When traveling to the United States you will discover a very wide range of customs that differ along with the diversity of its geography depending on which state you are in. From the beaches to the mountains to the deserts, you will find that most people are very friendly and welcoming no matter where you are.

With an easygoing spirit, Americans love to see travelers in their country, but as is true anywhere else in the world, it is important to remember your manners and common courtesies and you will have a joyful and rewarding experience. Generally, Americans are casual in their dress especially if they are on holiday so that is generally acceptable in most places, however in a high end restaurant or club, you are better off if your dress is more business casual. When in doubt, it is better to err on the side of being overdressed, rather than too relaxed and underdressed.

If you visit someone’s home, it is customary to bring a small gift or bottle of wine depending on what the occasion is, but generally for a dinner or barbeque that will be acceptable and your hosts will be appreciative as well.  Shaking hands is the generally accepted form of greeting when meeting someone new, although once you have met someone the next time you see them they might greet you with a kiss on the cheek instead of a handshake.

Tipping is customary for service professionals such as waiters, taxi drivers, parking valets or hotel porters or chambermaids and tips are considered a large part of their income. In a restaurant or bar, the customary tip is 15 to 20 percent – with 20 percent for service that is considered exceptional. Chambermaids generally should be tipped $3-5 per day and parking valets $1-$2 and skycaps should be tipped at $1 per bag.

Smoking is becoming less acceptable and many restaurants and public establishments do not allow smoking inside their premises, but might allow smoking outside on a patio area. Some towns and cities though are becoming stricter about this and cities like Seattle are considered smoke free meaning you can only smoke in the privacy of your own home. Some hotels are smoke free as well or only have designated rooms that are for smokers. It is prudent to always ask if you are unsure before lighting up especially if you are with other people who might not smoke. Always look for no smoking signs and you will be safe.

All countries have their cultural differences in the customary ways to do things. Americans dislike anyone cutting in when in a queue. Also, talking on a mobile phone in a restaurant or other establishment is considered rude so you should find a quiet corner or go outside to take your call. Americans are also very fastidious about showers and hygiene in general. In any country it is important to be courteous and always ask if you are unsure about anything. You will find that America is a fascinating place to visit and you will have a lovely visit with lasting memories of a good time.

When visiting the USA from the UK I am always struck by the differences in the English language that we both speak, so thought it would be useful to highlight a few of our differences;

Hope this helps .. will post more later,

Vacations for families can be very different than those for couples or friends who are off for a romantic holiday. For that reason hotels are not as friendly as a Florida family villa simply because they are made more for adults. So when thinking about that next family vacation why not consider a family Florida villa rental?  

No matter where you go in Florida there is a property that will fit your family’s needs and be affordable as well! Most families like to go to Walt Disney World in Orlando and visit all the other family friendly attractions in the area such as Sea World or Universal Studios. While you can stay at hotels in those resort areas it is much more sensible to book an Orlando villa that gives you the comforts of home and easy access to all the sites you want to visit. 

You can easily map out your stay so that you don’t waste any time and have days designated to the theme parks plus you can have fun going to places like Wet ‘n Wild which is a water park that has some amazing multi-passenger rides that the whole family can enjoy together. The Aquatica Water Park gives you more water sports and a beach so that you can get up close and personal with animals and undersea creatures giving everyone a thrill.

On days you don’t go to these parks you can spend by the pool at the villa or go to places like Gatorland where the children can see alligators. In Old town there are entertaining amusement rides and a weekly classic car Saturday Nite Cruise that will interest everyone who loves cars. Cypress Gardens has a spectacular water ski show and the Central Florida Zoo provides more entertainment as well.  

The Florida Keys offer different types of entertainment from fishing and swimming to boating and both the Atlantic and Gulf coasts offer some of the most beautiful beaches in the world if you want a more low keyed vacation and not spend a lot of time and money on theme parks. There is surfing and all kinds of water sports and activities such as parasailing or going out on a catamaran to occupy endless hours. You can go snorkeling or try a paddle boat or just stroll along the beach looking for seashells.

For the more serious types who are looking for some education along with fun there are many special museums throughout the state and the Everglades offers miles and miles of hiking, canoeing or you can take an airboat tour. For the scientists in the family Cape Canaveral offers the Kennedy Space Center that will enthrall all those interested in outer space.

With interests for everyone of every age – there is an abundance of activities and many choice locations to choose from that all offer family fun and adventure together. Staying together in a Florida villa will be a family vacation that will be remembered by each person as one of the best trips they have ever had.