What Are the Local Customs in California?

After a few weeks in California, I’ve gathered a few thoughts on the local customs:

• Contrary to what’s often thought, Americans are more conservative than Europeans. This became apparent when I hit the beach with a friend. We put on our swimsuits, the norm where we’re from. However, most people there weren’t quite ready for sunbathing. Younger girls were still dressed similarly to us, but older women strolled around in tunics or T-shirts with shorts.
• But here’s the kicker: today’s experience made me chuckle. Feeling under the weather, I finally visited a doctor after struggling for days. The doctor, who seemed like a typical laid-back American, proved me wrong. As I started explaining my discomfort, intending to show him my swelling, he backed away abruptly. He asked me to take off my shirt and even handed me a textured paper apron. He insisted I not forget to take off my bra. Then he darted out of the room. I didn’t realize I was being so indecent. Apparently, hereby doctors examine patients through a layer of paper.

What Is Californian Mentality Like?

So much has happened that when I ponder what to jot down, I’m at a loss. The gist is that I’m alive and kicking, and my perspective has done a couple of somersaults.

Therefore, after careful thought, I’ve reached some conclusions about America and its people. It’s tough to pinpoint exact American traits, as each state is a bit like its own country with varying mentalities.

This is why I’ll focus on California. According to Harrington and Gelfand (2014), U.S. states vary widely in cultural tightness—how strongly they enforce social norms and how much deviation they tolerate.

Historically, threat-prone states tend toward stricter norms, whereas states with fewer such pressures tend toward greater permissiveness.

• Folks in California are incredibly friendly. They greet you with smiles, and there’s a general contentment with life.
• There’s a hint of racism. The media and streets are politically correct, but a closer look reveals racial segregation still exists. According to Logan (2013), residential segregation of Black Americans in U.S. metro areas remained high in the 2010 Census, with integration nearly stalled. Unfortunately, black individuals often end up in the toughest and dirtiest jobs.
• The laws are strict, but followed. Rules are taken seriously. When I arrived on campus, a leaflet warned against using Internet music sharing software under a $1.5 million penalty. Similarly, having alcohol in the backseat of a car can lead to jail time According to NHTSA, most U.S. states enforce open-container laws restricting alcohol in vehicles, which are associated with fewer alcohol-related crashes., and buying beer for someone under 21 is a no-go. Oddly enough, marijuana is semi-legal (with a prescription), and growing it might just get you a small fine. Californians are quite chill about it.

What Is the Appeal of Gold Hunting and Wildlife?

• Gold and bears. Rivers nearby, contrary to the Alaska-centered gold expeditions of the 19th century, have valuable ore. Americans head to the wilderness with their families on weekends. Unlike Poles who pick mushrooms or berries, they hunt for gold. According to the Bureau of Land Management, casual recreational gold panning is legal on most public lands in California without a permit. As a result, areas like the Merced River are popular for it. Interesting, right? The local wildlife is diverse too; near the ocean, you might spot whales or whale-like creatures. Plus, there’s a lot of bears, deer, and other forest dwellers. Venture into the woods, and signs reading “Bear Active Area” pop up.

Where Does the American Tourism Spirit Show Up?

• America has a sensible tourism policy unlike Europe’s tendency to nickel-and-dime tourists for everything from restrooms to parking. For instance, entering Sequoia National Park didn’t cost a dime. Well-maintained trees, guides, viewing platforms, parking — all for free. You can enjoy the park without breaking the bank. Factor in the low fuel costs, reasonable tent rentals, and relatively cheap food. Consequently, traveling in the States is surprisingly affordable.
• The national sport of Americans. Och my, how times have changed! I’m getting close to appreciating football. I attended my first baseball game ever, and it was quite a revelation. An everyday Los Angeles Dodgers match, nothing too serious, yet there were 13,000 people at the stadium! Watching a few guys on the field and one trying to hit a ball with a bat, the score remained at zero. My friend and I thought it was just a warm-up. Little did we know it was the main event — at least according to most of the audience. We spent 2.5 hours there. Quite an experience. More observations about this multicultural and intriguing society to come.