United States of America

Sign Language for
the USA

Other than California where I was born and raised, I’ve been to Oregon, Arizona, Utah, Nevada, New Mexico, New York, Florida, Hawaii and Washington D.C.

  • There are DIVERSE of people here, including their races (Latinx, White, Asian etc.) & religion (Catholicism, Islam, Christianity, Buddhism, etc.)
  • There are 50 states – you can take a road trip across some states or take flights (budget US airlines: Frontier, Spirit, JetBlue, Allegiant, etc.) 
  • Popular states:  California, New York, Hawaii, Nevada, Washington, Oregon, Texas, Florida, and Washington D.C.
  • Not all states experience the 4 seasons. Like Los Angeles, CA (no snow there too!)
  • Safety: Take precautions due to crimes, including hate crimes and domestic terrorism
  • During introduction, Americans tend to ask about occupation than their marriage status (unlike some countries in Asia and Latin America)
  • Individualism characterizes many families here, but it depends upon families’ background (such as Latinx families)
  • A handshake is a common greeting. 
  • Americans like to have personal space
  • Punctuality is generally very important
  • Tipping at restaurants, salons, etc. usually starts from 10%+
  • USA does not recognize American Sign Language (ASL) as an official language
  • Not many Deaf here know International Sign*
  • We have laws where we have the right to request interpreters for different institutions 
  • The largest Deaf communities you’ll find are in Washington DC and Austin, Texas. 
  • The only Deaf university in the world is located in Washington D.C., named, Gallaudet.
  • There are several Deaf associations across different states! 
  • Several Deaf businesses are established, such as ASL NYC, Mozzeria & more.

Foodies & Activties

  • Consider getting cities tourism cards
  • Download Yelp app to find local restaurants and stores
  • Use Groupon or Livingsocial to find great deals for activities, food, etc

Accommodation:

  • Hostels are not common in the US. You can try hotels, motels, AirBnB, or Couchsurfing.

Transportation:

  • Best cities for public transportation: Washington DC, NYC, San Francisco, Boston, Chicago & Seattle. Definitely not Los Angeles yet but they’re slowly improving.
  • Download Transit app or use Google map to find direction & time for local buses & metro
  • Rent a car is more likely needed to explore the states. Otherwise, use flights, Amtrak (train) or buses like: Megabus, BoltBus or Greyhound
  • Download Lyft or Uber app for your own personal transportation
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