Yes, outside major cities like New York or Chicago, public transit is limited, and renting a car is often necessary for exploring suburban or rural areas.

Yes, tipping is customary in restaurants (15-20%), bars, taxis, and even for services like haircuts or hotel housekeeping—it’s a significant part of workers’ income.

Yes, jaywalking (crossing the street outside crosswalks) is illegal in many cities, and open container laws prohibit drinking alcohol in public spaces in most states.

Small talk is common and appreciated, especially in casual settings like elevators, waiting lines, or with service staff—it’s seen as polite and friendly.

Visit local diners, food trucks, or farmers’ markets for affordable, authentic regional dishes like Southern BBQ, New England clam chowder, or Tex-Mex tacos.

Avoid photographing military installations or airports, and always ask permission before taking photos of people, especially in rural or indigenous communities.

Domestic flights are common for long distances, but for shorter trips, consider Amtrak trains or scenic road trips to experience the diverse landscapes.

Opt for eco-friendly accommodations, use public transit in cities, and support local businesses or farmers’ markets to reduce your environmental impact.

Stay on marked trails, don’t feed wildlife, and follow Leave No Trace principles—pack out all trash and respect the natural environment.

Yes, holidays often have traditional foods—turkey for Thanksgiving, hot dogs for the 4th of July, and pumpkin pie for Halloween and Thanksgiving.

Americans value personal space—maintain about an arm’s length distance in conversations and avoid physical contact like hugging unless invited.

Attend community events like county fairs, local sports games, or neighborhood festivals to see how Americans celebrate their traditions and daily life.