Staff Reports
Moving to the United States often brings a whirlwind of surprises for immigrants, and for one South African newcomer, the culture shock was both amusing and bewildering. From patriotic fervor to peculiar financial habits, her observations provide a humorous lens on the quirks of American life.
The first thing that struck her was the omnipresence of American flags. In South Africa, flags are primarily reserved for official buildings or special occasions, but in the U.S., they seem to sprout everywhere—on porches, in living rooms, and even on clothing. To her, it felt like Americans were perpetually celebrating their independence, a stark contrast to her homeland where such displays of patriotism are far more subdued.
Next came her encounter with U.S. currency. Having grown up with South Africa’s colorful Rand notes, she was baffled by America’s monochromatic greenbacks. The identical appearance of bills made distinguishing denominations a challenge, and she couldn’t understand why Americans still clung to the paper $1 bill instead of using coins for smaller amounts. It seemed inefficient compared to her home country’s more practical approach.
The hidden surprise of sales tax was another source of confusion. In South Africa, prices on tags include tax, so what you see is what you pay. But in America, the final price at checkout often comes as an unwelcome surprise. She likened it to being offered a cake only to discover an unexpected cherry on top—except this cherry wasn’t free; it was an extra cost she hadn’t anticipated.
Dining out presented its own set of challenges. In South Africa, credit cards never leave the customer’s sight; waitstaff bring portable machines to the table for payment. In the U.S., however, her card was whisked away by servers like part of a magic trick. The practice initially made her uneasy, as it felt risky and unfamiliar compared to the more secure methods back home.
Finally, she found herself puzzled by American small talk. Strangers would greet her with a cheerful “How are you?” but rarely waited for an answer. To her, it seemed like a hollow gesture rather than genuine interest—a stark departure from South African conversations that often delve deeper into personal connection.
Her experiences highlight the unique cultural nuances that make America both fascinating and perplexing for newcomers. While some adjustments were challenging, they also provided plenty of laughter and stories to share—proof that even in moments of confusion, there’s joy in discovering the quirks of a new home.
