23. Polite Americans eat with one hand while the other one is
under the table on their laps.
24. Usually, when friends meet at a restaurant they each pay their
share of the bill or split the bill in half. It’s called going Dutch.
25. If you have guests over to your house, turn off the television,
make sure your music isn’t too loud.
26. Americans have parties for many reasons. Sometimes they are
held for friends to get together and to meet new people. There
is rarely music or dancing at a typical American party.
27. When you meet Americans, be sure to look them in the eye,
smile, and shake hands.
28. Make small talk at the beginning of a conversation. After a few
questions, you will be asked, “What do you do?” (This means
what is your job?)
29. For weddings and showers, people register for gifts at a specific
place.
30. Americans open presents and cards in front of people.
31. Be sure you include a card with your gift. The person given the
gift will send you a thank you card.
32. At an American funeral, it is not normal to make loud sad
sounds. Americans try to keep strong emotions inside.
33. There is no traditional color or flower that symbolizes death.
Any and all flowers can be used at funerals.
34. We do not give money at a funeral. Sometimes, we send
flowers or plants to the ceremony.
35. After the funeral, there is usually a reception at the home of the
family. There is usually a lot of food and sometimes alcohol.