Littering (throwing garbage on the street), graffiti and tagging
(writing on the walls), and loitering (standing around and
doing nothing) are against the law and are punishable by a
fine or jail.
13. Discriminating against or making any insulting statement
about someone else’s religion or ethnicity is against the law
and could be punishable as a hate crime.
14. You must be over the age of 21 and you must have an
identification card with a photo to buy or drink alcohol.
15. In most states, it is illegal to buy cigarettes if you are under the
age of 18 and often you can only smoke in certain places.
16. Americans are extremely informal and call most people by
their first name or nickname.
17. Americans smile a lot and talk easily to strangers, sharing
personal stories.
18. Asking “How are you?” is simply a greeting and is not a
question about your health.
19. When Americans put their hands on their hips, they are
usually relaxed; when they fold their arms tightly across their
chests, they are angry or very serious (or cold).
20. Americans don’t push or stand too close to anyone in line.
They always wait their turn.
21. In a restaurant, the server is usually very friendly and helpful
and often will tell you his or her name.
22. When the service is good, tipping is expected to be 15–20% of
the bill.