You intend to go throughout the United States of America, is that right? Prepare yourself for an experience that will differ slightly from traveling around Europe. I'm here to provide advice, firsthand knowledge, and insider knowledge to assist you get around the vast roads, expansive scenery, and yes—the notorious tipping culture—without losing your composure. I can attest to this because I've been there and have also seen other friends suffer complete shocks. Make sure you're not one of them, please!
It's Huge. Very Large.
The United States of America is enormous. No, it's actually that big. Fasten your seatbelt if you're used to taking trains from Paris to Brussels in a few hours. I used to have a Dutch friend named Mark who would arrange to fly into New York, rent a vehicle, and take a leisurely weekend vacation to Los Angeles. When he informed me, I nearly spewed up my coffee. In actuality, you could fit multiple European nations into some US states, thus a simple trip across the nation may need a 3-day road trip or a 5-hour flight (if you're pushing it).
Therefore, keep in mind that the Statue of Liberty and the Grand Canyon are on different sides of the nation if you're thinking of seeing both. My friend, you're going to have to choose your battles carefully. Your best chance is to plan ahead, or else you'll find yourself looking at cornfields for half the drive and wondering where it all went wrong.
Public Transportation? Almost Like a Myth
Now for the really major. If you've taken trips around Europe, you've undoubtedly been pampered by the fantastic public transportation available to you. Trains can transfer you quickly between cities, while trams can meander through urban streets. Yes, it is not available in the United States. The subway will undoubtedly become your best buddy if you're in a large metropolis like New York (once you've worked out which line you really need—good luck!). If you're anyplace else, though, you'll have to rely on buses that have such erratic timetables that they almost don't exist.
If you're thinking, "I'll just rent a car," that's a really smart move! Oh wait, did you pack a credit card? Except... If all you have is a debit card, most automobile rental firms in the US won't provide you a car. I discovered it the hard way when a buddy of mine who is German got stuck in Vegas while driving to the Grand Canyon. It was not attractive.
It's Not Just a Fun Name: Death Valley
Now let's discuss the desert. I know you're picturing those huge, open landscapes with perhaps some tumbleweeds whizzing past, and wouldn't it be wonderful to go hiking there? Well, you might want to reconsider if you were planning to accomplish that while wearing flip-flops and a water bottle the size of your morning coffee. It will devour you alive, the desert. It's a death trap in the summer, no joke. It's called Death Valley for a purpose other than mere terror. Once, a French couple thought a tiny bottle of water would be plenty for their hike. Their offspring made it through. No, they didn't.
The summertime heat in Arizona hit me like a hot oven that had been left open too long. Travelers from colder regions come here believing they can climb through the desert or scale the Grand Canyon without any prior preparation. Warning: they cannot. If you intend to engage in any sort of outdoor activity in the Southwest, make sure you have enough of water, appropriate footwear, and a hat—unless you relish looking like a perfectly cooked piece of toast.
Is That A Ten Dollar Burger? Simply Wait for the Taxes and Tipping
Though things are rarely as easy as they look in the US, even if you believe you're budgeting properly. See that burger on the menu for $10? Adorable. That burger is more like $15 by the time you've paid taxes and included a gratuity (yes, you should tip, but more on that later). And speaking of tips, they are accepted here. I know, I know, if the service was really outstanding back home in Europe, you would throw a few bucks on the table, but in the US, tipping is expected. It's common for servers to depend on gratuities to cover their living expenses, so be prepared to tip an additional 15-20% of the total price.
When the server brought my Italian buddy Luca the bill and mentioned the gratuity in passing, Luca seemed shocked. He questioned, obviously perplexed, "Why?" Following a brief—and somewhat uncomfortable—explanation, Luca saw the foolishness of his ways and reluctantly contributed a few bucks. Avoid becoming like Luca by factoring tipping into your spending plan and avoiding culture shock.
Reserve National Parks Early to Avoid Missing Out
You intend to travel to several of the breathtakingly gorgeous national parks in the United States. Fantastic decision! The problem is that you can't just show up at destinations like Yosemite or Yellowstone and expect to wander about aimlessly. Make reservations as soon as possible, my buddy. European families arrive at the Grand Canyon or Yellowstone gate, only to be informed that the park is closed for the day. I've witnessed this happen several times. The expressions on their faces? Destruction.
I met a German family that assumed they could just drive to Yellowstone, park, and go sightseeing for the day. Nope. They ended up seeing far less than they had intended and had to rush online to make a last-minute appointment. Keep it from happening to you! Make preparations in advance, particularly in the summer.
Local Cuisine: It's Not Just McDonald's
This is a nice little myth: hardly every American eats Burger King or McDonald's every day. Although fast food is widely available, American cuisine offers much more. And no, excellent dining does not include Olive Garden in Times Square! Do yourself a favor and stop by a neighborhood diner or barbecue restaurant while you're there. Some of the nicest meals may be had for a far lower cost than at those expensive tourist traps.
I wandered into a small BBQ restaurant when I was in Texas, and let me tell you, it changed my life. The ribs were delicate, smokey, and literally fell off the bone. I was ecstatic. Thus, stay local and avoid chains. Both your pocketbook and your stomach will appreciate it.
Concluding Remarks: If you're prepared, adventure awaits.
The United States of America is an enormously vast and varied country that may be incredibly perplexing if you're not prepared. You're in for a fantastic experience, though, if you take the time to prepare, learn about the customs (yes, including tipping), and appreciate the enormity of the location.
Be wise, prepare ahead of time, and enjoy the chaos whether you're trekking the majestic Rockies, experiencing the busy streets of New York, or simply lounging on a California beach. Everything is a part of the journey.
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