Visit United States
Discover the customs of one of Brazil’s most sought after countries for travel and exchanges
The idea of traveling to a native English-speaking country may come along with the desire to know the United States, one of the most developed countries and the center of consumption.
Non-immigrant visas for temporary trips to the US vary by type of travel: tourism and visiting (B), business (B), work (E, H, L, O, P, I, TN / TD, J ), study and exchange (F, M, J, B). In case of au pair, internship, research, trainee exchanges, among others, a J visa is required – for up to two years of residence. Visit the US embassy website for more information.
Check out some curiosities about the United States.
Spoken language
English.
Some sights
New York
This is perhaps the most sought after destination for tourists in the United States, as it is the capital of shopping, museums, cultural leisure, bars, nightclubs, etc. Visitors to New York can’t miss the Statue of Liberty, enjoy Central Park, watch Broadway plays, and see the diversity of people on the surrounding streets, skate at Rockefeller Center (and if you visit the city at Christmas, check out the tree mounted on the spot), admire the NY skyline from the Manhattan Skyline, a high point of the city that yields great photos, among many other options.
Las Vegas
Nevada
Another popular city in the United States for its many attractions and the phrase, “everything that happens in Vegas stays in Vegas.” After all, it is possible to play in casinos and even get married in the local chapels – but beware, as the marriage is valid! Shopping, fine dining, shows, casino games, and hotel pools and spas are among the good options to enjoy.
Highlighting the fountains of the Bellagio Hotel Resort, an outdoor attraction where tourists can enjoy the dancing waters; the water show Le Rêve, one of the busiest in Vegas; Cirque du Soleil’s seven performances, such as The Beatles – Love, a must see, especially for those who enjoy the British band; and the lush nature of the Red Rock Canyon conservation area in the Mojave Desert, which is 15 minutes from the city.
Orlando
Florida
Due to Orlando’s amusement parks, it is yet another city to visit. Children or adults have fun and delight in the attractions of Walt Disney World Resort, which embodies the magical world conveyed in Disney productions. To do so, you must stroll through the four parks: Magic Kingdom, which houses Cinderella’s castle and one of the most spectacular fireworks shows in the US; Epcot, which includes technology and culture ideas and toys from 11 countries; Animal Kingdom, the world’s largest animal theme park, and Hollywood Studios, with Hollywood-style performances, such as the “Fantasmic!” Fireworks show, which takes place a few nights a week.
Another set of parks in the city is Universal Orlando Resort, designed for those who enjoy Universal productions and adrenaline-pumping toys – that’s where even The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is. And for those who want to escape a bit of fantasy and fiction, Discovery Cove (SeaWorld) water park is the best local alternative as it allows diving and interaction with marine animals such as dolphins.
Some customs
Optional tips, but not so: In the United States, in general, the service charge is not included in the bill, but it is inelegant not to give. It is common to leave 15% of the total value, 10% being the minimum.
Sitting in restaurants only after consulting an employee: It is customary for the person responsible for receiving customers to take them to an available table.
Minimum drinking age is 21 years: There are few exceptions, depending on the state of America, so it is best to inquire before ordering a drink if you are under 21.
Punctuality: Americans are punctual and make time for everything. It is impolite to be late.
They easily apologize: In addition to the fact that “I’m sorry” is a sign of education, the expressions “thank you” and “excuse me” (excuse me) are also widely used.
Top Typical Foods
Hamburger: Although not bred in the US, it is much appreciated by Americans. There are several specialty eateries there.
Meatloaf: A roast or smoked ground meatloaf accompanied by some sauce or stuffing.
Fried chicken drumstick: It is common for a basket with food to be sold and enjoyed as a meal or while walking down the street.
Apple Pie: A closed pie that is also not a dish created there, but became popular and became an icon of American food.
Cheesecake: Sweet and creamy cheese pie with some topping.