Editing United States (section)

== '''People and Culture''' ==

When traveling to another country knowing a little bit about its people and culture is vital. The people of the United States usually refer to themselves as Americans though this can be confusing for other peoples of the American continents. Stereotypes of Americans are wide-ranging and will not be discussed here.

When receiving a service in a restaurant, hotel, or taxi you will be expected to include a tip. In restaurants, for example, you should include 15-20% of the cost of your meal. Typically servers are paid reduced wages and are expected to earn more than half their pay from tips or gratuities.

Many citizens of the country may be easily offended by course language and swear words (even if these are frequently on display in popular, mainstream films and television shows produced in the USA) such as "fuck," "dick," and "shit." It may be wise to avoid such terms in public. This is especially true in small towns.

Adults in the USA can seem to display a limited exposure to the history, geography, and current events in other countries, although this can be less true amongst Couchsurfers. This is a rather complex issue and should not be interpreted as an indication of intelligence.

Personal finances are given significant import in the United States. It is even somewhat common for natives to discuss what may seem like private financial issues such as salary or how much they paid for a certain item.

The country has a high rate of association with religion, with Christianity being predominant, and this has historically been an important part of national thought. It is important to understand that the USA is a secular religious society much like countries in Europe, and a diversity of religious beliefs is embraced. The presence of Islam, however, is still somewhat uncomfortable for many, with a growing fear following the attacks of September 11, 2001. If you travel to the US wearing a headscarf or turban, expect to be treated with special attention at airport and government building security check-points. Some people may even point or make confusing comments referring to jihadis, "9/11", or Osama Bin-Laden. Tolerance and freedom of religion are by far the dominant mode, but one may expect occasional prejudice and mild harassment, especially in rural areas. The culture is very diverse. Expect a great mix of religions, races, and nationalities, especially in large, urban areas and metropolitan cities.

While the USA is by certain measures the richest nation in the world, many of its citizens live in great poverty, unable to afford housing, health care, transportation, and sometimes food. The widening gap is especially visible in large cities where one can see people living in dumpsters next to high-rise luxury condominium buildings. Rural areas can also be quite poor.

Do not be afraid to voice agreement with or criticize the actions of the government. Many citizens in this country enjoy talking politics and you can learn a lot about the United States this way. You're sure to get somebody excited no matter which side you take. Visa information for the United States is available at an external website, here: 
[[trash:United States]]
[[share:United States]]
[[hitch:United States]]
[[velo:United States]]
[[cash:United States]]
[[nomad:United States]]