Difference between the USA and the Philippines? A LOT! The United States and The Philippines have many differences, and you can expect culture shock from either side. This article will give you an idea of some of the major differences Americans have that you may not expect. Keep these tips in mind when you come to visit.
The Supermarkets are Huge
Americans have some of the largest grocery stores you will ever see, having millions of items available. You can find all the food options in the average supermarket, from baked bread to fruit to meat. A downside to this is that you won’t find any wet markets in the country, and very little street food (which is almost entirely from food trucks).
The top 3 popular grocery stores that you must have heard of before are Walmart, Target, and Costco.
Walmart, this ubiquitous grocery supermarket, has a run-of-the-mill reputation thanks to its weirdo customers who inspire viral memes. Still, this retailer’s low prices—and quality store brand—do a lot to redeem it.
Target is the sixth-largest grocery retailer in the USA. They operate almost 2000 stores nationwide. Compared to Walmart, which has the best bargain and perks, Target offers an upgraded shopping experience. Their premium design-forward products feel far more expensive than they really are.
Costco can be compared to the S&R of the Philippines. They have a membership fee, but members know you can save a ton of money here.
There is Sugar Everywhere
The United States produces 8.1 million metric tons of sugar per year. Americans are one of the largest consumers of sugar in the world. American adults consume an average of 77 grams of sugar per day, more than 3 times the recommended amount. This adds up to around 60 pounds of added sugar annually.
Most of our sugar comes from corn syrup, which gives food a sweet, thick taste. You’ll find most American candy and soda to be much sweeter than what you are used to. You will even find that they add more sugar to things like meat and bread. If you don’t have a sweet tooth, this might be hard to adjust to; luckily, many sugar-free options do exist.
Transportation is Not as Readily Available Compared to the Philippines
Due to the size and scope of the country, most places are not as accessible as you may be accustomed to. You won’t find any tricycles or jeepneys here, and if you want a taxi, expect to pay a very large amount. Buses are in most places and there are subways in large cities, but you will need a car if you want to see most of the country.
The Environment is Vast and Varied
America is a gigantic country (approximately 33 times the size of the Philippines) and because of that, you will see a wide variety of environments. From the deserts of Arizona to the forests of Washington, to the Swamps of Florida and the Rocky Mountains, you can see a wide variety of beautiful places. Consider this for places you would want to live or see during vacation.
The Weather Will be Very Different
With different environments come different weather. Unlike the consistent wet heat you may be accustomed to, you will find mostly wet cold, or dry heat in America. Expect to be very cold in the winter, regardless of where you spend it, with places like the northwest getting as cold as 1 or 2 Celsius many nights during winter. The heat will also feel strange since America has lower humidity. Plan to stock up on winter clothes, and try different skin creams and shampoos if you feel your hair and skin are not adapting well.
Football is the Most Popular Sport
Americans love their football. Entire stadiums, able to fit 100,000 people, are filled each year with die-hard fans for Football season. It is tradition to watch the Superbowl with a giant selection of snacks, shouting at the television overplays. You will likely encounter a lot of Football fans, so enjoy the show and join them.
Animal fights are Strictly Illegal
One sport you won’t be able to see in the States is cockfighting or any other animal fights for that matter. Due to American animal cruelty laws, it is forbidden to have animals fight. The average American would be shocked to see cockfighting billboards and commercials back in the Philippines. It is even illegal to be a spectator at these fights, so if you’re a fan, you will have to keep that interest back home.
Marijuana is Legal in Some States
Conversely, Marijuana is legal in some states such as Oregon. Marijuana stores, known as dispensaries, are a frequent sight in these states and are happily consumed by many people for pain relief, relaxation, and as a medicinal remedy are several health issues. If you were ever curious to try it or thought its medical benefits would help you, being in America is a good chance to try it. Just keep in mind that although it is legal at a state level, it is not legal at a federal level, meaning government jobs and facilities prohibit the use of this drug.
Milk Price and Consumption
America is a big consumer of milk, and you will find creameries every place you go. Unlike places like the UK that use milk as an addition to tea, Americans will drink it by itself. It’s such a big deal that every store and restaurant is expected to have it, and it is considered a necessity when shopping. Compared to the Philippines, you can buy milk here in gallons and surprisingly cheaper compared to milk in the Philippines.
We Walk Faster!
We are very busy and have a fast-paced agenda. Even children are busy with sports and lessons of various kinds. The Philippines has a more relaxed pace for many people. Even in the malls or streets, the Filipinos saunter– in escalators, Filipinos are on stop, talking leisurely to each other as if they are at dinner.
Everything seems to move slowly in the Philippines, including cashiers or business transactions. The business and government systems and processes are not as advanced as it is in the US. Most paperwork isn’t even online yet. Americans aren’t as patient as Filipinos, who are very good at waiting patiently, sometimes for hours.
We Are Blunt
Speaking without beating around the bush? That’s Us! We are blunt, confrontative, and actually complain a lot (LOL), which is perceived by most Asian cultures–especially Filipinos to be rude. This is maybe because of the differences in culture. Filipinos are subtle, polite, and non-confrontative – that’s why they have this thing they call tampo.
First Name Basis
Here in the USA, you can call your mother-in-law by her first name without being rude. In the Philippines, do that and forget getting married because you won’t get your mother-in-law’s approval. LOL
A 9-year-old child here can call a 70-year-old woman by her name. Students can address their old professors not by their academic or honorific titles but by their names.
In the Philippines, they have respect for all elders and high-ranking officials and they always use “sir” or “ma’am” in conversations.
Of course, all these things are not generally a fact for everyone or in every place. There are countless differences. The list is long. These are just some general differences based on my experience and what I’ve seen between the two countries. Feel free to comment down below what differences you know and if you agree with these lists.
