[ANGIE4124]

Having travelled extensively across my own country - Australia in various formats and parts of Europe (1982), I am now venture bound for the USA in March - April 2012. And I have been marvelling at the differences with my discoveries in the American culture and customs, particularly with accommodation facilities (3 star), eating out, tipping and taxes.

Example - 3 star Hotel/Motel
The standard minimum here is a Mini-fridge, Electric jug - coffee, tea, sugar sachets and milk. Crockery, Toaster and Microwave…Towels and personal shower packs, hairdryer, extra pillows, blankets, alarm clock and air-conditioning are ALL/at most provided within our accommodation. The only tax is a Goods and Services Tax - GST at 10 percent (which was introduced back in 2000). Plus there is no tipping.

In comparison to this and it is an observation only to which I need to budget and prepare for whilst we travel the USA. I have found that most of these facilities do not come as a regular feature. Plus the multiple taxes, fees, hire thereof and tipping thereafter are extraordinary to us. So am I safe to assume that eating out is the normal practise/custom, given that these rooms hardly contain any refrigeration and or cooking appliances?

As it shall be exhaustive, unhealthy and an expensive trip thinking we would have to eat out every single night, let alone breakfast and lunch. Although I am informed that eating out is cheap? But what is cheap? Would you be kind enough to give examples please in US Dollars?

Our itinerary being, Flight to Miami - Amtrak to New York - Coach Tour via Canada to Orlando.

[Fr_Chuck]

Almost no place provides anything for food. A few will provide a fridge and microwave. Often these may be in less than three or four star places, The fancier the hotel, the more likely you will find things like whirlpool tubs, better views, sitting areas, computer docks and the such.

Depending on how long you plan on staying, there are places called "extended stay" which is normally for a week or more stay, that will have small stove, fridge with plates and the such.