Population

American population was estimated at 307.212.123 people in July 2009 (according to the CIA’s World Factbook); 36 million people of the US population are born outside the US. The United States is the country with the 4th largest population of the world. 80% of Americans are white, 13% are black and 4.5 are Asian. Hispanics represent 15% of the total American population but they come from all sorts of different origins (Cuban, Mexican, Porto Rican…).

 Climate

Because of the large surface of the country, the US has many different types of climate. A major part is dominated by temperate climate, except for Hawaii and Florida where the climate is dominantly tropical.

 Traditions

Traditions and mentalities are different from one state to another; however we can distinguish clear differences between Americans and European. Americans often are very nice and polite; they’re very welcoming and smiley with the people they meet. The usual way of saying hi does not implicate any physical contact; however it’s common for close friends to hug. In restaurants, waiters are very courteous, polite and efficient; it is recommended you give them a tip that represents about 15% of your check if you enjoyed the restaurant or café.

National Holidays