Views of Americans

[neron]

So the other day I was talking to friend who had lived in the UK for awhile previously, and toured Europe and such. I was asking him about how the rest of the world (from what he had seen) viewed Americans. He seemed to be under the impression that Americans were widely viewed as sort of ignorant country hicks sort of thing. So my question to all the Non-Americans out there is: How do people in your region stereotype Americans?

On a side note: Out of curiosity, do most movies in your region come from hollywood?

[Martino]

V----------- Flame forum - that way.


You know what they say about best intensions. Actually I think a thread already exists in there "Why the world hates Americans" or something like that.

[xvikingx]

Actually I think a thread already exists in there "Why the world hates Americans" or something like that.

That thread is still going???? That's a lot of hate. Can't believe I broke my two year lurk status to reply to this.:spchless:

[Andy_Watson]

For the greater part, the people I know and work with imagine Americans as much like any other culture in that they contain a wide range of traits and types. Unfortunately I think that Americans get misrepresented by their leader and hence the popular view that Americans are stupid.

I think there is a very strong impression of smart professional people in the major cities but still the hick image remains for those in between.

[MiChuhSuh]

OH MY GOSH, Americans are just so... AMERICAN!

You can tell a lot of your own views of Americans by how you interpret the above statement :D

[Commander]

The vast majority i met were nice enough but i do suppose you get the odd idiot, but as far as Bush goes. Lets not go there! lol

[Damian898]

Lets go there.....lol

Bush an absoulte piece of crap seriously he brings you the war, which was over oil *cough* i mean liberation from Saddam, he is republican! their moto is "State looks after it's self" lolol and this is your President! seriously people and you vote him in again...yes AGAIN! you vote a man who wants to avenge his father's loss in Iraq.

[Spyder]

I love Americans the same way I love my fellow Canadians, on a person to person basis. I think it's pretty unfair to judge the whole lot of Americans based on their administration.

But as far as what people in my region think of Americans? Ontario is a pretty liberal province, so it's popluar opinion to hate America.

[Suiken]

In Germany we have a football club, called Bayern München (Munich as you would probably say). The have a lot of money, get Germany Champion each year, scandals from time to time, buy the most expensive players and simply dominate. We say either you love them or you hate them. I hate them.

[mark]

We have a television program which regularly visits the best US universities such as Harvard, Berkeley, Yale and ask absolutely stupid questions of graduate students and professors. One of my favorite was " Should a highway be built between Beijin and Calcutta to reduce smog and pollution in asia?" Another, "Should the Canadian government stop the practice of leaving the elderly to die on icepacks in the artic?". There is nothing funier than watching a professor rant with great authority for 10 minutes on the inhumanity of leaving someone die on an icepack and how the Canadian government should change its laws. Only in America:)
No wonder less than half of american high school students can identify Africa on a map.

[Budo Angel]

Don't take this personally, but I think the above is right.

Americans if you know any personally are genuienely nice people (funny etc, much like any other race). But you ask the question of non-Americans, ie. foreigners to America, and there in lies the whole problem.

America's foreign policy and behavior per se when outside America - it ain't looking good !

Lets get it straight, America cares about America.

The rest of Europe and other nations realise "no man is an island" - and you guys don't get out enough.

As I say the americans I've encountered/known are great people.

[joekc6nlx]

I'm going to continue this rant that I've posted in other threads.

In the geographic bounds of North America, we have Canada, the United States, and Mexico.

In Central America, we have Nicaragua, Guatamala, Belize, Costa Rica, Panama, Honduras, and El Salvador.

In South America, we have Colombia, Venezuela, Brazil, Uruguay, Paraguay, Argentina, Chile, Peru, Ecuador, and Bolivia.

Okay, my question now then is, To which Americans do you refer?

I detest the self-centered term "America" to denote the U.S. only. If I recall my history correctly, Lief Ericson didn't land in the area that would become the United States. John Cabot didn't land in the area that would become the United States. Christobal Colon didn't land in the area to become the United States. The entire "New World" was named for Amerigo Vespucci, not just that area that would become the United States.

"In a room of 1000 people, you are sure to find at least one fool."

[ScottUK]

My opinion of the United States of America has been sullied by 'those in power' and of recent events. I am all for deposing a dictatorship, but the bullshit that has gone on around it makes me sick. Fortunately, the few Americans I know remind me that the USA ain't just Bush and his donkeys.

Spyder hit the nail on the head - judge on a person-to-person basis, not tarring all with one brush.

[bullet08]

let me just put it this way.. people's opinion changes very often. once those that doesn't like 'america' live in america for any length of time, they will learn to love it.

about 99% of non-americans i meet in US all say they love america. things are defintely different, however, it's much more easy to have 'life' in america. that include russians, germans, british, polish, korean, japanese, french, chinese... you name it. only people that i met who say that they don't like america so far are american college students who would like to look 'cool', or korean graduate students who know that they are going to go back to korea. and of course, non-americans who never lived in america.

it's like americans saying french folks are rude and they stink. last two times i've been to paris, i never met a rude french, nor did they stink all that bad. tho.. their beer sucked.

there are idiots every where, and as far as foreign policy is concerned, i don't see anyone else doing much about anything out there other than for their own interest.

pete

[beinsteiner]

Bush appears to be an ass, and he may genuinely be so. But he represents a junta that took over this country under Reagan. They're all in the oil and arms industry, and they found a convenient way to manipulate the average, god-fearing, corn-growing US voter through a combination of pseudo-religious values and misunderstanding and fear of the outside world. Don't underestimate these people, and understand who it is that is calling the shots in this country.

That said, i voted for the Green Party. One more vote thrown away (Bush's Democratic opponent already had this state won, so a Green Party sacrificial vote was a good idea at the time).

He's not MY president...

[Ignatz]

it's like americans saying french folks are rude and they stink. last two times i've been to paris, i never met a rude french, nor did they stink all that bad. . .
I agree, French people don't smell much worse than English people.

[h2o]

and as far as foreign policy is concerned, i don't see anyone else
No, but take a look at the "invading other countries statistics" for the world in general over the last years. I can tell you that Sweden is not on the top ten anyway :P

[ScottUK]

I agree, French people don't smell much worse than English people.Hehe, its the only thing the French can beat us at... :D

Unlike our colonial brothers across the pond, we've actually evolved over the last hundred-odd years and have left the warring-tribe mentality behind. Boudcea Bush still runs his chariot roughshod over everyone he can. Even the US Embassy here takes the piss and refuses to pay their fines...

[akumalkenshi]

being involved in touristic services, I have to say that most north americans, age for the better. They become less loud, and better listeners.

One thing that sometimes anoys is me , is the lack of social/table manners they have.

[ScottUK]

No, but take a look at the "invading other countries statistics" for the world in general over the last years. I can tell you that Sweden is not on the top ten anyway :PHehe, probably because not every country is covered in snow and can be traversed in skis. Bring us another ice age and the Scandinavians will turn into Atilla the Hun. :D

[h2o]

Hehe, probably because not every country is covered in snow and can be traversed in skis. Bring us another ice age and the Scandinavians will turn into Atilla the Hun. :D
You bet we will. All polar bears are standing by. ;)

[samurai999]

That thread is still going???? That's a lot of hate. Can't believe I broke my two year lurk status to reply to this.:spchless:

Yup.. too much hatin' goin' on right now.. From all sides.

[Kendoka108]

Just to add my 2 cents: Not making a call on whether Iraq situation is right or wrong but it must be recognized that oil is a matter of national security for any non-oil producing state/country. Obviously there may be better ways to handle a situation.
In regard to the world view of Americans being hicks- Interesting given the US's standing in global business and the prestiege given to a degree from some the better known US higher education institutions.
Are US citizens largely untravelled? Of course- look at the geographical differences between Europe and North America! As far as US citizens' behavior overseas- well it varies from person to person. I've lived in several countries over the years and do my best at respect for the land I'm in. Not always the case for every travelling citizen (I've definitely called a few tourist Americans down for their behavior because 1. it enforces a negative opinion of American overseas and 2. it makes things tougher for people like me that live there).
At the same time- I've experienced rude and condescending Germans, French, Turks, Japanese, Koreans, Brits, and Russians- not every experience was in the US but could have been in Russia, Japan, England, etc. Can't think of any run ins with jerk Canadians though....
So, stereotypes are stereotypes, do they have some truth to them- of course! That's why they persist. But should they be used as a blanket approach to interacting with people- if you want, but that's a comment on your own character.

[Paikea]

...avenge his father's loss in Iraq.Now, there's a fairly distorted view of history, but by and large - the topic's been done to death.

[neko kenshi]

I'm going to continue this rant that I've posted in other threads.

In the geographic bounds of North America, we have Canada, the United States, and Mexico.

In Central America, we have Nicaragua, Guatamala, Belize, Costa Rica, Panama, Honduras, and El Salvador.

In South America, we have Colombia, Venezuela, Brazil, Uruguay, Paraguay, Argentina, Chile, Peru, Ecuador, and Bolivia.

Okay, my question now then is, To which Americans do you refer?

I detest the self-centered term "America" to denote the U.S. only. If I recall my history correctly, Lief Ericson didn't land in the area that would become the United States. John Cabot didn't land in the area that would become the United States. Christobal Colon didn't land in the area to become the United States. The entire "New World" was named for Amerigo Vespucci, not just that area that would become the United States.

"In a room of 1000 people, you are sure to find at least one fool."

In neron's defence, I don't think he ever referred to the US as "America", he only said "Americans"; and you have to admit, it's a bit of a mouthful to say "citizens of the United States of America", everytime you want to refer to Americans. Know any better terms?

[Neil Gendzwill]

Can't think of any run ins with jerk Canadians though....Just attend a few hockey games...

[Spendius]

Hehe, its the only thing the French can beat us at... :D


Ah, French bashing, the easy way out...:ponder: At least WE rinse our dishes after washing them...

I've never had particular problems with americans so far, but my view is probably biased by the fact I've met them almost exclusively in Europe: they might be the open-minded, educated kind accepts that there IS something besides the States and that some of it might show some interest... Not the basic bush voting texas redneck.
British, on the other hand...

[tattooedasshole]

I'm going to continue this rant that I've posted in other threads.

In the geographic bounds of North America, we have Canada, the United States, and Mexico.

In Central America, we have Nicaragua, Guatamala, Belize, Costa Rica, Panama, Honduras, and El Salvador.

In South America, we have Colombia, Venezuela, Brazil, Uruguay, Paraguay, Argentina, Chile, Peru, Ecuador, and Bolivia.

Okay, my question now then is, To which Americans do you refer?

I detest the self-centered term "America" to denote the U.S. only. If I recall my history correctly, Lief Ericson didn't land in the area that would become the United States. John Cabot didn't land in the area that would become the United States. Christobal Colon didn't land in the area to become the United States. The entire "New World" was named for Amerigo Vespucci, not just that area that would become the United States.

"In a room of 1000 people, you are sure to find at least one fool."
As yours is the only country with america in the name, seems kinda simple why people would call you american.

[pgsmith]

He seemed to be under the impression that Americans were widely viewed as sort of ignorant country hicks sort of thing.
Ummm ... that's because we mostly are ignorant country hicks! But that's OK. We're rich and we're strong, so we can afford to be mostly ignorant of other countries and cultures. :D

Seriously though, geographical isolation tends to make most Americans pretty ignorant of other cultures. In Europe, there are a dozen countries and cultures in very close proximity to one another. You virtually have to have some knowledge of foreign cultures. In the U.S., most people go their entire lives with only the smallest bit of interaction with other cultures. This isolationism tends to make most Americans quite ignorant of how to act outside their own culture, which tends to be pretty loud and brash. Others see this brashness as boorishness, rather than simply American culture.


Okay, my question now then is, To which Americans do you refer?
Yeesh! Now we see why other people dislike Americans! :) What the heck do you think most Americans call themselves?

[samurai999]

So when the World Cup comes around once every 3 or 4 years, do we Americans have this to view? Whenever I see Irish and English soccer fans, I think hooligans.. Oakland Raider fans are tame compared to these guys...

http://sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/n/a/2006/06/26/sports/s020115D80.DTL

[Neil Gendzwill]

I'm ok with "American" meaning "citizen of the USA". It's the accepted convention, so there's no sense getting all pedantic about it.

The standard complaint from Canadians is that they know little about us, but we know so much about them. But really, why would they? How much does the average Canadian know about Mexico?

I do find the US to be insular in general, though. When you're there, it's hard to get international news of any sort.

[satsumaruma]

I am always wary of pointing out negative traits in people from other countries but one I will point out is this.

Instant friend.

Why do so many Americans feel the need to be your friend? And so quickly. Why the rush?

Howdy, Ah'm Brett can ah be yur buddy? No, f**k off.:evil: :laugh:

Seriously though. Got chatting to an American whilst on Cocoa Beach, Florida waiting for a Shuttle launch and after a while in the bar he was acting like me and him were best friends of many years. It was all very disconcerting. Especially to a Yorkshire lad like me where it takes years to get on first name terms with someone let alone be friends. Okay I exagerrate but read stuff by the American novelist Bill Bryson on making friends in England - it is really funny to see the world of John Bull from an American perspective ( Well Iowa at least)

[Richard Kim]

Brett, old boy:

How about me? Can I be your friend? :happy:

I'm one of those ignorant Americans but, in the past, even I have been surprised by people sitting next to me who suddenly burst into a conversation about their dog, their family, or what they do for a living, etc. I've always found it disconcerting and I frequently ended up racking my brain trying to remember if I've met them before somewhere.

But now that I've reached the ripe old age of . . . well, mid-thirties, it has dawned on me that I am half-way dead. And that's assuming I don't get Mad Cow disease or Avian flu! I'll readily admit that there are many things Americans, as a whole, could improve on but being friendly is, I think, a good thing.

So. Can we be buddies?? Sorry, some of my understated imitation British humor is shining through . . .

[Ignatz]

I think it is shameful that you can't get a decent valet in the U.S. My god, they think that a valet is a fellow that parks your car. Shameful.
The English produce the best servants and clerks.

[Paikea]

I think it is shameful that you can't get a decent valet in the U.S. My god, they think that a valet is a fellow that parks your car. Shameful.
The English produce the best servants and clerks....and tailors, can't beat England for fine haberdashery.

[Ignatz]

...and tailors, can't beat England for fine haberdashery.
True but in your local a quick trip to Hong Kong will get you as good as Saville Row at considerably lower cost.

[joekc6nlx]

In neron's defence, I don't think he ever referred to the US as "America", he only said "Americans"; and you have to admit, it's a bit of a mouthful to say "citizens of the United States of America", everytime you want to refer to Americans. Know any better terms?

I just say that I'm a U.S. citizen. I don't have to go through the long winded version. :glasses:

[Anjin-san]

British, on the other hand...

warmly invite you to have a suckle on their plums.

[ckramos]

It's the greatest country on Earth.

[ScottUK]

Explain...?

[Commander]

It's the greatest country on Earth.

Your obviously Southern.

lol

[Shazzanzzz]

Americans think all British are stuck ups, all French are cowards, All Germans are Nazis, all Canadians are dumb, all Asians are shy, all indians smell like curry, and everyone south of US are Mexicans.

Appreciate the country that brought you Micky D's and Kentuky Fraad Chicken, and also basketball, football (American), and baseball just so you wouldn't die eating it. Yea, we call football soccer here, because we prefer not to kick the ball in the sport WE call football.

Appreciate the country that made Bill Gates filthy rich by making bad products, Oprah more influential to women than god himself, and made George W Bush President TWICE. If they can succeed, you know YOU can here too. So WHY NOT be American? If someone like Curtis Jackson can be so successful in this country, don't you think you can too? Don't hate, Appreciate.
Chase the American Dream of cheap fast foods and mass produced things, hormone induced meats, poisoned drinks (aka soda), and bad waitor and waitresses (who u still have to be nice to and tip just so they won't do stuff do your food...).

Lastly, you CANNOT deny the fact that US is still the most influential country in the worl by far!

[Neil Gendzwill]

Actually basketball and football are ours... you're just better at it than we are.

[Paikea]

Americans think ...Um, yeah. Leave me off that list, would you?

[Ignatz]

Actually basketball and football are ours... you're just better at it than we are.
Different rules in football, too.

[pgsmith]

It's the greatest country on Earth.
Sorry man, but we were talking about Americans and the U.S., not Texas! :)

Why do so many Americans feel the need to be your friend? And so quickly. Why the rush?
That is actually a southern thing, not an American thing. Those from the original deep south Dixie area will profess to be your life long friend ten minutes after meeting you. Whether that holds true ten minutes after you leave is an entirely different story.

Another thing that drives some people bonkers is personal space. Canadians, English, and most Americans wish to have a circle of personal space that doesn't get violated. Many southerners (and all native Texans!) tend to be the touchy, feely type. I have a tendency to make Canadians very nervous. :)

[Shazzanzzz]

Actually basketball and football are ours... you're just better at it than we are.

neil... last time i checked, basetball was invented in indiana and american football is... american.

[Ignatz]

neil... last time i checked, basetball was invented in indiana and american football is... american.
Nope.
Basketball created by a Canadian in Massachusetts
http://www.kansasheritage.org/people/naismith.html

and Football was first introduced by the British Army and McGill University

No soup for you.

[Gessho]

Lets go there.....lol

Bush an absoulte piece of crap seriously he brings you the war, which was over oil *cough* i mean liberation from Saddam, he is republican! their moto is "State looks after it's self" lolol and this is your President! seriously people and you vote him in again...yes AGAIN! you vote a man who wants to avenge his father's loss in Iraq.

Typical leftist illogical thinking. If the war was about oil, the US would have left Saddam in power, let him conquer Saudia Arabia and Kuwait and the US would be paying $1 per gallon for gas.

The only thing "republican" about Saddam is his Republican guard who slaughtered women and children.

[Neil Gendzwill]

Different rules in football, too.Eh. Not enough to make them unrecognisable. Our field is longer and there are 3 downs instead of 4. There's a few other minor rules, but most of the players make the transition back and forth OK.

[ScottUK]

Americans think... <snip> yawnCongrats, dick - you just made the stereotypical American. Thank whatever maker you believe in that there are others who do your country a better service than you do.

[Maro]

Most Americans I meet at work are always incredibly Earnest. Nothing wrong with that but it's a big difference to the Aussies and POMs.

[Suiken]

I used to be with the German Army and I habe been stationed in a NATO HQ in Holland as part of an international signal battalion. My platoon leader was a canadian chief warrent officer and we had a lot of Brits, Dutch, Belgium and Americans there. I was the only German when I got there.
Don't get me wrong. I like Americans somehow, but you are different. Everybody integrated, but the Americans had there own PX to go to, there own on camp bowling centre (another US barrack some miles away), there own off camp housing with american neighbors. Most people did not like to socialise with Europeans, when they had the chance to be with other Americans.
At least that was my general impression and ofcourse there are exceptions.

Well, I guess somebody who joins the US Army can't be considered to be a normal US American, but still...

[xvikingx]

I think it is shameful that you can't get a decent valet in the U.S. My god, they think that a valet is a fellow that parks your car. Shameful.
The English produce the best servants and clerks.

I was a valet in college. Best job in the world. You get paid to ruin some rich guy's fancy car, and the jerk even gives you a tip when you bring it back to him with that "whoops I left the parking brake on" smell.

So yeah I guess you could say I was a pretty crappy servant.

[Shazzanzzz]

Congrats, dick - you just made the stereotypical American. Thank whatever maker you believe in that there are others who do your country a better service than you do.

Jeez. Learn to read, it's a joke. My point is, whatever you think of us Americans, we stereotype about everyone else too.

[Shazzanzzz]

Nope.
Basketball created by a Canadian in Massachusetts
http://www.kansasheritage.org/people/naismith.html

and Football was first introduced by the British Army and McGill University

No soup for you.

oh cool... didn't know nasmith was canadian... haha. I guess they don't want people to know.

[ScottUK]

It's the stereotyping and those who stereotype that are the problem... therefore I stand by my comment - dick...

[Shazzanzzz]

Eh. Not enough to make them unrecognisable. Our field is longer and there are 3 downs instead of 4. There's a few other minor rules, but most of the players make the transition back and forth OK.

so do canadians actually care about the CFL? Ricky Williams is there now!

[Shazzanzzz]

It's the stereotyping and those who stereotype that are the problem... therefore I stand by my comment - dick...


Then i will stand by the general stereotype about British people then, since, your case, it seems true.

[Shazzanzzz]

It's the stereotyping and those who stereotype that are the problem... therefore I stand by my comment - dick...


Seems like the general stereotype about British is true in your case? Although I do have a few really good friends from England.

[ScottUK]

Seems like the general stereotype about British is true in your case? Although I do have a few really good friends from England.If the British stereotype is 'non-sufferer of fools and wankers' then I guess so.

[KhawMengLee]

You know...the one thing I hate are ignorant people and I get to meet plenty from around the world(as well as my backyard). In the UK I got one geezer that went, "Oh, you are chinese. Do you know Kung Fu?" From the states I get a chick that said, "Oh, Malaysia? Isn't that in Jakarta?"

I think that most people find that America = Bush and Bush = America. Unfortunately, with the whole idea of Democrazy, people view the fact that Bush was elected meant that 99% must have voted for him.

The Brits I meet here in the pubs are quite polite and reserved(except during the football...look, you can take the boy out of Chelsea but you can't take Chelsea out of the boy;)), which is also a cultural thing. The Yanks...well, alone they are quite nice but get a bunch of the boys together and suddenly its like they are drinking testosterone...lots of noise and high fives and I feel like I just stepped off the set of Blackhawk Down. Hoooooooaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaah!

But overall...to me most people, no matter where they come from, are pricks. One or two people are cool and those are the ones who you call friends. Unfortunately, the US being the No1 Superpower has more of their influence and interests spread over the world. So we get to see more of their wankers...as oppossed to wankers from someplace like Belgium.

Canadians are excluded because we all know that canadians are polite and nice ppl.

This is barring the fact that Bush is a major tosser.

[Spendius]

Then i will stand by the general stereotype about British people then, since, your case, it seems true.

It's not Brits who think American readers are a bunch of whinging morons with the geo-social understanding of a wire coathanger, it's American editors.
Terry Pratchett

[Neil Gendzwill]

so do canadians actually care about the CFL? Ricky Williams is there now!They care pretty deeply outside of the major cities. The Saskatchewan Roughriders are pretty much the national team, due to the large numbers of people we export elsewhere. I'm not much of a football fan myself, but living in this town (like hockey) you have to know enough to hold a conversation during the season otherwise you're a social pariah.

[joekc6nlx]

Nope.
Basketball created by a Canadian in Massachusetts
http://www.kansasheritage.org/people/naismith.html

and Football was first introduced by the British Army and McGill University

No soup for you.

I've also read that baseball was derived from the British game of "rounders", though whether rounders has any derivation from cricket, I don't know. What we call football here in the U.S., wasn't it derived from rugby, another British game?

When I was stationed in Norfolk, Virginia at a communications station that supported the NATO commanders and their communications station, I got to meet a lot of people from other countries. When I was stationed in Italy, I lived out in town. All of my neighbors were Italian, I shopped at the Italian markets, stumbled through my pidgin Italian and endured the good-natured laughter of the people as they struggled to understand me. I had a great time!

[samurai999]

But g/d it! We have Shaq!!!!!!!!1111111oneoneone

[Gessho]

I used to live in Germany and Belgium and I really enjoyed my experience. However, I do know that many Europeans were uncomfortable with Americans because Americans can come off as being pushy and condescending. I was lucky because people thought I was Canadian!

I do agree with you that Americans have a tendency to stick to their own group. Partly it is because, when they are outside the US, it is for the first time and they naturally stick to what they know. Regarding the military, I think it is an unofficial policy for the US military to want to keep their personnel apart from the general mix of a foreign society.

[Fonsz]

I used to live in Germany and Belgium and I really enjoyed my experience. However, I do know that many Europeans were uncomfortable with Americans because Americans can come off as being pushy and condescending. I was lucky because people thought I was Canadian!

I do agree with you that Americans have a tendency to stick to their own group. Partly it is because, when they are outside the US, it is for the first time and they naturally stick to what they know. Regarding the military, I think it is an unofficial policy for the US military to want to keep their personnel apart from the general mix of a foreign society.

Is it to protect them from the forces of evil, or are they afraid that they will become (god forbid!) a bit more European? Or maybe to prevent them to turn into man (and woman) of the world? Just like some of the regular contributors of this Institution, who have been around and thus have a different world view? Opposed to someone who for example lives in the boonies of Kansas and to attract attention has to post his poetry here? I wonder.............

[Gessho]

Is it to protect them from the forces of evil, or are they afraid that they will become (god forbid!) a bit more European? Or maybe to prevent them to turn into man (and woman) of the world? Just like some of the regular contributors of this Institution, who have been around and thus have a different world view? Opposed to someone who for example lives in the boonies of Kansas and to attract attention has to post his poetry here? I wonder.............

LOL. Well, perhaps. Remember that the raison d'etre of the US since 1776 was to be left alone! :)

Unfortunately we joined the fray in WW1 and things have been difficult since then! I agree with George Washington, avoid all foreign entaglements, especially with Europe.

[satsumaruma]

I think it is shameful that you can't get a decent valet in the U.S. My god, they think that a valet is a fellow that parks your car. Shameful.
The English produce the best servants and clerks.

Are you just upset that we once had an empire and you guys can't have one too?


Aw golly gee, Fonzerelli:D

[satsumaruma]

[QUOTE=Osakajinyan]Everybody integrated, but the Americans had there own PX to go to, there own on camp bowling centre (another US barrack some miles away), there own off camp housing with american neighbors. Most people did not like to socialise with Europeans, when they had the chance to be with other Americans.
At least that was my general impression and ofcourse there are exceptions.

QUOTE]

I think this is probably something unique to Americans. I recall being in a Hotel bar in Amsterdam and got chatting to some Germans, French, Belgians, a Canadian and one Algerian who were all staying there at the time. We all got mightily pissed, except for the good Moslem Algerian, and stayed up til the early hours putting the world to rights - as you do. (Funny how alcohol equals enlightenment). Well, when I say ALL, I meant all but the Americans who sat in a corner and after saying "jeez you guys sure can drink" a few times went to bed at about 10 pm. Now even the tee total Algerian stayed up just for the fun of it.

So, the real reason Americans do not like socialising with Europeans is 'cos they are big girls blouses and cannot hold their ale:D :D

[KhawMengLee]

I do agree with you that Americans have a tendency to stick to their own group. Partly it is because, when they are outside the US, it is for the first time and they naturally stick to what they know. Regarding the military, I think it is an unofficial policy for the US military to want to keep their personnel apart from the general mix of a foreign society.

We chinese do this to...but we're really quiet so people tend to think we are snobbish sneaky types.:D

[satsumaruma]

No, we just think you are after world domination.

You open up restaurants all over the planet which are really 'Cells'. And when the 'word' comes - Armageddon and control of the whole planet

mmwah ha ha haaaaaaaa

I really will have to stop watching late night TV

[KhawMengLee]

No, we just think you are after world domination.

You open up restaurants all over the planet which are really 'Cells'. And when the 'word' comes - Armageddon and control of the whole planet

mmwah ha ha haaaaaaaa

I really will have to stop watching late night TV

Blast! You've discovered the truth!

*pulls out wok which is really a high tech comms dish*

I've sent word to Uncle Wong's Jolly Luck Takeaway to send our Kung fu Hustle Assasinators after you mate!:ninja: :bandit: :ninja:

[satsumaruma]

Right then,

sleeves rolled up, we British of the Empire are sending in the anti dote to Chinese world domination, yes....an overweight American Actor pretending to be a British Secret Agent. (Cue 007 theme tune...dang diddle lang dang, dangdang, dang diddle lang dang, dangdang, dang diddle lang dang, dangdang, duh dah dah; dah ...duh dah )

I can hear your fiendish plans coming apart and your white fluffy kitten has desterted you; I can feel you quaking in your boots from here.

[KhawMengLee]

Right then,

sleeves rolled up, we British of the Empire are sending in the anti dote to Chinese world domination, yes....an overweight American Actor pretending to be a British Secret Agent. (Cue 007 theme tune...dang diddle lang dang, dangdang, dang diddle lang dang, dangdang, dang diddle lang dang, dangdang, duh dah dah; dah ...duh dah )

I can hear your fiendish plans coming apart and your white fluffy kitten has desterted you; I can feel you quaking in your boots from here.

You obviously haven't seen our own secret agent (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j4I9Lo5IbLs&search=hong%20kong%20phooey)!

[satsumaruma]

Aaaaah

You inscrutable fiend........ have you no mercy?

[KhawMengLee]

Aaaaah

You inscrutable fiend........ have you no mercy?

I thought I was being merciful...lest you want me to send The Bodyguard from Beijing. (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MAu9mSvwSbQ&search=stephen%20chow)

Translation:

Receptionist- Can I help you sir?

007 - Yes I booked a room.

Rec - And your name?

007 - My name is Ling ling chat (chinese for 007)

Rec - Er..sorry, the name isn't on the list.

007 - What? hmmn...but I have a reservation.

Rec - Oh I see...this isn't a reservation for the Hilton Hotel sir. Its a reservation for the Hilton motel.

*cuts to seedy motel*

007 - shit.

************************************************** **

Inside the hotel:

Mamasan(actually a famous HK actor who always is in drag): Alright handsome, remember, the rates and check out time is at 12pm.

007 - *looks around the room and spots the porn*

Mamasan - check it out with these. *hands over 3D glasses*

007 - wooooah!

Mamasan: So how? Everything good?

007 - Its okay...but...

Mamasan: Do you want a hooker?

007 - Sure.

Mamasan: Okay, a mainland girl is 100 and a local girl(Hong kong) is 150.

007 - Local girl.

Mamasan: right. *gets on her knees and starts to unbuckle his pants*

007 - what are you doing?

Mamasan: You asked for a local girl...I'm very famous round these parts.

end.

[Paikea]

No, we just think you are after world domination.

You open up restaurants all over the planet which are really 'Cells'. And when the 'word' comes - Armageddon and control of the whole planet

mmwah ha ha haaaaaaaa

I really will have to stop watching late night TVThis Complex Worldwide Conspiracy, brought to you by a nation that cannot hide a stained blue dress.

[Kent Enfield]

Our field is longer and there are 3 downs instead of 4.I distinctly remember John Candy explaining on (SC)TV that Canadian football does in fact have four downs, but Canadians like to punt on third down "just to be safe." :)

[Ignatz]

Are you just upset that we once had an empire and you guys can't have one too?


Aw golly gee, Fonzerelli:D
Keep your memories of an empire, I'm simply mourning the lack of decent man-servants nowadays and the dearth of truly elitist activities. Damn bolshevics.

[joekc6nlx]

I do agree with you that Americans have a tendency to stick to their own group. Partly it is because, when they are outside the US, it is for the first time and they naturally stick to what they know. Regarding the military, I think it is an unofficial policy for the US military to want to keep their personnel apart from the general mix of a foreign society.


Well, if that's the case, they certainly forgot to tell me! I spent 22.5 years in the military, much of the time, I got to go overseas and visit all sorts of places. I didn't go to those countries to sit on a chair in some NCO club or to stay onboard the ship for the entire time.

We were encouraged to go out into the local societies. After all, when we send an ambassador to another country, how many of the everyday people get to meet that person? If a U.S. Navy ship pulls into port and the sailors all act as though they were ambassadors themselves (which we were always told we were), then is it possible that the common person in that country would have a favorable view of U.S. people?

By staying away from the local society, military personnel miss out on great opportunities to learn local culture, customs, foods, and especially beer (except in Islamic countries, although we did manage to find beer in Egypt - nasty stuff!).

[Gessho]

Keep your memories of an empire, I'm simply mourning the lack of decent man-servants nowadays and the dearth of truly elitist activities. Damn bolshevics.

We need a return to a simpler time...perhaps the 14th century...:nervous:

[KhawMengLee]

We were encouraged to go out into the local societies. After all, when we send an ambassador to another country, how many of the everyday people get to meet that person? If a U.S. Navy ship pulls into port and the sailors all act as though they were ambassadors themselves (which we were always told we were), then is it possible that the common person in that country would have a favorable view of U.S. people?


Not when they start trying to drunkenly grope your girlfriend in the middle of Zouk's (Singapore) dancefloor...but the MP's came nice and quick and took them away.

But yeah, if they act like ambassadors, yes, it would be good. But not so good if they act like drunken frat boys on the pull.

Though I did find it funny when one sailor/marine started to get reeeeeeeal close and personal with this friend of mine who works in DKNY. She's actually a 'He' and he actually had a crying game moment when his hands started to drift toward's 'ahem'...

[Maro]

My only other gripe is the insidious corruption of the English language by American Management Consultants.

B*llshit Bingo is a reality in most companies now due to the global nature of business.

Very annoying. :((:

[Alison2805]

when I was...umm..younger.. the sailors coming to town from the US was cause for cellebration. "LOOK!! They can dance!! You mean men can actually be coordinated??? No aussie yobbo has ever looked like THAT!! Lemme at him!!!" It was worth dancing with them just to watch the aussie guys at the bar, sulking, and scowling at the "bloody yanks taking our women". A little competition does them some good! The sailors always get a warm welcome from us girls in the most isolated city of the world.

[KhawMengLee]

when I was...umm..younger.. the sailors coming to town from the US was cause for cellebration. "LOOK!! They can dance!! You mean men can actually be coordinated??? No aussie yobbo has ever looked like THAT!! Lemme at him!!!" It was worth dancing with them just to watch the aussie guys at the bar, sulking, and scowling at the "bloody yanks taking our women". A little competition does them some good! The sailors always get a warm welcome from us girls in the most isolated city of the world.

Hahaha...yeah i remember that! Catching the train from Claremont to the City or Freo I would go...hmmnnnn, there are a lot of big black guys on the train today...okay, there must be a warship in Freo.

You can always spot the officers tho', sneakers with white socks, t-shirts tucked into their bermuda shorts and a very sober baseball hat worn the right way round...hahahah

[Alison2805]

oh yeah, they always look uptight. I actually havent seen a warship here for ages

[MiChuhSuh]

the war, which was over oil

You don't live in the US do you?

Our gas price has jumped consistently and rapidly since the Iraq stuff started. It's clear we're not the ones getting their oil, either that or they're ripping us off.

[Shazzanzzz]

You don't live in the US do you?

Our gas price has jumped consistently and rapidly since the Iraq stuff started. It's clear we're not the ones getting their oil, either that or they're ripping us off.

Are you kidding? The problem is the Bush Administration. ALL his policies are geared toward one thing - making money for the big oil companies (including his own family). Opening Alaska for oil, war in iraq, not controlling the oil prices...

As economic theory indicates, when there's more supply, prices should be lower, but that is not the case here, although there's a lot more factors in this, like US losing share of the global market in oil consumption. The only people that can manipulate this is the government, and they have done so. We actually have more supplies since the war with iraq, but the gas prices are way higher.

[joekc6nlx]

Opening Alaska for oil, war in iraq, not controlling the oil prices...

As economic theory indicates, when there's more supply, prices should be lower, but that is not the case here, although there's a lot more factors in this, like US losing share of the global market in oil consumption. The only people that can manipulate this is the government, and they have done so. We actually have more supplies since the war with iraq, but the gas prices are way higher.

Certainly, economic theory applies to most commodities. However, oil is an artificially controlled commodity, managed through a cartel. It's not like wheat futures, where you know pretty well how much wheat you're going to have to sell, plus what the trend in demand for wheat has been over a set number of years. Oil, on the other hand, does not follow that theory, because the cartel can shut down the supply, can threaten to shut down the supply (can you imagine a wheat farmer threatening to burn his field?), and just the mere threat will drive prices up.

Blaming the president for oil prices is unrealistic, and you are applying a blanket statement to a myriad of other issues. What solutions to the problems would you like him to apply and how long do you think it would take for those solutions to have a significant effect? Perhaps if we decided to decrease our own use of petroleum products, such as gasoline, we might very well drive the price of oil down, based on your economic theory of demand vs. supply.

This was a topic of discussion in my economics classes in college.....these were the answers we came up with.