Table Manners. In the US, having good table manners means quiet eating. Loud chewing, talking with food in your mouth, slurping, or burping are all considered to be offensive dining habits. Tipping etiquette generally requires a 10-15% tip at lunch and a 15-20% tip at dinner for servers at sit-down restaurants.
Public Behavior. Dress in the US tends to be more casual than in Europe. Toplessness on beaches, particularly by women, is a grave fashion faux pas. Many establishments require customers to wear a shirt and shoes. The most acceptable forms of public affection are hugging and holding hands; kissing in public will usually attract some uncomfortable stares. Although most cities are tolerant of homosexuality, gay or lesbian couples should be aware that they may receive unwanted attention for public displays of affection, especially in rural areas.
Gestures. One of the most offensive gestures in the US is extending the middle finger at someone. Known as “giving the finger” or even “flipping the bird,” this gesture is considered rude and obscene. A “thumbs up” gesture, though, is a sign of approval. It is also a widely recognized signal for hitchhiking, which Let’s Go does not recommend.
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For 52 years, we have published the world’s favorite budget travel guides, written entirely by students and updated every year. With pen and notebook in hand and a few changes of underwear stuffed in our backpacks, we spend months roaming the globe in search of travel bargains.
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