Are Americans really hated as much as I'm hearing?

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I should be doing something else

No, we basically see Americans as our cousins from across the pond =]

You will be made welcome. There is a certain stereotype that you will have heard of but you seem lovely just like most Americans I have met are.

I will be honest and say this, I can't guarantee how well you will be received by the French. I was there a couple of years ago and found them to be extremely rude and unwelcoming, but that's just my opinion.

Have a fantastic trip =]

metall.pingwin

To some extent. There is no "look at that dumb american" mentality, but there is a certain negative stereotype. It's nothing out of the ordinary however, or anything to worry about. You won't be persecuted for your nationality, many people may even find you exotic.

MÎ±Ï„Î¸Î±Î¹Î¿Ï‚

Well England and Norway don't really have that mentality towards Americans, but (even though I love the French) they do tend to lean more towards stereotyping Americans in that sense (not always) but like Mary & Mike said learn a bit of French and everyone in France will love you! Have a good trip!

Arcadia

The first answer from SW is a classic example of why Europeans consider many (not all, of course) Americans to be ignorant...Obama is about as much a "socialist" as Atilla the Hun was. By European standards he is essentially pretty conservative in all respects.

The current unpopularity of the US in Europe has nothing to do with Americans as individuals, and everything to do with your President, who is considered very poorly by just about everyone everywhere. We dont blame Americans for the actions of their politicians.

I think the problem also stems from the fact that some Americans really seem to know very little about the world beyond the borders of the USA. I have been in the US several times, and on at least five occasions have been asked where I am from. When I reply "London", I have had answers that vary from "Oh, right...Sweden, huh?" to "Ahhhh. Where's that?"

Col

How can one generalise about any nationality ? Where I live we have many tourists from the US any of whom are of Scottish , Irish or of English descent and are curious as well as proud of their heritage . The most common criticism is perhaps they underestimate the time needed to see and enjoy things . Not the first time I have been asked " Can I do the Highlands in a day " . ! Generally polite and appreciative a change from some the boozed up Brits who descend on Spanish and Greek holiday resorts every summer !

emmies.eyes

My personal experience in England, Germany, Luxembourg, Holland & Portugal was great. When I shopped where the language was a barrier--I tried to communicate, they tried back (smiling helps) and everyone was friendly.

My observations of other Americans in public was sometimes embarrassing. I would see rude behavior, unnecessarily loud conversation, sloppy attire, and yup, lots of excess weight. (oh wait, that was yesterday at Target!) Seriously, although I know there are many Americans who travel who do not fit that stereotype, they pass through unnoticed as they try to act with some sense of manners. The impression is left by the ones who attract the most bad attention.
I, too, am amazed at how little people know about other countries, especially with the internet. Not that I'm a world traveller or so knowledgeable, but when I'm going somewhere, I at least try to read about it and look at maps.

Mary & Mike

No, don't believe the hype. Oh sure, it doesn't hold true for everyone, but you should keep a positive mindset and it will normally be returned.

I just came back from France and all the bs you hear about the French is nonsense....I found them to be almost as friendly and hospitable as the Italians. (I was in Tuscany for a month and spent an additional six weeks on the French Riviera; St. Tropez, Nice, Antibes, Monaco) I only laid-over in Paris so I cannot speak to THOSE rumors.

A tip: If you need to know something, directions, information, do not go up to someone and ask the question.....excuse yourself, greet them, then go from there...simple as it sounds, Americans do not do this and it is resented. And dress well, they like to stroll out for late dinners and really don't put much stock in those wearing sneakers and carrying back packs. When in Rome....

Honestly, you get, how you give. If you understand my meaning.
You are going to have a wonderful time, and I bet ESPECIALLY in France! (learn a couple words in French, you'll be surprised how you are received). Bonchance!

Goldie

Well the view of Americans in Europe is not a great one, most of us don't agree with your policies, and we do consider some of you stupid (no offence), but that doesn't mean you'll be treated horribly or anything.

My personal opinion, I don't like Americans for the reasons I just stated, but I'm never rude to one, I act normal.

MR. X

we will really be considered ignorant if we fall for that barack socialist b.s.

Chappers

I think you maybe generally are. You need to remember your guests of a country and need to look into local culture and traditions so as not to offend locals. You do tend to have a very bossy and authoritarian approach thinking you rule the world and are always right.

The Elegant Epicure

There are stereotypes about all nations. Some people (not all) think that Americans are all fat, vulgar, and loud; all Brits have bad teeth and talk like Hugh Grant; all French people are rude and smell of garlic; and so on.

A lot of the time, these stereotypes are ridiculous. Sometimes, there's a bit of truth to them.

Just remember that when you travel, you're acting as a representative from the country you're from.

Act as you would like tourists / visitors to your country to act. Mind your manners and observe local customs. That's all there is to it.

In England, the worst I've heard about Americans is that they're loud - and that's a massive generalisation. It probably says more about us, as we're thought of as a 'reserved' nation - even though we have plenty of loud, fat, stupid people of our own.

Enjoy your trip and don't worry about what people think of Americans - worry what they think about you. If you behave well, you'll be welcome in any country :)

Nat knows best

No not hated..but why do only the overweight Americans with terrible dress sense travel to Europe??

brian g

Only ignorant persons would ask a question like that.

You ask if a stereotype is true? Way to go you scholar.

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