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Originally Posted by alansmithee
I'm wondering what it is about Americans visiting other places that seems to make them seem so obnoxious, rude, etc.? For those who have travelled in the states, do they notice it there as well, or is it different? Is it cultural misunderstanding, or are Americans just generally boors overseas? And what behaviors specifically (if there is any that can be pinpointed) cause this obnoxious impression? I'm thinking of taking an extended trip overseas (Japan) when I'm finished getting my degree, and would like to avoid looking like some buffoonish American. I generally think I'm well-mannered but it could be something that Americans don't even notice that gives them the bad impression around the world.
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Hell, I'm an American and I'll take a stab at this.
1. Switch your money to the local currency. You might think "how obvious," but I've seen countless times where Americans seem to think everyone is dying to get ahold of dollars. Might be true in some remote parts of the world, but don't assume.
2. Try to speak some of the local language.
3. Everything you would do if you were at Disney world, try not to do when interacting with regular old local people. They live there.
edit alan, you also might want to stay away from calling them sychophantic whores lapping at the American trough of trade
