🇺🇸 USA

The USA is a vast federation of distinct regional cultures united by shared ideals of freedom and opportunity. American culture values individualism, innovation, and the 'American Dream' while embracing incredible diversity. Regional differences are significant - Southern hospitality, Midwestern friendliness, East Coast directness, and West Coast laid-back attitudes create unique local identities within the broader American experience.

Tipping Culture: 18-20% in restaurants, $1-2 per drink at bars, 15-20% for taxis. Sales Tax: Added at checkout, varies by state (0-10%+). Distances: Everything is far - rent a car for most regions outside Northeast. Small Talk: Americans are friendly and chat with strangers easily. ID Required: Carry photo ID always - needed for alcohol, entering buildings, sometimes credit cards.

American society values personal freedom, direct communication, and individual achievement. 'Customer service' culture means friendly, helpful interactions in businesses. Regional stereotypes exist but vary greatly within states. Food culture is rapidly evolving from fast food to artisanal everything. Americans love to talk about local pride - sports teams, regional food, hometown heroes. Work-life balance varies dramatically by region and industry.

Spring (April-May): Mild weather, blooming seasons, shoulder season pricing, temperatures vary dramatically by region 10-25°C. Summer (June-August): Peak season, hot in most areas, school vacations, 20-35°C+. Fall (September-November): Beautiful colors in Northeast, comfortable temperatures, harvest seasons, 15-28°C. Winter (December-February): Cold in north, mild in south, ski season, holiday celebrations, -10-20°C depending on region.

Car Rental: Essential for most regions, extensive highway system, gas stations everywhere. Flying: Domestic flights connect major cities, TSA security takes time. Amtrak: Limited train service, scenic routes but slow. Public Transport: Excellent in NYC, DC, San Francisco; limited elsewhere. Ride-sharing: Uber/Lyft available in cities, expensive for long distances.

Budget Travel ($40-80/day): Hostels/motels $25-60, food trucks/diners $8-15, public transport $2-5, state parks/free attractions. Mid-Range ($80-150/day): Chain hotels $60-120, casual restaurants $15-30, car rental $30-50/day, paid attractions. Luxury ($150+/day): Upscale hotels $120-400+, fine dining $40-100+, premium experiences, private transport. Costs vary dramatically by region - NYC/SF expensive, Midwest affordable.

English is the primary language with significant Spanish-speaking populations. American English differs from British - 'elevator' not 'lift', 'gas' not 'petrol'. Regional accents vary dramatically from Southern drawl to Boston accent. Americans speak loudly compared to many cultures. Slang varies by region and generation. Most Americans are monolingual but appreciate efforts to speak English.

USA safety varies dramatically by location. Avoid bad neighborhoods in cities - ask locals. Gun violence exists but rarely affects tourists. Don't leave valuables in cars. Healthcare is expensive - get travel insurance. Emergency numbers: 911 (police, fire, ambulance). Drinking age is 21, strictly enforced. Don't photograph government buildings or military installations.

US Dollar ($) is the currency. Cards accepted everywhere, contactless payment common. ATMs abundant. Typical costs: Coffee $3-5, Fast food $8-12, Casual meal $15-25, Gas $3-4/gallon, Budget hotel $50-100/night. Tipping mandatory in restaurants (18-20%), bars ($1-2/drink), taxis (15-20%). Sales tax added at checkout, varies by state.