Pre-Departure Orientation Manual - US Agency for International ...

06/14/2012 New Edition
Americans generally prefer coffee to tea, with more than half the adult population drinking at least one
cup a day. Marketing by U.S. industries is largely responsible for making orange juice and milk (now often
fat-reduced) ubiquitous breakfast beverages. During the 1980s and 1990s, Americans' caloric intake rose
24%; frequent dining at fast food outlets is associated with what health officials call the American
"obesity epidemic." Highly sweetened soft drinks are widely popular; sugared beverages account for 9%
of the average American's daily caloric intake.
GROCERY STORES, MARKETS, RESTAURANTS, AND OTHER
EATERIES
There are many types of eateries in the U.S., from fast
food establishments and cafeterias, to restaurants and
cafes, to large grocery stores and markets. However,
since your stipend or allowance must cover many
other extra costs, USAID suggests that you budget
your money carefully. It is a good idea to look
carefully at the menu before eating in a restaurant. If
you have any dietary restrictions you should ask
before ordering. Some restaurants may add sugar or
salt during cooking which might impact your health.
Grocery stores and markets are prevalent in the United States and offer a wide variety of fresh
fruits and vegetables, meats and cheeses, and other staples that you can purchase to prepare
your own meals. These stores offer packaged and frozen food as well. In many large cities it is
common to find markets that cater to specific cuisines. These are known as international food
stores or ethnic markets.
Many convenience stores and drug stores carry packaged and frozen food.
Restaurants are the most expensive type of eatery, and generally serve breakfast, lunch and
dinner.
Fast food establishments and cafeterias will be the least expensive type of eatery, and most are
open to serve breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Cafeterias are often found in large office buildings and at most universities.
Cafes serve lighter meals than restaurants, but can be just as expensive.
If you are part of a university program, you will have a university meal plan that will cover your meals at
university cafeterias and other designated locations. Many dormitories have small cooking facilities
available in the building or on the floor where students live. Students can prepare some meals for
themselves if they choose, depending on how close the dorm is to a market and how well-equipped the
kitchen is.
LAWS
The United States is governed by laws. There are federal laws, state laws and local laws that apply to all
individuals living, visiting, or working here. Laws in the United States may be very different from laws in
your home country, and when violated, the punishment may be very different from the punishment you
might receive back home. If you are unsure if something that you want to do is legal, ask someone.
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