Truths About Cruises That Made Us Rethink Our Vacation Plans
In theory, taking a cruise seems like a great idea for a family vacation. You get to see many different places, you enjoy the open ocean, and there are so many things to do onboard. But, that's what cruise lines want you to think. There are many things you don't see being advertised, like small rooms and crowded pools, to name a few. So, before you book your next cruise vacation, read our list, and then decide!
Boarding The Ship Is Not Like A Red Carpet Walk
While you might think that getting onto the ship is like walking the red carpet, it can actually be very stressful. There are hundreds of people with their luggage all trying to get on the board and settle into their rooms at the same time.
Boarding The Ship Is Not Like A Red Carpet Walk
The dock looks like a great place for a photo-op, but it is not a great place to stop because everything is hectic, and people are not afraid to use their elbows.
The Hot Tub Is Not Private
Once you have settled in, it is a great time to hit the deck, and sit in the hot tub while you enjoy a scenic view of the ocean. Well, you aren't the only one with that idea, and the hot tubs can start to feel crowded quickly.
The Hot Tub Is Not Private
It is an interesting way to make some friends, but you might want to avoid the hot tub instead. Maybe take a stroll around the deck to get used to the boat before jumping into the crowded waters.
The Rooms Are Not As Spacious As They Said In On The Website
When you booked your cruise, you were probably excited by the luxurious rooms that were pictured on the cruise line's website. Then, you get on board to find that you have a windowless cramped room with bunk beds.
The Rooms Are Not As Spacious As They Said In On The Website
Yes, if you want to shell out tons of money, you can get a cabin with a balcony and modern features. Continue reading to find out what the bathrooms are really like in your "luxurious" cabin!
Under My Umbrella, Ella, Ella
In the middle of the ocean, the sun can be very strong, so instead of seeing a wide-open deck, you will probably look out to see one with all the umbrellas opened.
Under My Umbrella, Ella, Ella
It might not look great, but at least you will be protected from the harsh sun.
The Bathrooms Might Be A Little Cramped
The bathrooms in the cabins may not have gleaming marble, expensive finishes, or space to move around, but at least the room has a bathroom, right?
The Bathrooms Might Be A Little Cramped
Space is limited on the cruise, so they have to keep the bathrooms small. Again, if you have a luxury room, the bathroom is much nicer than the average cabin.
Good Luck Finding A Chair To Sit In
The main pool always seems to be one of the most beautiful places when you look at pictures of cruise ships. Then, you get on board and everyone gravitates to the pool making is overcrowded and impossible to find an open chair.
Good Luck Finding A Chair To Sit In
It goes from a relaxing vacation to music blasting and people yelling in a matter of minutes. Also, when the ship rocks, so does the water in the pool and it becomes a dangerous wave pool without a lifeguard.
"Did Someone Say Buffet?"
Were you expecting white-glove service for all three meals? In reality, most of the day, ships will have buffet-style meals so they can feed the thousands of people on the boat without long wait times.
"Did Someone Say Buffet?"
On luxury cruises, there are fantastic dining options that come with an additional cost. The food at the buffet is not bad; it is just not the five-star dining experience you were hoping for.
Cakes, Cakes, And More Cakes
On most cruise ships, there are buffets open all day. Usually, the options are unhealthy, like burgers and fries or donuts and cakes. On top of the food, people are spending the day drinking sugary cocktails.
Cakes, Cakes, And More Cakes
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It is easy to overeat these options because they are readily available, and who doesn't like a burger when they have been drinking non-stop for days on end.
"Fine Dining"
If you have seen Titanic, you are probably expecting everyone to be dressed up and dining on fine china. While there are certain nights that everyone dresses up and has a five-course meal, most nights are like dining at a chain restaurant.
"Fine Dining"
This is not to say the food will be bad; it just won't be lavish like you had pictured. Also, be prepared for a packed and loud dining room.
This Is What They Call Relaxing
Although the pool is one of the main attractions on cruise ships, it is not always a spot that is considered relaxing. Since there are so many people, you have to keep a watchful eye on your children.
This Is What They Call Relaxing
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With crowded pools, swimming can be quite dangerous. Your relaxation expectations might not go as planned.
Where Are The Dolphins?
Most people have this idea that they will see dolphins following the boat, but that rarely happens when you are out in the open ocean. Sea creatures tend to avoid large ships, so most of the time you will be staring out to nothing but water.
Where Are The Dolphins?
Don't be disappointed though; on the open ocean, you can see some of the most beautiful sunsets.
Working On A Cruise Will Be Fun, They Said
If you have seen shows like Below Deck, you will know that working on a boat is not easy work. Their cabins are often for multiple employees, and they have little to no privacy.
Working On A Cruise Will Be Fun, They Said
It may seem fun to get to work on a cruise ship and travel the world while getting paid, but there are many downsides.
The Ports Might Not Look Like Instagram Photos
When you booked your cruise, did you expect to see beautiful beaches right as you pulled into port? Unfortunately, the ports are mostly cement structures with a few palm trees.
The Ports Might Not Look Like Instagram Photos
Once you get off the boat, there are plenty of places to see the beautiful scenery. Ports aren't meant to be the final destination, so it shouldn't really matter if it is pretty or not.
Your Luggage May Or May Not Be Lost
Just like airlines, cruises can lose your luggage too. There are thousands of passengers with multiple suitcases, so it is possible for a suitcase or two to be left behind.
Your Luggage May Or May Not Be Lost
Luckily, most modern cruise ships are like floating malls. If your luggage is lost, you can go shopping for a whole new wardrobe!
Try Not To Get Cabin Fever
When you take a cruise in the winter and leave from a northern port, the chances are that the first few days of sailing are going to be too cold to sit by the pool. While there are many activities, they do not happen 24/7, so you might have to find ways to entertain yourself.
Try Not To Get Cabin Fever
Your kids might complain of boredom, so be prepared with cards and games so your family doesn't get cabin fever.
"Shuffleboard Is Fun" - Said No One Ever
Shuffleboard is a popular activity on cruises. When there are no other activities, shuffleboard is always an option.
"Shuffleboard Is Fun" - Said No One Ever
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You might spend most of your time waiting for your turn, but at least you weren't cooped up in your cabin.
Cue The Titanic Theme Song
Many people are tempted to recreate the "I'm flying" scene from Titanic. We hate to break it to you, but it probably won't live up to your movie expectations.
Cue The Titanic Theme Song
Some things are better left to the movies and your imagination.
"I Paid For An Ocean View"
When you paid for an ocean view but forgot to look at the ship's deck plan. Sometimes, you can find yourself looking out at a lifeboat instead of the ocean. That extra money you paid for a view and balcony is completely wasted.
"I Paid For An Ocean View"
If you aren't planning to spend most of the time in your room, it is not a problem. It is just not something you want to wake up to every day.
When They Said The Entertainment is "Quality"
So you saw pictures from your friend's cruise and the Rascal Flatts performed, and now you are so excited to see what performer will be on your ship. Don't get your hopes up because most of the time it is a magician or some girls singing karaoke.
When They Said The Entertainment is "Quality"
After unlimited alcohol, people have no problem getting up in front of strangers to belt out "Girls Just Wanna Have Fun."
People Of All Ages
Cruises are fun for people of all ages. Some cruises offer age-specific demographic. If you book a regular cruise for all ages, you will see young and old people.
People Of All Ages
Unless you booked a cruise for your age, the majority of people will be 55 and older. The upside to that is that the people won't be partying till all hours of the night!
The Beautiful Cruise Ship
When you expect to walk into the port and see a pristine ship with a gleaming white exterior, but your ship looks like this. If the boat is not brand new, it won't be as perfect as it once was.
The Beautiful Cruise Ship
The ship is exposed to the harsh elements of the sea and goes through wear and tear the more it is used.
Endless Alcohol
"Shots, shots, shots, shots, shots." From mai tais to Pina Coladas, you can get pretty much any drink with an alcohol package. The endless alcohol is fun until you have been drinking for three days straight, and the hangover finally kicks in.
Endless Alcohol
Although, with so much alcohol on board, the peaceful vacation you imagined usually turns into a giant frat party.
Scary Sailing
The weather is continually changing out at sea. From thunderstorms to rough waters, these are things to be prepared for when you go on a cruise.
Scary Sailing
In fact, ships are often struck by lightning. You are perfectly safe, but it can be scary if you are not expecting these stormy possibilities.
Mingling
"Hey ladies, do you come here often?" It is common for people to go on cruises looking to meet someone for a cruise fling. You might have some extra courage with all the alcohol.
Mingling
It is important to remember that when you go on a cruise, it should be more about having fun with your friends and family, instead of meeting someone.
A Swanky Casino
When you boarded the ship, were you expecting to find a Las Vegas-style casino? Typically, it is a few card game tables and some slot machines.
A Swanky Casino
It can still be a fun activity to do, but it is not always the big swanky casino you expected.
Romantic Getaway
Cruises are a big attraction for couples and honeymooners. It is a time to get away with your loved one and take a break from your everyday routine. In your head, you are imagining peacefully sitting by the pool, but with families and rowdie youngsters, it can be hard to find a moment of peace.
Romantic Getaway
It might not be the romantic experience you had envisioned, but it will still be better than waking up early to go to work.
When They Run Out Of Deck Chairs
As we said previously, the main pool area gets crowded quickly, but that shouldn't stop you from enjoying a cocktail while lounging in the sun. Sadly, this is actually more difficult than you thought it would be.
When They Run Out Of Deck Chairs
When the upper decks get full, and all the chairs are occupied, people often drag mattresses out of their rooms to enjoy the fresh air. Honestly, tanning on a mattress sounds better than lying on a deck chair.
Perfect Weather
No, cruises do not always have perfect weather the entire time. Sadly, the captain cannot control the weather at sea.
Perfect Weather
Sometimes, the ship will sail through a storm, which is why it is essential to make sure the boat has lots of indoor and outdoor activities for any weather.
Relaxing Beaches
When you get off the ship in a tropical location, you are probably expecting relaxing and quiet beaches. When you get to shore, most people go to the same popular beach and it gets crowded quickly.
Relaxing Beaches
Surprisingly, it might be a good time to have the ship's pool to yourself while the rowdy passengers are at the beach.
"Must Find Service!"
Most boats charge for wifi, so if you do not feel like paying, you will likely be without service while out at sea. This could be an excellent time to detox from your phone and enjoy your vacation.
"Must Find Service!"
If you came with your family or friends it will be easier to spend quality time with them without the distraction of your phone.
Your First Day Is Spent Doing Emergency Drills
Remember in school when there were fire drills? Cruises have them too! During the first day of your cruise, most of your time is spent boarding the ship, settling into your room, and emergency drills. Every cruise is required to have emergency drills so passengers are prepared for anything.
Your First Day Is Spent Doing Emergency Drills
There are thousands of passengers on the boat, so these take a while to get everyone lined up and cooperating. It's just like grade school, only on a ship with thousands of strangers and louder alarms.
Flooding In The Halls
"Oh no, is the ship sinking?!" Not to worry, the halls on the lower decks sometimes take on water when the seas are rough. Your room might flood if this happens, and then you will have a private pool in the comfort of your cabin.
Flooding In The Halls
You might fear that you are going to be like Jack and Rose and have to decide who gets to lie on the piece of wood safely, but this is a common occurrence. Another reason to love cruises.
You Probably Won't Get To Meet The Captain
The captain is a very important person because they are running the ship. Instead of walking around the cruise meeting people, the captain spends most of the time making sure the ship is on course and the weather is safe.
You Probably Won't Get To Meet The Captain
Wouldn't you be more concerned if the captain wasn't tending to the ship? Who else is supposed to steer the ship?
"Uh Oh, I Think I'm Going To Be Sick!"
Unfortunately, seasickness is a real problem. On larger ships, you will feel less of the motion, but it is still possible to get this motion sickness feeling.
"Uh Oh, I Think I'm Going To Be Sick!"
One of the best ways to combat this feeling is to stare at the horizon because it doesn't move and it can help you feel more stable.
The Boat Waits For No One
When you get off the ship, make sure you plan for time to make it back before the boat leaves. They will not wait for you if you are late.
The Boat Waits For No One
If you do miss the boat, it is your responsibility to find a way to the next port to catch up with them.
It's Like Contagion In Real Life
On a cruise, there are thousands of people confined to a ship for days on end. If one passenger gets sick, it is likely that many people will catch it.
It's Like Contagion In Real Life
It is common for flu outbreaks to happen on cruises causing the trip to end early. Try to keep your hands clean and sanitized, so you don't get sick onboard.
"Some one Who Loves Me Went On A Cruise And All They Bought Me Was This Stupid T-Shirt"
Most of the time, the places you visit on a cruise are very touristy. You have to go out of your way to find exotic souvenirs.
"Some one Who Loves Me Went On A Cruise And All They Bought Me Was This Stupid T-Shirt"
Most of the stuff you will see is tacky shirts and bags that say "I heart (insert location here)."
"Hide Yo Kids, Hide Yo Wife, Hide Yo Wallet"
Like any place you go, it is not always guaranteed that the staff is one hundred percent trustworthy. From time to time crew members have stolen things from guest rooms.
"Hide Yo Kids, Hide Yo Wife, Hide Yo Wallet"
Fortunately, most rooms come with a safe in the closet. If you have any valuables that you want to leave in your room, make sure you lock them up for safe keeping.
"No Billy We Are Not Paying $40 For You To Take A Picture With A Monkey"
On top of the many additional costs on the cruise, you might find yourself paying for pricey excursions.
"No Billy We Are Not Paying $40 For You To Take A Picture With A Monkey"
Depending on what you want to do, you could end up paying upwards of $100 per person. Do research before you book off-boat excursions to see if it is worth the extra money.
The Adventure Of Disembarking
If you thought boarding the ship was fun, wait till it's time to get off. Everyone is trying to get off at the same time as quickly as possible, and people can be impatient.
The Adventure Of Disembarking
You will get through this experience, but it might not be fun at the moment.
Maps Of America 🇺🇸 That Make Us Question Everything We Know About The USA maps
This article was originally published on tv-bee and has been republished here with permission.
Before the times of GPS and cell phones, maps were the main way to find one's way from point A to point B without getting lost. Nowadays, we have maps for everything from land elevation to animal location origins. Maps are fantastic things, just ask the cartographer at the local map store, he'll be sure to feel the same way. So if you're ready to take a look at 40 of the most interesting maps of America, keep reading!
Shakin' All Over
From icy Alaska down to sunny California, one reason for not living on the West Coast of the States could be the very healthy fear of being caught in an earthquake. In reality, no matter where in America you live you run the risk of getting caught in an earthquake.
Shakin' All
That being said, there is a dramatic difference between a massive 9.2 magnitude quake and a smaller 4.7 one. Frequency also plays a role, so keep that in mind when picking where to live!
If A Tree Falls And No One Is Around To Hear It...
To answer the age-old question...yes it still makes a noise. All because no one is around to hear the tree fall that doesn't mean no one is listening. If Orwell taught us anything, someone is always listening.
If A Tree Falls And No One Is Around To Hear It...
Natural loudness is measured in decibels by the noises of the wild. This could be the sound of the wind, the water, the birds, and yes, even the sound of a tree falling in the forest with no one around.
Life's Tough
Depression is a real problem amongst people of all ages and from all walks of life. Let's have a look at which parts of America are affected the most.
Life's Tough
It may be the lack of a winning sports team or maybe it's the weather, but for some reason, the North-West and the Mid-West seem to have the largest issues with depression.
Barking Up The Wrong Tree
It's not just the diversity of its people that makes America so unique. Whether it's for building a tree fort or for getting maple syrup there is a tree for everyone.
Barking Up The Wrong Tree
With over a hundred different species of trees in some parts, the eastern coast of the States sports the most diverse tree population. However, with more than one thousand species of trees scattered across the country there is something for tree enthusiasts everywhere.
Higher Education
Graduating from college is meant to be a celebratory occasion for a new graduate. After all, even though 'the future is now' it often starts with crippling debt.
Higher Education
Upon graduating, most graduates owe more in college debts than the average American earns in one year.
Moving To The Midwest Then Huh?
It is crazy to think that the average annual salary needed to buy a house in New York City is almost double that of being a homeowner in sunny Tampa Bay. But that's nothing compared to the prices out west.
Moving To The Midwest Then Huh?
For all those who are eventually looking at retiring out west think again. An average annual salary of over $100K is needed in almost every major western city. And don't even think about the move to San Jose unless the family is bringing in at least a quarter of million dollars annually.
Big City Folk
We have just seen that mother nature on the east coast has caused more natural noise pollution than elsewhere in the country. It is now time to see where the majority of all noise pollution in America comes from (not just the natural kind).
Big City Folk
It does not come as any surprise that the Los Angeles and San Francisco areas produce a lot of noise, however, they don't call New York 'The City That Never Sleeps' for nothing.
Two Creams And One Sugar Please
Over the past few decades, coffee culture is something that has taken the world by storm. For any Canucks heading down the east coast on a road trip, feel free to dunk those donuts but don't expect to find too many Tim Horton's around.
Two Creams And One Sugar Please
Starbucks has not only put itself at almost every major street corner and petrol station across the United States, it has also created its own coffee language. According to the map the majority of Americans do prefer their tall, non-fat, extra hot, no foam, one pump vanilla lattes.
That Sure Is Quite The Load
The great American railroad system has been moving supplies across the country for almost two hundred years, but these days it does not deliver the goods quite like it used to.
That Sure Is Quite The Load
Out east, the waterways and highways take the majority of the loads down the coast. Out west one can always see a large number of cargo trucks hauling supplies along the national highway. It simply reaches more places these days than the railway does.
Left Out In The Cold
It is a privilege to be able to go home at the end of a long hard day but not everyone is so lucky. This is one of those maps that helps to remind us just how fortunate we all are.
Left Out In The Cold
Over 150,000 homeless people live in California and almost 100,000 in New York alone. That is almost a quarter of a million homeless individuals in just two states.
With or Without Pulp?
A nice glass of freshly-squeezed OJ is always nice with breakfast. It might be surprising to learn which is the only state increasing its annual orange production.
With or Without Pulp?
Even the orange production is bigger in Texas. Out of the three main states that produce oranges each year only Texas has shown an increase in production.
Halloween Costume for Every State
Halloween is a favorite holiday to celebrate among Americans. It's actually so popular that it's even celebrated with big Halloween parties and parades outside of the states in places like South Korea, England, and Spain. However, this map points out the most common costumes in each state. Okay, maybe it is not real, but it's a play on what would most likely be worn there! And there is no denying that it's pretty funny.
Halloween Costume for Every State
So which state do you identify with? Maybe next Halloween, you'll be a sexy umbrella? Or perhaps even a sexy bottle of water?
Expansion
Presidents are constantly attempting to leave their marks and cement their legacies. Some of them are just better at the 'Art of the Deal' than others.
Expansion
Andrew Johnson purchased Alaska for only 7.2 million dollars in the year the first Canada Day was celebrated in 1867, and the Louisiana Purchase cost Thomas Jefferson a whopping 15 million dollars in 1803.
3D Map of Population Density
This map is another of those which gives a bit of a different perspective on the country.
3D Map of Population Density
Much like the numerous tall buildings that reside there, New York's population density also towers over that of the other states.
Everyone's Guilty Of Something
We all have that one vice that is just so hard to ignore sometimes. Let's take a look at which states are the most angelic as well as the most sinful.
Everyone's Guilty Of Something
If the movie 'Seven' taught us anything, it's that giving in to temptation could get us into a lot of trouble. The bottom corners of the country sure do look like a lot of fun though.
The Map of Shame
This is a map entirely dedicated to pinpointing what each state in America is worse at. It's pretty morbid and definitely takes an approach to mapping that few have seen before. Some claim this is the best worst map ever. It doesn't tread lightly and might even be offensive to some. But after all is said and done, it is one creative approach to something that could be hard to imagine were it not for this.
The Map of Shame
This might not be the best map to show in a classroom or business meeting, but it sure is entertaining.
A Map of the USA According to an Australian
This map is labeled by an Australian, which can only mean it will be insanely accurate. Okay, maybe it is not, but for someone who didn't grow up in America, they didn't do that bad. Most people who did grow up in the states don't even know the geography of the country well. Therefore, this is impressive, regardless. Let's face it, America is so big it's hard to remember anyway, right?
A Map of the USA According to an Australian
Considering there are fifty states in the US, it's almost as if there were fifty different countries all packed into one! So this guy definitely nailed the big ideas.
Soy Latte Please
Over the past few decades, we have seen an increase in alternative eating habits and soybeans have been the base of a lot of these products.
Soy Latte Please
Thanks to the American prairies' production of soybeans for her soy latte, 'Starbucks Karen' will have one less thing to complain about.
Tis The Season
It is Christmas tradition for many families to pack themselves into the family car and head out looking for the perfect tree. Even the desert states have at least a couple of Christmas tree farms
Tis The Season
Considering the enormous fines one would get for cutting a tree down off the side of the highway for Christmas, it's probably for the best to know where the local farm is for the holidays.
Most Used Word in Each State
At first glance, this map demonstrates the most used word in each state. If you glance at it, it seems interesting. Who knew that random words like 'data' and 'stuff' could be everyday words? Well, hate to break it to you, but this map might be lying to you. If you take a closer look and read the map closely, you'll uncover a special message that you might've almost missed.
Most Used Word in Each State
The real message is that printing words on a map like this looks more professional and believable. That's why it's important to fact-check!
Job's Mostly Held by Immigrants
When immigrating to a new country an individual knows that they may need to work a job that they are not too fond of. It is a sacrifice that is made with the 'American Dream' in mind.
Job's Mostly Held by Immigrants
It is no big surprise to see here that most immigrants start off in a more subservient occupation, as these are the less desired jobs. A job is a job though.
Don't Forget The Stuffing
About a month before Christmas every year Americans all over the country tell their loved ones about all the things they are thankful for. Without these next farms a lot of people would be a lot less thankful every November.
Don't Forget The Stuffing
Turkey farmers right across the middle eastern part of the United States work hard every year to ensure that every little pilgrim out there has the thanksgiving they deserve.
What Every State Is Known by
If Americans were to give each state a slogan, it would go something like this. Whether you agree or not and think each motto is fitting to the state, it's pretty darn funny. This is what living in America is like in a nutshell. But things might not go so smoothly if this was brought into a geography class. Best to skip over showing this map to a geography teacher.
What Every State Is Known by
Since maps are meant to help people understand parts of the world, this may give some cultural insight into what it's like to live in the states.
Final Resting Places
Some presidents have been put to rest in the Arlington National Cemetary while others have been laid to rest in their own hometowns. Let's take a brief look at the distribution of the burial plots for the Commander in Chiefs who are no longer with us.
Final
Scattered across eighteen different states in addition to the District of Columbia, the deceased former presidents of the United States may be gone but they are surely not forgotten.
Locked Up
Almost every state in the country has at least one federal prison. Whatever happened to those maximum security prisons in the middle of the mountains that we see in the movies?
Locked Up
After seeing how many federal prisons there are in America just imagine if the funding for even a third of those prisons would go into rehabilitation instead of imprisonment.
Healthy Eating
Continuing along the lines of healthy eating, a lot of people seem to have grown tired of eating foods covered in pesticides and other chemicals for some reason.
Healthy Eating
Organic foods could cost an arm and a leg but it sure is nice to know that there's nothing toxic being sprayed onto our food.
Did You Want Fries With That?
We have already seen that McDonald's is the most popular place for people to go for some late-night drunk food, but we all have our own favorite burger place to go to if given the opportunity.
Did You Want Fries With That?
Here we see that McDonald's may be everywhere but it is not the only option. Burger King and the Queen of Dairy remain towards the top of the charts and Texans have made Sonic burger their choice.
And He's In For The Touchdown
It is absolutely no surprise that the highest-paid public employees in America are connected to sports. The success of a college or high school sports team is paramount to a town's happiness and it shows in how much they are willing to pay their coaches.
And He's In For The Touchdown
A high school football coach makes an average of around $45K a year which is not too bad at all, but it's no wonder the end game is to coach college. The average salary for a college football coach is 2.7 million dollars a year. Talk about scoring.
Mind The Bears
The American landscape is vast and beautiful. No matter where one goes in the country there are spectacular sites to be seen.
Mind The Bears
Planning an Appalachian trail walk or cross country skiing through the Rockies? Fear not, this map has it all. Just steer clear of Yetis and keep away from those picnic baskets.
A Different View Point
The map that is used in Alaskan schools has Alaska in the center and North America to the East. This is just a fun one for a bit of a different perspective.
A Different View Point
With how secluded it is from the rest of the country it's no wonder Alaska sees the rest of America as 'that place down there'.
Route 66 Anyone?
Now that we know where the national parks are and how fast we can go, let us have a look how to get to them.
Route 66 Anyone?
Connecting Americans with each other far and wide, the National Highway Services helps to unite all parts of America, with over 164,000 miles of roads that stretch all across the country.
Poached Or Fried?
As long as people are eating breakfast there will be a demand for eggs. More than fifty billion eggs are laid in America each year and Iowa unexpectedly leads the way in production.
Poached Or Fried?
Fun uneggspected fact: brown eggs come from hens with red feathers and red ear lobes while white eggs come from hens with white feathers and white ear lobes.
'I'll Get A Litre O' Cola'
Some people call them chips and others call them crisps. Some call them cookies while others call them biscuits. But what happens when the chips and biscuits make us thirsty. What do we ask for?
'I'll Get A Litre O' Cola'
Depending on where we find ourselves on this cross country road trip of ours, the answer may vary. Just don't walk into a place on either coast and ask for some pop or the locals will be able to spot the tourists.
'Isn't The Speed Limit 55?'
Driving along an empty highway road with music blaring and the wind blowing through our hair can be quite a freeing experience, as long as it is done within the confines of the laws of course.
'Isn't The Speed Limit 55?'
Most states do have a similar maximum speed limit but it is always better to check first before going on a road trip. Being pulled over by a state trooper is a great way to ruin a vacation.
Need A Roommate?
New York and California maybe two of the more desirable places to live in America but that may change once learning the cost of any apartment bigger than a shoebox.
Need A Roommate?
Better start looking for a roommate. With an hourly wage of under $25 an hour don't even bother looking for a place with more than one room.
Locked And Loaded
It is amazing to see the percentage of Americans who have decided to exercise their Second Amendment rights.
Locked And Loaded
For all those who are against guns, maybe just steer clear of the entire center of the country.
'Wanna Play A Game?'
Here's a fun one for the horror buffs out there. From the Texas Chainsaw Masacre' to '30 Days of Night', horror films have taken place in every state right across the country.
'Wanna Play A Game?'
It's time to use that map of the interstate highways to get us the heck away from the midwest. And no summer camps either!
Cold War Era
Because of the fears that they would defect, it was very difficult in the times of the Soviet Union for Russians to gain permission to leave their own country. Even when they were able to leave there were limits on where they would be allowed to go once in the other countries.
Cold War Era
From the late 50s until the end of the cold war the places in red on this map were actually the places where Soviets were not allowed to go. Kind of takes the fun out of an American vacation doesn't it.
Self-Haters
Sometimes where we come from defines who we are, alternatively, it sometimes defines who we don't want to be. One either has pride for their own state or they do not.
Self-Hater
That pride runs in their veins otherwise they usually have an escape plan. Maybe it's because of all the noise pollution out East that's causing the lack of state pride and desire to pack up.
Origins
As we know, hundreds of years ago the United States of America was built by the hard work of immigrants from all over the world who were trying to find a better life for themselves and their families.
Origins
In the hundred years between 1820 and 1930 more than 6 million Germans and 4.5 million Irish made the long journey by boat from Europe to the New World. That makes up almost 10% of the entire population of America in 1930.
Think The Drive Through Is Open?
After any big night out on the town, it is imperative to grab some grub on the way home. But which are the most frequented establishments to go to late at night in order to quench this craving?
Think The Drive Through Is Open?
This all depends on where we find ourselves. As great as some late-night hashbrowns and fries could be, few things are better than a nice greasy spoon breakfast, like the one we would find down in the South.
Where's That Name From?
Now that we know where the majority of Americans' ancestry lies let's have a look at where the individual states' names originated.
Where's That Name From?
It is no big shock to see that the majority of the States' names are derived from Native words. What is a little amazing to learn however, is that the number of states with names of English origin is less than a dozen.
Time To Head To The Coast
We are very lucky to be living in such a scientific age. As science and medicine progress, life expectancy has been on the rise.
Time To Head To The Coast
With all the nice weather and oranges around for vitamins, it is no wonder why California and Florida are sporting two of the higher life expectancies in America.
Land Distribution
We've now seen where in the States the soybeans are grown and even where the majority of eggs and turkeys come from, but ever wonder how much of America is protected federal wilderness or used to make maple syrup? Well, it's definitely not as much there should be.
Land Distribution
Believe it or not, there is more land dedicated to cow farming and their pastures than any other industry in the United States.
Family Matters
We have now seen where all the highways and national parks are across the country and we know how fast we are allowed to drive in each state. We even know where most people go for food after a big night out. Now let's have a look at whose family road trip will have the most cramped car.
Family Matters
As we can see by this map even the family sizes are bigger in Texas. Families right across the southern part of America will have to jam pack themselves into the family car with not much leg room to spare.
Before you leave here just smile 😶
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