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This handy, inexpensive cultural-orientation handbook is written for foreign students, visitors, business travelers, guest workers of all kinds,and immigrants to the U.S.A. The reading level is appropriate for intermediate proficiency English language learners. The text offers a rich vocabulary and many topics appropriate for class discussions. The book is often provided to incoming students and other visitors to make their adjustment to U.S. society easier and their experience from the beginning more enjoyable and stimulating.

The revised ninth edition includes updated information on most of the practical survival topics in the First Steps section, for example what everyone needs to know about money, food, restaurants, drinking and smoking laws, hotels, shopping, transportation, health/medical care and safety, and communications from cell phones to email.

The cultural section, Customs and Values, has been revised and it includes a section on business etiquette. The section on Country Facts has been given greater depth, and the sections on history, the environment, and technology have been rewritten and updated. An updated Appendix on the 50 States gives comparative statistical and political information.

Throughout the book revisions have been made to this edition reflecting the rapid changes in technology and culture in the United States and today's world.

"To the busy traveler, this series of very readable and entertaining guides provides a brief introduction, vital statistics, a little history, and a lot of practical advice that instill a sense of security from the time you arrive at the port of entry. Everything you really need to know - from money and banking practices to health tips to local customs and a brief historical overview - is at your fingertips, in a book that neatly fits in your jacket pocket. If you don't know the territory - or the people - this guide is good company to any stranger in a strange land."

Patrick J. Leahy, U.S. Senator from Vermont
Chair of the Senate Judiciary Committee
Appropriations Subcommittee on Foreign Relations