The plane touched down, and a strange sense of déjà vu washed over me. It had been 15 years since I last set foot on American soil, and while the landmarks in my memory were clear, a feeling of “what’s new?” was impossible to shake. I was about to rediscover a country I thought I knew, and the adventure began before I even left the airport.
The first thing I noticed was how much more seamless, yet simultaneously scrutinized, the entry process has become. In the past, it was a straightforward visa check and a few questions. Now, with heightened security and a digital-first approach, a pre-approved ESTA (if you’re from a Visa Waiver Program country) is the norm, and it’s critical to have all your documents—passport, return flight information, and proof of accommodation—readily available, both digitally and as a physical backup. The immigration officer’s questions are more direct, and it’s best to be prepared with clear, concise answers.
Once outside the airport, the changes in daily life are even more apparent. Here are a few things that surprised me:
1. The Rise of the Digital Wallet. Cash used to be king, but now, it’s all about credit cards, mobile payments, and contactless technology. Tipping, which is still a significant part of the culture, is now often done right on the card reader, with pre-calculated options making the process both simpler and more transparent.
2. The Tipping Landscape. On the topic of tipping, while it has always been customary, the expected percentages have increased. A 15-20% tip for good service is standard in restaurants, with many people giving 25% for exceptional service.It’s an important part of the dining experience to remember.
3. Planning Is Everything. The days of a spontaneous, “wing-it” travel style seem to be over, at least for some popular destinations. National parks like Yosemite and Zion often require reservations for entry or specific trails during peak seasons. Even major theme parks like Disney now encourage—and sometimes require—you to book everything from restaurant reservations to ride passes well in advance to avoid long waits.
4. Everything is Big (Still). This is one thing that hasn’t changed. The sheer scale of the United States remains mind-boggling. Distances that look short on a map can take an entire day to drive. Planning a trip to see more than one or two regions requires careful thought and a lot of travel time, whether you’re flying, taking a bus, or embarking on a classic American road trip.
5. The Healthcare Reality. While this is a serious note, it’s also a crucial one. Healthcare costs in the U.S. have skyrocketed over the last 15 years. Before you travel, comprehensive travel insurance is no longer a “nice to have,” but an absolute necessity to protect yourself from unforeseen medical emergencies.
Despite all these changes, the things I love about the U.S. are still here. The diversity of its landscapes, from the stunning national parks to the bustling cityscapes; the friendly nature of the people who are always up for a bit of small talk; and the incredible food scene that offers everything from classic American comfort food to international cuisine from every corner of the globe.
Returning to the U.S. after 15 years is a trip back in time and a jump into the future all at once. It’s a reminder that while the world moves on, some things—like the feeling of possibility and adventure—remain just as compelling as they were before.