If you’re a tourist visiting America – welcome to our county!
And hey, we mean it. We’re happy you’ve braved the hype and decided to check out our beautiful home.
But there are some things you should never do while visiting America – and we’d like to give you a heads up so you’re ready.
Many well-meaning tourists never get the memo – and end up in America feeling confused about almost everything.
So instead of being surprised at the way we do things here in ‘Merica – check out our tips on 5 things you should never do while visiting the U.S.A.
Don’t Be Creepy
So we get it – maybe you’ve never seen a woman with blue eyes before.
Or maybe you’ve never seen a girl with red hair.
But if you start taking photos of American women or following them around – chances are they’ll call the police on you.
And remember in America, people are naturally friendly.
It’s not uncommon for Americans to say “Hi, how are you?” to a stranger – but if a woman says hi to you while passing, it does NOT mean she is hitting on you and wants a date!
In other countries it is uncommon for women to speak to men – but here in American people are generally polite to both sexes.
And don’t even think about whistling at a girl or belting out some inappropriate phrase. Even if she doesn’t know what you’re saying – chances are you’ll make her upset and it won’t end well for you.
Complain About The Way We Do Things
I get it – some of our customs may be strange to you.
You better believe our portions are huge – and we tip our servers at least 20% (and the whole tipping thing is really serious here – please don’t even consider not tipping your server or bartender).
And if you come here and start talking about how out-of-control our portions are and complain about tipping… let’s just say if someone overhears you, they might have a few choice words for you.
Not because they hate you.
But because it’s disrespectful, and we don’t like anyone (especially people from other countries) blasting the way we live.
If we were in your country complaining about lack of air conditioning or rude people – we’d expect you to put us in our place too.
Americans are pretty straight forward – and we don’t beat around the bush.
We’re really happy to have you visit our land, but please show some respect.
Invade Our Personal Space
Other cultures have different ways of greeting one another.
Sometimes it’s a hug, or even a kiss on the cheek.
But here in America… we really don’t kiss people on the cheek or hug them unless they are a family member or close friend.
And usually only women do that.
So if you are a man and are introduced to another man and decide to give him an embracing hug or kiss on the cheek – depending on his personality…. he might get angry and even slug ya.
And for those countries who give nose kisses… if you are a man and nose kiss another man in America, you almost definitely will get slugged.
Just a friendly warning.
Stick to a handshake if meeting someone for the first time.
Brag About Your Socialist Policies
As we mentioned before, real Americans don’t like socialism.
In fact, we despise it with every fiber of our being.
If you come here and start protesting our government or our President… you’ll be met with fierce opposition.
We get it, many countries don’t like the way we do politics here.
But we love our freedom, and our goal is to have even more power returned to the people, instead of put into the hands of dictators.
So if you think bragging about universal healthcare and “free” college is supposed to win you friends… don’t bet on it!
And if you start hatin’ on our gun laws telling us there’s no reason for people to carry… you will definitely verbally be put in your place.
It’s probably best to avoid talking politics here altogether.
We Really Do Welcome You Here Though
Hey listen, we’re not trying to be jerks or scare you off.
We love America, and we are more than happy to show you the best we have to offer.
From the rolling badlands of South Dakota, to the hidden treasures in Cleveland, there is so much to do here.
We’ll give you the real insider’s guide to the best places in D.C. and tell you where to find the best food in nearly every state.
Sure, some of our customs might be a bit different from yours – but give us a chance.
After a week or two basking in the freedom we cherish everyday – you’re bound to understand why we love our country so much.
And when we visit your country, we promise to show the same respect and do our best not to annoy you too.
As a final tip — don’t forget to check out our full Proud American Traveler website. We’ll tell you everything from how to avoid bed bugs in your hotel to how to travel without checking a bag.
You can even search our entire site to find out the best we have to offer.
Welcome to America!
Americans — what is one message you’d like to tell every foreigner who visits the United States?
Do you have a favorite American custom you look forward to sharing with those who visit America?
Tell us your thoughts in the comments below and be sure to share this article with all your friends!
