“Top 10 Mistakes Foreign Tourists Make in the USA (All 50 States!)”
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00:00Visiting America? These 10 mistakes could cost you money, respect, or worse, ruin your whole trip.
00:07Whether you're dreaming of Broadway lights in New York or the sun-soaked canyons of the Southwest,
00:13every traveler deserves a smooth journey. But too often, foreign visitors stumble into the same traps.
00:20Let's fix that right now with the top 10 mistakes foreign tourists make across all 50 states.
00:25Mistake number one, forgetting to tip. In the U.S., tipping isn't just polite, it's expected.
00:33From restaurants to taxis, hotel maids to Uber drivers, most service workers rely on tips as a significant part of their income.
00:42If you skip out, it's not just a faux pas, it can come off as disrespectful.
00:47The rule of thumb, tip 15 to 20% on most services, unless you truly had a horrible experience.
00:55For quick counter food, a dollar or two is a nice touch.
00:58Next, underestimating distances.
01:01America is massive, really massive.
01:05Thinking you can pop from New York City to Miami in a day is like imagining you could drive from London to Rome before lunchtime.
01:12Even trips between cities within a single state can take hours.
01:16Always check travel times before you plan day trips, and don't forget flight connections can easily chew up most of your vacation.
01:23Third, confusing transportation options.
01:27Many visitors assume you'll find trains and buses in every city, just like Europe or Asia.
01:32Truth is, outside of a few big cities like New York, Chicago, or San Francisco, public transit is often limited.
01:40In many states, especially in the South and the vast American West, you'll need a rental car.
01:47Don't wait until you land to figure this out.
01:49Book in advance and double-check whether you need an international license.
01:53The fourth mistake?
01:55Assuming everyone speaks your language.
01:57The U.S. is diverse, but English is the default.
02:01Don't expect hotel staff or cashiers to know French, German, or Mandarin.
02:05Learning just a few simple English phrases or using a translation app goes a long way towards smoother interactions and a warmer welcome.
02:15Fifth, not understanding American portions.
02:18Order a large meal, and you'll likely be stunned by the size of your plate.
02:23The trick?
02:24Don't be shy about sharing dishes or asking for a to-go box.
02:28In America, taking leftovers home is totally normal, and honestly, almost expected.
02:33Number six, misjudging cultural norms.
02:37Americans value personal space and friendly, upbeat conversation.
02:42Being overly direct or physically affectionate with new acquaintances might feel normal at home,
02:47but here, it can make people uncomfortable.
02:50Smile, be polite, but don't expect deep familiarity right away, unless it's invited.
02:56Seventh on our list, not having the right travel insurance.
03:00Healthcare in America isn't free.
03:02Far from it.
03:03One emergency room visit could bankrupt an unprepared traveler.
03:07Don't risk it.
03:08Always buy comprehensive travel insurance before your trip.
03:11Eighth, disrespecting national parks and native lands.
03:15America's natural beauty is stunning, but it comes with responsibility.
03:19Taking selfies off trail, touching artifacts, or ignoring leave-no-trace rules can damage fragile landscapes and show disrespect, especially in indigenous areas.
03:31Respect signs, rules, and traditions.
03:34These places are treasured for a reason.
03:37Ninth, not dressing for regional weather.
03:39Wearing flip-flops in Chicago in the dead of winter is a rookie mistake.
03:43The U.S. spans nearly every climate, from snowbound Alaska to balmy Florida.
03:49Do your research and pack accordingly.
03:52Layers are your friend.
03:54And number ten, missing local holidays or major events.
03:58Traveling in Washington, D.C. on July 4th or New Orleans during Mardi Gras, without planning ahead, means long lines, packed hotels, and missed experiences.
04:08Always check local calendars for holidays, sports events, and festivals before you book.
04:15Want more travel hacks for your trip across America?
04:18Tap in for advice on every state.
04:20And don't forget to like, subscribe, and share your most surprising U.S. travel moment below.
04:26Safe travels out there!