Navigating Cultural Differences: Insights from a Visitor to the USA and Canada

As a visitor to the United States and Canada, I've experienced several cultural shocks that have tested my understanding and adaptability to Western norms. In this article, I will share my experiences, highlighting the significant challenges and interesting observations, particularly focusing on the tipping culture and other peculiarities encountered during my travels.

The Culture Shock of Being Held at Gunpoint

One of my most memorable experiences occurred during my visit to the United States, where I felt the stark reality of everyday life in a country with high crime rates. Being held at gunpoint by individuals in different situations, such as a sheriff in Illinois, a carjacker in Detroit, and a child in an Idaho hot spring, was a profound reminder of the pervasive threat that exists in certain areas.

A Border Crossing to Safety

During one particularly harrowing incident, a Detroit carjacking attempt led me to take evasive action by driving to the Canadian border. This experience underscored the need to be vigilant and adaptable when traveling through different regions known for high crime rates.

The Peculiarity of Selling Wine at Denny’s

Beyond the pressing issues of safety, one of the more bizarre experiences I had was witnessing the operation of Denny's restaurant in Niagara, Ontario. The unusual sight of selling wine in a diner was no doubt a unique selling point, but it also highlighted cultural differences in the approach to alcohol consumption in different parts of North America.

My taste preferences included choosing a vintage for a specific dish, such as my choice of "moons over Mississauga" to complement my meal. This experience served as a delightful counterpoint to the otherwise serious conversations about tipping and service.

The Disconcerting Tipping Culture

A recurring theme during my visit was the tipping culture in the US. In Nigeria, where I come from, tipping practices vary, and there is no legal requirement to tip. In the US, tipping has become a mandatory part of the service economy, often misunderstood and sometimes overwhelming.

Why Tipping is Non-Optional

In the US, tipping, especially in the service sector, is not merely an expectation but a requirement. This can lead to unexpected expenses, as seen with a beer costing around $8 at Denny's, compared to the average $7.50 price in Nigeria. This practice raises several ethical questions: if the cost of services is already high, why should patrons also pay exorbitant tips?

Cultural Taboos and Service Expectations

My discomfort with the tipping culture was further compounded by the varying perceptions of quality service. In some establishments, despite subpar service, I was expected to tip generously. This goes against the cultural norm in Nigeria, where poor service is often met with withholding or reducing tips. This inconsistency can be frustrating, especially for visitors who are not familiar with the expectations and pressures of the tipping system.

Adapting to New Norms

To navigate the tipping culture, I had to learn to embrace the practice while recognizing its excesses. Uber tips, for example, became an expected but non-optional part of my expenses. By both accepting and questioning the system, I gained a deeper understanding of the nuances of the service economy in the US.

Conclusion

Visiting the United States and Canada provided me with a wealth of experiences, from surprising cultural nuances to stark reminders of the challenges faced in certain regions. The tipping culture, in particular, presented an interesting case study in the complexities of service expectations in North America. Understanding and adapting to these cultural differences is crucial for visitors, and can enhance the overall travel experience by fostering awareness and respect for local customs.

Through these encounters, I've grown more appreciative of the diversity of cultural practices and the importance of open-mindedness in navigating unfamiliar environments.