7 Surprising Things Brits Notice About America After Their First Week There

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If you’re from the UK and just spent your first week in America, you’ve probably noticed some things are quite different. Let’s explore some of the most common things that might have caught your eye or taken you by surprise.

1. Everything feels larger

In America, everything from the roads and cars to the supermarkets and food servings just seems bigger. When you walk into a grocery store, the aisles are wider, and there are more choices than back home. Even the landscapes are vast, with sprawling cities and open countryside that stretch on for miles. This sense of scale can be overwhelming, but also quite exciting as you explore all that extra space.

2. Driving is essential

Unlike many places in the UK where you can rely on public transport, in the US, having a car is almost a necessity. Distances between places are generally much bigger, and public transport options can be limited, especially outside the major cities. This means you’ll likely find yourself driving a lot more than you’re used to, which can be a bit of an adjustment.

3. People are more openly friendly

It might take you by surprise just how friendly people can be in the US. Strangers might say hello, ask how you are, or strike up a conversation out of nowhere. This openness is quite common and can make everyday interactions feel more pleasant.

4. Air conditioning is everywhere

Whether it’s in homes, shops, or cars, air conditioning is a staple in America, much more so than in the UK. This is especially noticeable during the hot summer months when indoor cooling systems become essential for comfort.

5. Portion sizes are bigger

When dining out in the US, you might be shocked at the size of the portions. Meals are typically larger than what you might be used to back home. It’s quite common for people to take leftovers home for another meal, so don’t feel pressured to finish everything on your plate in one go!

6. Roads are wider

The roads in America are not only longer but also wider. This can make driving a bit different from what you’re used to, with more lanes and generally larger vehicles sharing the road. The wide roads can make driving feel less congested and, in many cases, a bit easier once you get used to the scale.

7. Distances are huge

One thing you’ll quickly notice is the sheer scale of the country. What looks close on a map can actually be hours of driving. This can change how you plan day trips or vacations, as travel times can be significantly longer than what you might expect.