The Biggest Mistakes Tourists Make in the USA

[@theavandenberg6876]

The distances are insane. You should stop for gas when you can. Especially in less populated areas

[@currentsitguy]

Particularly in the West where they measure distance in hours, not miles or km.

[@Steve-hu7rk]

yeah like nevada

[@waza987]

Distances aren’t insane, they are the same distances we have in Australia. And we also have less and smaller towns.

[@blauer2551]

The average car gets at least 350 miles on a tank of gas, it’s not that hard to find a station before you run out.

[@Alylonglegs]

@@blauer2551 uhm I've ran out before not realizing I was about to go 100 miles without a gas station and not being prepared...not everyone is going to have their gas full at every moment lol duhh

[@aaronclift]

2 big mistakes that I see foreign tourists make all of the time: 1) Not understanding the vast distances in the U.S. (I remember talking to a guy in Europe who said that he wanted to visit New York City, Disney World, and Los Angeles in a week!) 2) Complaining about how we do things in the United States. Nobody will be your friend if you lecture them about how things are so much better in your country.

[@What-t8n]

Yes, i totally agree on both. The distances are huge and if you are not used to driving you get tired. Second, i always wonder when people lecture me how great their country is, why they even visit America. Also, it is fine if you don't like guns, but please don't tell me first you hate guns and then ask where a shooting range is. That doesn't make sense.

[@tubadude905]

LOL several years ago some friends visited us in NH from the UK. We drove to Niagra Falls, 500 miles - 8 hours. A few days later they suggested driving to see their aunt in Phoenix, AZ. I chuckled, then retrieved a map of the US. I showed the distance from Manchester to Niagra with thumb and finger. Then I showed them the distance between Manchester and Phoenix using both hands spread quite far apart. Their jaws dropped and they were quite shocked.

[@tubadude905]

@@Liggliluff Yes indeed that's correct. I lived in Europe for 18 years, with the last 11 in the UK on the local economy. These days I get over there every couple of years. Stay safe!

[@Fonetiker]

Oh, the irony (the 2nd mistake). Glass house + rock + tendency of speaking so loud one can hear you across the crowed room.

[@iz5808]

Yeap, pretty cringe when somebody starts with "it should be/shouldn't be so".

[@macconmara7252]

This is great advice even for Americans visiting different parts of the U.S..

[@woltersworld]

Thanks Mac

[@bunny7741]

@@woltersworld That's the reason I watch your channel as well. Great tips and advice for anyone.

[@SixShooter14]

Also great for Americans traveling to other countries... Just generally great advice for travelers.

[@Mattb81]

As an Australian that has visited the US 5 times and travelled through & around at least 30 states, I would say YES definitely talk to locals! Most people are extremely friendly and happy to give advice on what to do & see!

[@LeoFtravels]

Don't get mad when your waiter gives you the check before you ask. I know some other countries you ask and you wait and wait.... until finally they bring it to you.

[@woltersworld]

True!

[@KittySnicker]

I love being handed the check ASAP! But I’m American so...

[@LeoFtravels]

@@KittySnicker I'm with you on that. I went to Turkey last year and I had to ask for my check multiple times, it was different from what we're used to.

[@christopherfeuer9352]

@@KittySnicker SAME - they hand me the check and say no rush and I am already giving them my card lol

[@briannab5296]

They give you the check before you finish eating in order to get you to leave soon so they can seat the next customers. It's all about $$. The quicker they can turn a table the more $ they make. Most all American restaurants do this.

[@seahawk2158]

3 years of German in high school, two semesters of Spanish college, a year of Japanese in the military, and continuing Spanish online. I would not say I'm fluent, I can pick up on things.

[@woltersworld]

Thats awesome!

[@dustgreylynx]

Ok, I'll just speak Plattdüütsch ;)

[@seahawk2158]

@@dustgreylynx Awesome.... :D

[@MarkBH70]

Wakarimaseeeeen!! Más, hola! todavia!

[@allanfoster6965]

Learning languages i feel is somehow polite? Many people learn English all over the world. Being able to simply say hello and thank you in their language really makes people smile.

[@a.jlondon9039]

I live in 🇨🇦. I find Americans are the friendliest most welcoming people in the world.

[@danajohnson4757]

Aw!!! Thank you!! Most Americans are friendly for sure! I've only been to Canada once, but a beautiful country! 💕

[@Chillaxing113]

Thanks! I've been to Canada once and met some Canadians on a cruise. Truly the nicest people!

[@whaaaaaaaaaatttt]

Mistake with new mexico visitors: New Mexico and Mexico are two different things and yes we speak English.

[@StamfordBridge]

I’ve never been to your state and I’m dying to visit. Even just the food alone is incentive.

[@whaaaaaaaaaatttt]

@Deinis de Sousa how funny I've visited the Walter white house in abq a few times, you can't go in since people actually live there but you can drive by it. And if you do ever go to the northern part of New Mexico take a look around the mountains are beautiful.

[@whaaaaaaaaaatttt]

@@StamfordBridge oh absolutely. I live in southeast New Mexico in a small town about 20 miles from the Texas boarder and there it can be kinda boring but the center and northern parts are awesome. My advice when things open up again I would visit the Carlsbad caverns, white sands, the alien museums in Roswell, cloudcroft (if you like hiking) and of course abq and Santa fe. But fair warning abq can be dangerous. I went to the hospital for a visit earlier this week and in the parking garage there was like a 12 year old being arrested. Which is funny but always have an eye out. But definitely come over.

[@StamfordBridge]

Iana Delfyette I will. Thanks for the advice.

[@whaaaaaaaaaatttt]

@@StamfordBridge No problem. Also have an Alsup burrito while your here, you can find them in our Alsup gas stations. Makes a great on the road snack.

[@ghw1331]

That’s really true with Americans wanting to help you out with cool places! When I once visited, an assistant at a physical therapy wrote me down all his recommendations in the greater area. In Germany nobody would do that for you 😂

[@woltersworld]

that was really nice of them. cool

[@djpahl]

I would ;)

[@rob5psv]

American people are the friendliest en most helpfull people from the world.

[@tudorlazarescu7625]

@@rob5psv No

[@rob5psv]

@@tudorlazarescu7625 You have experience with Americans?

[@666mathew]

Unless you're in NYC, San Francisco, or Chicago, don't rely on public transportation like in Europe.

[@timmmahhhh]

Boston is excellent here too. Atlanta might be but I was last there in 1982 when the city was being dug up to put in the subways.

[@yaush_]

I’d definitely say there are other cities like Boston, Philadelphia, DC, Seattle, Portland (ME & OR), Atlanta, Miami even Dallas are perfectly good without a car. It definitely depends on where you’re going but in general if you want to explore a state and drive around a car would be a better option.

[@varunmehta1022]

What about Houston?

[@sl4193]

"If you don't tip they will remember you" - one to keep in mind if I am even considering not tipping ---- Thank you Mark for all the great points, another helpful video.

[@US_Joe]

I couldn't even begin to imagine how the pandemic affects your channel. Glad to see you and best wishes to you and your wonderful family. Perhaps you can address the topic vs traveling? Take care my friend!

[@woltersworld]

Basically 1/3 the views as before but still fun making the videos and helping people get ready to travel when we all can travel again.

[@sbg1911]

I'm really looking to Wolter for road trip advice right now, so I think the views will eventually go up again

[@uremailingalex]

@@woltersworld Just got back from a trip to Slovenia. I binged your channel before making plans!

[@Fuggilas]

I love your videos. I’ve been to the US around ten times with my wife and we always check out your channel. Thank you for everything and good vibes from Denmark.

[@woltersworld]

that is awesome to hear. thank you Super Nacholas!

[@What-t8n]

America is a great place to visit. I also want to add, please don't start with politics when visiting America. First, many people are emotional about it and second, you are in no place to judge when coming from a different country.

[@Rottnwoman]

We visit the USA for the national parks and tolerate the American people for that reason. We don't talk to them if we can avoid it. We do RESEARCH before we leave!

[@What-t8n]

@@Rottnwoman you can certainly talk to us, but don't talk about politics. More specific, talk about what's wrong in USA. You can talk about politics, but do it gentle;)

[@McMurica]

@@Rottnwoman wtf

[@SSMH6446]

@@Rottnwoman Judging and stereotyping us does not make you superior. Before ask where you stereotyped or made assumptions, you just tolerating us implies that you don’t think the best of the people for whatever reason.

[@MontagZoso]

@@RottnwomanThat is a really bad attitude. What would you think if someone said they like to come to YOUR country for the sights but they avoid the people there if at all possible?? Rude and arrogant comment.

[@jgroenveld1268]

From my experience - don't try to do the coast to coast thing in a week LOL.

[@aaronm8143]

Lol you’ll need atleast a month

[@DanielGarcia-vu2md]

You could do the drive from L.A. to Miami in half a week but that's no stopping at any town to look at things. But that's no fun at all. Take your time and select a few states for a 2 week roadtrip

[@brianmccarthy5557]

If you drove on the interstates and averaged 70 miles per hour, driving 12 hours per day, you might make it from LA to New York in 3 or 4 days but you'd be totally exhausted and have seen nothing except highways, gas stations, diners and motel rooms. And that's assuming you can drive like an American.

[@awsomecfstc4845]

Another thing about driving. In certain parts of the country (especially in the midwest) if you’re on a backroad or in a small town, raise one or two fingers from the wheel when you pass someone going the opposite direction. There’s a good chance that you’ll get a wave from them even if they don’t know who you are.

[@DaveLegenda]

Me: Hey I should visit this fun place called the USA Covid: not so fast

[@grzyruth9205]

Hi! Where are you from?

[@kalyriewells]

Another thing that international folks might not have heard of is in some states its actually illegal not to pull over for a funeral procession. Usually there will be a police car leading at the front. So if you ever see a really long line of cars driving and even though it's day time they all have their lights on , pull over out of respect (also remember to never cut the line either)

[@Vibebees]

um do not pull over unless you notice other cars pulling over. when in doubt observe what everyone else does. imagine pulling over for a funeral procession on a texas highway (I've come across a few while driving on houston highways) ... you might actually get killed. if you're in a more suburban area then it's more likely customary to pull over.

[@Chillaxing113]

you've both made good points. Hope it doesn't come up for visitors. They may not recognize the situation and know for sure what to do

[@clinttaylor6018]

Well, actually I eat a pound of gunpowder for breakfast then shoot bacon later in the day...

[@AnneMB955]

Thx for sharing. Having been to the US 6 times, this captured my attention. Agree with these. We always ask locals for advice, a way to find hidden gems and to chat with the locals. I have found very gregarious people on our travels. Love traveling to the US. Will be visiting again when we can.

[@woltersworld]

That is great to hear. Hope we can all travel again soon.

[@paddythemcdaddy1234]

Coming from an Irish man I have to say I really really loved the USA 🇺🇸 been there twice and can’t wait to go back it’s my favourite place to go in the world especially Memphis god bless America 🇺🇸 love from Ireland 🇮🇪

[@twincity6079]

Thanks for your comment. I enjoyed visiting your country as well great people!

[@TMD3453]

Love Ireland too!

[@brianmccarthy5557]

Some years ago my sister-in-law's brother came to visit us in LA from his home in the Paris area (they're originally from an island off the coast of Africa). He's a huge Elvis fan. He actually rented a car and successfully drove his family from LA to Memphis to visit Graceland and drove back with no major problems. We were both proud and impressed. He'd never driven a hundred miles at one time in his life before and this was a several thousand mile trip of a lifetime. If he could do it then so can others.

[@hiphoppeep]

Memphis is amazing. I love the pyramid

[@TheMastermind729]

God bless you my good man

[@ESUSAMEX]

On the language issue, I hear foreigners speaking all the time about me and others in a foreign language. I began taking Spanish classes in high school and studied Spanish, German, French and Italian while in college. After living in Mexico, I became an interpreter. Be very careful with your language in America.

[@tomato_6681]

Meh It’s very improbable I would bump into someone who speaks Slovak outside of cities in Pennsylvania or New York

[@Fonetiker]

What a great anecdotal black swan

[@rinakellogg8208]

@@tomato_6681 lots of people in Texas would understand you. You would be surprised, who you encounter hence the saying “Its a small world” cause it really is. I’ve traveled to all over the US and Europe and it never fails that I run into someone from my home town or someone who has a mutual friend.

[@TheBruceGday]

Yes. I learned Spanish in school (most likely to be used in the Americas), and know functional basics in French, German and Mandarin. In the process of learning more French and Mandarin Chinese.

[@pla7695]

usa is my favourite country in the world. thank you for sharing this great clip mark xxx

[@woltersworld]

You are very welcome

[@autumnrryan8453]

Don’t talk about politics. Unless you want to start a fight.

[@theshadowman1398]

I think if you refuse to answer the question regarding who you support you will be beaten up by democrats

[@calmprisoner8658]

Lol ironic response

[@household3651]

@@theshadowman1398 Yes, Liberals have been given the "OK" to physically abuse you.

[@americannationalist4820]

@@theshadowman1398i went to texas made my stance on politics a hillbilly pulled a revolver on me it's not just a liberals

[@theshadowman1398]

@@americannationalist4820 Now why the hell would you do that ? Because of leftists Texas has border problems so of-course they can get highly irritated if you go and praise the dems

[@Joedem92]

One piece of advice I can give to tourists who come to NYC: sure, go to Times Square, but also come to Brooklyn. There are a TON of amazing restaurants in Williamsburg and Park Slope. Go to Arthur Avenue in the Bronx, which is bigger than the Little Italy in Manhattan. Taking a ferry ($2.75) from Battery park in Manhattan to Staten Island or even further down to Brooklyn to see the city from the Bay and rivers. It’ll be much cheaper than getting on one of those expensive tour boats.

[@fon9365]

But ferry Battery Pk-Staten Island is free.

[@leyenda6149]

Plz do a video for Americans. The mistake we make in NOT exploring parts of the U.S. that are outside our comfort zone.

[@woltersworld]

That sounds like a great idea.. thanks!

[@leyenda6149]

@@woltersworld i got the idea when i got to thinking that travel abroad may be restricted longer than we may expect. Plus, I think it may give subbers even more utility for this wonderful channel

[@TripHacksDC]

Wow, you really nailed it with these! I agree with all of them (except the 2:58 choice of Mayo 😱)

[@kelseynicole9661]

Wrong. Dukes is always the answer 😂

[@brianmccarthy5557]

Best Foods.

[@Woodsyhikes]

You’re not kidding about getting ID’d. I’m over 40 and just got carded buying non-alcoholic beer. 😂

[@hse6144]

Non alcoholic beer lol that’s like getting a Playboy to read the articles.

[@Alylonglegs]

@@hse6144 its good for beer cheese soup

[@squid11160]

I've been very fortunate to have traveled to the states on a few occasions. Couldn't agree more with "heading outside of cities". Was staying with friends in New Hampshire and my highlight was a hike in the mountains. Beautiful state. (New England states in general)

[@joshuakelly6765]

Another thing here is that most sit down resturants have free refills on Soda and sometimes coffee. Sugar, milk and cream are free. you dont have to pay for water at a resturant. Im not sure if having to pay for sugar, milk or cream for coffee is just a germany and or europe thing. Some with the having to pay for bottle water instead of getting tap water.

[@achuanaxxx6573]

I really really want to visit America one day... NY,LA,Miami,Chicago,, etc.... And they are super friendly... i love the culture

[@dillonsmith2882]

13:57 yooooo I know that bridge. My Boy Scout Troop puts Christmas Lights all over it in December every year. I was in charge of it this year, and still got the boxes in my car to prove it bruh

[@Nderak]

Another mistake i've witness tourists here do: buy gas in the most expensive part of the city, and then be surprised when gas stations become few and far between in rural areas. Pricewise the suburbs are usually the best price-wise, with downtown and tiny towns having the most expensive fuels. There are a lot of great apps which track all the gas prices near in real time and can save you over $100 a trip depending on how much driving you do. Also, US fuel grades differ from other countries, and diesel passenger vehicles are less common here. Check with the rental agency or owner (if your using Turo most Americans won't specify what gas to put because its pretty well known here) whether it needs Premium fuel or can take e85.

[@iangb2000]

US fuel is absurdly cheap to begin with

[@tosht2515]

@Nøderak Curious how you witnessed tourists buying gas in the city and then be surprised about lack of gas stations in rural areas?

[@Nderak]

@@tosht2515 We were constantly texting each other

[@lukeyear5148]

Pretty good video, I was honestly expecting some very generic advice, but it was actually very informative! And I totally agree with the "actually go meet the people" part, that's what I always tell foreigners visiting my country. That is always something that makes a trip worth it. Greetings from France!

[@darceyvolle4938]

I went to Atlanta in November and it was perfect. I am from Kansas and was wearing dresses down there and had locals worried about me being cold.

[@woltersworld]

i could see them ask you if you were warm enough :)

[@darceyvolle4938]

@@woltersworld compared to the freezing weather in Kansas a nice dress and denim jacket was perfect for the weather that November.

[@sandramulchahey8268]

I have always lived in the south, if it drops below 70 its to cold.

[@ninaelsbethgustavsen2131]

@Ced von Noish That could be due to Scandinavian ancestry...... 😉😆

[@Skelem0]

All great tips but the last one given by your lovely wife really resonated with me. My family has been doing this in our own backyard, finding new routes to go on and explore close to home in my beautiful home state of Montana. Last summer we took a backroad loop through the mountains, saw fields upon fields of beautiful wildflowers and butterflies everywhere. We drove through a canyon on the Stillwater River with the most beautiful views and fly fisherman fishing. It's amazing what you can discover only an hour or two from home! We even found a remote camp ground in July, and we were the only people there. Despite the restrictions of COVID and having to cancel plans, we still found ways to make wonderful memories over the summer.

[@sahilanant123]

Mount Rushmore, the inverted ice cream and the hat. Perfect thumbnail :') Should probably visit the US. Maybe not Florida. Scared of insects and hate tropical weather 😓

[@woltersworld]

thanks Sahil

[@jessicaely2521]

Florida can be awesome during the winter. Just think this past winter it was so cold in Miami that iguanas were dropping out of palm trees. Florida also has 3 different zones. South Florida is the only area that's considered tropical (anything south of Lake Okeechobee is South Florida). Central Florida is cooler than South Florida (Tampa and Orlando is Central Florida). The Panhandle of Florida sometimes is cold enough to get snow flurries blowing around in the air (Tallahassee, Jacksonville, Gainesville, etc). I remember it snowing in Miami. This was back in the 1970's. Insects you wont meet in the cities during the winter unless you call lizards insects. You will meet lizards. If you avoid the Everglades you will see less insects. Oh also if you do go to Florida and it's cold and iguanas are frozen on the side of the road DO NOT take them into your car. Once iguanas warm up they are alive again. Some guy took a iguana into his car. The iguana warmed up and beat up the guy. Iguanas bites, scratches, and their tail hurts like hell. Iguanas know how to whip their tails very well.

[@gamerboyx8243]

@@jessicaely2521 Florida is also the flattest state ;)

[@jessicaely2521]

@@gamerboyx8243 south Florida is the flattest. Again Florida has 3 different areas. Northern Florida is a little higher (not much) than South Florida. Northern Florida is higher than New Orleans. The last time Florida had snow flurries was in Jacksonville on January 2 2018.

[@jessicaely2521]

Sometimes in Nashville Tennessee you can turn right on red from the 2nd or 3rd lane. You have to be careful and stay in your lane. Nashville was the only place (so far) that allows this.

[@woltersworld]

we are heading down to Nashville later this year again and will be watching out for it. Thanks Jessica!

[@timmmahhhh]

That is an unusual one I would certainly freak out if I saw that, thanks for the warning!

[@jessicaely2521]

@@timmmahhhh I moved from Ft. Lauderdale and I was rear ended because the guy behind me thought I knew I could turn right on red from the 2nd lane.

[@timmmahhhh]

@@jessicaely2521 yikes, I'm in the Chicago area where at busier intersections there will be two right turn lanes and always a sign saying you can only do right on red from the right side one. So I would get rear ended too.

[@YounginBallin]

Lol I’m from Nashville I never heard of that

[@MarcoLu84]

Dont drink Budweiser or Pabst Beer. The US has so many micro brewerys with a lot of delicious beer.

[@woltersworld]

No PBR? Come on!!! You have to have one... but ONLY one ;)

[@Nderak]

thems fighting words ;P

[@ep4423]

Drink gin that fixes everything 🤔😉👍

[@mats7492]

PBR on tap isn’t even that Bad.. and it’s usually dirt cheap

[@markpatterson2507]

Many micro brews are really shit.Most of us r not snobs

[@Im_Firas]

I’ve been in the US as an exchange student.. Majority are very friendly wherever I go... too many nice places to visit. Really good memories. Missing my friends there. Thank you for your advices man. I totally agree with you

[@vijayantgovender2045]

Thank you for sharing your wonderful videos I am from South Africa

[@woltersworld]

Cheers!

[@jan-willemschuttauf2360]

Great video, thanks. The biggest mistake I made when I visited the United States for the first time was assuming that public transport works just as it does in most European countries, which is really not the case.

[@timhutchinson3264]

I love that you gave your wife her own talking segment. She did a great job!

[@inka4551]

Awesome video again! Thank You for making these!

[@woltersworld]

thanks Inka!

[@countertony]

Speaking of loyalty cards, I signed up for the Ralphs (Kroger subsidiary) supermarket loyalty card when I was visiting San Diego for a conference. Am I ever going back to Southern California? Probably not, but it was halfway between my hotel and the SDCC, they didn't care that I signed up with a non-US address, and I saved a couple of dollars on lunch every day with the card pricing even with the temporary card - as an impoverished grad student, that was not something to be sneezed at.

[@TheKingoldmaster]

In the UK a lot of fast food places will give you a free item when signing up. KFC a free 2-piece and Krispy Kreme a free original glazed for example

[@rm2kmidi]

Also, that card will work at the other Kroger stores all over the country.

[@georgem7965]

@@rm2kmidi Some chains do business under different names in different, or even the same, parts of the country. For example, Kroger, King Soopers, City Market, Smith's, and Loaf and Jug convenience stores are all part of the Kroger chain. A loyalty card at one will get you discounts at all. Also, you can often get discounts on gasoline if there is a service station at the super market. Maybe only a few cents/gallon but it can add up.

[@Rottnwoman]

Oh WOW! You saved a couple of dollars a day? You could buy a house with that! We are too busy on our holidays to worry about spending an extra buck here and there. The American obsession with money is hilarious.

[@Rottnwoman]

@@TheKingoldmaster of course if you eat there you won't live very long. 😂

[@babsr8479]

Some places in NY do allow right turns on red, like upstate NY and Westchester.

[@twincity6079]

Same in Maryland!

[@Jay-in-the-USA]

#2 is really a valuable lesson 😁 I was surprised to see how many people in the US speak German....a lot of times people that have no connection to Germany.

[@nikolairostov3326]

It’s used to be taught in most schools until WW1.

[@brianmccarthy5557]

I speak, read and write German. Once I was at Disneyland and a group of young Germans sat down behind me. They began bitching about everything quite rudely because they assumed nobody understood them. I just tried to ignore them until they left. From some of the expressions on the faces of other Americans near me I guessed I wasn't the only German speaking American there. We may not say it from politeness but never assume we don't understand you.

[@PeachPlastic]

Well, plenty of Germans crossed the pond, particularly after WWII.

[@chrisstuart3]

There are 2 (United States of) Americas: Big City America and Small Town America and 2 different Americans as a result. Visit and meet both.

[@samuelahlquist]

The asking for ID thing when buying alcohol is real, I used to work in a restaurant and they told me that if I or anyone serves to someone underage, the fine was $1000 for the person, the store loses their liquor license and the person who sold the alcohol can go to court. So please don’t get mad when asked for your ID.

[@brianmccarthy5557]

General rule for cashiers is that if they look 35 or younger card them. I was carded till I was in my 50's. The obverse is true for senior citizen discounts. If they look fifty or older ask if they want a senior discount. Weirdly I went in the span of a few years, without much of a change in appearance from being carded to being considered a senior. Don't be offended, it's just the emoloyers trying to avoid overzealous regulators and legal problems.

[@audrahartwig1252]

I know this video was posted a while ago, but I am a Cheyenne WY resident and got super excited when I saw that you were in my town. I love when Cheyenne gets a little recognition. Where you here during Frontier Days?

[@OllieV__nl]

I've been to America thrice now and I don't think the topic of numering the continents ever came up.

[@tannerhulse3661]

I live in the US and we really don’t care

[@StamfordBridge]

See my post elsewhere in the comments section.

[@zackbrand9311]

I notice that it’s mostly Spanish speakers from other parts of North America and South America who get mad when you call the US ‘America’ or when you say ‘oh you’re from South America?’ just from my experience living in the US.

[@markpatterson2507]

And it nevervwill,sir

[@zackbrand9311]

@@markpatterson2507 Thank you for the example lol.

[@paulayala4816]

Don't be surprised if you ask how far away a place is and a local responds with a time (instead of distance), it might be 20 miles away, but it could take an hour, or if your lucky 15 minutes depending on traffic. The Entertainment Book (online coupon book), is another good source for discounts especially if you are going to be in a certain area for any length of time. Yes you have to pay for The Entertainment Book, but usually one or two restaurant deals will more than make up the cost. My wife thought I was nuts for buying one for the San Diego area, but the book had two good $20 off a meal at one of our favorite restaurants which more than made up for the price of the book. Also, it carried discounts on a lot of the local attractions, fast food, ice cream, rental cars etc....

[@travis79109]

In some parts of the country it’s too hot to shoot in the afternoon....we shoot in the morning. 🤠

[@joshuakelly6765]

Another thing is both Alochol and tobbaco are 21 here to consume and purchase. Expect to be ID if purchasing.

[@robinhooduk8255]

i know that bridge from movie lawless

[@0utcastAussie]

I thought it was from Betelgeuse !!

[@dillonsmith2882]

My Boy Scout Troop puts Christmas Lights on it every Christmas. I live in Athens

[@Joker-yw9hl]

That aquarium looked awesome. And oh my days, the food. The food! North America is like the pied piper just luring me in. Both Canada and the US.

[@Wellch]

You don’t tip at a fast food place.

[@valenesco45]

Thank god 😁

[@mats7492]

Well, you usually can leave some change in a tip jar...

[@mouthbreather280]

@@mats7492 Which is usually for some charitable donation program, NOT for employee tipping.

[@juliep1122]

Sometimes they ask for it

[@v.mollner6911]

@@mouthbreather280 Well, that all depends. Maybe. Maybe not.

[@RobertoLopezstudyis]

I have been to Miami Beach and NYC many times but I want to visit many of the small towns around the US and make small trips to other cities in the US and visit one day California by train. Thank for the advice in this video my friend.

[@brianmccarthy5557]

What you might assume are small towns may actually be large cities. The scale here is deceptive. .

[@porcine83]

NYC and Miami are interesting to visit, but hardly representative of the US. So, yes, please do visit some other options.

[@bencrispe9562]

Here's another mistake some tourists make: Don't think you can haggle for a reduced price. All prices are final.

[@timmmahhhh]

Except at flea and farm markets but yes standard retail is definitely a no haggle zone. Not that most tourists would shop here but at Home Depot you can often ask if they can lower the price and they'll usually take off ten percent. At least they did 20 years ago.

[@Species-rj9si]

For several years I lived in Hallandale Beach, Florida, which is in the winter basically a French Canadian community. Most of the shops and restaurants have window signs that read, "Nous parlon Francais." The restaurant menus often read, "Gratuities of 15-20% are customary," or words to that effect. And nothing drove up the wall faster that a car with a Quebec license plate ("Je Me Souviens") that was in front of me that would not turn right on red!

[@mickemike2148]

Brought the family to Alaska, then Vancouver Island, New York and Key West on our latest trip, December 2019. Key West was PERFECT! 80F is nice and warm, especially in December, for us that are from Sweden. As soon as this Corona junk isn't in our way I will visit Key West again, the following winter!

[@woltersworld]

that is great. I am hoping to get to Key West next year.

[@Rottnwoman]

VANCOUVER ISLAND? What part of the USA is that?

[@Barry_BredaNL]

Loved the video!!! Also love the USA for holidays!!! Hope to visit soon again greetings from Breda in the Netherlands

[@28ebdh3udnav]

Don't assume we're armed to the tee in Texas... No wait, thats actually accurate lol

[@mimielliott891]

I enjoyed being carded, because it shows where I’m from . And the bartender, waitress and servers were so nice . Giving me a list of all the fun places to go.

[@lilianejanssen]

Funny story; Once my dad wanted to buy some Jack Daniels, but my mom had his passport. She went to the bathroom, so he didn't have it on him for a sec. But my then JUST turned-21 boyfriend stepped in and bought it for him. My dad was well over 50 back then. It was hilarious!

[@ev5749]

Very nice video- but one suggestion- you advised to buy a National Park Pass if they are visiting a group of National Parks. The need to check to see if the National Parks they are visiting have an entrance fee first. The pass is currently $80 and it may be more economical to just pay the fees since 2/3 of the parks in the US are free to visit.

[@skylineXpert]

As a european: never forget a power adapter. Try to avoid the cd scammers in L.A at chinese theatre. A busdriver for the big red tour busses told me everything after i fell in 3 times. The ID thing is simply comply. I always travel with the premium travel insurance. After my ma's incident in 11' on the FRA-MIA LH462. Her blood cloth travelled from leg to close around the lung

[@skylineXpert]

I hold Star, Skyteam and oneworld. Along with my hilton honors

[@thehapagirl92]

Cd scammers at Grumman’s Chinese Theater? What? I have never heard of that and I live in SoCal

[@Petra_the_explorer]

Lovely video! I hope both you and your beautiful family stay safe during these turbulent times. Lots of greetings from a Finnish girl in Mexico!

[@dronesaur4328]

Also in Tampa, same thing applies for Greek food. No joke: I actually witnessed people get into a heated debate because one person sent some visitors to the wrong Greek restaurant near the Sponge Docks.

[@markust7709]

Thank you Mark, great video (as always). You have nice easy way of making us understand things. I am your Lithuanian subscriber, love your blogs..

[@woltersworld]

Ačiu!

[@glorian989]

Having did a 3 week tour of america in 2019. I would agree to avoid big cities, do more national parks (zion/yosemite/death valley were all amazing). Don't rush. The only real "tip" i have is if you visit san francisco. Avoid the "Tenderloin" district. It unfortunately is rife with homelessness and drug problems.

[@Chillaxing113]

You're 100% right about our Parks here in the US. But not everyone enjoys nature and the great outdoors. Some people just want to shop shop shop and go to museums and spas. 😝

[@chelseafricke2068]

Thank you for talking about tipping! I was a server for years and yes it's true a lot of foreigners don't tip, and you end up working for free each time you wait on them. Nobody wants to serve them when they come back in after stiffing someone. So whoever does get stuck waiting on them, the service is always crap because we know we won't get tipped so we give our time and attention to other tables that will tip us

[@nicoth.412]

Well I'm really looking forward to come back to the United States, once I'm allowed in again, so this was a really helpful video! America really is a beautiful country👍🏼😍

[@StamfordBridge]

We have all been wondering when Nico is coming back! 🇺🇸 You’re welcome any time.

[@nicoth.412]

@@StamfordBridge I'm glad to hear that😅👍🏼

[@FireCracker3240]

Thank you, Nico! Where are you from?

[@nicoth.412]

@@FireCracker3240 You're welcome😉 I'm from Bern, Switzerland🇨🇭 How about you?

[@FireCracker3240]

@@nicoth.412 I'm from Pennsylvania. Not too far from Philadelphia. Wow, Bern! I've always wanted to visit Switzerland. I follow the KZbin channel of an American who now lives in Switzerland with her Swiss husband. It looks absolutely beautiful out there. ❤️

[@DominicArenas]

Another fantastic video. Your videos always help my wanderlust.

[@zen4realfightman426]

Just cause a city is small doesn't mean there's nothing

[@woltersworld]

exactly!

[@mark.kaiser]

The America The Beautiful pass has spots for 2 signatures. If you're coming from overseas and visiting the national parks, then you can sign one spot. If you have friends back home that will be traveling to the US to visit national parks later on without you, then save that other signature spot for them and give them (sell them at a discount) your national park pass. That pass is good for 1 year from the time it is purchased, and it gets you into more than national parks. It is any national park, monument, scenic drive, etc, that might charge you money.

[@ecurewitz]

I'm a litle surprised that people would list the Americas as one continent instead of Eurasia (which actually is one continent)

[@woltersworld]

and that is when we get down to 4 continents. 1. eurasia. 2. Africa. 3 Americas. 4. antarctica (and then some consider australia and oceania only islands and not a continent) so it gets crazy ;)

[@paultipton743]

@@woltersworld I remember as I child having a world Atlas with Australia continent down as "Australasia" that was about 35 years ago though so things get renamed.

[@sonyamunro2113]

@@paultipton743 I'll like to add that Australia has being called either a island or island continent in the past as it doesn't share it's borders with any other country. Also it's location either puts it in either Asia-Pacfic or Oceania region's. I'm guessing Australasia is a broad term to include the mainland and some the islands nearby.

[@frenchfan3368]

It's true that some people consider North America and South America one continent. I have been in fierce debates with people who swear there is just continent called "America." Why someone would not consider there are two different continents is still a mystery to me.

[@JcKramer1991]

@@frenchfan3368 The one America view is predominantly people from Latin America. And for some reason they get really mad and defensive when you say there are two American continents. They also get mad when you say America in reference to the United States. They literally like to call us United Statiens

[@wilklikesmilk5371]

Some of these are good advice for Americans who are planning a nationwide road trip for the first time

[@LuanFauth]

loved it 🥰🥰🥰 i cant wait to visit someday ❤️❤️❤️

[@sbg1911]

Thank you for explaining tipping no uncertain terms!!! Looking at you 🇫🇷

[@se9865]

I don't think this would work today, but when I was a teenager I hung out with this Italian guy. Most convenience store clerks couldn't make heads or tails of his licence, so we would drive from store to store and send him in to buy beer until some clerk just gave in and sold him the beer. It would take about 5 stops.

[@woltersworld]

Ha ha ha. Good old days

[@gsdelgsdel9920]

i have watched hours upon hours of your videos. this was the first time I've seen your wife have a talking segment she did fantastic! thank you for sharing your adventures.

[@Kaizerzydeco1]

I think foreigners are unwilling to ask locals for information because of Americans' reputation for being TOO friendly. That can be off-putting for people who are from places where friendly strangers are usually out to scam you.

[@thenationaltimelyactionhou9328]

I visited the USA once with my father and older brother, we went on a road trip to Buffalo, New York when I was a little boy. It was our first vacation since our parents divorced and I had a nice time. That was the only time I have been outside of Canada. This was before 2001, so I would think that going into the US is different than before.

[@chrisduitsman2918]

Yeah after 2001, you need a passport to cross the border.

[@brianmccarthy5557]

Normally going from Canada to the US isn't exactly a big cultural difference.

[@frednich9603]

Me: Looks at calendar. Scheduled to go to Universal the week after Christmas.

[@woltersworld]

of course... of course :) love you buddy!

[@marcopolo2395]

Its open? Dont you have covid there?

[@Alylonglegs]

Disney's been open lol they dont care about covid here thats why its so bad and not stopping

[@frednich9603]

@@Alylonglegs Florida.. everything open. Texas... Everything open. California... Everything Closed. What do those three places have in common? Basically the same rate of infection per one million people. Closing things down clearly doesn't solve anything

[@Alylonglegs]

@@frednich9603 its because people are stupid about it and don't social distance or wear masks when they go out, the stores and all clearly have policies that masks are required yet you go in a a strip club and everyone is just walking around maskless, people just don't know how to act when things are open

[@AlaapLove]

This video is so therapeutic. Makes me remember my trip to the US 9 years ago. :)

[@laurenb7236]

This has probably been mentioned but one of the biggest mistakes you can make is thinking the mainstream media represents all of the USA. Of course, every country has its wrongdoings but that doesn’t mean you have to be afraid of getting shot, hearing racial slurs, or seeing fights over politics, etc. at every turn. If you listen and believe everything you hear on the news, you’ll miss out on so many wonderful experiences and qualities of the USA. It doesn’t hurt to be aware of what’s going on. And, yes, be smart about what cities you go into and at what times but don’t expect to be harassed by the police or even be noticed in all states. For example, it would be stupid to go into a dark alley in the most dangerous part of Chicago at midnight. So, don’t do it. But, that’s not the case for every town/city. Also, don’t act like a victim. The more confident you appear and more common sense you use, anywhere not just the USA, will go a long way. And, if you’re more reserved and not as knowledgeable about different areas in the USA, then do your research before visiting or travel with friends/family you feel comfortable with to make it more of a relaxing trip and if any of them are more outgoing or even street smart then you can rely on them to help you out and give you tips, too. Please, please don’t act like all of the USA is a disaster and please don’t act like you’ll be targeted because that’s not the whole story and most people you meet either don’t have time to even pay much attention or they’ll be kind and try to help. Yes, there will always be some bad apples, but that isn’t the entire USA. You can actually meet people who will sit and talk for hours if you let them about their story and you may even learn some amazing details about their ancestors, career, race, beliefs, etc. The USA is the melting pot and it’s not a coincidence that so many people cross the borders trying to live here. If it were as bad in every state as the news likes to show, why would so many still want to live here? We have issues but the USA is still one of the best places in the world to visit and live. You can’t explain it accurately enough until you come here and see just how truly fantastic it is even amidst all the problems. There is literally so much to do in the USA and so many unique cultures and experiences, meaning I’ll most likely not even scratch the surface of it all in my lifetime! And, still not have time or finances to go overseas even once. That’s how insane but awesome it is here in the USA!!! Oh and another random fact, we have tons of parades celebrating all kinds of different holidays, historic moments, other cultures, etc.!!!

[@Chillaxing113]

Lauren B well said! Thank you! 👏 You made some excellent points.

[@hiphoppeep]

Theres a website called mob rule that tracks COUNTIES visited. Not states. And i feel like ive been everywhere yet ive only visited 13% of the counties in the country!

[@Chillaxing113]

I love your enthusiasm in all of your videos. Great tips in this one. Your tip about visitors stereotyping needs to apply to our own citizens here in the U.S. as well.

[@Ash_Wen-li]

Always order drinks a size or two lower than what you'd have in your country

[@ProfessorWolters]

And it will still be more :)

[@isaacburrows8405]

Literally just order the smallest possible one. Its probably still more than 500ml

[@sams3015]

Hey, one remark about the insurance & this might be specific to Irish and British residents but we are constantly told that never buy the insurance offered by airlines because it can be patchy or marked up, as it’s usually rushed through by the customer as they buy the ticket. I suspect though this probably worse on low cost carriers .I don’t know how true that is and maybe someone who works in insurance can clarify. I do know though when you buy your regular travel insurance, make sure to get the “US and Canada” coverage (for a North American trip), I always get it on my annual insurance because you just never know if you might go inside the next year. I’d also recommend choosing this option if you have transit in the US or Canada because you may end up having an unexpected layover.

[@ChrisFalk2]

1:23 "Don't think it's going to be a secret language" - Well, for your information I actually speak Gibberish. Jokes on you, Mark! ;-)

[@thomyg425]

I love this phantastic country and his people and in the Years of my staying here as a trucker in all over the country i made not one bad experience,meet nice People had had great conversations. Really helpful and friendly everywhere,lots of fun and i will never forget this phantastic years here. Thanks Wolter to making this video and my best wishes to you from Munich

[@amoriah7312]

He’s in Wyoming! My home state!❤️❤️

[@mjpascuzzi]

Yes you can go wrong with chili! You never know how many times it’s been reheated. Ask if it’s fresh before ordering.

[@xp_studios7804]

Day old chili has better flavor though

[@PerfectPride]

I’ve lived all my life in the central FL area and my husband used to work for Universal. PLEASE dont go to the park during that week between Xmas and New Years. Cuz EVERYONE IS THERE and the waits are terrible and its so crowded. Honestly. Late January is a pretty good time to go to the parks. Less people and the weather isn’t as hot.

[@jenniferb.5787]

Love your videos! What a great video!

[@woltersworld]

Thank you Jennifer

[@waza987]

That first one was a bit strange. I once spent 6 months in the US, visited 33 different states, and the number of continents never came up.

[@PeachPlastic]

I thought the same. He might as well have said "Don't be upset by our education and health care system", haha! (Getting additional insurance coverage was really good advice, though.)

[@MancUnionMr]

I love your videos and we can't wait to travel again from the UK to the USA. Thanks for your posts and stay safe from Manchester UK.

[@CforChiTwo]

My days! Everything in the US is extra large. I watch from England 🇬🇧

[@Caracajou]

Come on over for a visit! Lots of Americans love the English accent. You'll make lots of friends here.

[@mangorocket27]

Great video!