Exploring the US: A Brit's Perspective of Differences
Traveling to the United States for a Brit can be an eye-opening experience, much different from what one may encounter in Europe or Northern Africa. From the prevalence of guns to the expansive rural landscapes and unique cultural norms, the US presents a vast array of contrasts. This article delves into several notable differences and provides valuable insights for British travelers embarking on an adventure in the US.
Differences in Lifestyle and Daily Life
Car Culture and Football Sheds: Perhaps the most striking difference for a Brit when visiting the US is the car-centric lifestyle. Unlike in many parts of Europe, where walking and public transportation are more prevalent, most of the US is designed for motor vehicles.
Take, for instance, the experience of visiting a supermarket in Florida. It's not just about the distance; it's the complete lack of pedestrian infrastructure. Getting to a store in a place like Miami could be dangerous because crossing the roads to reach it is a considerable safety risk. Similarly, in certain areas, people are simply too far from amenities such as grocery stores for walking to be a practical option, especially during the heat of summer.
Also, in Florida, one must be wary of alligators in the yards, as water features can harbor these predators. This detail emphasizes the need for vigilance in certain environments.
Practical Aspects of Daily Life
Public Transportation and Beverages: Outside the Northeastern US and a few other cities, public transportation is often lacking, especially toward the West and South. This can make it challenging to navigate without a car. Additionally, while it is somewhat common to see people consuming alcohol in public in other parts of the world, this is restricted in most of the US.
Taxation and Pricing: Another key difference is the pricing structure. The quoted price in the US usually does not include VAT, which is known as sales tax in the US. This can catch out British travelers who are accustomed to a different tax system.
Cultural Norms and Social Settings
Culture of Sales: In the US, there seems to be an unrelenting sales pitch at every touchpoint. From the tourist information office to the supermarket, the local post office to your rental villa, the locals are always on the lookout to make a sale. Even when seeking basic information, unsuspecting travelers may find sales reps trying to sell them additional services.
Military and Civic Pride: The reverence for the military is another unique aspect of US culture. This fascination is widely seen in the US, and it's quite different from perceptions in other countries, where military service may be viewed with more neutrality or even deeper skepticism.
Culinary and Housing Experiences
Size Matters in the US: A notable difference in both food and housing is the sheer scale. The US has a reputation for providing large portions of food, and this extends to housing as well. Houses in the US tend to be significantly larger, even compared to those in Germany. Similarly, city roads are wider, which sometimes leaves Brits wondering why European towns don’t build wider roads too.
Pre-paid fuel stations are common in the US, featuring kiosks or pre-payment at the pump. Concrete water features in yards often conceal alligators, and it's wise to avoid such areas.
Concluding Thoughts
Overall, the US offers a unique blend of experiences for Brits. While it presents challenges in terms of logistics and cultural norms, it also offers breathtaking natural landscapes, diverse cities, and fascinating cultural phenomena. So, whether you're exploring Florida’s beaches or delving into the heart of America, prepare for an adventure full of contrasts and surprises.