June 24, 2009
In Russia, everyone talks about how people live in America, but unfortunately, much of what is said is just rumors that come from nowhere but spread across the country at lightning speed. In this series of notes, I will try to tell you what is actually true and what is not.
Is it true that gasoline in America is cheaper than in Russia?
Gasoline here costs from $2.5 to $2.8 per gallon (3.7 liters). Do the math yourself.
Is it true that almost no one smokes here, and the cheapest cigarettes cost $8?
Partially. Compared to Russia, people smoke much less here (mostly Black people). The cheapest pack of cigarettes I've seen cost $2.5. The average price is $5-6.
Is it true that Americans are always asking each other and everyone else "How are you?"
True. But you don't need to take it literally. In fact, the phrase "Hi, how are you doing?" just means "Hi." It is not necessary to answer how you are doing. Actually, Americans are very polite; for example, if you accidentally bump into someone in a store, they will even say "Excuse me" to you. And if you ask for directions, they won't be too lazy to even get up from their workplace, walk to the nearest turn, and show you where to go. Not everyone, of course, but it happens very often.
Is it true that the outlets are different here?
Of course. If you are planning to fly here, I advise you to buy an adapter in advance because it is expensive here.
Is it true that people drink beer here wrapped in a paper bag?
Yes, that is absolutely true. You only need to wrap it in a bag, of course, if you are drinking on the street.
Is it true that they won't sell me beer if I entered the store in the company of minors?
Yes, that's right. The cashier, seeing that you entered the store with someone, will ask for ID from everyone if you are going to buy alcohol. No matter how much you tell them "I'm buying this for myself, those guys won't drink," they still won't sell it to you. P.S. Alcohol is sold only until midnight.
Is it true that all Americans are fat and stupid?
- Fat. If by "all" you mean "a lot," then it's true. There are plenty of people suffering from obesity and just very fat people here.
- Stupid. Hard to say. On one hand, quite a lot of young Americans, after finishing school, go to work as waiters, salespeople, loaders, construction workers, etc., without bothering with anything else, as their salary is enough for a house, a car, and a normal life. But they usually don't stand out for their intelligence. But on the other hand, how can you call them stupid if these people manage to print their dollars in the quantity they need, and at the same time use these pieces of paper to buy oil (America consumes 40% of the world's oil consumption) and all other raw materials and resources they need from other countries?
That's all for now. Write in the comments what you have heard about America, and based on that, I will try to write a continuation.
