Things You Should Know Before Travelling To the USA

The United States of America is a great country, and many tourists love going here. However, there are some things to watch out for that will make your travel experience even better. There are some tips for travelling to America that will enlighten you on the dos and don’ts, culture, attractions and more. Simply knowing these things will help you out a lot, and ensure that your USA trip is even better than what you were expecting.

Travelling To the USA
Travelling To the USA

Make a Travelling to USA Checklist

Checklists are a great way to stay on top of things. You are human. You are bound to forget something. But a checklist will prevent that. You will have all your necessities without forgetting everything. Your documents are the first and most important thing to remember. Next comes your currency and credit and debits cards. The USA can be cold so do get your some warm clothes. And of course, essentials and toiletries that you like to travel with.

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Things to Do Before Travelling to the USA

the USA
the USA

If you are traveling to America for the first time, there are some things you must know. Here are they:-

Culture – People in the USA have different cultures in different regions. Some people are conservative regarding their lifestyle, which is more prevalent in smaller cities and rural areas, while people living in the big metro cities are more liberal. So, be mindful of the cultures when interacting with the people. The people mostly are warm and friendly. Also, it would help a long way to say ‘please’ and ‘thank you whenever you are interacting with someone. You can approach men or women for help, as it is a progressive society.

Know the Language – People in the USA speak English. So, be sure to speak in English while interacting. Even though there are many immigrants in the US, they mostly speak English. Spanish is the second most spoken language, but not to worry, you rarely come across people who don’t speak English.

Dietary Restrictions – If you have dietary restrictions then you will love the USA. This is the country where you can buy coffee that is tailor-made to fit tastes and likes. If you are allergic to something, you can mention and the chef will make it the way you like. If you are a vegetarian, you will good vegetarian restaurants. If you are vegan, even better as many Americans have taken to this lifestyle and there are many vegan restaurants. However, there will be very few choices in smaller cities.

Tipping – Whenever, you eat out in a restaurant, make sure you tip generously as the servers’ earnings are mostly dependent on the tips. Comparatively, their salaries are low, but they get to keep the tips. Therefore, tipping based on percentage has become a part of the culture. 15% to 20% of the bill before taxes is the ideal amount for tipping in US restaurants and cafes.

What are the Things You Should Not Do in America?

You Should Not Do in America
You Should Not Do in America

Don’t Talk About Politics & Religion – These are subjects to be discussed only with people you are close to. Discussing it with a stranger increases chances of you offending someone.

Don’t Insult their Constitution, Flag or Defence Forces – This is again quite a strict thing to follow. Please do not insult their constitution, flag or defense forces, as the people are passionate about them and get offended.

Mind Personal Space – This is quite an American thing which many tourists don’t understand. US citizens love to have their own space. Do not get too close to anyone or get overly friendly. People are mostly polite, but getting in their personal space may cause problems.

Do Not Litter – You can get heavily fined if you are caught littering. Respect the laws of the country, and you will not face any problem. Be mindful of jaywalking, which means walking on the streets in an unsafe manner. This too attracts heavy fines.

Bargaining – Do not bargain for lower prices while shopping. This is frowned upon. The prices are fixed, and there’s no scope for reduction. You may bargain at flea markets though. These are the only places where haggling is acceptable.

Do Not Disrespect Cops – In the USA, the cops have the right to stop anyone whom they find suspicious and question them. So, if this happens with you, do not be afraid, and follow the instructions of the cops. All will go smoothly.

There’s a whole lot more information online regarding things you should know before travelling to the USA, you get educated about them, and get your USA visa. The United States of America is a great nation where you experience art, culture, food, attractions, shopping and more. You will surely have one of the best vacations of your life here.