18 Reasons to Avoid the U.S.A.

14. But, Really… Don’t Get Injured

Worse than getting the doctor’s bill, though, would be getting the bill for an Emergency Room visit or, God forbid, an ambulance ride. If you find yourself in the position of needing either of these things, you’re sure to be draining the entirety of your bank account. We’re not kidding…

15. Trigger-Happy Police

You might have seen on the news that the United States has a problem with police officers gunning down the civilians they’re sworn to protect. Despite what certain presidential candidates might say, it’s a real and serious problem. If you’re a non-white foreigner traveling through the United States, don’t antagonize the police and be extra friendly during any interactions.

16. Restaurant Portion Sizes

If there’s one thing that Americans love to do more than anything else, it’s go out to eat. From fast food to chain restaurants to local mom and pops, American restaurants know how to fit their customers for the feedbag. Unless you’re fine losing your athletic physique, be careful what you order in American restaurants. Also, remember what your mother said: Don’t eat anything that’s bigger than your head!

17. Don’t Forget to Tip!

While much of the civilized world has done away with tipping, largely because waiters and waitresses are paid a fair wage, the United State has not. At almost all restaurants across the country, American waiters and waitresses earn less than half the minimum wage. That’s because restaurants expect tips to supplement waiters’ and waitresses’ income, and expect patrons to essential subsidize their businesses.

18. Donald Trump

Really, though, the biggest reason to avoid the United States – at least for the foreseeable future – is the bloviating pumpkin masquerading as a presidential candidate, Donald J. Trump. To be sure, most Americans are horrified by his xenophobic and often racist rhetoric, but his supporters love it. They’re all ginned up right now, and who can tell what will happen when (if?) he loses…

JStone / Shutterstock.com