T.M. Kayode

Two years ago, my family embarked on a journey from Nigeria to the United States, expecting to encounter new customs, cultures, and adventures. Little did we anticipate the amusing moments that would come our way. From quirky traditions to unexpected social norms, our time in the USA has been filled with moments that left us scratching our heads and chuckling in disbelief. Join us as we share some of the surprising, silly, and slightly bewildering experiences we’ve encountered on our American odyssey.

Sunshine doesn’t equal warmth: In Nigeria, sunshine typically means warmth, but in the USA, we learned this isn’t always the case. Bright, sunny days here can still bring chilly temperatures, especially in the Midwest where we live and during certain seasons. Experiencing this disconnect between sunshine and warmth was a humorous reminder of the diversity of weather patterns across different regions of the USA. It also taught us to adapt and embrace the unexpected. Using a weather app is a must for us everyday to make sure we are dressed appropriately.

Ease of Returning Purchases: In Nigeria, returning purchases is almost unheard of, so when a friend suggested it in the USA, I was hesitant, expecting a stressful ordeal. However, my first experience proved pleasantly surprising. Simply handing the clerk my receipt led to an effortless refund, without any questions asked. Subsequent returns, even without a receipt, were equally smooth. The convenience extends to online purchases too, with prepaid return labels and hassle-free processes. In another instance, while purchasing makeup products, the clerk dropped a bombshell: I could return the item within three months, with at least 80% of the product remaining! Anyway, the lenient return policy makes it easy to purchase because you know you can easily return it if need be.

Things Going on Sale Anyhow: In the USA, sales seem to happen left and right, not just in stores but also in the realm of individual sellers. From seasonal promotions to impromptu clearance events, there’s always an opportunity to snag a deal. One quirky tradition I’ve come to love is the prevalence of garage sales, especially when summer rolls by. But that’s not all – estate sales are another treasure trove waiting to be explored. I can’t wait to dive into the world of estate sales now that summer is around the corner. These sales offer a unique opportunity to uncover hidden gems while supporting our local communities. What’s truly fascinating is the unpredictability of prices. Something could be listed at $139.99 one day and drop to $17.99 the next. This dynamic pricing, combined with lenient return policies, creates an intriguing scenario. You might purchase an item, only to find it significantly cheaper shortly after. In such cases, you can simply return the item and repurchase it at the lower price, leaving me wondering how companies manage to break even in such a volatile market. It’s a curious phenomenon that adds to the excitement of bargain-hunting in the USA.

Too Many Choices: As someone who enjoys carefully weighing options before making a decision, the abundance of choices in American stores initially seemed like a dream come true. However, I soon found myself spending excessive time navigating the aisles, comparing prices, and scrutinizing product details. This approach clashed with my husband’s preference for quick and efficient shopping trips. Moreover, the sheer variety of options often led to decision paralysis and the risk of selecting the wrong item. For instance, something as simple as buying salt became a daunting task amidst shelves filled with different varieties. Navigating this sea of choices taught me the importance of striking a balance between thoroughness and efficiency. While I still appreciate having options, I’ve learned to streamline my decision-making process to avoid getting lost in the endless aisles of American supermarkets. After all, sometimes too much choice can be just as paralyzing as too little.

The Importance of Dishwashers/Dryers/Garages: In Nigeria, quick hand washing of plates is a common practice, and for a while, it was my routine too. However, our first winter in the USA changed that. As temperatures dropped, the thought of plunging my hands into cold water became less appealing. It was then that I truly appreciated the presence of a dishwasher in our home. Similarly, while washing machines are prevalent in Nigeria, the need for a dryer is minimal due to the warm climate. However, in the USA, particularly during the winter, a dryer becomes indispensable. Hanging clothes outside to dry is often impractical, if not impossible, in freezing temperatures. Having a dryer ensures that laundry is dried efficiently, regardless of the weather outside. Our experience with snowy winters has also underscored the value of covered garages. While we don’t yet have one, we eagerly anticipate the day we do. Shielding our vehicle from snowfall, a covered garage will spare us the discomfort of standing in the cold to clear snow from the car. These amenities, mundane yet essential, enhance our daily lives, adapting to the changing seasons and climates we encounter.

No Switches on Sockets: A quirk of American electrical outlets is the absence of switches. Unlike in Nigeria, where sockets often have switches for turning appliances on and off, American outlets require appliances to be unplugged to cut off power. Initially, this difference seemed odd, but we quickly adapted to the American standard. While it may seem inconvenient at first, it’s simply a matter of adjusting to a different electrical infrastructure.

Healthcare in the USA: Navigating the healthcare system in the USA can be complex, especially for newcomers. Understanding insurance plans, copays, deductibles, and healthcare providers can feel like learning a new language. We had to quickly familiarize ourselves with the system, the terms and our coverage. Watching American-based medical movies or series, like House, has given me a newfound awareness of the intricacies of the healthcare system. In shows like House, where extensive and sometimes unnecessary tests are ordered to diagnose patients, the potential costs of such treatments without adequate insurance are staggering. It’s a stark reminder of the importance of having comprehensive coverage and the privilege of not having to worry about the financial burden of seeking medical care. 

Taxes in the USA: Tackling taxes in the USA has been a learning curve unlike anything I’ve experienced before. In Nigeria, tax allocation is deducted automatically from your salary, and that’s the end of it. But in the USA, it’s an entirely different ball game.  Understanding the technicalities of filing taxes in the USA involves unraveling a web of deductions, credits etc. In the USA, individuals are responsible for filing their own taxes. This means keeping meticulous records, understanding deductions, and ensuring compliance with ever-changing tax laws.  One aspect that caught my attention is the potential for owing the government money if you’re not careful. On the flip side, there are also opportunities for tax credits and deductions that can work in your favor. For example, we benefited from credits due to having children, which helped offset our tax liability. While navigating the intricacies of taxes in the USA can be daunting, it’s a process that I’m committed to understanding better. As I delve deeper into the world of tax filing, I’m gaining a newfound appreciation for the simplicity of the Nigerian system, even as I recognize the potential benefits of the American approach.

Reflecting on our experiences in the USA has been both enlightening and nostalgic. From navigating the nuances of American culture to adapting to new customs and traditions, each lesson learned has contributed to our growth and understanding of this diverse nation.

As we conclude this journey of reminiscence, I’m reminded of the countless more comparisons that have not made this list and discoveries that lie ahead. The adventure continues, and I look forward to sharing more insights and experiences in the future.