Non-Americans, List the Worst Things the US Does

America is known worldwide for its vibrant pop culture, vast national parks, larger-than-life personalities, and generous portions of food. Yet, for many visitors, traveling to the US can feel like entering a completely different world sometimes in ways that are surprising or frustrating.

Foreign travelers often notice aspects of daily life that Americans take for granted: outdated infrastructure, expensive healthcare, perplexing cultural norms, and small annoyances that have become normalized. What might seem ordinary to locals can be bewildering to someone from abroad.

For example, some visitors are shocked by how costly basic medical services can be, even when covered by insurance. Others find navigating cities difficult without a personal car, or are taken aback by the intensity of American work culture long hours, minimal vacation, and a pride in overworking.

Additional surprises include extra charges that appear everywhere: sales tax added at checkout, unexpected fees, tipping expectations, and so-called "convenience charges" that rarely feel convenient. Public transportation can also be frustrating, with limited service hours, infrequent schedules, or complete absence in certain areas.

Environmental practices may also puzzle visitors. Recycling systems can be confusing, and avoiding single-use packaging is often challenging. Even minor details lukewarm tap water, oversized drinks, scarce pedestrian crossings, or air conditioning set to extremes can leave travelers scratching their heads.

No country is without flaws, but an outside perspective can reveal quirks and difficulties Americans rarely notice. We want to hear from you: if youre from outside the US, what aspect of life here struck you as most frustrating or unusual? Share your experiences in the comments, or anonymously via the form below. Your story might appear in a future community feature.

Author: Sophia Brooks