I’ve had an amazing time in the USA (just like last time) – but there are some things that I just can’t get used to. Nothing negative, but there certainly are some differences between the USA and Australia/New Zealand!
I’m here for the #SHRM16 conference, some work and also holidaying with family – so I’m getting to see a bit of this awesome country.
Things that have made me, or those around me, face palm:
- Where is the coffee I’m used to? I’m now detoxing.
- Why is everyone so nice? It makes me feel uncomfortable when everyone you meet is so darned helpful!
- Californians texting/facebooking/on the phone while they drive! (Definitely is a negative for me).
- Drying everything in a clothes dryer – don’t your clothes shrink? And you miss out on the feeling of air-dried clothes which is the best!
- Alcohol is so cheap in the USA (scratch that: everything is cheaper).
- Tipping – it’s a constant struggle for me to math it up.
- Australian/NZ humour is much drier, I’m constantly tripping myself up saying things I think are clearly jokes but are not translating so well.
- Kiwi’s earn 42% less (but also spend 63% less on healthcare, 72% less likely to be in prison and experience 19% less of a class divide (CIA World Fact Book).
And the things that remind me of home:
- The beaches in California – mmmm the smell of the sea!
- Hotel rooms look the same everywhere #corporateart
- Sometimes in Australia I can’t understand what people say if they’ve got a thick accent, it’s still true in the USA!
I have to admit… I was dubious about how I would find the USA – but I love it. The people are lovely, the place is beautiful, and the ultimate seal of approval? I love how many dogs I got to pat, because everyone seems to have one, in California.
Renée Robson 