Wherever you go, the first thing you will be served is a pitcher of ice water. In the States, there is a cult of cold – in stores and hotels, air conditioning is on full blast, cafes serve drinks exclusively with ice, and people eat several servings of ice cream every day on the streets.
By the way, this is not surprising: in the summer, the temperature in many cities does not drop below +25 even at night, there is practically no wind due to high-rise buildings and the distance from the ocean, so people escape the heat in improvised ways.
If you are used to eating in cafes and restaurants during your vacation, consider a few tips. Firstly, order appetizers and salads at the rate of one serving for two or three people. Do not be surprised if you are brought a salad weighing about 500-600 grams – this is the custom here. Secondly, choose “small” portions or from combo offers. This way you will not overeat and will not feel heavy. And thirdly, ask them to pack the rest of the stuff with you. In the US, no one will look at you askance for that, take my word for it.
