Shocking Facts About America

Almost every time I visit a new country for the first time I’m surprised by at least something that I had no idea was the case until I got there. Here’s one recent example: In Cuba I was told police officers at checkpoints want to know if you’re hiding meat, lobsters, or cheese in the trunk of your car. (Although hardly anyone in Cuba actually owns a car. I’ve never seen so few cars on the road in my life.)

Thought Catalog has a long and delightful list of things from sixteen different people that they could not believe about America until they moved here.

Below is just a small sample. You should really head over there and read the whole thing.

From a Muslim from Bangladesh:

Fruits and vegetables are way more expensive than meat and poultry.

That, generally speaking, the poor is more obese than the rich.

That you address your boss (and some of your professors) by some abbreviated variation of their first name. And that applies to pretty much everyone, regardless of how much older they are than you.

From a Russian woman:

Majority of things in the US aren’t controlled or regulated by the government.

President doesn’t automatically become the richest person in the country.

Philanthropy. There is no culture of philanthropy in Russia and many view American philanthropy either as a waste of money or as some intricate plot to get some additional benefits.

How open Americans are about their shortcomings and always ready for self-criticism.

Return policies and free refill.

From an American teaching in a South Pacific Island nation:

That I have never, ever, ever seen anyone firing a gun from a moving vehicle. They think this is happening constantly.

That our showers are hot water. Always. Boggles the minds.

From an anonymous person:

My Russian in-laws were shocked when they found out that we get packages left on our doorstep and no one steals them.

From a guy named John Levinster:

People tend to be very sensitive about racial and religious topics. I was embarrassed to ask a Costco employee where the white chocolate was because I was afraid she would tell me I was a racist.

The U.S. preserves its nature. I was thrilled to see how far ahead America is in preserving its beautiful nature. Absolutely terrific, kudos to you guys.

From a Swedish man:

It really is a diverse place, much more so than many foreigners really understand. A country that can produce both Snoop Dogg and Westboro Baptist Church is like no other place (seriously!).