As I travel the world working how do I defend myself against charges of US Bigotry & Arrogance?

Question

I am going to work in a once friendly country tomorrow, where the welcome was pretty warm. After recent events I worry that I might not be received as I used to be.

Answer 1

You just have to remind them that YOU are not the ADMINISTRATION.

I, too, travel a lot and so I'd say unless you happen to be going to Lebanon or Iran, you probably won't have to worry too much. Most of the individuals I meet understand the government is not the same as the individual. In fact, the more extreme the action of the government, the less people seem to associate it with the individual traveller.

Now if you wear a "I " tee-shirt...you are on your own.

Answer 2

Why on earth would anyone charge YOU with US bigotry and arrogance. Bigotry and Arrogance sure, but you aren't an American, and you post from, or at least through, Great Britain. I had it checked. You also use some lower class British idioms in your posts that an American would not.

If you are travelling abroad TO the USA, you probably will not be received well in most quarters:

1: Homeland Security probably knows who you are, and If they suspect you might actually meet with someone of interest, they may wish to find that person. You might finally attain the importance you so desperately crave.

2: The majority of Americans can see through your deceptions rather easily.

So if you are planning on visiting the USA, perhaps you should reconsider.

Answer 3

Well, you have an advantage in that you seem to have some knowledge of this country. If I were in your place, I'd be extra careful about observing the etiquette and other social customs of this place and quietly heighten my personal security measures. This should reduce the chance of confrontive encounters. The present might be a time when Americans abroad should not attempt to date or start romances, since that might lead to inflammatory situations. I know that doesn't sound encouraging, but if I were working abroad in just about any place but Canada or the U.K., I'd concentrate on work and forego a social life. If I were in your place, I'd be sure, when tipping is appropriate, to tip well but not so well as to identify myself as an easy mark and, if bargaining is customary when buying goods in this nation, not to get terribly aggressive in my bargaining - goodwill is more important than maximum savings right now.

Answer 4

My wife travels in Europe frequently. Most European people are sympathetic, knowing that our Nation was lost to a Corporate Coup d'état.

Asia is also very open to Americans. Good luck

Go big Red Go

Answer 5

You tell the story of that poor disabled boy from our local carnival. He started out as just another guy to hold a cane and guess yoru weight. And then, well, not much changed. And then he got some disease and died. And really, he smelled pretty bad and a lot of people hated him. Grimey Bast#rd!

If you could drum up some tears while you tell this story, maybe people will leave you alone.

Answer 6

All depends on how you feel about our country's actions. if it's something that you support- then you'll need to share your reasons why- however, this won't get you liked.

However- it might be easier to blend into the culture if you say you hate what the current adminstration is doing, don't support it, and that's why you left. You want to get to know people in other countries before our wacko president tries to kill them.

Answer 7

The world is full of traveling Americans masquerading as Canadians. Don't forget your manners.

Answer 8

Be confident, friendly and polite. Listen to others and go places with a friend if possible.

Answer 9

You worry too much. You'll be in for a big surprise as to how inacurate CNN and the likes are about America hating.

Answer 10

I think you should be evaluated by your own behavior. If you are a considerate and well mannered visitor, the inhabitants should treat you with courtesy. If they do not, they are exihibiting poor behavior.