A myriad of cultural aspects make America one of the best places to call home. From huge plates of mouth-watering food to litter-free streets, the US has many quirks that confuse visitors at first but that they come to love over time. As American citizens, these seemingly mundane things are so normal that we often take them for granted. Here are 21 things that make America great and keep tourists coming back.
The American Dream
The American Dream, while a fanciful idea, is woven into the fabric of US culture. With centuries of historical significance, this idea has helped make America such a desirable country to visit and helps keep morale high.
Road Trips
Taking the Great American Roadtrip is a frequent bucket list activity for tourists, and it’s easy to see why. Before domestic flights, US citizens had to take road trips if they wanted to get anywhere, but now they are a way to unwind and see the country at a slower pace. This signature adventure keeps many visitors coming back for more, renting vans or campers to make the journey unforgettable.
Relaxed Returns Policies
Many American retailers offer free returns, anytime, much to the surprise of foreigners. Consumerism is at large in the US, and generations of buyer remorse have caused stores to take a relaxed approach to returns. It’s rare that you have to justify returning an item, which baffles a lot of tourists.
Large Food Portions
The US takes food very seriously, and one of the ways this has manifested is in generous portion sizes. Rarely will you leave a restaurant feeling hungry, leaving tourists with a sense of getting value for money. Diners in particular are known for their large portions of waffles, pancakes, and signature breakfasts.
Girl Scout Cookies
Girl Scout cookies are a ubiquitous and wholesome aspect of American culture. While residents take these iconic green stalls for granted, tourists love these delicious snacks. Placed outside most supermarkets, it’s hard to say no to these butter-rich treats.
Krispy Creme Donuts
Krispy Creme has been serving up delicious doughnuts for generations and has become an iconic element of US culture. From classic glazed offerings to chocolate-filled pastries, Krispy Creme is something Americans often take for granted, but tourists take full advantage it of during their visit.
The Friendly Locals
Americans are known for a warmth and openness that’s difficult to find elsewhere in the world. Tourists often note the smiley nature of locals across the country and their aptitude for small talk. While some cultures might view this openness as over-sharing, others see it as refreshing.
24-Hour Convenience Stores
Here in America, no matter the time of day or night, you’ll be able to find an open convenience store. Like neon beacons of hope, 24-hour convenience stores welcome night owls and anyone wanting a midnight snack.
Diner Culture
The classic American diner is more than just an eaterie, it’s a cultural emblem. For US residents, there’s something nostalgic about the red checkered tiles and free coffee refills, and while we all have a favorite diner, we often take them for granted. Visitors, on the other hand, can’t get enough of their greasy breakfasts and syrup-laden waffles.
Free Coffee Refills
America has a unique cultural norm surrounding coffee: free refills, pretty much wherever you go. While associated with diner culture, many cafes offer free filter coffee refills and will keep you topped up throughout your visit.
Hiking Trails and Outdoor Pursuits
Home to countless National Parks, the US is a hiker’s dream, with offerings such as the Blue Ridge Mountains and Yellowstone. Many cities offer accessible hikes for urban dwellers to explore, creating an outdoor culture across the country.
Public Transport
In America, public transport is a $79 billion industry, with most people living in cities using buses and trains to get around. This is incredibly convenient for tourists looking to explore without the hassle and expense of hiring a car.
Customer Service
Since the pandemic, companies have been pushed to make their already good customer service even better. Visitors are pleasantly surprised when they are greeted by a smiley, attentive salesperson. The American shopping experience is like nowhere else.
Good Air Quality
On the whole, air pollution poses little or no risk here in the US. Since 1990, the concentrations of pollutants in the air have dropped significantly, allowing us to enjoy clearer skies. This is something we take for granted, but that those from countries with high air pollution can appreciate.
Wide Open Spaces
Geographic size doesn’t always equate to having wide open spaces unless you’re in America. From sprawling city parks to panoramic vistas and long open roads, the US has plenty of cherished open space.
Cultural Optimism
Americans have a knack for making people feel at home, and a lot of this comes down to their optimism. We’re smiley folk, and have a habit of saying “awesome!” among other joyful phrases.
Craft Beer
Craft beers have exploded in popularity, with artisanal breweries popping up across the US. Household names such as Boston Beer and Sierra Nevada Brewing have put US-made craft beers firmly on the international radar.
Product Choice
America is known for its retail therapy for good reason, with endless shopping malls, markets, and boutiques to choose from. There’s a range of products to suit every personality, lifestyle, and set of hobbies. The same goes for supermarkets, with aisles of the best imported and local goods.
Sport Culture
In American society, sports aren’t just a game. This country has an incredible history when it comes to basketball, soccer, and baseball, with teams reflecting the American spirit.
Quirky Historic Sites
It might not be as old as European countries, but the US has a rich and unique history dating back centuries. There are many historic sites to discover, from prohibition and cowboys to the Salem Witch Trials and the Boston Tea Party.
Amusement Parks
We all know Disneyland, but the US has countless other exhilarating amusement parks for visitors to enjoy. A cherished part of American culture, amusement parks never seem to get old, attracting families and adrenaline junkies alike.
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