This side of the pond we are much closer to Furrin Parts so it's easier to get the experience of different cultures, but you only have to travel to Spain and Portugal to see how cringingly awful the Chav Brits abroad can be!
On the topic of perceived nationalities, I was in a lift in Switzerland with a New Zealander who wore a T-shirt saying she wasn't Aussie, a Canadian making it clear that she was no Yank, and myself - distancing myself from the English SWMBO next to me. I was the only one who got thumped though.
I've visited the States several times on business and hols, and the vast majority of the locals are extremely friendly and ever willing to be helpful. Just as an example, there was one time I was in a snowbound bar in Milwaukee with a couple of others on a business trip and a casual comment to the barmaid about collecting obscure soccer shirts had the bar turned upside down in the search for anyone who knew where local teams got their kit from, and any time we've stopped in our travels round the States on holiday folk are always too happy to pass the time of day and discuss places to go and see.
There's always the odd grouch to even things up a bit, and of course some who have absolutely no sense of humour when it comes to having any fun poked at them at all.
:roll: National stereotypes are rarely valid on a one-to-one basis, we've had many great holidays in Germany - and yes they do have a sense of humour - just look at their dress sense and haircuts for a start! For that matter SWMBO is from Liverpool and all our cars still have their wheels on. My bank account is perpetually empty, it must be said.
