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The Irish Sun
24-06-2025
- The Irish Sun
I lived in the US for 3 months – the 12 bizarre things I noticed as a Brit from drive-through weddings to VIP service
AFTER spending three months in the States, I came home with a suitcase full of souvenirs, sugary cereal, and a whole load of culture shock. I had been living in Santa Rosa, 12 A trip to Nintendo World at Universal Studios Hollywood - there was plenty to do on the weekends in California Credit: Jenna Stevens Back when I boarded my 11 hour flight from It was my first trip to the states - and whilst I knew that After a summer of settling in, there was loads that left me baffled and bursting to tell people back home my weird encounters. Here's the 12 strangest things I noticed from my time in Read more on US Toilet door gaps One thing I just couldn't get over was the giant gaps in public toilet cubicles. I'm talking wide open spaces above and below the Sometimes the gaps were so big you could see someone's shoes, shins, and even their knees through the stall. Going to the loo in a public place felt less like a private moment and more like a public stage. Most read in News Travel 12 Saloon style doors for toilets? Not quite what I was expecting Credit: Getty Huge portions for smallish prices No need to worry about being charged a ridiculous price for a tiny serving - here, everything comes massive. In America, a small drink from McDonald's is 89 per cent bigger than in the UK, and a cup of Big Gulp fizz can hold up to a whopping 1.9 litres. The overlooked Florida winter sun destination with theme parks and historic cigar neighbourhood 12 Fellow Sun Travel reporter Cyann couldn't believe her eyes when this 'meal for one' was placed in front of her Credit: Cyann Fielding 12 Big Gulp fizzy drinks come in giant cup sizes at 7-Eleven shops across the US Credit: Alamy I couldn't believe my eyes when I ordered a 'Bigger Plate' at Panda Express - it looked like enough to feed a family for under $12. And if you decide to 'supersize' anything, best of luck. At least you'll have your dinners for the entire week ahead sorted. Insane public parks When I think of a In California, a walk in the park would have you stumbling across In America, the local park isn't just for walking your dog - it can be an entire day out for the whole family. 12 Picnics in the park were my favourite way to spend a day off Credit: Jenna Stevens Needing a car to cross the road Here in the UK, pretty much everywhere is walkable. In the US? Not so much. I quickly learned that American cities just aren't built for pedestrians. Pavements are rare, crossings are few, and ' But things got pretty ridiculous one day when my friends and I had to order an Uber just to cross the road to McDonald's. Tipping culture madness We all know that I knew heading over to America that if I go out to eat, I should But what I didn't expect was that tipping culture doesn't just apply to restaurants. Taxi drivers, baristas, bartenders, hairdressers, even bus drivers - I soon found out that everyone expects you to leave a tip. As a Brit, I couldn't bear the thought of coming off as rude. So I kept forking over my dollars. So if you're planning a trip to the states - be sure to budget your tips for more than just meals! 12 I really didn't expect to have to tip for my coffee Credit: Getty Over-the-top customer service Walking into any American restaurant, I felt like a VIP. Hospitality is taken to the next level in America - before you've even sat down, you know your waiter's name and your drink is on the way. Sometimes the servers were so friendly that it actually creeped me out a bit. There's only so many times someone can ask "is everything perfect for you?" with a big grin on their face before you start to get a little weirded out. Nonetheless, it's hard to complain when you feel like you're being treated like royalty every time you order a burger. Everyone's your best friend Us Brits are known for our small talk and for being stand-offish. An American stranger will strike up a conversation with you in a lift like they've known you for years. People chatted to me in shops, queues, streets, even out on a run. Americans really are just that friendly - once you get over the initial "are they talking to me?", it's actually quite refreshing. Drive-through everything In America, if there's a way to do something without getting out of the car, they've made it possible. Drive-thrus aren't just for fast food anymore - it's coffee, pharmacies, banks and even weddings. It's all about convenience - something Americans have mastered the art of. It all seems a bit over-the-top at first, but when you actually find yourself in a hurry, those drive-thru cash machines can be a life-saver. 12 I knew fast food drive-thrus were popular, but my mind was blown when I saw a drive-thru pharmacy Credit: Getty 12 Yes - drive-thru weddings are a real thing in Las Vegas Credit: Getty Overly-customised coffee Ordering Head to somewhere like Dunkin , and it's a whole different ball game. If there's one thing Americans love, it's customising their coffee. Waiting in line for my cappuccino, I'd often overhear requests for something like a venti iced swirl decaf caramel oat latte with a quarter cup of creamer, and eight pumps of sugar-free vanilla. These coffees often looked and tasted more like Leave the British-isms at home You probably wouldn't expect to read this on a list about travels in America, but brace yourself for the language barrier. You're going to need to swap takeaways for takeouts, crisps for chips, chips for fries, taps for faucets and rubbish for trash. When I was working at a traditional When I tried to say things in British English, they'd simply look at me confused. By the end of the summer, I was basically fluent in Needing a jumper even in a heatwave I've never been to Antarctica before, but I have experienced American AC - so does that count? Just when you've gotten used to the scorching heat, you'll walk into a store or shopping mall and get hit with a blast of freezing cold air. Forget packing light - if you're heading to America in the summertime, you'll still need to bring a hoodie or two for your trip to Target. 12 My regular takeout meal: a Double-Double from In-N-Out with animal style-fries Credit: Jenna Stevens 12 My first ever trip to Target (I was glad to have chosen a long-sleeve top) Credit: Jenna Stevens American flags everywhere I think I can count the amount of times I've seen the Union Jack out and about on one hand - Jubilees, The Olympics, and maybe once or twice when watching In America, patriotic pride is next-level. From front gardens, schools and sports games to shirts, cars and bars - the American flag is truly everywhere. I even saw the The stars and stripes are a truly iconic symbol, and are just as much a part of the scenery as the pickup trucks and neon fast food signs. 12 A large American flag decorated the entrance of the local mall Credit: Jenna Stevens 12 An actual picture I took at Summer Camp. Why have one flag when you could have two? Credit: Jenna Stevens
Scottish Sun
24-06-2025
- Scottish Sun
I lived in the US for 3 months – the 12 bizarre things I noticed as a Brit from drive-through weddings to VIP service
I felt like I had to learn a new language to get them to understand. US-YAY I lived in the US for 3 months – the 12 bizarre things I noticed as a Brit from drive-through weddings to VIP service Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) AFTER spending three months in the States, I came home with a suitcase full of souvenirs, sugary cereal, and a whole load of culture shock. I had been living in Santa Rosa, California, a beautiful city near San Francisco known for its wine, perfect weather and the invention of Snoopy. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 12 A trip to Nintendo World at Universal Studios Hollywood - there was plenty to do on the weekends in California Credit: Jenna Stevens Back when I boarded my 11 hour flight from London, I really didn't know what to expect on the other side. It was my first trip to the states - and whilst I knew that America does things big, I didn't realise just how extra it would be. After a summer of settling in, there was loads that left me baffled and bursting to tell people back home my weird encounters. Here's the 12 strangest things I noticed from my time in America, that will leave the British brain scrambled. Toilet door gaps One thing I just couldn't get over was the giant gaps in public toilet cubicles. I'm talking wide open spaces above and below the toilet door. Sometimes the gaps were so big you could see someone's shoes, shins, and even their knees through the stall. Going to the loo in a public place felt less like a private moment and more like a public stage. 12 Saloon style doors for toilets? Not quite what I was expecting Credit: Getty Huge portions for smallish prices No need to worry about being charged a ridiculous price for a tiny serving - here, everything comes massive. In America, a small drink from McDonald's is 89 per cent bigger than in the UK, and a cup of Big Gulp fizz can hold up to a whopping 1.9 litres. The overlooked Florida winter sun destination with theme parks and historic cigar neighbourhood 12 Fellow Sun Travel reporter Cyann couldn't believe her eyes when this 'meal for one' was placed in front of her Credit: Cyann Fielding 12 Big Gulp fizzy drinks come in giant cup sizes at 7-Eleven shops across the US Credit: Alamy I couldn't believe my eyes when I ordered a 'Bigger Plate' at Panda Express - it looked like enough to feed a family for under $12. And if you decide to 'supersize' anything, best of luck. At least you'll have your dinners for the entire week ahead sorted. Insane public parks When I think of a park, I think of a large patch of grass lined with trees, a couple of benches, maybe even a fountain if you're lucky. In California, a walk in the park would have you stumbling across lakes with lifeguards, inflatable obstacle courses, dog agility courses, barbecue grills, public picnic blankets and outdoor fitness equipment. In America, the local park isn't just for walking your dog - it can be an entire day out for the whole family. 12 Picnics in the park were my favourite way to spend a day off Credit: Jenna Stevens Needing a car to cross the road Here in the UK, pretty much everywhere is walkable. In the US? Not so much. I quickly learned that American cities just aren't built for pedestrians. Pavements are rare, crossings are few, and 'jaywalking' is taken very seriously. But things got pretty ridiculous one day when my friends and I had to order an Uber just to cross the road to McDonald's. Tipping culture madness We all know that tipping is way more of a thing in the states than at home in the UK. I knew heading over to America that if I go out to eat, I should tip my waitress around 20 per cent of the bill. But what I didn't expect was that tipping culture doesn't just apply to restaurants. Taxi drivers, baristas, bartenders, hairdressers, even bus drivers - I soon found out that everyone expects you to leave a tip. As a Brit, I couldn't bear the thought of coming off as rude. So I kept forking over my dollars. So if you're planning a trip to the states - be sure to budget your tips for more than just meals! 12 I really didn't expect to have to tip for my coffee Credit: Getty Over-the-top customer service Walking into any American restaurant, I felt like a VIP. Hospitality is taken to the next level in America - before you've even sat down, you know your waiter's name and your drink is on the way. Sometimes the servers were so friendly that it actually creeped me out a bit. There's only so many times someone can ask "is everything perfect for you?" with a big grin on their face before you start to get a little weirded out. Nonetheless, it's hard to complain when you feel like you're being treated like royalty every time you order a burger. Everyone's your best friend Us Brits are known for our small talk and for being stand-offish. An American stranger will strike up a conversation with you in a lift like they've known you for years. People chatted to me in shops, queues, streets, even out on a run. Americans really are just that friendly - once you get over the initial "are they talking to me?", it's actually quite refreshing. Drive-through everything In America, if there's a way to do something without getting out of the car, they've made it possible. Drive-thrus aren't just for fast food anymore - it's coffee, pharmacies, banks and even weddings. It's all about convenience - something Americans have mastered the art of. It all seems a bit over-the-top at first, but when you actually find yourself in a hurry, those drive-thru cash machines can be a life-saver. 12 I knew fast food drive-thrus were popular, but my mind was blown when I saw a drive-thru pharmacy Credit: Getty 12 Yes - drive-thru weddings are a real thing in Las Vegas Credit: Getty Overly-customised coffee Ordering coffee at home tends to be pretty simple: black, white, oat milk or skimmed? Head to somewhere like Dunkin, and it's a whole different ball game. If there's one thing Americans love, it's customising their coffee. Waiting in line for my cappuccino, I'd often overhear requests for something like a venti iced swirl decaf caramel oat latte with a quarter cup of creamer, and eight pumps of sugar-free vanilla. These coffees often looked and tasted more like milkshakes - but who am I to complain when they're so delicious? Leave the British-isms at home You probably wouldn't expect to read this on a list about travels in America, but brace yourself for the language barrier. You're going to need to swap takeaways for takeouts, crisps for chips, chips for fries, taps for faucets and rubbish for trash. When I was working at a traditional American summer camp, I caught myself telling my kids to "throw your chip bags in the trash". When I tried to say things in British English, they'd simply look at me confused. By the end of the summer, I was basically fluent in American. Needing a jumper even in a heatwave I've never been to Antarctica before, but I have experienced American AC - so does that count? Just when you've gotten used to the scorching heat, you'll walk into a store or shopping mall and get hit with a blast of freezing cold air. Forget packing light - if you're heading to America in the summertime, you'll still need to bring a hoodie or two for your trip to Target. 12 My regular takeout meal: a Double-Double from In-N-Out with animal style-fries Credit: Jenna Stevens 12 My first ever trip to Target (I was glad to have chosen a long-sleeve top) Credit: Jenna Stevens American flags everywhere I think I can count the amount of times I've seen the Union Jack out and about on one hand - Jubilees, The Olympics, and maybe once or twice when watching Eurovision. In America, patriotic pride is next-level. From front gardens, schools and sports games to shirts, cars and bars - the American flag is truly everywhere. I even saw the American flag attached to a dog several times. The stars and stripes are a truly iconic symbol, and are just as much a part of the scenery as the pickup trucks and neon fast food signs. 12 A large American flag decorated the entrance of the local mall Credit: Jenna Stevens
Yahoo
13-02-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
10 new attractions in Singapore in 2025 to check off your bucket list
It's not often that you get a new attraction in Singapore given our city's limited land mass, so when it occurs, it becomes a must-do thing. This year will see numerous new attractions popping up around the country, from nature-themed resorts to theme park zones. Check out our list of the 10 new attractions in Singapore to satisfy your wanderlust without travelling out of the country. If you haven't been to Universal Studios Singapore (USS) for a while and are a fan of the Despicable Me franchise, there's one more reason to visit USS over the March school holidays with Minion Land opening on 14 Feb. It replaces the former Madagascar zone. Guests can look forward to exploring 3 districts at Minion Land: Minion Marketplace, Gru's Neighbourhood and Super Silly Fun Land. You will be able to buy Minion-themed souvenirs, embark on an immersive motion simulator ride and dance to tunes remixed by the Minions. Other surprises that await guests in USS Minion Land include photography opportunities with the Minions at a courtyard fountain where the Minions are causing trouble once again. If you're an adult Singapore resident, pay S$74 for a one-day pass. Foreigners pay S$83. 8 Sentosa Gateway, Singapore 098269 +65 6577 8888 Mon to Sat: 10am – 7pm Sun: 10am – 8pm Facebook | Instagram | Website Announced in 2019, Super Nintendo World is another upcoming themed zone at USS. While construction was delayed because of the pandemic, it is expected to open this year. Here, experience iconic rides and games featuring Mario and friends, including Mario Kart: Bowser's Challenge and Yoshi's Adventure. As with the Super Nintendo World at Universal Studios Japan and Hollywood, the zone will also likely contain interactive elements. With a Power-Up Band, take on challenges, collect virtual coins and more during your adventure. Super Nintendo World will also likely feature some of Nintendo's most noteworthy venues, including Mushroom Kingdom, Peach's Castle, and Bowser's Castle. Super Nintendo World is the result of a partnership between Nintendo and Universal Destinations & Experiences. If you're an adult Singapore resident, pay S$74 for a one-day pass. Foreigners pay S$83. 8 Sentosa Gateway, Singapore 098269 +65 6577 8888 Mon to Sat: 10am – 7pm Sun: 10am – 8pm Facebook | Instagram | Website The S.E.A. Aquarium in Singapore was rebranded as the Singapore Oceanarium in 2024 as part of Resort World Sentosa's RWS2.0 expansion plan. Expected to open in the first half of 2025, the new oceanarium will be around 3 times larger than its predecessor. The new oceanarium will feature digital exhibits, research and education centers, and a contemporary design, while emphasising sustainability and conservation via installations. By mid-2024, construction updates included a new temporary entrance in the Maritime Experiential Museum building, which has been repainted blue, and enhancements to the Open Ocean Habitat gallery, now with glass facades for an improved viewing experience. If you're an adult Singapore resident, pay S$41 for a one-day pass. Foreigners pay S$44. 8 Sentosa Gateway, Singapore 098269 +65 6577 9977 Mon to Sat: 10am – 7pm Sun: 10am – 5pm Facebook | Instagram | Website If you missed the unique rock and roll-inspired experience and lush tropical landscaping at the Hard Rock Hotel Singapore and was wondering why there has been no news of the hotel recently, it closed and was rebranded as the Resorts World Sentosa (RWS) in 2024. As part of the RWS 2.0 Expansion, a new luxury hotel will be located on the site of the former Hard Rock Hotel. The new hotel will have over 350 rooms, including deluxe rooms, suites, and a presidential suite. Local construction company Mint Building Services has been awarded a contract for mechanical work installations for the hotel. Construction on the new hotel began in 2024 and is expected to be completed by 2025. While prices have not yet been announced, it will likely be on the steeper end of things. 8 Sentosa Gateway, Singapore 098269 +65 6577 8888 Facebook | Instagram | Website If you're an animal lover but are bored of the wildlife attractions here, Singapore's fifth zoological park, Rainforest Wild Asia, will open at the Mandai Wildlife Reserve in Mar. Inspired by treks through rainforests, guests can embark on various discovery journeys tailored to their appetite for adventure. A diversity of paths enables adventurers to seek out wildlife and marvel at the wonders of a rainforest, both above and below the ground. Flexible habitats will be introduced at Rainforest Wild Asia for the first time. Different animals, such as red dholes and babirusas, will be featured at various times of the day. Rainforest Wild Asia will house 29 iconic animal species, including new-to-Singapore species such as the endangered François' langur monkey and the Philippine spotted deer. 20 Mandai Lake Road, Singapore 729825 Facebook | Instagram | Website Universal Studios Singapore (USS) Minion Land to open in 2025 Are you looking for a place to stay after visiting Rainforest Wild Asia? If so, you have got to visit the Mandai Rainforest Resort by Banyan Tree Holdings. The resort will open in Apr. At the heart of its architecture is biophilic design. It shapes every aspect from programmes to amenities. Tapping on Banyan Group's legacy of honouring the essence of every location, the 338-room resort has rooms nestled in greenery or with a view of the Seletar Reservoir. The unique layers of the rainforest — from the forest floor to the canopy — are an integral part of their nature-inspired room designs. Their hotel rooms include the Retreat Room (2 double beds for a maximum of 2 guests) (S$416/night), the Sanctuary Room (1 king bed for a maximum of 2 guests) (S$480/night) and the luxurious Mandai Treehouse (1 king bed for a maximum of 3 guests) (S$1,136/night) fit for a king. 60 Mandai Lake Road, Singapore 729979 Daily: 3pm (check-in) & 12pm (check-out) Facebook | Instagram | Website Perfect for a Christmas or year-end vacation, the Disney Adventure cruise ship will sail from the Marina Bay Cruise Centre from 15 Dec 2025. It will offer 3 and 4-night trips. There will be 7 imaginatively-themed areas across the ship—each filled with immersive experiences such as Broadway-style shows, lively deck parties, film screenings, and memorable meet and greets with favourite characters from Disney, Pixar and Marvel. Disney Adventure joins Disney Cruise Line's fleet of 5 ships, alongside 2 others — the Disney Treasure and Disney Destiny — that are on the way. Set to be the biggest ship in the Disney fleet, Disney Adventure can carry 6,700 passengers and 2,500 crew members. While other Disney cruises sail to the Caribbean, Europe, the South Pacific, Australia and New Zealand, Disney Adventure will be the first Disney cruise ship to home-port in Asia. 61 Marina Coastal Drive, Singapore 018947 +65 6604 8305 (Cruise Centre) /+65 6228 3728 (Cruise Line) Daily (24 hours) | | Inspired by the exhibition in Season 3 of the Netflix series Emily in Paris, the Balloon Museum Singapore will be at the Marina Bay Sands (MBS) from 13 Jun to 31 Aug. Starting in 2020, the museum debuted in Rome before taking over Paris, Naples, and New York City. The exhibition invites visitors to explore air as a physical and symbolic medium. With huge inflatable displays, exciting light installations and engaging art pieces, the showcase will blow you away (pun intended) with its display of innovation and marvel. While ticket prices have yet to be announced by Balloon Museum Singapore, you can sign up for their waitlist. Be the first to know when tickets go on sale and get 50 percent off. 10 Bayfront Avenue, Singapore 018956 +65 6688 8868 | | If you are a nature lover, you would be glad to know that the boundaries of Singapore's proposed second marine park in Lazarus South, off Kusu Island, are expected to be finalised in 2025 after the National Parks Board finishes discussions with the authorities. The discussions will cover the types of features and amenities, such as walking trails, that visitors can expect from the second marine park. With a second marine park here, island hoppers will also have the opportunity to learn about marine biodiversity in the southern waters, from knobbly sea stars to fluted giant clams, while enjoying recreational activities. The country's first and only marine park thus far – the Sisters' Islands Marine Park – was announced in 2014. The announcement to designate the southern part of Lazarus Island and the reef off Kusu Island as the Republic's second marine park was made in May 2024. As with the Sisters' Islands Marine Park, entry is likely to be free, but you will have to pay for a ferry to the new attraction in Singapore. Bring a cap if you can't stand the sun. Lazarus Island If you bring your family to the Gardens by the Bay often for a picnic, you would be glad to know that a playground will open near the Active Garden by the first quarter of 2025. It joins a bevy of free and user-friendly facilities at the Active Garden. These include an outdoor gym, an interactive musical playground, a communal garden, expansive event lawns and a pet-friendly café, making the Active Garden your family's romping ground. The new attraction in Singapore is set to be a woodland-themed dry playground that will provide families with pleasure and exploration of their natural surroundings through play. 18 Marina Gardens Drive, Singapore 018953 +65 6420 6848 Daily: 5am – 2am | | Balloon Museum Singapore at MBS from 13 Jun to 31 Aug with inflatables & light displays The post 10 new attractions in Singapore in 2025 to check off your bucket list appeared first on
