Moveing to the US?

Question

My partner is an American accademic, she has the offer of a post in Wisconsin, for at least two years.

What should I be aware of when thinking of moveing from the UK to the US.

I know health care all private over there, but other than that...

Answer 1

Along with top quality heathcare promptly administered, you can expect a warm reception.

....And expect to drive on the other side of the road, after getting into the other side of the car.

(some of us don't get out much...and perhaps they might stereotype you...and gas prices are insanely lower than they are in the UK)

Answer 2

You may be sterotyped as prissy and prioper all the time.

Answer 3

Weather is hot in the summer, cold in the winter. Not nearly as moderate as the UK.  But no earthquakes or hurricanes in Wisconsin.  Wisconsin is known as a dairy producing state, and is known for it's breweries, although American beer is different than UK beer.  You probably don't like American football, but it is the home of the Green Bay Packers.  I'm not sure where you will be, but the largest city is Milwaukee.  If you want anything bigger, Chicago is in northeastern Illinois.  Winsconsin borders up against 2 of the great lakes, Lake Michigan on the east and Lake Superior at the northern tip.  If you are used to the ocean, they will only be slightly comforting.  You cannot see across them, but there are no tides to speak of.  We drive on the wrong side of the road, be careful, we don't want you to get hurt.  Policemen here carry guns, but you are unlikely to encounter gunfire.

Answer 4

Since you are from the UK people will most likely stereotype you. also, gas prices are insane.

Answer 5

Since your partner is an American, why don't you ask her?

Answer 6

Try to drive on the right-hand side of the road.  Don't ask people where the chemist is.  If you get sick, tell people you are going to THE hospital.  Try not to aggravate the cops - these are not bobbies.  You don't need permission from the local board before you do anything - just wing it.  If you are in the habit of parking your car on the other side of the road, pointing the wrong way, don't do that in the US - you will get a ticket.  Since you will be living in Wisconsin, be sure to put a large wedge of cheese on top of your head before you arrive.  Your home may have some light switches that turn selected wall outlets on and off; it takes some Brits about a year to figure that one out, so be forewarned.  Try to develop a taste for cold beer.  Don't set fire to anything on Guy Fawkes Day.  In America, we sometimes name our children Randy - even our daughters; try not to laugh too hard at this.  If you go to the race track in America, don't bet a guinea; this will offend Italian-Americans.  If you will be in Madison, it will be a hoot: the city is in a time warp - it is exactly as was at the height of the Vietnam War, except that all the hippies are a lot older.  Every time you meet someone in Wisconsin, be sure to say right off the bat that Bret Favre is the greatest human being in the history of the world.  Don't say "sorry" all the time; people in America might think you mean it.  Hope this helps.