There are so many things that tourists in our country love about America that I just never considered til I hosted some European friends for a few weeks. Some struck me as odd at first, but with a little explanation, they all make sense. Ready?
1. Our Candy
... but not our chocolate. Twizzlers, Dots, Sour Patch Kids, and Swedish Fish are all faves.
2. Petrol Prices
While we're whining that gas is hovering around $3 a gallon, they'repaying a heck of a lot more - like, $10 a gallon. Also a bonus: we apparently have a lot more gas stations than most European countries.
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3. Target Stores
I kind of hate Target (because somehow I always, always end up spending at least $100 there), but my friends love the place.
4. Free Restrooms
Most malls, stores, theaters, museums, restaurants and other public places have restrooms, and we tend to take them, and the fact that they're free here, for granted.
5. Unrelenting Friendliness
We Americans are pretty friendly, walking around with smiles on our faces, always ready to help a stranger find directions and to recommend a good restaurant. That's a plus!
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6. American Sports
Baseball is a hit, but another surprising favorite is American football. Who knew?
7. Our Accents
Tourists especially adore southern accents, with extra points for funny expressions and Texas accents, in particular.
8. Yards
Again, something I kind of hate (lawn mowing, ugh!) but something most Europeans may not have - a front and/or back yard.
9. Minivans/SUVs
While most of my European friends have driven a small SUV at home, most are mystified and then enamored of minivans.
10. Huge Serving Sizes & Free Refills
Our "normal" serving sizes are about twice what my friends are used to - which may explain our ample waistlines? And high cholesterol?
If you've spent time in the U.S. as a tourist, what did you love? What surprised you?
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