Americans validate stereotypes overseas

There's a joke that while in America we celebrate our independence from Great Britain on July 4^th with food and fireworks, the British are equally jovial, celebrating the day they got rid of us.

After spending some time in Europe over winter break, I have to say I get it.

Now, I love my country. I'm just as enthusiastic for the United States as the next guy wearing a George Bush shirt that says, "The ‘W' stands for Winner!" even if I don't wear an American flag as a cape. Still, with all my patriotism, I can see why Americans get the stereotypes we do.

Let me explain. I went with a group of college-aged kids on a European tour for vacation. Most of us were there with whatever money we had scraped together, fortunate to have some generous family members contribute to this early graduation present, and boy did we stand out.

Americans are seen as stupid.

I would be in a group of girls and it was inevitable a European guy would wander his way over and start to make conversation with us. The typical small talk would deviate into politics. I sat back watching as the representation of America dwindled while girls floundered on what to say about current events.

The girls would attempt to impress these guys with their vast knowledge of movie trivia. I hung my head as one girl quipped, "Oh, you're from Ireland? Do you just love the movie, The Highlander?"

Americans are seen as disrespectful.

It's fun to visit other countries, but you have to observe the differences and adapt. For example, yelling really loud in the Underground in London where the typical Brit will stay quiet and keep to himself/herself is going to attract a lot of unwanted attention.

Climbing up on revered monuments and statues is probably not the best way to stay low-key. When I saw one girl drop her suitcase, because she was just "not going to carry it another step and somebody better come and get it" I was disappointed in how the behavior represented a deep-seated "I'm-better-than-this" mentality.

Americans are seen as fat.

I won't spend too much time on this one. Europeans are better dressers. They walk more, eat less and eat better. So the conclusion is apparent.

So what should be done with this epiphany? I'm over here now and they are over there, but when I make the journey across the Atlantic again, I plan to come a little more prepared.

I'd like to be armed with the knowledge of current events and politics, so I can offer sound opinions on issues. I plan to keep my map and camera stored safely away on busy streets with impatient people. And in honor of my New Year's resolution, hopefully I can go back with what my sister likes to call "slender European legs."