“Don’t Do That!” – 18 Tourist Traps and Things to Avoid in America

So, you’ve decided to tour the grand ol’ United States of America. Before you pack that fanny pack and set your camera to selfie mode, hold on for a hot minute. America is a land of unwritten rules and hidden traps that can make your vacation go from fab to drab in no time. Here are 18 things that are a big no-no for tourists.  

Why Greyhound Buses Aren’t Your Best Friend

 

  Taking a Greyhound bus may seem like a good way to save some dough. But guess what? They’re often late and sometimes dirty, leaving you frustrated. When you’re on vacation, time is golden! You don’t want to waste precious moments waiting for a bus that’s as reliable as a chocolate teapot. Plus, you might miss iconic spots like the Grand Canyon.   

The Dark Side of Feeding Squirrels in Parks

 

  Yes, squirrels are adorable with their tiny paws and big eyes. But once you toss them peanuts, they’ll stick to you like glue. Not only is it unhealthy for the animals, but you also don’t want to spend your day being a squirrel magnet. Plus, some parks have rules against feeding wildlife. So just take cute photos from a distance, okay?  

Why Chain Restaurants Are a Culinary Dead-End

 

  You’re in America, where food is as diverse as the population. So why waste your meals on bland chain restaurants? With all the amazing local options—from diners to food trucks—you’ll find exclusive dishes in certain areas. Don’t pass up the chance for a culinary adventure just because a chain restaurant feels familiar.  

The Art of Selfies Minus Traffic Hazards

 

  Times Square is amazing, no doubt. But taking selfies in the middle of the road is risky business. You’re not only putting yourself in danger but also irritating the drivers. Nobody wants to slam the brakes just because you wanted that perfect Instagram shot. Stick to the sidewalk or other safe spots.  

Tipping Isn’t Just a Suggestion, It’s a Must

 

  In America, tipping isn’t just polite—it’s practically mandatory. Servers rely on those extra dollars as part of their income. Tipping between 15-20% is customary based on the total bill, regardless of the service. Don’t leave the restaurant without tipping; it’s frowned upon, and you’ll look like a total rookie.   

Wildlife Isn’t Your Friend, So Don’t Try to Make it One

 

  That bear may look Instagram-worthy, but wild animals are dangerous. They’re not like the animals in cartoons. Feeding or getting too close can result in a nasty surprise, both for you and the animal. Always maintain a respectful distance and follow park rules. They’ll keep you and the animals safe.  

Why Hitting Both Rainforest Cafe and a Wax Museum is Overkill

 

  Sure, they’re touristy and right there next to each other. But the Rainforest Cafe and wax museums are, let’s be honest, cheesy. They offer limited cultural value and could make your trip feel more like a rushed field trip than a vacation. Opt for more authentic experiences like actual museums or national parks.  

Breaking a $100 Bill for Small Purchases is a Hassle

 

  Think about it. You buy a soda and hand over a $100 bill. Now, the cashier has to dig for change, slowing down the line and irritating everyone. Most small businesses prefer smaller bills for minor transactions. Keep the Benjamins for bigger purchases, except for when it’s the end of your vacation.  

The Real Deal About Yellowstone’s Hot Springs

 

  They look calm and serene, but Yellowstone’s hot springs are boiling death traps. The water can reach temperatures that are unsafe for humans. Also, it’s illegal to go off-trail in national parks. Observe the beauty from a designated safe area, like everyone else. You don’t want to spend your vacation in hospital!  

Off the Beaten Trail? Not a Smart Idea

 

  Trails are there for safety and to protect the environment. Straying off them could lead you into risky terrain or poisonous plants. It’s also easier to get lost, turning your fun hike into a survival drama that you really don’t want to be a part of. Stick to the path; it’s there for good reasons.  

Why Wandering Downtown LA at Night is a No-No

 

  Sure, Los Angeles is the city of angels, but when the sun goes down, some areas can get sketchy. Crime rates in downtown LA spike at night, and it’s not the best place to be, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the area. Stick to safer neighborhoods and tourist-friendly zones after dark.  

Soda, Pop, or Coke? Mind Your Beverage Lingo

 

  So, you’re thirsty, right? Don’t just blurt out, “I want a soda,” unless you know you’re in soda territory. Different areas have different names for those bubbly drinks. In the Midwest, asking for a “soda” might get you a side-eye because they call it “pop.” Head down to the South, and you’ll find people generically calling it “coke,” even if they mean Sprite. Ordering the wrong word could get you strange looks and might make you miss out on some local banter.   

No Hollywood Drama Over Spiders in Pueblo, Colorado

 

  Spiders are everywhere, but in Pueblo, Colorado, they’re practically local celebrities. They might be creepy to some, but they’re mostly harmless. Squealing and making a big deal out of it could turn you into the talk of the town—and not in a good way. These eight-legged critters mostly keep to themselves and help control other pests.   

America’s Not a Sprint, It’s a Marathon

 

  You’ve seen the maps; America looks manageable, right? Wrong. This isn’t a tour; it’s an expedition. So many tourists mess up their trips by thinking they can drive from coast to coast in a couple of days. The reality? You’d spend your entire vacation glued to a car seat, your view clogged with gas stations and fast-food joints.   

Not Just for the Beach

 

  Ah, the sun—the best filter for your vacation selfies. But even on an overcast day, those rays are sneaky. They’ll find a way to turn your skin into a shade that’s more crustacean than human. This is particularly true in sunny states like Florida and California, where the sun doesn’t play games. Tourists, especially those from cloudier climates, often underestimate the need for sunscreen.   

Save the ‘I’m Sorry’ for When You Really Mean It

 

  Americans like to get to the point. While it’s great to be polite, saying sorry too often can send mixed messages. So, gauge the situation. Did you bump into someone? A quick “sorry” is fine. Did you accidentally take someone’s drink at Starbucks? That’s an “I’m so sorry” moment. But save the apologies for situations that genuinely call for some remorse.  

Death Valley Is No Summer Picnic

 

  Looking for a toasty summer getaway? Death Valley isn’t it—unless you think risking heatstroke is a fun adventure. Temperatures here can hit insane levels, like “cook-an-egg-on-the-car-hood” hot. Not only will you be putting your health at risk, but you’ll also miss out on the beauty of the place because you’ll be too busy trying to stay cool—or conscious.   

Let’s Celebrate the Great American Melting Pot

 

  So you’re coming to America, the land of apple pie and baseball. But hold on—this is also the land of sushi, tacos, Diwali, Hanukkah, and so much more. America is a rich tapestry of cultures, religions, and philosophies. Going in with stereotypes or preconceived notions can make you miss out on so much. Plus, it’s not cool to make assumptions about people.  

Lost in Southern Translation: 18 Baffling Phrases from the South That’ll Leave Y’all Reaching for a Dictionary

  The Southern United States has a rich linguistic tradition that can often be a puzzle to those unfamiliar with the region’s unique vernacular. It’s not just the charming accent, but also the colorful phrases and expressions that add a dash of spice to the language. Let’s decode 18 such Southern phrases.

Lost in Southern Translation: 18 Baffling Phrases from the South That’ll Leave Y’all Reaching for a Dictionary

 

The Unpopular Yet Lucrative: 13 High-Paying Jobs Few Choose to Pursue

Despite their attractive salaries, there are specific high-paying jobs that need help to attract candidates due to various reasons. These unique professions offer financial rewards but often require more individuals to undertake the associated challenges. Let’s explore 14 such occupations that require specialized skills or involve demanding conditions but come with significant monetary compensation. The Unpopular Yet Lucrative: 13 High-Paying Jobs Few Choose to Pursue

Unmasking the Unpleasant: 12 Telltale Signs You Might Just Be a ‘Terrible Person’

You can tell if someone is a good person based on their words and actions. You can also use the same standard to determine if someone isn’t a good person. But what should you be looking for? An online community asked its members to describe the characteristics of someone who isn’t a good person, and the results were eye-opening Unmasking the Unpleasant: 12 Telltale Signs You Might Just Be a ‘Terrible Person’