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Explore the USA

Iconic cities, open roads, national parks, and a culture that welcomes the world.

The United States is a vast, diverse nation with something for every kind of traveler: iconic cities, wild national parks, world-class food, and a culture that is informal, direct, and entrepreneurial. English is the main travel language, and Americans are generally friendly, practical, and comfortable with small talk.

Phrases Culture Tipping

Quick facts

LanguageEnglish

CurrencyUS Dollar (USD)

Emergency911

PaymentCards are accepted virtually everywhere: restaurants, stores, taxis, and many street vendors

Essential phrases

All phrases

Hello

Good morning

Please

Thank you

Cultural norms

All tips

Tipping is expected

Money

At sit-down restaurants, 18-20% is standard. Bartenders, taxi drivers, rideshare drivers, hotel staff, tour guides, and salon workers commonly expect tips. Digital payment screens may ask for tips even in casual counter-service situations; use judgment there.

Displayed prices exclude tax

Money

Sales tax is usually added at checkout, not shown on the shelf or menu price. It varies by state and city, often around 5-12%. The final amount may be higher than expected.

Friendly small talk is normal

Etiquette

Cashiers, servers, hotel staff, and strangers may ask how your day is going. A short friendly answer is expected. This is social warmth, not an invitation into a long personal conversation.

Tipping guide

Full guide

Tipping is deeply embedded in American service culture. At sit-down restaurants, 18-20% is standard; bars often expect $1-2 per drink or 15-20% on a tab; taxis and rideshares commonly receive 15-20%.

Restaurants

18-20%

Expected

At sit-down restaurants, 18-20% is standard. Check for automatic gratuity on large groups or tourist-heavy restaurants.

Bars

$1-2 per drink or 15-20%

Expected

Tip $1 for beer or simple drinks, $2 for cocktails, or 15-20% when running a tab.

Taxis & rideshares

15-20%

Expected

Uber and Lyft prompt in-app. Traditional taxis also expect a tip, often in cash or on card.

Hotel staff

$1-2/bag; $2-5/night

Expected for service

Tip bellhops per bag and housekeeping per night. Concierge help for reservations or tickets may merit $5-20.

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