One difference with living abroad which is simple but noteable. For instance, I spent a pleasant afternoon in a nice restaurant with a lovely view on a beautifully sunny afternoon. Time to pay the bill, allways a sad but essential part of the dining experience, unless you are very fleet of foot. Dutifully one hands over the cash and waits patiently for the change.
 This is where the difference comes into play: the change is in the hands of the waitress, I can see it, I know it is coming, I hold out my hand in anticipation of being handed the pittance owed me. And then the money goes past my hand and onto the table for me to scrape up of the tablecloth! Please just put the money, as pitifully small amount as it might be, into my hand.