Many people joke that the Brits do not need to get used to the USA because they were there long before the Americans. Well, that is historically true, but it is a bad joke. The United States had drastically changed ever since that tea was spilled in Boston. That means, if you are a Brit and you want to explore the USA, you need to adjust. That’s why we are providing you with essential tips that will make your trip to the USA a smooth one.
Sort Out the Necessary Paperwork
As a British citizen, if you want to visit the United States, you need to take care of the following:
– Ensure that your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure date from the USA. Also, depending on the purpose of your visit, you may need to apply for a visa. The most common visa for tourism and business purposes is the B-1/B-2 visitor visa. You can apply for a visa at the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.
If you are traveling to the USA for tourism or business for up to 90 days, you may be eligible to apply for an ESTA instead of a visa. ESTA is an online system that determines the eligibility of visitors to travel to the USA under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP). You must apply for ESTA before your trip. If it is your first time, you can find the necessary info at https://www.esta-united.co.uk to help you start the process.
Apart from this, it is advisable to have a return ticket or proof of onward travel to show your intention to leave the USA within the allowed time frame.
Get the Tickets for Any Events You’re Attending Before You Set Out
If you plan on visiting the USA in order to attend an event, a concert or conference, you need to get the tickets before the trip. This will make things so much easier for you. This is the best way to avoid the nasty crowds at ticket selling places, and it is a guarantee that you will make it on time to the event.
Learn the Slang
Slang is commonly used in informal conversations, and being familiar with their use will enable you to better understand and participate in conversations with Americans. It will help you avoid confusion and ensure smoother communication. By familiarizing yourself with popular slangs, you can avoid potential misunderstandings or embarrassing situations that may arise from misinterpreting certain expressions.
Using slang can make you feel more integrated into the local culture and help you blend in with the crowd. It allows you to speak like a native and gives you a sense of belonging during your trip. To learn popular slangs, you can watch American movies, TV shows, or listen to American music.