Portion Sizes
The generous serving sizes in American restaurants can be surprising to foreigners, especially in comparison to more moderate portions in some other countries.
Tipping Culture
The practice of tipping is deeply ingrained in American culture and can be confusing for visitors from countries where service charges are included in the bill.
Supermarket Variety
The vast selection of products in American supermarkets, from multiple brands of the same item to an array of international foods, can be overwhelming.
Patriotism and Flags
The prominent display of American flags and the strong sense of national pride can be striking to foreigners, especially in comparison to more reserved expressions of patriotism in other countries.
Religious Diversity
The sheer number of different religious denominations and practices in the U.S. can be puzzling for people from countries with more homogenous religious landscapes.
Sports Culture
The fervent enthusiasm for American sports, particularly American football and baseball, can be difficult to understand for those from countries with different sporting traditions.
Driving Culture
The reliance on cars for transportation, expansive road networks, and long distances between destinations can be surprising for those accustomed to more compact and public transportation-oriented societies.
Work-Life Balance
The tendency for Americans to prioritize work and sometimes have longer working hours can be perplexing for people from cultures that prioritize leisure time and family life.
Consumerism and Commercialism
The pervasive nature of advertising and consumer culture in the U.S., including Black Friday sales and constant marketing, can be overwhelming for visitors.
Diverse Regional Accents
The wide range of accents across the U.S. can make it challenging for non-native English speakers to understand and communicate with Americans from different regions.