Living in USA

Saturday, January 12, 2008

Living in USA

You will find this section a useful guide to living in the United States throughout your stay in the USA. It explains everything from the basics, such the US monetary and banking system, to the intricacies of clothing sizes and national holidays. It also includes tips on how to stay safe, secure, and healthy.

Housing
Upon arrival in the USA, you will need to find a place to stay. Look here for advice on finding accommodations, leases and landlords, and hooking up utilities.

Transportation
Learn about the weird driving habits of Americans, from driving on the "right" side of the road to the Pittsburgh left turn. There are also tips about bicycles, taxicabs, and public transportation.

Money and Banking
Read about US coins and bills, the need for checking accounts and credit cards, and traveler's checks and exchange rates.

Shopping
Find out about everything from sales tax to saving money and clothing sizes to alcoholic beverages.

Mailing and Shipping
The US Postal System is one of the least expensive and most efficient in the world. Unfortunately, this means you will get a lot more junk mail. If you need to post a letter or ship a package, find everything you need to know here.

Safety and Security
This section will teach you a few simple precautions that can help protect you from crime and let you know what to do in case of an emergency.

Health Care
It is important that you read this section, because the United States does not provide free socialized medicine. International students are required to have health insurance in order to matriculate in college.

Families with Children
If you bring your children with you, you will need to know about day care and the US school system.

Entertainment
Here are our picks of good tourist attractions for international students, a discussion about student discounts, and basic information about television, newspapers, and magazines.