This article was last updated and fact checked on June 9, 2022 by Mani Karthik.
Are you busy packing your bag with all your important documents and fabulous dresses you bought for your trip to the US? These aren’t the only important things you should be worried about. It is important that you understand the social etiquettes, culture and behaviour of people in US, so that you can have a stress-free stay.
Here’s a list of things that you should not do when visiting USA.
In this article...
Racial Comments Aren’t Welcomed
Not just in U.S., but tourists need to respect the regional and ethnic creed of people. US has also struggled with racist history and suffered a lot of small and big civil wars. It is a vast region where people of numerous race, class, faith and religions live together. It is important that you respect people’s faith and don’t hurt their sentiments. Make sure you don’t pass racist comments or indulge with hate groups, while you are travelling in US.
When traveling to USA, travel insurance is much recommended.
Two great plans are, Atlas America and Safe Travels USA.
However there are other choices like these, as well.
Don’t Indulge in Insensitive Political Commentaries
Americans have strong political sentiments and beliefs. Often, they are very sensitive to the ideologies that they follow. Political discussions could turn into criticism and then into heated arguments. It may lead to personal attacks and violent fights. So, when strangers try to avoid a subject, that’s the cue to stop. However, you can have polite international political discussions with your acquaintances in US.
Don’t Forget to Tip
Americans believe in tipping generously. The average salary of employees in restaurants is relatively low and can range from $2.13 to $7.25 per hour, so tips make a large part of the employee’s salary in US. It is considered highly rude, if you come out of an eatery without tipping. You can choose to tip anything between 10-20% of your total bill, according to an article on tripsavvy. However, make sure to check your bill, as restaurants sometimes automatically add 18% tip.
Breaking Traffic Rules is Not Cool
Breaking traffic rules is considered as a serious offence in the states. It is better to follow traffic rules such as, not drinking while driving, obeying speed limits, waiting properly at the signals and many such other rules seriously, which will help you, avoid a ticket or a visit to the police station. Moreover, American police is very strict by nature; but extremely helpful at the same time. Remember, not to ever offer bribe to the police officers, as it is considered as an offensive crime in America, says an article on Quartz. Additionally, remember that you have to drive on the right side in America!
Don’t Smoke In Public
This is something that you can adhere to when you are travelling anywhere in the globe. Often there is a ‘No Smoking’ sign in and around healthcare buildings, private buildings, shopping complexes, parks and beaches. Cities like Chicago, Washington DC, New York, and Seattle has stringiest rules against smoking and has banned smoking even in bars, restaurants and clubs. So, it is better to check for a ‘No Smoking’ sign before lighting your cigarette.
The US is a fun place to be in, with plenty to see and experience. Make the most of your time there.
