The US is the worst developed country I've visited for fellow travelers

I've been to over 70 countries and done a pretty good job traveling the world on a modest budget as a solo female traveler. Until I went to the US. I've been to nearly 40 of the 50 states and I'm not giving up on the US, but right now I can't help but feel like it's the worst developed country I've visited so far. From high prices to poor infrastructure, this country has a lot to improve when it comes to traveling here. High prices, even for budget options. Accommodations, transportation, and food are expensive in the US. Even budget options are pricey, and good luck finding solo-friendly rooms at hostels that aren't just dorm beds. I've stayed in Airbnb apartments for $300 a month in cities in Europe and Asia, but that's unheard of here. Transportation. Forget public transportation outside of the northeast corridor. The US has some of the worst public transportation in developed countries I've visited. Trains are expensive, buses are even worse, and driving is a must, but be prepared for bad roads, tolls, and expensive gas. Car rentals are expensive too, especially for solo travelers who pay more for insurance. Even budget airlines are pricey, and don't even get me started on taxis and ride-sharing. And then there's the cost of living. Everything from groceries to entertainment is overpriced. Even fast food is expensive here. I recently spent $20 on a meal at a fast food chain that would have cost me half that in Europe. Tipping culture is also a nightmare. It's expected everywhere, even for small purchases like coffee, and the percentages just add up. Infrastructure. The US has some of the worst roads in developed countries I've visited. Potholes are a regular occurrence, and some roads are so bad you'll need a 4x4 just to navigate. And then there's the lack of pedestrian-friendly spaces, especially outside of big cities. The US also lags behind in high-speed internet, especially outside of urban areas. As a remote worker, this is a big issue. Even the airports are often outdated and poorly maintained, especially when compared to European airports like Amsterdam's Schiphol. And don't even get me started on security checks - the US is one of the only developed countries that still separates kids from adults during screening. Another thing that's frustrating is the lack of cultural exchange. Unlike other developed countries, the US doesn't have a strong culture of hosting exchange students or welcoming visitors. Even in big cities, it can be tough to find other travelers to hang out with. Lastly, the US has some of the strictest visa policies in developed countries. Even for countries with good diplomatic relations, the US can be overly restrictive with visas, especially for solo female travelers. Don't get me wrong, there's still plenty to love about the US. The diversity, history, and natural beauty are all amazing. But as a solo female traveler on a budget, the US has been a tough country to navigate. I've spent more money, faced more challenges, and felt less welcomed here than anywhere else I've visited. The US might be a superpower, but when it comes to traveling, it feels like a super-disappointment.

The US is the worst developed country I've visited for fellow travelers

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