Reply #31: We have blown the "anti-American" thing way out of proportion. [View All]

On the trips we had been fortunate to take, we never heard anyone make comments to us or about
Americans in a negative way. We made an effort to speak with people of the countries we visited.

One German gentleman we met at a cafe in Colmar did tell us, after we all joined for dinner and wine, that he was amazed that we were friendly. That tells us something about our fear of making fools of ourselves. We struggled with some of the conversation. We with our English and broken French, the German gentleman and his daughter in broken English. Laughs all evening. It is one of the most memorable moments we ever had traveling and I will never forget it.

Just speak to those around you, strike up a conversation. Being liked is an international wish. Chime in with a smile and a Bonjour, Guten Morgen or whatever and see how well you are received. We tend to be, as travelers, in too much of a hurry. Slow down for a while, you'd be amazed at what you can see, do and learn and have fun. That is the purpose of travel, isn't it?