Respect the rules, enjoy the culture. Essential legal advice and social norms for USA, Canada, and Mexico.
Disclaimer: This guide provides general information, not legal advice. Laws can change. Always follow instructions from local authorities.
Three countries, three very different sets of rules. What is legal in Vancouver might get you arrested in Houston or Mexico City.
| Feature | 🇺🇸 USA | 🇨🇦 Canada | 🇲🇽 Mexico |
|---|---|---|---|
| Drinking Age | 21 (Strictly Enforced) | 18 or 19 (Province dependent) | 18 |
| Public Drinking | Illegal (Open Container Laws) | Illegal (Mostly) | Illegal (Fines/Arrest) |
| Cannabis | State dependent (Federally Illegal) | Legal Nationwide | Decriminalized (Complex) |
| Last Call | 2 AM (Commonly) | 2 AM - 3 AM | 3 AM - 5 AM (Varies) |
Do NOT cross borders with cannabis. Even if you are traveling from Washington (Legal) to British Columbia (Legal), crossing the federal border with any amount is a serious crime.
In the USA, you will be carded almost everywhere if you look under 40. International travelers should always carry their Passport as ID; foreign driver's licenses are often rejected at bars.
For visitors from Europe, Asia, or South America, North American tipping culture can be a shock. In the US, it is not optional—it is how staff are paid.
USA Standard
Canada Standard
Mexico Standard
Note: Check your bill for "Gratuity Included" or "Service Charge" (common for parties of 6+). If added, you do not need to tip extra.
Personal Space: Americans value personal space (arm's length).
Small Talk: Very common. Strangers will smile and ask "How are you?". It's polite to reply briefly.
Punctuality: Being on time is expected.
Politeness: "Sorry" and "Please" are used constantly. Be polite in queues.
Queuing: Never cut in line. It is considered extremely rude.
Diversity: Very multicultural society; comments on race/accent can be sensitive.
Greetings: A handshake or light hug/cheek kiss (one cheek) is common.
Time: "Ahorita" can mean "now," "in a bit," or "never." Flexibility is key.
Respect: Be respectful of national symbols and avoid loud, drunken behavior in family areas.
FIFA World Cup stadiums have stricter rules than domestic league matches.
Knowing the rules keeps you out of trouble and lets you focus on the beautiful game.