubble is about 5 feet in each direction.
In some parts of the US it is more acceptable to give someone a hug, pat their back, kiss their face (rarely happens REALLY depends on where you are) if your friends or a friend's friend or if you just have dinner with them. But it happens most often with friends parents or something. In SOME parts of the US.
That's not universally true. Cultural expectations and social taboos vary by region. Depending on where you travel, people will become genuinely offended if you flinch from a hug or don't move in for a handshake.
Or staring at us even, especially in public settings TwT
When you asked What's that? Let me help out on a few of those monuments and places.
12:27 Montezuma's castle located Camp Verde/ AZ
12:35 Sponge Docks located in Tarpon Springs/ FL
If you are interested in other places to visit in the US that are lesser known great towns/monuments I recommend;
Charleston/ SC- You can actually go into an Aircraft carrier, an old Civil War Island fort and a decommissioned slave market.
Seattle/ WA- Space Needle for dinner, underground city ruins and take a fairy to Canada.
St. Augustine/ FL- Oldest town in the Continental US, go to the top of a lighthouse, go into an old Spanish fort
Flagstaff/ AZ- Go to several ancient Pueblo people ruins, 1 hour away from the Grand Canyon, 40 minutes away from the giant meteor crater.
Helen/ GA- Bavarian style town with wonderful October beer festival, Lazy river inner tubing in summer, tour a decommissioned gold mine, in the center of Wine country Georgia.
yeah in the us it’s expensive to eat out, all restaurant i’ve heard of give all the tips to the works usually about 30% to chef and 70% to your server, sometimes a few dollars a night for the busier
Lmao! “If you’re in countryside, just hitchhike, right?” Hitchhiking is not a reasonable or safe way to travel in the US. Any sane person would not pick up a stranger on the side of the road not in immediate need of help. You would most likely walk all the way to your destination before someone stops to pick you up. And you better be wary of who picks you up because you never know if they are a pervert or a murderer. 0/10 would I recommend this method of travel. Poor choice.
It reminds me of the hitchhiking robot that made it through Canada fine and as soon as it got into the US it was found completely destroyed and dumped on the side of the road.
@@NecrochildK One thing to keep in mind about Canada is that it's illegal to leave someone walking, at least during the winter, because being left outside in that weather can be a death sentence of its own.
@@alpheusmadsen8485 What's sad is down here in Louisiana, the heat is just as deadly as winter up there, nothing is done about the homeless and we lose lives to it every summer. But as for the hitchhiking bot, that's not a person, so picking it up doesn't present risks, but for people in America to just trash it just shows how trashy people here can be.
@@NecrochildK If you come to upstate NY, don't hitchhike. #1 Hitchhiking in NYS is illegal. People do but no one in their right mind will pick them up. People have been known to disappear, depending upon what part of the state you are in. Not a good idea.
@@Sunflower8587 XD Why are you telling me this? I was agreeing that hitchhiking in the US is a horrific idea.
You can smoke in the US but it's generally understood that you can't do it indoors, and try to avoid non smokers while you're doing it. A lot of people are allergic to or have asthmatic reactions to cigarette smoke (myself included) and the smell is very hard to get out of things
Always stand apart. I have allergy based asthma so I can smoke. Im conscious of the people around me... Unless they are jerks and come to me to chew me out since I always stand 6 to 10 feet from a group when I smoke.
I have an allergy and have almost ended up in the ER from an asthma attack from nearby second hand smoke. Of course smoking in public is ok just not coughing 🙄
Well unless you’re in Vegas…
I'd agree with this! I grew up with smoker parents and they always stood very far away from doors or high traffic areas when they did it (always outdoors!). When I hung out with someone who stood right next to a Walmart door and smoked, the reactions were very different with people telling him to screw off and bringing out security.
@@litleangelbrook Agreed. Its called common courtesy for a reason. Be mindful of those around you and in turn they should be mindful of you. If you go 10 feet out of your way to chastise someone for smoking because they are harming you... Why are you stepping into the harm zone?
The picture of the building in the the side of the cliff is part of the Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument. It is a U.S. National Monument created to protect Mogollon cliff dwellings in the Gila Wilderness on the headwaters of the Gila River in southwest New Mexico.
In the South, If we ask, "How are you?" We generally do expect an answer and will have a mini-conversation. The Mississippi Gulf Coast (Biloxi, Gulfport and Bay St. Louis) is very hospitable. We treat everyone like family. Also, since we are so close to New Orleans, the culture is extremely similar. We say the best food in the US is Southern/Cajun and we like spices and seasonings :) Don't be alarmed if you are called; baby, honey, sugar or sweetie.
Yup especially if your not doing too well people will sympathize with you might give a suggestion or try to cheer you up but most of the time they are just checking to see if you need something and if you don’t they want to move on with what they were doing which is most likely greeting guests. Unless you’re in need of help they don’t really sick around to hear how your day is going. It’s mostly a way to greet someone and see if you need their attention before they move on and stop paying attention to you.
I love Cajun food so much
The Ms gulf coast is a great place to visit, it's not to expensive and there's plenty to do, it also has the bonus of being a stones throw away from new Orleans.
Just don't do the beach thing here, the barrier islands don't let the water wash out as well or as often, so yeah...
God cajun is my absolute favorite. Been a lot of places, eaten a lot of things, crawfish ettouffe tops it all.
I've lived down here my entire life, primarily in the D'Iberville-Biloxi area. I traveled out of state this summer and was shocked by just how... off Standish everyone was.kinda liked it for a bit, but it made me feel homesick
The space thing is more about in public. When you're waiting in line, don't crowd the person in front of you, leave space between you. As an American living in South Korea, people get in your personal space all the time in public places. It's weird and uncomfortable. Also, if I give people space, people cut me in line, so that's been something I've had to learn in reverse lol
When I visited South Korea, my daughter met me at the airport and when we were getting on the train/subway to go into Seoul, she told me to just crush on the car because everyone else will...she was right. Their "personal space" is very small compared to what we, as Americans, are used to or comfortable with. So many people packed into such small countries, I guess they don't have the option to have a larger personal space bubble!
Americans tend to go for about arm length distance from others. If they HAVE to crowd into public transport, they will, but they will be VERY uncomfortable about it, so will keep eye contact and conversation to a minimum to give some semblance of space.
@@wordforger That’s why people assume that New Yorkers are rude. The only way to keep a sense of personal space in a crowded city is to make that space in your head. Could you imagine trying to smile and say hi to everyone you pass? You’d go crazy! I had to learn to undo that when I moved to the Midwest.
@@SheaTheSarcastic this is absolutely true. Theres a lot going on so we learn how to block it out, but I've never seen anybody get ignored when they asked for directions.
@@DKop13 You’re right. Always willing to help out.
America is huge and diverse. It's really hard to understand all of the different types of Americans unless you've been living here and travel around the country a lot. But there is a pretty big cultural difference between the north and south.
Also depending on what state you are in, if you are under 21 and your parents give you alcohol you can drink it. Be sure to check the states laws before you do.
And yeah, with “How you doin?” It tends to typically go “Fine, and you?” “Doin alright.”
I probably said "Fine, thank you. You?" About a dozen times today.
That phrase sucks.
The asker doesn’t actually care how someone is when they ask (most the time)
and the answererer is always assumed to say “good,” or “fine how are you?” Even if they’re really having a rough time.
At least that’s how it is where I live
@@sonofliberty8872 Pretty much. It's more of a greeting than a genuine question, though when it's with people who know each other it's typically more genuine. It's one of those things where context matters.
@@NecrochildK True true
@@sonofliberty8872 It's just a polite way of greeting, nothing more nothing less.
About “American food”: something that’s important to note is how common it is to get food from other countries in America. Off the top of my head, in New York, Chinese food is a massive staple. Also, don’t expect those foods to taste, well, authentic. Chinese, Japanese, Mexican, Italian foods- and so many others- the recipes and traditions of making them were brought over by countless immigrants to the US, and over time, the dishes have evolved. This is due to any combination of available ingredients, money, and even just preference. Often times people complain about traditional foreign foods having become “Americanized”, but honestly it’s just what happens in a country where so many different cultures combine and share their traditions. These traditions change and adapt, and the foods we now have may not be the same as in their original country, but they have become their own thing.
This is definitely true both in the United States as well as other countries, just look at the UK and their love for curry. As trade routes and colonization grew, food was shared, adopted, and changed. However going to locally owned restaurants can definitely give the opportunity to try authentic american food. New England clam chowder, fry bread (and other native american dishes), san francisco sourdough, key lime pie, cobb salad, jambalaya, Alaskan salmon, even fortune cookies!
So accurate. In fact, an actual Chinese person would barf if offered what we Americans call "Chinese food". Same thing if you offered Taco Bell take-out to a person from Mexico. They'd look at it and be like, "What the F is that?"
along with that. stuff just tastes different in different areas. like different water (which is used in a lot of recipes) from different states makes things taste a lot different since we all have different water from the way different states filter it. like my family is from connecticut and the pizza from where we live now (tennessee) is NOTHING compared to the pizza they have in connecticut. it’s very odd but true lmao
@@silas_saga oh absolutely. The video should have mentioned to not drink the tap water unless you know where its coming from! Water really can taste so different in different states, cities, or even neighborhoods
@@VideoNOLA that's what I like to call "Chinese" and "Mexican" food if you want actual Mexican food and not tacobell I would recommend to go to the states next to Mexico especially texas
I'm a Canadian who used to work in the restaurant industry and our tipping is similar with the US. To answer your question about where your tip money goes: While some restaurant would allow the wait staff to pocket the tip 100%; most restaurant surrender their tips to management so that a portion of each tip they made that night gets put in a pool and divided up in a percentage of the pool where non wait staff, (for example as the following but not limited to: cooks, busers, expediters, dishwashers and hostesses) can get a portion of the pooled tip. Some places it's completely optional, for some its mandatory but it's good practice for the servers to reward the hard workers that helped you get that tip. I would get an extra 20 to 40 dollars every two weeks because of this.
About where the tips go, the tips usually go straight to waiters. In the US waiters make less than minimum wage since tips make up most of their income. At some restaurants, some of the tips may go to bussers and hosts, but usually not much (I’m a busser and I get around $10 from each server)
We have swamps, deserts, forests, beaches, and a rain forest. The topography in the U.S. has everything. For an extreme change, take a tour through the Florida Everglades then go to the Grand Canyon or the Arizona desert.
I love Arizona. You should see cacti bloom.
Wait we have a rain forest?
@@dallascimini3619 theculturetrip.com/north-america/usa/articles/the-most-beautiful-rainforests-in-the-united-states/
@@dallascimini3619 hawaii
@@TrinidaddyGdom Oh
Never thought of that
For temperature in Fahrenheit, think of it as percents. 100% hot is HOT. 50% hot is not hot at all but you don't need a coat unless you're sensitive to cold. There's snow on the ground at around 30% hot, and you shouldn't stay out for too long in anything above 90% hot. Anything below 70% hot is seen as a chance to break out the sweaters. If it's over 100% hot, good luck.
It's actually: C = (F - 32) * 5/9 or the way I normally think about half give or take 32. The whole 32 F being freezing makes no sense.
@@KRYMauL it makes perfect sense. From 0 - 30, cold.
31 - 40 less cold.
41 - 60 mild cold transitioning to warm.
61 - 75 warm weather, not too hot. Perfect temperatures for many.
76 - 100 Hot
That's a great way to think about it. Because realistically it doesn't really go over 100 or under 0 very often.
Bruh, I live in Florida. 90° is our average outside temp and we are outside all the time.
And if you are in the midwest in winter get ready for negative percents, cause midwest weather is dumb.
for the tipping question, tipping goes directly to the waiter because they get paid basically nothing from pay wage. I.E. they only get paid the tip you give.
About the tips,if you pay in cash,it all goes to the waiter/waitress.If you pay in with card on the machine,some of it has taxes that doesn't go to the waiter/waitress.
OH! temperature tip! think of fahrenheit as a “percentage of heat” ? so like 20 is super cold, 50 is pretty chilly, 70 is nice warm and breezy, but above 90 is HELL.
clearly this comment isnt from someone in texas. because here anything below 72 is freezing, and you would be wearing a coat out of the house. 85-90 is a nice balmy day outside.
And humidity varies drastically depending on region and state. 15* F in Idaho is vastly more manageable than 30* in Florida (which happens scarcely during Winter in Northern Florida).
Anything 50 - 70 is desirable. Above or below is terrible.
@@anoon- your insane, anything below 72 is way too cold.
@@starcrafsf7101 So true, I'm from Texas as well, and I am literally wearing a sweatshirt today because it is 70 outside 🙃
*DO NOT HITCHHIKE IN THE STATES!!!*
Bad things happen & you probably won’t be seen again!!!
Stay Safe & DO NOT HITCHHIKE, ever (in the States)!!!
And here I thought I was the idiot for picking up several hitchhikers over the years lol
Good thing there's a heart on this comment since that means he actually saw it.
I've hitchhiked before it depends on where in the US you are I was in the south at the time & got a ride to the greyhound it was a small town with no public transit & everyone knew each other .. 1) don't hitchhike alone bring one other person.. 2) If you're a woman have a male with you & a knife + pepper spray
3) In larger city's just take public transit it's actually safer & easier
4) If you are LGBT avoid conservative religous areas ..
It's better to just take Uber & Lift
Eh, 99.9% of the time you'd be fine to hitchhike. You just gotta use common sense. If some sketchy looking dude pulls up and you get a bad feeling, maybe don't get in his car
I was glad to see someone say this. I was worried when he said that.
The tips goto the servers usually. Sometimes they pool them together but usually it's the person that is your waiter. The thing about that is, for most servers minimum wage is not a thing. It's not uncommon for them to be making $2/hour or less. So 15-20% is the standard.
Definitely some things are regional. In Georgia you are required to take your shoes off when entering a home like in Japan. Except the reason I was told you must do this is because there is red Georgia clay (dirt) which is very difficult to clean out of carpeting.
American food is global food.
I live in the middle of nowhere and in the closest city, which is only about 5,000 people, we've got Japanese, Chinese, Italian, Mexican, Greek, and Indian restaurants.
Also a fish and chips place.
Very accurate
Bananas in central inland usa.
I live in a small town in Missouri, like 6,600 people, and we have Chinese, Japanese, Mexican, and a restaurant that does a little of everything 😊
I like this comment this should be the American pride to be proud of how many cultures are in America
@@uncomfortabletruths7990 Agreed!
biggest thing to me that they didn’t mention is don’t acknowledge the “Crackhead” in large cities there WILL be someone on the sidewalk dress weird or doing something very weird or both and whatever you do DO NOT LOOK OR SPEAK TO THEM
or could be classified as tweaker, daywalker n all
Also do not make eye contact with homeless people begging for money at stop lights unless you plan on giving them money lol. I swear they burn holes in my head with how hard they stare you down. Making me uncomfortable as HELL
@@blazereho811 only certain ones. The crazy ones, most are sweet and are just looking for some extra cash
@@daylinhesford3116 yeah I know lol. Some people just give homeless people a bad rep
And don't ask the Meth-head for directions
With the tipping there are a lot of places where you don't have to tip as well. Fast food restaurants for example, not just McDonalds, but anyplace where they don't bring your food to your table you don't have to tip (even if there is a tip jar on the counter). If you walk in, order, and leave with your food or carry it to your table yourself you don't need to tip. Plenty of places are like this such as Panera Bread, Chipotle, Subway, and Starbucks.
That being said you shouldn't be afraid to go places where you need to tip as the food is usually a lot better, and your phone can figure out the % for you. Also the menu prices might be lower than in say Europe so you'd be spending the same amount of $. Tips usually go to your server, but sometimes they are divided among all the servers/waitstaff who worked that night. You also get a lot of food at most restaurants and can take it to go if you don't eat all of it (they will give you a box). Really no one expects you to eat all of it, the portion sizes are so crazy, especially if you get an appetizer, salad/soup, and an entree. It's 100% normal to take more than half of your food back to your hotel to eat later, or if that would be inconvenient while traveling to just leave it if it's too much. Soda refills are usually free but specialty drinks or alcohol cost money if you want another, water is always free and usually you don't have to ask for it.
The reason tipping is a thing is because if a restaurant has tipping service, they can pay their waiters and waitresses less. But like others have mentioned, this is only at sit-in restaurants and coffee shops, not fast food places.