I understand that America/Americans are not very popular right now, but I love traveling and seeing other cultures, meeting new people, and learning new languages. I am not loud, rude, or obnoxious, and I hate George W. Bush. I wanted to travel to France, the UK, Serbia, and Macedonia. Would people dislike me simply because I am American? Thanks!
2007-02-04 10:25:12 · 39 answers · asked by Dutchcrunch 2 in Travel ➔ Europe (Continental) ➔ Other - Europe
I'd hate to think you would be !!!!
Having said that there are idiots everywhere so I can't speak for everybody.
As long as your nice and pleasent I'm sure you'll be treated the same in return.
Don't feel that we all think badly about people from the USA because that is just not the case.
2007-02-04 10:33:06 · answer #1 · answered by Benski Sullivanovich 3 · 4⤊ 1⤋
There are few who hate americans just for being americans, if you start doing stupid things then sure, but you guys still generate a bit of awe whenever you turn up, it's something about the accent that is just really fascinating. To be honest you're just as safe abroad than in the US, just because we don't go around shooting each other all the time (this balances out the few psychos that will dislike you for being american)!
The countryside in Serbia and Macedonia could be a bit risky, but at the end of the day so long as you're respectful of other people you'll be fine. You'll love it when you come to London... (don't forget to check out the Tate Modern!)
2007-02-04 10:46:10 · answer #2 · answered by tituseast 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Well I've never been to Serbia or Macedonia, but as for France and the UK, I really really doubt you'd be treated badly by the general populace. People in major European cities are totally used to tourists and lots earn their livings from them, the only kind that may get treated badly are the wilfully rude, ignorant or obnoxious ones, American or otherwise. Anyone who has come with an open mind and willingness to try to fit into the culture, as you obviously intend to do, is only going to be welcomed and treated well. We like people who are interested enough in our countries to come and visit and admire them, and we certainly don't hate Americans as a race! There are tons of Americans here in London who live here as happily as UK nationals do. Plus the fact that you already speak the language here means you're already going to be halfway there to being able to get along OK in the UK, and I'm sure in the rest of Europe too.
2007-02-04 10:37:04 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 4⤊ 0⤋
No of course not. Us English like Americans very much. It's bad manners and loud mouthed folk we don't get on with and the nationality really doesn't matter. I can't imagine anyone making you feel unwelcome just because you are American wherever you go in the countries you've mentioned particularly. Get yourself booked to come over here and have a great holiday you'll be made to feel at home in the UK for sure. Good luck!
2007-02-04 10:48:42 · answer #4 · answered by Pagan Man 3 · 2⤊ 0⤋
Not really. When you go to France make sure to make an attempt to speak in French, they are kind of touchy when it comes to that. If you do not speak any french simply tell them "VIVA LA FRANCE" and they will open up to you.
Serbia, try to avoid it least for another few years until the Kosovo issue has been settled. Serbia is probably the most anti-American nation out there. Try going to Albania instead they have a rich culture and the people are friendly.
2007-02-04 15:59:42 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 1⤋
You should be fine. There are idiots everywhere, but most people will treat you normally. Don't expect the superficial politeness you get in the US, but also don't interpret the lack of this as rudeness - thats just how it is.
I might give Serbia a swerve, although I've been there and had fun. Try Germany too!
Having said that, many Americans are loud and behave arrogantly - like the rest of the world should speak English and follow their way of life. If you aren't one of them you should be fine.
2007-02-04 10:41:06 · answer #6 · answered by Sanmigsean 6 · 3⤊ 0⤋
Whatever your county is, if you conduct yourself in a respectful and happy manner towards the country and people you are visiting/living then you should have no problem whatsoever.
I have seen and heard many Brits criticising Spain and it's people whilst they are living here as "guests". This is pure ignorance.
When we are free to move and settle in another country wherever that is, then we MUST respect their ways, cultures and people, doing that you should have no problem.
Go out and see the world, I know when I went to the States it seemed to me that some Americans don't even know where some European places are?? Educate yourself with different cultures and places, then go back and educate the masses:))
2007-02-04 18:00:58 · answer #7 · answered by rose1 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
hey, don't be silly...
If you are a genuine traveller, ready to learn a few words of the local language, try to eat the local cuisine, and generally engage the local customs and people wherever you go, then I'd say you will be welcomed everywhere ...
just remember not to be defensive when some rude, offensive obnoxious and ignorant European citizen (yes we have them too!) expects you to be a card carrying neo-conservative - smile, nod politely and move on :)
BTW, if you're going to Serbia, you should try to see more of the Balkans too, not just Serbia and Macedona, how about Croatia, Bosnia and Albania?
In London and Edinburgh stay at St Christopher's Inns - you can find them through FamousHostels.com :)
Another thing, in Paris, remember that they're rude to everyone who isn't one of their own...so enjoy the city...
And one last thing, I recommend you stay in hostels, you'll have the time of your life and see much more on your budget.
I put a few links below to help you out...
Happy Trails
Philip
2007-02-04 11:20:25 · answer #8 · answered by Our Man In Bananas 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
No, you should be fine. We aren't as super dooper polite and chirpy as you are in the states, so don't hold that against us.
Each country is different but I cant see you having any problems, when you visit the UK make sure to go further north than oxford the north of the UK is lovely (if a little wet).
If people react to you purely on your nationality then they are not worth bothering with. Have fun!!
2007-02-04 20:27:46 · answer #9 · answered by suzi 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I speak as a representative of the UK!
If people don't know you and just heard "There's an American staying in my hotel ..." then they might jump to not very lovely conclusions. As soon as anyone meets you though, they'll see you for the person you are and judge you based on that.
Remember that there are plenty of loud Britons too though and plenty of quiter ones - everyone's different and people will judge you on who you are and not what your country's supposed to be!
Don't worry about it.
In the UK, Americans might have a reputation for being loud and stupid, but they're also reputed to be friendly, open and warm. It's not all bad. =D
2007-02-04 10:33:16 · answer #10 · answered by Alec O 2 · 2⤊ 0⤋
smart people are going to realize that you are not a Bush lover just because you are American. I have traveled all over Europe and lived there for a total of 4 year in the last 25 years and have probably only twice been bashed for being an American, but both times it was an old drunk man mouthing off.
you will enjoy your trip and meet lots of nice people. thanks for being an ambassador and showing people that there are plenty of Americans that disagree with "W" and his scary politics.
2007-02-04 17:14:28 · answer #11 · answered by outtahere 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋