The Happiness Function

You may notice some things absent from the United States when traveling abroad. Every country has unique features that set it apart, from public services to cultural practices. Here are ten things that aren’t in the United States but exist in other countries.

1. Negotiating Prices While Shopping

In many countries, it’s common to negotiate prices while shopping. For example, it’s a cultural norm in Turkey, India, and Egypt, where bargaining is expected when purchasing items. However, fixed prices are the norm in the United States, and bargaining is reserved for flea markets and garage sales.

2. Paid Public Toilets in Some European Countries

While public restrooms are free in the U.S., some European countries charge a small fee. Countries like France, Italy, and Germany have paid public restrooms that are maintained and kept clean.

3. Determinators and Adverbs Like “That” Apparently

The English language differs slightly across the globe, and some variations include the use of determiners and adverbs. In some countries like Scotland, “that” is commonly used as an adverb to indicate the degree of something, such as “That’s very good.”

4. Small Diesel Pick-Up Trucks and SUVs

Diesel-powered vehicles are not as standard in the U.S. as in other countries. Small diesel pick-up trucks and SUVs are popular in countries like India and China, where fuel economy and affordability are key considerations.

5. National Public TV Stations That Produce and Broadcast a Full Range of Programming

Countries like the United Kingdom, Portugal, Canada, and Germany have national public TV stations that produce and broadcast a full range of programming. But in the USA, unless your old-school antenna picks up a signal, you’re probably paying to access television channels whether you are streaming or have satellite.

6. More Than Two Viable Political Parties

While the United States has two major political parties, some countries have multiple parties with viable chances of winning elections. In countries like Germany, voters can choose between multiple political parties representing different interests and ideologies.

7. Decent Public Transportation

Public transportation is a reliable and affordable way to get around in many countries. However, the U.S. has a car-centric culture, and public transportation is often inadequate, unreliable, or non-existent in many areas.

8. A Countrywide Law Regarding Maternity Leave

In many countries outside the USA, people take much more extended maternity leave than the typical 12 weeks in America.

9. Affordable Healthcare

The United States is known for its high healthcare costs, and many Americans struggle to afford medical care. On the other hand, other countries, such as Canada and the United Kingdom, have universal healthcare systems that provide affordable medical care to all citizens.

10. Cricket Is Popular

While baseball is a popular sport in the United States, cricket is more commonly played in countries like India, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka.

The U.S. is a unique country with its own culture and way of life. However, there are differences between the United States and other countries regarding public services, cultural practices, and laws. While some of these differences may seem minor, they can significantly impact people’s lives and how they experience the world.

Source: Reddit

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15 Most Dangerous Countries for American Tourists To Travel in 2023

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Risky Routes: These Are the 12 Most Dangerous Roads in the World

We are fortunate in the West that we get to drive on roads with good road markings, traffic circles, lights, and road signs. However, not all countries have features designed to keep people safe. Here are some of the most dangerous roads you would be best avoiding around the world.

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The Grass is Greener: 14 Things Other Countries Get To Do That Americans Do Not

Freedom and limitless opportunities are advantages of living in the United States. Unfortunately, not all countries have access to these benefits. However, some populations worldwide have amenities that Americans do not have. Here’s what members of an online message board characterize America as lacking.

The Grass is Greener: 14 Things Other Countries Get To Do That Americans Do Not

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