Shopping

Fri, 27 Jan 2012 09:16:00 -0600

Shopping in America is generally considered by Aussies to have a lot of differences that are very favourable. However, there are some differences you should be aware of that will make your shopping experiences less frustrating by being forewarned. See the following points for more information on Shopping differences.

Most stores in America stay open later than in Australia, especially those in malls and shopping centers. You can expect that they will be open until 8 - 10pm in general, although the privately-owned stores may operate differently. Some big chain stores like Target,

Food

Thu, 26 Jan 2012 23:58:00 -0600

Food is easily the most popular topic discussed/lamented amongst Aussies in America. Some of the most common foods you've been used to eating or cooking all of your life are now unavailable - or they are quite different. As this is such a huge topic, only the most common differences and tips will be listed here.

Want some pies, pasties, or sausage rolls? Learn to bake them yourself, because they are an unknown commodity in America. The Recipes Section (coming) has heaps of Australian recipes and most of them are converted to American measurements and ingredients too!

Dining Differences

Thu, 26 Jan 2012 23:57:00 -0600

While there are some differences in the way Americans set their tables, and the tools they use - this is not something that you should feel compelled to change yourself. Americans don't really set much importance on dining etiquette and differences, so you can feel comfortable with doing your own thing. Here are some of the differences you might notice.

The first thing you'll notice, is that Americans don't use cutlery/silverware in the same way as Aussies do. Aussies will nearly always eat a meal with their knife and fork - using the knife for cutting and pushing food onto

Alcohol & Drugs

Thu, 26 Jan 2012 23:56:00 -0600

Buying alcohol in America is a very different experience than in Australia, not so much as in the type of alcohol you can buy, but where to buy it. Other items such as cigarettes and medicinal-type drugs have similar differences. See the following tips.

Alcohol is much cheaper to buy in America than in Australia.

Drive-through bottle-shops are mostly non-existent in America.

Beer and wine can be bought nearly anywhere; supermarkets, gas-stations, grocery stores, and even drug-stores.

Driving Differences

Thu, 26 Jan 2012 19:13:00 -0600

Most Aussies in America are daunted when first moving here over the whole driving challenge. And no wonder! It's like having to relearn a whole new set of driving habits. Most Aussies in America recommend just getting in a car and driving. The longer you put it off, the more difficult it will be. Some of the things you'll experience are:

Clutching at the air by your right ear, looking for the seatbelt.

Bashing the knuckles of your left-hand on the car door, reaching for the gears.

Gazing out

Road Laws

Thu, 26 Jan 2012 19:12:00 -0600

It would be impossible to give a comprehensive list of American Road Laws, mainly because they vary so greatly from state-to-state. The following items are very general only. For more detailed information on Road Laws in your state, check with your state DMV website.

In most American states, the minimum age for driving is 16. There is no such thing as "P" plates in America.

The majority of American states require that seatbelts be used by passengers, in both the front seat and the backseat.

Pedestrian Life

Thu, 26 Jan 2012 19:11:00 -0600

What can be so difficult about being a pedestrian, you may ask? Well, it's an easy way to get killed if you're not careful. See the following tips.

Remember looking to the right before you cross the road in Australia? That habit may now kill you. Look LEFT first! This is very hard to get used to doing. It's so easy to look right, see nothing coming then start crossing the road and wonder why you're hearing honking horns and screeching tires on your left. Remember, look left, look left, look left.

You know that right-side of the road thing?

Homesickness

Thu, 26 Jan 2012 18:48:00 -0600

Homesickness is probably the first thing that will get to you. Everyone misses their families, friends, and even the country itself. It's difficult to get used to never seeing a gum tree, or hearing kookaburras and galahs in the mornings. Here are some recommended ways to help alleviate the pain - some short term, and others to eventually get you on the road to recovery.

Don't expect your new home to be like your old one. If you are mentally prepared for the differences, you'll be more able to accept them.

A Vegemite sandwich and a cup

Five Stages of Culture Shock

Mon, 23 Jan 2012 20:50:11 -0600

Culture shock is divided into five stages. Each stage can be long standing or appear only under certain conditions. It is important to realize that culture shock is a perfectly normal condition which affects persons differently, just as grief, shock and other pressures in life. Some people show stronger reactions than others and not all experience all the five stages of culture shock. Some people do not progress through to the final stage.

The First Stage

The first stage is often called the "honeymoon

About Culture Shock

Mon, 23 Jan 2012 20:50:00 -0600

Australian expats in America are never prepared for the culture shock that inevitably hits them. Socially, economically, and culturally, Australia and America are very similar, so when the differences do appear, it takes us by surprise. The resulting confusion and disillusionment is called culture shock.

Culture Shock can be quite difficult for an Australian expat in America. The excitement, delight, and adventure of being in a new country can quickly turn to homesickness and disillusionment.

One of the best ways of dealing with culture shock is to "be prepared",