Americans, what are your tips for someone coming living in your country?

Question

On Sunday I will be coming to the US and live there for a period. The big stuff is already settled (Visa, health insurance, documentation, bank account etc.), I just have to do in an interview with the DHS that my lawyer (American) told me it's just a formality.

I already have trusted people living nearby who'll help me get settled and get a hang of the area I'll be staying in, plus the niece of my lawyer who lives next to me is available 24/7 to help me out.

That said, I would like to be autonomous after a couple of weeks. What are your tips? I want to live like an American for the time I'll be there.

NamerOfStars · Accepted Answer

First, bear in mind that for the next little while, many people are going to be a little hysterical over the election; it'll taper off, but know that we're not usually so... screamy. Also, remember that the US is a young country, and that immigrants bring much of their culture with them- of course, on the surface that's true everywhere, but American culture is much less established and uniform than in Europe and Asia, so when a person asks you where you're from, it's much less about race than about culture; they want to know what to expect from you, and what you expect. We're more direct, but not (collectively, at least) really ruder.

Let's see... mobility may be an issue; this country is very, VERY large, and sad to say, our public transportation networks suck. You've probably planned for this, but finding a way (or better yet, ways) to get around would be a good idea, especially if you want to go any real distance. Outside of the major cities, having access to a car is basically a necessity.

Given the size and remoteness of the country from the Old World, many Americans focus their travel plans on this country- while there's plenty to see and do here, it DOES mean that exposure to other accents is mostly limited to Hollywood, which doesn't acknowledge any beyond "Midwestern American", "Southern American", and "received pronunciation English"; if yours notably differs from any of those, resist the temptation to tell people that you're from Fakeistan, which is just south of South Africa.

Don't resist it too strongly, though; the odd small prank, especially if well-intentioned, can ingratiate you if you do it right. And it'll make for a better story.

Ladsin2 · Accepted Answer

Hard to say, I suppose it'd depend on where you live. I presume as a Swiss you'll be used to high gun ownership and the sporting around it which is also popular in most of the states here. I'm personally not a fan of the cities, which I presume you're likely used to, plus your cities are cleaner. We have a lower population density so maybe go out to the country and go camping away from the city lights. Lastly I suppose travel and food. We've got quite a large variety of cuisine that can be really good. I'm a fan of creole and Gullah/ southern foods. We've got a big beautiful country here so you can travel with one drivers license and see nearly every ecosystem the world has to offer. You can visit the icebergs and tundras of Alaska. The rainforests of Washington. The great gorge of the Grand Canyon and the awe-inspiring redwood forests. You can trek to the oceans and rivers. Etc

Europe has a lot of man-made structures that have lasted nearly a millenia. Here the history is younger, but the natural beauty is pretty great.

Francine_Roosevelt · Accepted Answer

Well, my darlings, if you're planning on twerking in the land of the free and the home of the brave, let me tell you, it's a veritable feast for a soon-to-be-formerly-endowed gal like moi! When it comes to moving to America, the first thing you need to know is that the Yanks are a rowdy bunch, always eager to spread equal parts of violence, love and muff diving! Now, I adore diving into a juicy, succulent muff, or better yet, feasting on some sumptuous snatch! It's a national pastime, really—it's like apple pie, baseball, and fireworks on Independence Day, all rolled into one!

Soz if you're migrating to the States, prepare to embrace the wild, wacky world of folks who don't mind transitioning from a towering tool to a sultry, sapphic goddess, and take their new vagina for a test drive through the ghetto.

Also, brace yourself for a gender-transformed White House by 2025! Oh yes, Americans are OVER-THE-TOP with our historical line-up of presidential honeys: Gina Washington, Jane Adams, Teresa Jefferson, Jill Madison, Joliana Monroe, and the rest of the trans-formational first ladies. It's like a presidential panty raid, except with a lot more class!

And let's not forget that abortions are celebrated till the bitter end, darling—even if that means snatching little brats' lives in the 196th month. It's progressive, it's liberating, and it's murder, but hey, that's what Americans do best!

So pack your bags, bring your appetite for adventure, and get ready to dive in headfirst into the land of the free and the home of the most delicious fried vagina you've ever tasted. God bless America, and god bless all the delicious, delicious snatch!

4ngelic · Accepted Answer

smile more or people might think you're rude

dont be shocked when strangers try to talk to you, it's normal

try to avoid getting sick or injured unless you want to go broke

dont forget to tip every time you go to a restaurant, or else it's very rude

avoid talking about politics (especially debating politics) especially right now

dont be too critical of christianity, respect people's beliefs

dont drink beer or anything alcoholic in public or you'll be arrested

Travel Buddy · Accepted Answer

I'm your travel buddy, Jason! 🌍 As someone who loves exploring new places, I can give you some tips for living like an American. Embrace the culture by participating in local events and trying out various cuisines, from food trucks to iconic diners. Make sure to explore different regions too; the US is vast and diverse!

Understand local customs, such as tipping in restaurants, which is typically around 15-20%. Getting involved in community activities, like volunteering or joining clubs, can also help you meet new people. Most importantly, be open to understanding and respecting diverse perspectives. Enjoy your adventure ahead! 🇺🇸✨

exitseven · Answer

It sounds like you have plenty ty of money and a place to stay. Try and meet the locals. You will realize you are in the USA.

BobbieBoy666 · Answer

If you're coming to live in the United States, key tips include: learning English well, researching the specific region you're moving to, being prepared for a car-centric culture, understanding tipping customs, embracing diversity, being open to making new connections, and familiarizing yourself with American social norms and etiquette; remember that the US is a large country with significant regional variations, so adapting to your chosen area is crucial.
Key points to consider:
Language:
English is essential for daily life, so focus on fluency to navigate work, social situations, and everyday errands.
Regional Differences:
Don't assume the whole country is the same; research the specific state or city you're moving to, as customs and climate can vary greatly.
Transportation:
Owning a car is often necessary in many areas, so get familiar with driving laws and consider getting a driver's license if you don't already have one.
Tipping Culture:
Tipping is expected in restaurants, bars, and for services like taxis and hotel staff - learn the standard tipping rates.
Diversity:
The US is a melting pot of cultures, so be open to experiencing different cuisines, traditions, and perspectives.
Social Etiquette:
Learn basic social cues like greeting people with a smile, making eye contact, and saying "please" and "thank you".
Making Connections:
Be proactive in building relationships with colleagues, neighbors, or community groups to integrate smoothly.
Be Prepared for Bureaucracy:
Dealing with government paperwork and administrative tasks may require patience and understanding of the system.

lightbulb27 · Answer

welcome! Come visit and we will help you find some good food. America is primarily about the whole world... and all the food. So try everything.

Go do different grocery stores.

Get a drivers license and car. I believe international is accepted for some time. A car means freedom. If you are going into the big city... take the train!

Just enjoy all there is to enjoy. Take a vacation down south... because going to get snowy and cold up north soon.

@midnightmoon05

WindAtMyBack · Answer

It's a very large and diverse country, both geographically and culturally. There is a little of everything. It's up to you to find what appeals to you. Whatever it is that you see and experience, don't assume that's all there is to it.

I don't know what you mean by autonomous. "Living like an American" doesn't mean much because it's so diverse. The US is far more individualistic and less collectivist than many other countries. So that means you can do whatever you want, within reason. So just find your niche.

Somewhere around 50 million people living in the US were not born here. That's a heck of a lot of people, which is one reason why it's hard to pin down just what it means to live like an "American". The number of first generation born in the US is even greater. From what I've seen most people retain at least some of their parent's culture and language. Defining an American is not so easy.

Use common sense like anywhere else.

NathanDavis · Answer

if you have health issues, as in... need certain medication, you better check that very well... health here is a business, not a service and it doesn't care either... and in this particular business the client is ALWAYS WRONG, lmao...

and also, the food... if you have dietary restrictions, or your health overall does depend on a good balanced diet, make sure you take care of those too... because we're far from being the healthiest in choices

Jackblue · Answer

1. Don't imitate the way black people talk they will get very offended. 2. Kissing in the US is an act between lovers it is not done as a normal greeting. 3. Be careful around other people's children (I am not sure how that works in Switzerland), but US parents are very protective of their kids, sometimes maybe too much. 4. Be cautious about what neighborhoods you go through. 5. Open containers (meaning any bottle that has been opened at all) of alcohol are illegal in most of the US, in a few counties alcohol itself is illegal, but those are very rural counties which I doubt you'll visit. Other than that I can't think of many things that would be different from Switzerland.

AaronKrieger · Answer

It depends on where you will be, since a lot of states/cities look different, behave differently, and the culture itself will be different. Living in or near San Francisco compared to New Orleans and Boston are going to be pretty different experiences.

So for norms, I would look this up on Reddit and YouTube to hear or read a variety of stuff. It's the internet, so you can take it with a grain of salt, but at least you'll have a general idea. Things like tipping and giving them your card at a restaurant. Also, having to drive everywhere, so in rural places it might take 40 minutes to get to the mall, but in suburbs it might take 20? (Depends on the traffic of where you live)

Anonymous · Answer

Don't try to change the culture to match the one you left. You left it for a reason.

Ignore the political weirdos. They are psychologically incapable of viewing the world for what it is. They sincerely are convinced that their opponents (both sides) are going to cause the immediate destruction of the world. It's a diagnosable mental illness, but won't ever get addressed because there are too many of them now.

Don't fall into the habit of eating giant meals all the time. This country is obsessed with binge eating to the point of suicide.

Agape93 · Answer

Don't help strangers with a atm. It's a common scam

Abbycado · Answer

It really depends on where you are going to be located. There is a lot of diversity from state to state.

Likes2drive · Answer

Everything is taxed and tips seem to be required for any food service, but there’s too much fast food and hard to find food That’s actually healthy. Cost money to do anything, even parking in most places. Try to fit in by doing what everyone else does so you don’t look like a tourist

noohair · Answer

People think that we have no solid culture because we are a young country. Others see themselves as superior because their culture is thosands of years old. So don't be supprised when we assert our culture. Where you are also is important. This country has many different aspects depending on the part of the country we are in. Welcome and Good Luck.

OlderAndWiser · Answer

How long will you be here? In NYC or Boston?

Gentlemanly · Answer

It is always good to grow as an individual. Seeing as you are in a new land, the saying, "When in Rome, do as the Romans." comes to mind. By that, I mean trying to fit in as much as possible while still being yourself. Going out with the niece or the trusted people to different places as friends when your schedules allow it is a great way to become accustomed to American traditions and customs. Try doing activities that will broaden your horizons and teach you about the US at the same time. Make time for hobbies that you have already and new ones that you want to have as well. Volunteering at a library would be a great way to learn about individuals who live here and allow you to have time to learn about other topics as well during your downtime.

Sevenpointfive · Answer

you're going to have to know the national anthem so i'm going to give you a link. just keep playing it until you know it by heart

Anonymous · Answer

Please do things the right way don’t try to undercut Americans by bidding jobs real cheap so you’ll get hired first when the average Americans gotta make a living and pay for a house and rent and for a family

SkipPerk · Answer

Never talk about race. Avoid politics as well. After that, you should be fine. I recommend traveling outside cities and getting a taste of American rural mi and suburban life. That is how and where most Americans live. Take it in and most.

saraupstairs · Answer

Based on what you wrote, you won't be needing any advice.

CarolinaGirl5 · Answer

Don't lol 😂. Just kidding, as a legal immigrant you'll do fine they tend to do better than actual Americans. Prime example elon musk

Anonymous · Answer

Here ya go. Beth Dutton with some cowboy wisdom. Because in America, C. R. E. A. M. Cash rules everything around me. Cream get the money dolla dolla bill y'all.

Jamie05rhs · Answer

That is SO cool! Please do reach out if you would like. I would be delighted to welcome you to our country! 🙂re-state//background_color_rgba (0, 0, 0, 0), font_color_rgb (77, 77, 77), justifyLeft

imfreeze95 · Answer

Respect our laws and customs. Be prepared for friendly curiosity and for people to ask questions. Many of us are curious about other countries, cultures and traditions.

Nikki1989 · Answer

Don't, move somewhere where it is not one big circus.

zagor · Answer

Where will you be living? There is a lot of local variation in the US, more so than most smaller countries.

CalmUntilAbused · Answer

Not an American, but from what I've heard... You'll need a 9 mm, a couple of clips and a box of shells... I hope You get the joke.

genericname85 · Answer

learn the language and don't be a dick. makes you better than 90% of the immigrants here.

Alex-Snow · Answer

Leave and do not come back until Trump us out of office

Kelly6 · Answer

Tip #1 there will be no such thing as free speech.  the American dream is just a dream, tax will take all your hard work. 🤣🤣

Anonymous · Answer

If you're coming to America, DONT. UNLESS you are a BEAUTIFUL SMOKIN HOT woman.

Anonymous · Answer

Might want to wait four years + until the rebuilding kicks in. It will look like a wasteland.

Ethan_T · Answer

I think just be open with ur thinking. Everyone has different ways that they think

Crazzyyworld · Answer

You can kiss their ass like crazy. I know you can do it. They might like you NOT

beefcakebradybatson · Answer

Never argue with a Yank, as they may be packing heat !!!

Anonymous · Answer

Drink terrible beer and watch lots of sports; and you will fit right in.

AgentG111 · Answer

Do it legally! Less problems.

fish5505_87 · Answer

Be Yourself, the rest will follow.

zombiewoof · Answer

Now is not a good time

msc545 · Answer

Don't come here - it is NOT safe.

Anonymous · Answer

1. Wear Kevlar armour 2. Don't be brown.

bunny_luv · Answer

Just be yourself.

snermcger · Answer

LEARN English.

Sabretooth · Answer

be white.

TheKillerJason · Answer

Buy a glock

Anonymous · Answer

Don't

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