British man reveals unexpected things he loves about the US — and Americans are grateful
This tourist's 3-week trip from England to USA made him confess, 'I feel like America is family. I honestly feel adopted.'
There are ample culture shocks Americans are receiving whilst in other countries, and unfortunately, non-Americans don’t have great ones when they witness the U.S. system. However, an Englishman named Josh is turning the tables. Hailing from England and having enjoyed a mesmerizing trip in America, he is sharing culture shocks that are making Americans grateful for being in the U.S. Josh shares the little things — driving on American roads, fishing on the lake during winters, and other stuff that locals often overlook. In a post shared on January 29, an American commented to thank him for reminding them of the good they still have.
Ever since he embarked on his trip to America, Josh has been blown away by the vivid, simple things that most Americans don’t see. For instance, in a video posted on January 28, 2026, the man called America “the most beautiful place on Earth” because of one breathtaking view — Lake Huron in Michigan. As he shared the layers of ice that created a soft abyss, the view of the bridge and the pastel skies, he couldn’t help but stop and ponder. In another video shared on January 26, 2026, Josh shared his awe for Americans being able to drive through snow, fog, and everything. “Hold on, you’re telling me Americans actually drive through these roads?” he asked, jaw-dropped.
It’s several firsts like these that the man took on with an open mind. He shared a comment from Jerry Smith, “You’ve made a lot of Americans grateful for being in America.” The man added that getting a raw glimpse of what the country is like when witnessed for the first time with an open mind is something every American needs. “It’s nice to finally feel and see the good in ourselves once again,” the comment concluded. And Josh was moved by his words. “Coming here as a Brit, I didn’t want to see a headline or a stereotype, I wanted to see the real America,” he remarked. To him, this realness was found through “beautiful sights, amazing people, and incredible cultures.”
In a recent post, he revealed that after three weeks of just wandering, he headed back to the U.K., but with unforgettable memories. “I feel like America is family. I honestly feel adopted,” he remarked. He emphasized how there’s always more than what meets the eye when he comes to America. Penning an emotional caption, he added, “America, thank you. I say this every time I leave your beautiful country but truly, thank you. I love every single one of you who joins me on these crazy journeys as I try and find my way around things that amaze me every single time I land in America.” And maybe a fresh perspective is really the need of the hour.
Data shared by Gallup revealed that American pride is no longer as great as it used to be. Only 58% of Americans said they were “extremely” proud to be Americans. The rank has dropped by 9 points over the last few years and has reportedly hit a record low. In 2001, the percentage was at a solid 87, but over the years, a significant drop has been recorded. The younger generations are losing their feeling of appreciation for their country more than others. Gen Z had the lowest number (41%) of people who were proud to be Americans. These notable declines have been due to a variety of reasons, mainly economic conditions, freedom and ideologies, dissatisfaction, and political issues as well.
However, pushing it all aside, Josh’s experiences have encouraged Americans to reconsider their firsts, many of which still stand in the country today. And they’re grateful for the reminder. Jackie Davenport wrote, “I often wonder what the settlers/pioneers thought the first time they saw this vast country, but I think you have shown us a glimpse of how they felt.” Robin Stoddard added, “You have brought so much joy to Americans who forgot how awesome the USA is because of things beyond their control.”
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