Well, I agree with you.
Spent 8 days in NYC and 2 in Niagara Falls. Never had a meal served to me that I hollered over. Having just spent the previous fortnight wandering around Scandinavia I also thought there was nothing that I don't see in an Australian capital.
When was the last time you saw cobblestones on a regular street, small homes on a street front, people riding bikes without car drivers going berserk? In Australia?
Drivers are better in US. Remember, these folks can be packing Heat and you annoy them they might just pull it out. But I saw one rage incident and it was totally called for - unlike Sydney where you'll cop a spray for a nothing incident.
People serving in the shops? Start a training business down here folks, you'll either get real rich or get real broke. Aussies just don't get service in shops like the US does.
Homeless - yes, lots and some serious cases on the street. The comment about poor and ill is very true and real.
Smokers not allowed in Parks? Yee haa, I just loved it. Bring it on.
Just shows to go, we all have different opinions and experiences. Like Renato said, if you don't compare things why bother leaving the house.