Eating in the USA is a somewhat different experience for most Australians. The range of food is vast, especially fast food. Similarly the range of quality is quite wide although it would be unusual to get a really bad meal. The cost of eating does not have to be much more than in Australia if you are prepared to keep out of formal restaurants. For example a sandwich would range from $US3 to $US6 which may seem expensive until you see what you get. It is usually presented on your choice of bread, is large and had a great deal of filling unlike the paper thin ham, etc., which is the usual filling in Australia. The price usually includes a salad or chips (crisps!) and is frequently big enough to provide lunch for two people.
Coffee ranges from 50c to $US1.25 or so and is equal to about three of our cups and is often a bottomless cup. Beware however of the quality as it is very variable and cheap coffee can be quite weak. The established coffee houses are usually good but a bit more expensive. Any espresso coffee is typically 2 or 3 times the price of 'regular' filter coffee and do not expect lots of froth on your cappuccino. There are of course many other cheap eating options that parallel the sandwich described above in terms of value and nutrition. Usually it is quite easy to take your own breakfast unless you like a full cooked meal. Evening meals can be reasonably priced in the large chain restaurants and diners with ethnic food, especially Asian and Mexican, probably being the best value. Seniors meals are often available and are a bit smaller and cheaper and you do not have to be a Senior to order them.
Tipping
Most people working in the hospitality industry are getting the minimum basic wage of around $US5 an hour (at this time) so they rely on tips to get a living wage. Typically 15% of the bill is the norm but, as it is a reward for service, if you believe you not get good service this can reduce even to the extent of no tip although if this was the case the poor service should be explained. Tipping for other services such as porterage is expected at airports and hotels and would range from 50c to $US1 a bag. Some tour guides expect tips and the rules vary considerably here and depend on the length of the tour, the level of service provided etc.
The people
The USA is a polyglot society similar to Australia and the people are generally very friendly and respond to a smile and a friendly approach. When they find out you are Australian they will frequently tell you they have always wanted to visit Australia, they have a friend or relation there or they have been there and love it and will take the time to talk.
Methods of payment
Credit card use for payment of most items and services is quite comprehensive. Cash is available from ATMs and from within the banks with appropriate identification. It is wise to keep a reasonable cash reserve in a secure wallet in case your card is damaged by a reader or lost. There are many card scams but with some common sense and care these will most likely be avoided. Where possible keep your card in view while it is being processed. Reputable traders are low risk but care must be taken at all times as it is usually not the trader who will commit a fraud, it is more likely to be the individual providing the service.
Eating in the USA is a somewhat different experience for most Australians. The range of food is vast, especially fast food. Similarly the range of quality is quite wide although it would be unusual to get a really bad meal. The cost of eating does not have to be much more than in Australia if you are prepared to keep out of formal restaurants. For example a sandwich would range from $US3 to $US6 which may seem expensive until you see what you get. It is usually presented on your choice of bread, is large and had a great deal of filling unlike the paper thin ham, etc., which is the usual filling in Australia. The price usually includes a salad or chips (crisps!) and is frequently big enough to provide lunch for two people.
