[originaltext] American women are used to being independent. They are used t

American women are used to being independent. They are used to going places by themselves, earning their own money, and often living alone. Sometimes they will ask men for help, but they usually don’t want to be protected.  Since the women’s movement started, it’s not always clear whether women expect men to open doors or help them into their coats. American women may start conversations with men or even ask them to dance.
    There are a lot of Americans who don’t smoke or drink, and many who don’t want people to do those things in their houses. It’s always best to ask before you bring alcohol to a dinner or be fore you light up a cigarette, if you’re with people you don’t know very well. Nonsmokers have become more militant about smoking in public places. Many restaurants, for instance, have established special sections for smokers.
    House guests may bring gifts when they come to visit, and they often offer to help in some way. As a guest, you may want to ask your host or hostess if there’s anything you can do to help in the kitchen. In many cases, the gesture is more important than actual helping. You may also want to take your friends out to dinner at the end of your stay, but it’s not expected for you to do so