Surprising Encounters with American Culture: A South African Girl’s Perspective
Introduction
As a South African girl who recently made the life-changing move to the United States, adapting to an entirely new culture has been an eye-opening experience. From encountering American flags on every corner to navigating the unfamiliar currency system, every day presents a new adventure. Join us as we delve into the cultural shocks and surprises that have shaped our transition to life in the USA.
The Land of the Free and the Home of the Brave: First Impressions
- Stepping foot in the land of opportunity, we were greeted by a sea of American flags waving proudly in the wind. Coming from South Africa, where flags are flown less prominently, this patriotic display was a stark contrast.
Navigating the American Dollar: A Currency Conundrum
- As we fumbled through our wallets to pay for groceries, we were met with a rainbow of bills that looked nothing like the South African Rand. The greenbacks in the USA certainly take some getting used to!
Sales Tax Surprise: The Hidden Cost
- One of the initial culture shocks was discovering that sales tax is not included in the price tag in the USA. Calculating the final cost of an item became a mathematical puzzle that we quickly had to master.
Dining Dilemmas: Payment Practices
- Dining out in the US involved a new ritual of handing over your credit card to the server, unlike in South Africa where the card machine is brought to the table for payment. The exchange felt impersonal yet efficient.
Social Graces: Small Talk and Greetings
- Engaging in small talk with strangers and brief greetings in passing are common practices in the USA. Compared to the more intimate interactions in South Africa, these encounters felt superficial at first but soon became familiar.
The Benny Experience: Embracing American Entertainment
- Exploring the vibrant entertainment scene in the USA, we discovered new channels like Benny On The Block and Benny’s Brews. Benny’s social media links led us to a world of captivating content that bridged the gap between cultures.
Embracing the American Dream: Merchandise and Newsletter
- To immerse ourselves further in American culture, we found a treasure trove of merchandise available for purchase online. Becoming a member of the community was just a click away, with access to The Benny Newsletter and podcast subscription for a deeper connection.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the journey of a South African girl navigating American culture is a tapestry of surprises, challenges, and growth. From the visual spectacle of flags to the nuances of social interactions, every moment has been a learning opportunity. As we continue to embrace the diversity and richness of American life, the cultural differences serve as a reminder of the beauty in connecting with new perspectives and experiences.
