...talking about being rude abroad, how about my fellow Frenchmen ? the Frenchwoman, even the most prudish, will bare itself to the extreme - inluding nude breasts at the beach -because they want the whole universe to know how "liberated" they are( albeit more often than not it's completely false).
And they talk soooo loud,-men and women alike- mocking the locals,-or teasing each other- it's a shame.
Once I went to a fishing party up the Sacramento river with French expats.
Once finished, they went to a diner and startes picking up on the waitress -in French of course-...the poor woman didn't understand why they were stupidly giggling, she turned to me and asked : "...and you, you are the silent one?" I went red for shame.
Once I booked a charter airplane San Francisco - Paris. Seated beside me was a young French guy; the flight attendant asked him "do you want an orange juice or other beverage", he answered [en Français dans le texte]: "hein? quoi? vous dites quoi? je ne comprends pas"
The most outrageous, it's that my fellow Frenchmen constantly criticize Americans because they do not do the effort of learning foreign languages!
they'd better watch their own record...

Posted By lionel on June 24, 2007, 9:40 AM

It's really so easy to blame American Tourists for acting rude.

But it takes 2 to tango. LOCALS can also be VERY RUDE, UNFRIENDLY and downright hostile to American or other tourists.

I have been all over the world and I have experienced rude local people, even if I have been gracious and courteous by using all the articles "tips".

For Example, I was just in Eleuthera, Bahamas, and the people there are very unfriendly, rude, and hostile. I would say hello or good morning, ask a question, etc, and many would just look at you with hostility, like you were the cause of all their problems.

I think a lot of local people in other countries are jealous and envious of Americans, and don't like depending on tourist money for their livelihoods, and so when they encounter them, they don't feel they have to be nice and can act rudely.

Posted By Mike F. on June 25, 2007, 6:52 AM

Well, I'm one of those, who went for vacation, cause they had promotion kidnap your American customer and take his or her money. Take it all,all of it. What is even more upsetting in America regardlessly of the fact ,that I have American citizenship and I live there I'm being treated as rude and snobbish European and in Europe just the same as rued and pushy American. I wouldn't advice to stick nose in anyone's business regardlessly if one is American or European or Oriental.That's just it don't tell people how to live their lives and you will be all right no matter where you go.

Posted By Eva Erdmann on June 25, 2007, 8:26 AM

I am astonished by how DEFENSIVE so many of you are. Even your comments are ugly. If you cannot display restraint and sensitivity (beyond your own ego) stay at home. Upset about a nude beach?--go elsewhere. Women allowed only to expose their eyes would make you happier? Cultures obviously differ in the way they see the human body. We are supposed to be a model nation, setting the example for everyone else to follow, but ignorance and arrogance (not pride, do you know the difference?) obviously go hand in hand. What happened to "love thy neighbor as thyself". The more I learn about the world, the more humble I am. By the way, the top 10 should include "DON'T LITTER!!!"

Posted By klin on June 25, 2007, 12:35 PM

I think Americans are tired of being told they are rude,loud etc,I was in Paris and learned a couple of phrases,even being nice and pleasant,I was treated like dirt.
They laugh behind you back etc,half of these countries forget it was America that helped them at one time.When they are looking for money and other help,who do they come to America,who is the first to help anyone America.So I suggest you all
See America from coast to coast and be a Happy traveler.

Posted By Annette on June 5, 2008, 12:45 PM

Agree with Larry! I have lived in Europe for 10 years and have traveled extensively. I have always been treated graciously in most countries. I find that saying "Hello","Please" "Thank you" and "I'm sorry" in the local language goes a long way to help relations along. Also, most Americans speak very loudly. Just toning down your conversations help you to blend in well.

Posted By dbd on June 5, 2008, 12:54 PM

where is the list of countries?

Posted By Myob on June 5, 2008, 12:54 PM

Yes, there are rude Americans. And I am probably among the guilty ones regarding loudness, although my volume is not motivatated by rudeness, but by passion and enthusiasm. I do try to restrain myself when overseas, but perhaps my efforts are not enough.

Like others, I have encountered many in other countries who are rude to American tourists. A couple of examples:

1. Canadians at a Nova Scotia B&B bashing the U.S. president in front of me at the breakfast table

2. A saleslady at Galleries Lafayette, a Paris department store, who rudely and brusquely said "CLOSED" repeatedly a full 15 minutes before closing time as I nicely and respectfully tried to purchase a travel iron

Posted By Laura M on June 5, 2008, 1:07 PM

I´m not from United States (actually I´m american cause I was born in Costa Rica and it´s in America, anyway...). In my travels I´ve seen how you guys behave when traveling and the article is not wrong. For me the most disgusting habit that you have is to wear sandals everywear, doesn´t matter the country or the place when you are on vacations. Why sandals everywhere!!??
And the other habit that I don´t like of you, mostly young people (I´m 25) is that you don´t appreciate the culture, all you do is look and that´s it, don´t try to understand the culture or be open to explore. You see all the Hard Rock Cafes around the world full of americans. I met this guy in Rome who said: In NY are stadiums bigger than the coloseum. C´mon!! It is true that many people is different but all this is pretty common in you. That´s a problem with young people, with old wealthy people the problem is the arrongance. An advice try to understand the world from different points of view not only from yours.

Posted By Oscar on June 5, 2008, 1:22 PM

Avoid careless judgments. Doesn't that mean attempting to group all people from a certain country as being this or that? Now that is truly ignorant. Anywhere you go...half the people are nice and half aren't...same as for travelers...some are some aren't ...any broad generalization is just worthless!

Posted By Susie from Denver on June 5, 2008, 1:26 PM

I am so sick of the French-bashing comments! My personal experience with the French and my seventeen trips to France during the past 35 years have been nothing but positive and life-enriching experiences. Perhaps it has to do with the fact that I have taken the time to learn the language well enough to communicate with some degree of efficiency during my travels there. Have I ever encountered jackasses in France? Yes I have indeed! Jackasses exist there as well as everywhere else in world (I have traveled through most of it too!). But my first reaction is always to ask myself whether I did, said, or behaved in any way that may have triggered a less than pleasant response from natives as I navigate through their culture and their land as a foreigner. Why is it so hard for most of us to look at ourselves first and take responsibility for inappropriate actions, words or behaviors whether due to ignorance or oblivion before putting others down? What gives us the right to impose our standards upon other cultures? I have traveled to NYC and the USA on a multitude of occasions and encountered brutal treatment as well as extreme courtesy. So what? I do not grant myself the right to measure other cultures and/or nations against the US standards as I do not recognize our culture to be superior to any other. The more I travel the world with an open mind, the more I find myself being rewarded on more and deeper levels. I even find that the occasional negative experience will enrich my life on some level whether experienced while traveling in the US or the world. Traveling throughout the US and the world is one of the most enriching endeavors in my life. I plan for it joyfully, carefully and respectfully. I try to educate myself about each culture as thoroughly as I can before I go and I have found this preparation to contribute greatly to a life-enhancing experience through the years. I do this perhaps because I have chosen to look for more of the good in mankind than the dark side of mankind, both of which are to be found here in the US and the world.

Posted By D. Buckingham on June 5, 2008, 1:33 PM

Americans have been labeled the world's second best tourists in a survey of tourist boards around the globe.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/uk/2137729.stm

Posted By Ian Mcdull on June 5, 2008, 2:42 PM

Having traveled in Europe and Asia there are times I have been treated rudely. I do not judge a whole country or individuals by those actions and I love to travel to different cultures. For the most part I have always tried to do and act within the guidelines you have suggested. My experiences have been wonderful. Wouldn't it be awesome if every state in the US had their own customs and language ! I imagine we would be at least bilingual and be more aware of different customs if that were the case. Since this has always been the case in the smaller countries overseas it is quite common and in many cases necessary to speak different languages. Until recently Americans have not had that need. I have also been around 'ugly Americans' but I have also been around 'ugly Tourists'. I try not to judge an entire country by the few and I think it is time for other countries to 'give us Americans a break'. The majority of us try to be good visitors. Linda

Posted By Linda Kingsley on June 5, 2008, 3:00 PM

The problem with many American tourists abroad is that they seem to forget that they're guests in someone else's home. Instead, they behave as if they were in some sort of giant Epcot-like theme park and the locals exist to serve their needs. It's like..."Hey! We're on vacation and we're PAYING for this!"

The worst example I ever witnessed was in a small town in Ireland. Walking through the village one night, I saw a young girl walking towards me with a take out pizza box in her arms. There was an American couple walking several yards ahead of me (I could hear every word of their conversation) and as the girl passed them on the sidewalk, they (loudly) demanded, "Wow, Irish pizza. What does it look like?"

The lass sweetly obliged and lifted the lid. The American couple stuck their head in the box and rudely declared, "Big deal...it looks like an American pizza." And with that, they walked off. No "thank you", no "have a nice evening", nothing.

I can only imagine what that girl said to her family when she and the pizza got home.

Posted By J. Lyons on June 5, 2008, 3:02 PM

I have been to several different countrie and I'm sick of all this bashing of Americans. There are rude people all over this world, if you're a jerk, you're a jerk, it doesn't matter where you live. Americans are some of the most generous and warm people on the face of the earth, and I am proud to be one. That is why I choose to take all of my vacations in the U.S.

Posted By Rene on June 5, 2008, 3:33 PM

We usually say we are from California not America. Whenever we travel we want to fit in with the local atmosphere as much as possible. We want to experience the culture of foreign countries and cannot understand people who complain that it isn't like home. If we wanted home we would have stayed there. My personal experience has been positive, if you're polite to others they generally are polite back. Rudeness travels both ways and I thnk I've had more rudeness on this side of the ocean. Some people just like to think they are superior to everyone else but I don't let it ruin a good time.

Posted By Colleen on June 5, 2008, 4:03 PM

As a black american I strive to never make the "Ugly American" mistakes, but my treatment abroad has been overall very un hospitable in many countires. Many counties that have a immigrated population of Africans treat any one they assume is African with disrespect and hostility. Why?, because they feel the African immigrant has invaded and ruined their countries with crime, drugs, run down slums,large numbers of children and non working adults. So on many occasions I have been assumed as a African resulting from a caucasian mother or father and treated as such. And in turn Ive had to correct my treatment by foreigners in their country, politely but sternly. And you guessed it; I then get classified as a "Ugly American" because I wouldnt quietly accept being treated badly. But I must say I was treated quite well visiting Ireland, and fairly well in England.

Posted By bgirl on June 5, 2008, 4:24 PM

I'm an American who is polite when I travel but I certainly see a lot of Americans who are incredible rude and arrogant. I just can't imagine why the rest of the world thinks poorly of us (George W. Bush notwithstanding)......

Posted By Dave on June 5, 2008, 4:56 PM

I have traveled to Europe, Asia, Canada, Mexico, South and Central America and have been rarely encountered any hostility towards me as an American. I have however been treated appallingly in my own country by locals and staff..I very much wanted to attend the Preakness but visiting Baltimore again for any reason is something I can not do. The worst time I have ever had as a visitor anywhere.

Posted By Candace J Serviss on June 5, 2008, 5:17 PM

Interesting often accurate observations here except those by 'real loud-mouths' going waaaaaay beyond generalizing to paste a label on certain country's entire populations. It is not acceptable to force any one nationality(Americans included)to fit an exact stereotypic mold -any more than the first posted idiotic & whiny diatribe above about 'liberal editors' and 'politically correct' blah blah passes the smell test. It is self-righteous 'soap-box' types full of that kind of stuff that one needs to beware of when traveling- usually its they that are 'the loud ones' at the 'best table' attempting to dominate the scene & 'be heard' for their worldly-wise views. They exist among many nationalities that you run into when traveling - but are definitely characteristic of some more than others! In my opinion the Japanese do indeed deserve number one in that respect-as they have-well-respect. As a Welsh-born Brit long since many years an American citizen) I must say however that many Brits -NOT ALL -do NOT deserve such a high rating with regards opinionated & judgmental behavior. Having left those shores many years ago - I find many of those who travel- (often the older ones) too easily heard over others often sounding off over something they often know little about. But I still remember that it is important for many Brits to at least 'sound' more knowledgeable about everything than those around them though many of them love to plant that same label on Americans - who do act sometimes (NOT always)much the same. I was recently forced to spend small-ship cruise time with a group from one nationality thats been hard NOT to stereotype (I was always guilty of this one myself) -with some reason- white South Africans! Sure enough a few of them fit the mold often assigned to them- but others including a delightful very old silver-haired lady with an indelible smile who loved to laugh & had traveled "Oh almost everywhere dear-mostly by sea, often ship to ship -first with my dear old hubby who then passed on & left me well provided for with instructions to keep on sailing!-(laughing) -and I do! Oh yes- I certainly do!" No more stereotypes.

Posted By neil hunt on June 5, 2008, 6:27 PM

I lived in China for six years and saw plenty of rudeness on the part of both the locals and visitors.

Americans, yes, loud...but I think the worst display I witnessed was of a German expat berating for a full fifteen minutes a young clerk in a department store for not knowing every detail about an item he was considering buying. I finally broke in and asked if I could help him, if perhaps there was a language barrier problem (which I didn't really believe), and he told me to mind my own business!

I think when we all leave our homes we need to remember that we are guests in the world, wherever we are, and that world does not revolve around us, nor does it have to mirror us.

Posted By Carol McC on June 5, 2008, 7:05 PM

I work in the travel and tourism industry, and I think most Americans mean well, but our cultural education leaves a lot to be desired. The rest of the world knows a lot about us, due to our pop culture exports like fashion, movies and music. Most of the world speaks English now for those same reasons (and the internet), so I found on my last trip to Italy (last month) that the minute I spoke Italian to the locals, they would answer me back in English. They're pretty used to people approaching them and speaking English--no matter where in the world you're from!

Not that it negates being polite and greeting people in their own tongue--but I don't think the locals judge you as rude like they did just a few years ago. What really shows is when Americans haven't taken the time to learn about their destination and show their ignorance so blatantly. (One lady packed 24 rolls of toilet paper for her trip to India--did someone tell her it wasn't available there??) It seems to me that if you're going to get on a plane and go somewhere far, far away, it would make sense to arm yourself with a bit of knowledge. It's all over the internet, lots of websites dedicated to travel.

As for the French--oh, for God's sake, lay off 'em already! I've never encountered the stereotype snobby Parisian, and those in Provence are absolutely delightful. I can struggle by in Spanish and Italian, but French: not so much. And French people have accomodated my limits with gracious response.

And one more person pulls that old argument out again--we saved the French during WWII--I say to them they saved US when we fought the Brits during the Revolutionary war. Without French help, we'd all be speaking the Queen's English, wouldn't we???

Posted By Anja Rivkins on June 5, 2008, 7:58 PM

I have traveled to Korea, Thailand, Japan, England, Ireland, and China, and I always made an effort to at least learn how to say 'please', 'thank you', and 'I'm sorry' in each language. I have winced at some boorish, somewhat racist behavior from American tourists abroad. Since you can hear their complaining from a mile away, I can only assume the worst offenders seems to be from the middle/southern states. I guess if you haven't learned to live respectfully among cows and rednecks you can't be expected to act with civility anywhere sans a Wal-Mart. As a former waitress at a fine dining restaurant, I have to agree with the above posters that the French can be particularly rude, and refuse to learn/acknowledge OUR custom of tipping. In Europe, a 'service charge' is included in final bill. In America, if you don't tip 15% or more, the server feels it in the pocket book. The govt. assumes that each customer tips 15%, and takes that amount out of your paycheck. The French that I've encountered seem to think you are uneducated if you don't speak French. I've told a few (I live in Los Angeles) that they are behind the times; they need to learn Spanish!

Posted By Jenna on June 5, 2008, 9:58 PM

-I've lived in Asia for more than 13 years and traveled to more than 26 countries. Behavior begins with oneself. Travelers are ambassadors of their country and culture. Many times the language barriers can lead to difficult situations but why not make them a source of humor? It took me years to accept why Chinese laugh at me when I speak Chinese. Their laughter was their way of getting along with me, not criticism of my Chinese.
-When traveling solo, the culture contact with locals is amazing. The more in your group the more you stay in your cultural gang - the less contact you have with locals. Negative cultural stereotypes come through the perceptions of the US military, Hollywood movies, the way you handle money, and the US President. The last 7 years have been low in comparison for Americans abroad because of our ignorant president and media bashing for countries that did join the Iraq War. French fries anyone? ;)
-Race is a huge issue when you travel. More so when in a mixed race marriage. It helps to tell people up front where you are from rather than they make assumptions. Assume and make an ass out of you and me. Other cultures have significant stereotypes from movies about black people. Do your part to help in cultural acceptance.
-Nudity when traveling in conservative countries should not be allowed. If nudity is important to you go to a country that accepts it. Research this issue ahead of time.
-Tone of voice is a key to communication. Speaking clear simple English is different than raising your voice. Match the local tone and positive things happen. Blare your voice at peak volume and you lose the connection you are there for.
-Always do unto others as you would have done unto yourself. And remember the smile is the number one international language.

Posted By Christopher Brady on June 5, 2008, 10:51 PM

The overwhelming impression I've had everywhere I've traveled is that most people are nice and will respond well to politeness. I wholeheartedly agree with the comments about lack of modesty among Americans. I am disgusted at home and especially appalled by the dress (or rather lack of it) by my countrywomen abroad. Part of what disturbs me about this is that it reinforces the misapprehension gleaned from American movies and TV that American women as a group are loose morally. When my daughter and I were in Florence we saw another tour group that included several young teenage girls in tiny skirts with their midriffs showing traveling with their families. I wondered how the parents could be so stupid.
On another subject: While in Granada, Spain, my daughter and I went to a Burger King at noon. The man in front of us was served. When we came up to order we were told (in a tone of voiced that implied that we must be really dumb), "We're closed." My daughter, who had lived in Spain for a year and a half, told me that this was a common occurrence and that she had consistently experienced terrible customer service there. She'd gone to a grocery store one night that had a sign saying that the store closed at 9:00. It was 8:30 when she brought her selections to the checkout counter and was told in a rude tone of voice that they were closed. She mentioned the sign and was told again that they were closed.

Posted By Bonnie Dickson on June 5, 2008, 11:17 PM

I am from the United States and have traveled to 27 countries in the last 7 years. The most common thing I hear is "All of the Americans I've met have actually been quite nice and well behaved, and intelligent too." I feel like a stereotype that may have had some truth to it has blown up, much to the same way as the French have been poorly labeled. They say it takes 7 nice things (maybe it's more) to out-weigh one negative thing. It's always the one poor thing that stands out. I have done volunteer work in Ecuador and Thailand. In both countries I had very negative encounters that could taint my view of the people and overall experience; however, I choose to remember the people that treated me like family. It's very easy to remember one loud, poorly dressed person (American or otherwise) and remember them for life (I can clearly picture a bright red lipstick Hawaiian shirt wearing New Yorker I met in Vietnam and was embarrassed to have shared the same home state).
While traveling through Australia, a few of my Australian friends commented " I really think it’s the Canadians that give you Americans a bad name.” I felt it necessary to stick up for my Canadian friends (I grew up on the boarder) saying I’ve never met a rude Canadian. Nonetheless, my friends insisted. I was on my aisle seat flight from Australia to Los Angeles and had 2 LOUD ladies (about 40 y.o.) in my row. After the 1st hr the entire cabin knew their life stories. They also managed to use the restroom at minimum every 45 minutes, had the flight attendants running numerous errands, and asked for multiple snack packs (1 Quantas snack pack is easily enough for 2 people). By the end of the flight I could see the look of disdain on peoples faces and I was horrified about how they were representing the United States. As we were landing I learned that they were both from Canada, one having had just moved to the States. Did my opinion of Canadian travelers change? Of course not, but I couldn’t wait to share the story with my Aussie friends.
So how do you really know where someone is form? I am mistaken for an Australian, German, Canadian, etc. all of the time.
As someone who travels with friends from all over the world, I must say my German friends are the loudest! I have been embarrassed and requested they lower their voices. Do I think Germans are rude travelers? Obviously not, I just think my particular friends' voices carry in their enthusiasm for travel, culture and life. Life is about living so let’s enjoy and be respectful of each others’ differences no matter if it’s you visiting another country or they are visiting your hometown (I’ll be telling myself that next time I’m trying to squeeze on the metro during Cherry Blossom season in DC).

Posted By Jennifer on June 6, 2008, 12:08 AM

My husband and I have traveled extensively in Western europe, Eastern Europe the United States and Canada. Unfortunately we only speak English but we do learn please, thank you, good morning, good day and goodby in the language of the country we are visiting. I think using these few words has made a real difference in how we are treated. When we first started traveling by train in Europe we were pretty nervous meeting the locals and not speaking the language. In every country people bent over backwards to help us and use the little english they knew. I started out poorly asking for directions from police without first approaching them with a friendly greeting. Luckily one of them put me straight and traveling was much friendlier after that.
We have spent a month in Vienna Austria two winters in a row. We were there after carnival the first time. The local people on the street and shop keepers were so sour I felt like I was smiling at a stone wall. I could count on one had how many friendly people I saw in a month. The next year we were there during the ball season and carnival. The citizens of Vienna were completely different in the way they dressed and in the way they threated everyone. If this is true of a whole city just think how different one person is from day to day. A rude person today might be having a rough day. I can honestly say we have never been treated rudely because we are Americans. During President Bush's first term we did listen to a lot of concerns on how he was running the country.

Posted By claudia on June 6, 2008, 2:49 AM

For more years than I care to remember, I have taken small groups of women on tour to Jamaica, Ireland, and Mexico. The cringe factor has been high for me, no matter the country, when I hear what passes for conversation, but is really derogatory commentary. Returning guests who do not think they are "ugly Americans", who know something about the culture they visit, often cause me the most embarrassment by their misinterpretations of local customs, so much so that I am ready to throw in the towel and travel alone.

Posted By M. A. Jones on June 6, 2008, 12:06 PM

I've traveled to many countries, often with my children, and have seldom had any problems. I always dress nicely,learn and use a few words in the local language. I eat the local food and don't try to shave off that last nickel when I'm bargaining for something. I am respectful, quiet and very interested in different cultures. I don't wear resort clothes out of a resort. Every nationality has it's share of jerks. Americans are no exception.

Sometimes, there are rules nobody ever tells you about. Who knew that in English pubs it's not considered "good form" for women to order full pints of beer? Ladies only drink halves. If I get a full glass of beer, just like I'd do at home because nobody here serves half pints, people have already made a value decision about who I am. Trust me, I'm not a lush or a bad woman just because I like a "big" beer. Personally, I'd rather enjoy a nice pint of English ale.

The only trouble I've had as an American was in Thailand. Because so few Americans were there at that time, people would assume we were European. Shopkeepers adjusted their languages and everyone was great. We were just a part of the general mix of people. However, at a temple, we ran into a group of Taiwanese who were very friendly UNTIL they found out we were from the USA. At that point, they became almost hostile. I don't believe it had anything to do with how we were dressed or behaving. My feelings was that it was a polticial thing. It was a strange experience to be judged in that manner.

Posted By CT on June 6, 2008, 1:18 PM

The word is "CLASS". If you conduct yourself with
decorum, then you are blameless. Even if locals
act condescendingly, they end up looking like the barbarians. But one must first cultivate class.

Posted By David Harada on June 7, 2008, 1:46 AM

Having been to Italy twice I guess I can chime in here. Being an Italian-American, I set off to Italy with great pride. I took Italian lessons and boned up on the history and culture of my ancestors. To my surprise, wherevere I went, I was clearly labeled as American. Not Italian-American as I was brought up, but American only. Wherever I went, the shopkeepers corrected me when I proudly said I was Italian.

It was a rude awakening for me and I was hurt by all who said it to me in Italy. No matter what our background here in the States, abroad we are all one ethnic background: American.

So, the second time I went to Italy, I was armed: in Italian I said that if I had to carry this curly hair, this somewhat big nose and this large rump, I was definitely and Italian! They laughed and had to agree. It really broke the ice.

Humor brings all nations together if done with the right respect and comraderie.

I love Italy and its people and they really appreciate it if you try to speak the language, say please and thank you and respect their country.

They also are very kind to your children. If I could, I would live there.

By the way, during the World Soccer Cup we were the quietest people in the pubs we visited. Czechs and Germans were the rowdiest and I might add the drunkest.

Posted By Barbara on June 7, 2008, 6:11 AM

I'm laughing as I read these, and agree with the majority of comments on here. I'm a former Peace Corps Volunteer (partially inspired by The Ugly American) and still work internationally. What the Italian-American experienced was also very true for African-Americans in Africa. But above all, respect the people and the place and remember that we should all learn from each and every experience. (I know it sounds kind of condescending, but the U.S. is often perceived - and often correctly - as the know-it-alls who don't have any lessons left to learn...) And this is true in the U.S., too. For example - I laughed out loud at the post that talked about the cherry trees in DC next spring. I get this whole thing not only from my overseas experiences, but also because I live in a tourist magnet and I know we are perceived as brusque, in a hurry, mean, arrogant, etc., just based on where we live. Well, before you bash Washingtonians based on the politics you see on the news, please remember that we are regular people who have jobs, commutes (2nd worst in the country), problems, families, pets, churches and communities just like you do. And respect our culture - stand right, walk left on the Metro is the rule for a reason - ignoring the rules is likely to get you resentment and hostility, and might even get you hurt (and BTW, also do not take the double-wide stroller on the escalator especially during rush hour!).

Posted By Lera on June 7, 2008, 6:45 PM

Having traveled all the continental US, Canada, Mexico, the Mid-east, and much of Europe I have found that people in every location can be rude. I make it my challenge to react to their rudeness by making the interaction better in some way. To react to rudeness with more of the same is insane. Any traveler looking for an experience that makes their own life richer is wise to look at each person encountered as a unique individual regardless of nationality or culture. Humor and humility are wonderful tools, as are a genuine interest in people and their lives...not nosey, but interested.
I and my traveling companions have been invited for a home meal in France, have been introduced to family members, have been given gifts, have been given addresses for future contact in many countries.

I recommend dressing and acting as much like locals as possible. A modulated voice always gets a better response. If possible, staying in a neighborhood and becoming acquainted with a neighborhood restaurant and neighborhood shop owners and workers is a very enriching experience. If traveling in small towns use the local library. Librarians can be great friends and sources of information. Go not just for the famous sites, but for the people. View the local food as living history... it often has a story to tell if you take the time to find out. Greet rudeness with a smile. If you have one bad experience, don't let it stop you from trying again. Work hard at remembering the good experiences and forgetting the unpleasant ones, because you're not what you think you are, but what you think, you are. Happy thinking, travelers.

Posted By JAJ on June 8, 2008, 5:23 PM

In my experience, the impatience of my fellow Americans is definitely at the top of my own list of travel complaints. For example, you travel to Latin American countries to enjoy the slow, quiet pace and find your fellow travelers are demanding everything under the sun RIGHT NOW. I agree that littering makes me cringe and I agree that one should at least 'try' to speak the language of the country they are visiting and, I also believe one must understand and appreciate that cultures are different- isn't that why we travel?? I say if you want the 5* hotel and a person to bow to your every demand, then stay in the States where that sort of thing is expected. Know what you are getting in advance- one should do a little 'investigating' and know what to expect before heading to a foreign country. Being kind and polite to the locals is just good manners and common courtesy. Also, a small interchange will often net you a better knowledge of the place you are visiting as well as some interesting conversation and, if you are lucky, a new friend! My husband and I have had some WONDERFUL experiences just because we've managed to be polite and appreciative to locals when traveling.

That all said, I really resent being in the same category as the French. I hope we aren't as bad as all that. They deserve a category all their own!! They tend to walk around with their noses in the air being not only rude to hotel/resort staff but other travelers, they are the least likely to mingle with guests from other countries and are extremely pushy. On one occassion in Panama a French couple arrrived dead last for an excursion and then started yelling at the poor tour girl. When I finally realized that the problem was that the woman refused to sit in the sun, I volunteered to give up my seat to the woman. (The one in the shade that I got there plenty early to get.) Still she wasn't happy. Eventually the tour guide patted my hand and said with a little smile "Thank you but perhaps our French friends would be better pleased on another boat, no?" and proceeded to make the arrangements.

Posted By Candy on June 9, 2008, 10:33 AM

I agree with Anette. The French can be extremely rude and disrespectful to Americans. I experienced an extremely rude French saleswomen, even though I greeted her in Frence and attempted some high school French. After making our selections, she became so rude, that I left all the purchases on the counter, turned around and said "au reviour mon ami" and left our purchases for her to put back. France is now the last place on Earth that I want to visit!

Posted By John on June 9, 2008, 12:20 PM

I appreciate tips about proper behavior by Americans when they travel outside the U.S., but I'm also sick of the assumption that Americans are the only ones who don't know how to behave. A lot depends on the personality of the person exhibiting the behavior. I've heard from people who like and those who dislike every place you can think of, and I'm not surprised when it's boorish, priggish people who say they haven't liked the country(ies) they've been to. There are some Americans who are not likeable here in the U.S. So who can be surprised that they're not likeable anyplace they might visit? People from other countries can be just as obnoxious when they visit the U.S. because they think they're so superior to those "ugly" Americans, when they should be thanking their lucky stars for the mere existence of the U.S.

Posted By Betty on June 9, 2008, 12:38 PM

This comment is in response to KLIN's comment. KLIN, I think you better reassess your definition of humble. You don't say where you are from but I'm betting you are FRENCH.

Posted By Kris on June 9, 2008, 1:55 PM

I've seen Americans in Paris being so rude, that I only spoke French, so as not to mistaken for their coutrymen;and I also heard French students making mean remarks about Americans, knowing I could understand them...and let's not even get into tourists in immodest bathing attire in (very) modest Africa...too bad there's not a space on the passport for "Ethnocentric Jerk". Then at least, hotels & waiters could be alerted!

Posted By lonna Lee on June 12, 2008, 5:32 AM

I do feel Americans are disproportionately criticized. While in Ireland a couple of years ago, we were watching a sheep herding exhibition when a group of German tourists talked so loudly and over the top of the Irish presenter, no one could hear a thing except them chattering away. Even the Irish guide we had said they are the rudest. So, I guess it's not just the Americans, huh? Also, we were told by many in Ireland that they like us coming over as we spend a gret deal there and many of them have relatives in the US. So maybe that has something to do with it?
I have also seen many other cultures touring around the US and find them to be extremely rude: cutting in line, talking and yelling loudly at public places, and some seem to have no idea about hygiene. Many here say we should abide by customs of other countries, and I agree. No short shorts, tank tops, etc. but they should do the same here. And what's this about Americans wearing sandals everywhere? I always see foreigners wearing them here--even in winter--and what's with the socks worn with sandals???

Posted By Kathy on June 19, 2008, 1:45 PM

We have traveled in all 50 states, 25 countries, and six continents and can honestly say that we've found the great majority of people in all of these places to be friendly, helpful, and just plain nice folks. As far as the French are concerned, we experienced helpfulness far beyond any we have experienced at any airport in any country--from Air France employees. My husband and I became separated in Charles deGalle Airport and I had the tickets AND the passports! One of the employees at the gate where our plane was boarding took the ticket and passport, found my husband in a long security line, took him to the front of the line, and brought him to the gate where we were the last to board the plane. Our favorite part of traveling is the experience of meeting really nice people everywhere we go.

Posted By LuAnnette on June 26, 2008, 10:51 AM

Sorry if this was already covered, but I haven't read ALL the posts yet.

I agree with anyone who says that it's unfair to group all individuals of one nationality as being the same. There are more differing personalities within one nation than there are different countries in the world.
I just hope we can all take into account that what is considered acceptable behavior varies across the board. I didn't realize it would be strange for someone to see me wear sandals all the time. Where I've grown up, as long as the weather is nice and you're not at a formal event, sandals are completely common.
I know that German and Russian words may sound angry to some English-speaking ears, but are just the usual way of communicating.
Even the amount of smiling typical in conversation is dictated by cultural norms. I have visited some European countries where I have smiled as a gesture of friendliness but been met with cold stares. I came to learn that in these places, it is seen as odd to smile without a particular reason.
Some American gatherings may be seen as loud and obnoxious, but are really just a way of showing warmth and friendship.
Differences in modesty as well can lead to misunderstanding. Travelling in strict Islamic countries wearing what Western cultures would consider moderate (tshirt, shorts) can seem extremely provocative in these countries; much like a French woman sunbathing topless might seem excessive to people in some areas of Mexico.
I've run quite long and repetitive in this comment I realize. I just hope people will realize that what someone says is rude in Japan may not be the same as what people say is rude in Greece. I would say as a rule, to try to act according to the rules of the country in which you are a guest. Let's try to avoid the ethnocentrism, please. (i've just discovered that word. hope i've used it in the right context)

- One more thing to add: The differences in acceptable hygiene mentioned on this board make me worried. I've complained about smelly tripmates from other countries before. I wonder now if some of the people I've travelled with consider me dirty or smelly by their standards :S

Posted By Maggie on July 26, 2008, 7:58 AM

As an American, I hate seeing a fellow American behave rudely and/or ignorantly to people from other cultures. I've been fortunate enough to work with people from all over the world. They often comment about how I'm not like "most Americans" because I treat them with respect. I openly discuss the differences in our cultures. I point out how interesting our differences are, rather than acting as if one "way" is superior to another way. The vast majority of people I know from around the world say that they actually love Americans, but feel that Americans tend to act as if the world should adopt the American culture because it is somehow "right."

Posted By The Jay on July 10, 2009, 7:48 AM

I've been perceived as French and British in my travels abroad. I'd suggest that while the "look at me, I'm American!" personality is what is remembered, there are many Americans traveling abroad who are not perceived as American (and thus cannot improve the sterotype of traveling Americans).

While I've encountered many people who are clearly tourists in the states (and have different cultural norms, such as avoiding eye contact, disregarding American standards of personal space), I'm certain that I've also encountered tourists who have adapted and go unnoticed.

While the hints are helpful, it is always best to adjust to the circumstances as they come. If you are the only one talking on a train, it may be best to pull out a book or listen to headphones. Politeness is best served with a helping of self-awareness.

Thanks for reading!

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