The United States
What do expats find most challenging?
We asked expats and digital nomads what they find the most challenging about the local culture in United States. They wrote...
"We have a different sense of humor and we have friends individually, not as a couple. It has taken a while to make friends. We are not in a very diverse area and in hindsight would probably have bought a house elsewhere. It is ultra conservative here and we are not. So be careful where you choose to live. It does make a big difference. We have got used to it and we have found some people similar to ourselves but still I would still move in a few years time," commented one expat who made the move to Washington DC, US.
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"Many expats find the United States to be a very fast-paced culture, and it can be difficult to adjust to the speed of life in the US. Additionally, the vast size of the country can make it challenging to get around and to find community within a new city. Some expats may also find it difficult to navigate the state and federal laws in the US, which can be quite complicated to understand. Furthermore, the cultural norms and expectations can be difficult to understand and many expats may find themselves feeling unsure in social situations. Finally, the value placed on individualism and self-reliance can make it difficult for expats to feel connected to their new home," remarked another expat in United States.
Other Questions:
- What do I need to know before moving to the United States?
- How do I find a place to live in the United States?
- What is a typical expat home or apartment like in the United States?
- What is the average cost of housing in the United States?
- Should I buy or rent a home in the United States?
- What should I pack when moving to the United States?
- What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in the United States?
- Why do people move to the United States?
- What are healthcare services like in the United States?
- What are medical services in the United States like?
- What are typical rents in the United States?
- What appliances are typically included in a rental?
What do expats find most challenging?
If you live in the United States, newcomers to the United States would love to hear your answer to this question.
About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC
Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.
