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You can get "Lonely Planet", Culture Shock!" at the local public library or your school library for free if you don't feel like buying it. Or you caould always check online.
Check out the US State Department (web site) for more info on traveling abroad, VATs, which countries are safe etc.
Every country has different laws but the guide books should help. Otherwise, you can either contact their consulates or visit their websites and they'll be more than happy to help you.
As for fears of Anti-Americanism, don't act like an ass (The Ugly American Syndrome) on help to dispel those feelings instead of making it worse. Sometimes I travel as a Canadian instead (patch on backpack, t-shirt etc). I know it's unpatriotic I suppose but it's survival.
Best advice: "When in Rome...." ( I assume you know the rest) and "Do unto others..."
Good luck and have fun!
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