🇺🇸 How “City” Is Salt Lake City, Really? 🏙️❓

Salt Lake City is a classic example of an American Western city — spacious, scenic, and nestled on a plain surrounded by mountains and the Great Salt Lake. After spending a few days here, I’ve noticed some major differences from life in China: 1️⃣ It’s so quiet! 🚶♀️ Streets are pretty empty even during the day. (No idea about night — I don’t dare go out after dark! 😅) 2️⃣ Low-rise living 🏡 Aside from a few office buildings, most structures are single-level. Homes are often standalone houses with yards or small apartment complexes. 3️⃣ Blur between city and countryside 🌳 Even downtown areas like City Creek are full of greenery and have a rustic, natural vibe — unlike the sharp urban-rural divide in China. (Or maybe I just haven’t seen real American countryside yet?) 4️⃣ Food & drinks 🥗🍔❄️ Everything’s served ice-cold — even water! Typical meals: salads, steaks, sandwiches, burgers… and coffee with every meal. Quality can be great — or seriously bland. No wonder every international student learns to cook! I already miss rice, stir-fries, and hot pot so much 🥺🍲 5️⃣ Friendly locals 👋 Americans are polite, outgoing, and warm. Even strangers say “hello” on the street! 6️⃣ Car culture 🚙 Vehicles here seem to be freely customized. Lots of Jeeps — lifted super high! Not as many luxury brands on the road. 7️⃣ Apple Store 📱 Looks exactly the same as the ones in China — no surprises there! #SaltLakeCityLife #USvsChina #CulturalObservations #AmericanWest