Is it safe for Americans to travel in Europe?

Question

I haven't been over there since 2001, and the French were quite hostile to Canadians (whom I have heard are hateful to us)!

Answer 1

It's as safe there as it is here. A lot depends on the traveler. It is vital we use common sense regardless of where we are but especially when we travel.

Many of us tend to let our guard down while on vacation. I've seen it at Disney World and I've seen it in Europe. I've witnessed many vacationers who are careless with their camera, their wallet, their money, their purse, their packages. They get so distracted they don't pay attention to what they're doing. Unfortunately many locals make it their business to notice and take advantage of these vacationers. There are crooks in every city, village, or town in this world so it's up to you to keep a watchful eye of your surroundings.

Also an important point would be to use your manners and treat people as you wish to be treated. If you are respectful most will respect you, too. However, if you arrive in Europe thinking that everything should be handed to you the second you request it then no, you will not have a favorable trip.

I always think it's funny when people speak of the French as being so rude when I've witnessed many times the Americans being rude. However, I don't think they are even aware that they are. I believe it's similar to the Mexican nationals that come to the US. Wow some of them can be so overbearing and unbelieveably rude . However, after observing them for years I've come to realize it's the language (or lack of) that seem to make them nervous that they fail to use common sense. I do believe some Americans in Europe are the same way. We get a bit uncomfortable not knowing the language that rather than focusing on our manners we try to get our point across any way we can. And it usually comes out rude. The French are not doormats, though, If they see an American making a ridiculous request or being demanding they aren't just going to smile and run around to get it for you. Through all my experiences with the French I've encountered only one rude person. He must have been having a bad day because I KNOW I did nothing to merit his rudeness. It would be unjust, however, if I were to classify every French as rude based on this idiot's arrogance.

It is vital we have the right attitude when visiting a foreign country. We need to keep in mind customs are different and it's okay. The more varied the better. Don't complain about how much better it is in America. Find the positives of each country as well as the city you're visiting and go with it. Besides travel is all about learning the differences and similarities of people in other areas of the globe. Go with an open mind and become French for the duration of your trip, You'll see how much kinder people will be to you and how much more accepting they will be of your own culture. If you try to see things their way you'll be amazed as to your own personal growth as well. There are MANY things I love about the French and Europeans in general and some things I can do without. However, you won't know unless you have an open mind. As you experience those of other cultures, though you find in the end the core of our souls aren't all that different after all. :)

Answer 2

If you keep to the same personal safety measures you keep in the whole world, you will be safer that you will be in America. That goes for all of Europe, North, South, East and West. And it does not depend on your nationality and looks, just on the fact that Europe is pretty much more safe than the USA.

Answer 3

yeah. people who have never traveled are usually the ones who say its unsafe. what some Europeans don't like about America are some of the politics and politicians. they don't have problems with the people. if you go over there with an attitude about Europeans then you will not be received well. just go have and have a good time. I spent time in Paris last summer and my friends and I had no trouble.

Answer 4

When in Paris do as the Parisians do.
and you will have a great time
you are traveling in order to meet new people,see different cultures,enjoy the beauties of the world.
there are no hostile people in other countries unless you provoke them with your behavior.

Answer 5

The last time I was in Europe was in the mid 90's, so I can't comment on today. However, I can tell you historically that the French have always had a chip on their shoulders and the Canadians aren't too far behind them. I have had experience with both groups.

It's just that America has so much, our friends are jealous and want some of what we have.

Answer 6

Yes it's safe and if you might know the language then go ahead and speak it. England is a good country and they'll understand you.

Answer 7

Other way around the French like Canadians, but if you come to europe ill ******* rob you, seriously stay with your s h itty fast food, and them parks.

Americans stop buying big back packs, stay out of europe, and your not the richest, or the smartest. Also the Netherlands is not only for marijuana, they also have prostitutes.

Answer 8

The French are hostile to everybody not french.
Europe is as safe as what is in the newspaper. They have mixed feelings of what is going on in Iraq

Answer 9

Of coz its safe, never had any problems when am in France cept maybe a lil language barrier.If ure from Canada , u shud be able to speak a lil french.Dunno y they wud be hostile tho.But as far as i know, i havent heard any problems towards american citizens.So i guess its safe to say..its safe? :)

Answer 10

french are hostile to everyone, they just plain rude. it's safe to travel, you will meet some rude people everywhere but holland is prettygood to travel to, we speak english very well, we have subtitles to everything here so if you bored in your hotel you can always watch some tv, it's the melting pot of the world really so you feel you be traveling in other countries while visiting just one country hahahahaha