When visiting the U.S., there are a few common missteps that can make the experience more stressful or confusing. Here are 10 of the biggest mistakes people often make:

1. Underestimating the Size of the Country

The U.S. is massive, both geographically and culturally. Many visitors make the mistake of thinking they can see everything in just one trip. It’s essential to plan carefully and focus on one or two regions rather than trying to do it all.

I’ve seen itineraries that take up every second of the day, many foreign visitors expect to see too much on one trip. Many cities will take days to see the whole thing, so jumping from state to state is a chore and may not be a good idea all at once.

2. Not Understanding Tipping Culture

In the U.S., tipping is expected in many service sectors, like restaurants, bars, and taxis. A typical tip is 15-20% in restaurants, and not leaving a tip is not done. Unfortunately, in the U.S. the tip is part of the salary. It is depended upon.

3. Ignoring Time Zones

With multiple time zones across the U.S., it’s easy to get confused about when things are happening, especially if you’re traveling between cities. Make sure to double-check the time zone of your destination and plan accordingly. There are four time ones – Western, Mountain, Central and Eastern.

4. Assuming Everyone Speaks English Fluently

While English is the primary language, many parts of the U.S. have large communities that speak Spanish, Mandarin, Arabic, and other languages. It’s good to be prepared for language diversity, especially in major cities or border regions. But on the whole, English is the major language and most of the country speaks it – although with many different accents and dialects.

5. Overlooking Local Laws and Customs

Each state in the U.S. can have different laws, customs, and rules. Something that’s legal in one state might be illegal in another (e.g., marijuana use, driving laws, or even certain alcohol-related rules). Researching local regulations ahead of time can save you from awkward situations or legal trouble.

6. Not Budgeting for High Costs

The cost of living in the U.S. can be high, especially in cities like New York, San Francisco, or Los Angeles. From food to lodging, visitors often underestimate expenses. It’s crucial to plan and budget more than you think you’ll need. Sales tax is not part of the listed or ticketed price on items, including food. It differs from city to city and of course state to state. Sales tax is an extra cost added to the bill at time of payment whether it’s a restaurant, supermarket or department store.

7. Failing to Research Transportation

In many U.S. cities, public transportation isn’t as reliable or widespread as in other countries. Renting a car is often necessary, especially outside major cities. Visitors can end up frustrated by long wait times for buses or a lack of easy access to public transit.

8. Assuming All U.S. Cities Are the Same

The U.S. is incredibly diverse in terms of culture, climate, and lifestyle. What’s acceptable in one city might not be in another. For example, people in Southern states might have different customs or social norms than those in the Pacific Northwest. Understanding regional differences is key to a smooth visit.

9. Forgetting About Travel Insurance

Health care in the U.S. is expensive, and visitors who don’t have travel insurance can end up paying exorbitant amounts if they need medical care. It’s a smart idea to buy comprehensive travel insurance that covers health, accidents, and unexpected trip cancellations.

10. Being Unaware of the “Tips” for Crossing Customs

U.S. immigration and customs can be intimidating. Travelers may be asked detailed questions about their plans, the length of their stay, and their finances. Being overly vague or unprepared can delay entry or lead to being denied entry. It’s best to have all necessary documents and a clear, honest explanation ready when you arrive.

Being mindful of these common mistakes can make a U.S. trip much smoother and enjoyable.

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