Hi from Rick: Are Americans Welcome in Europe?

I should be welcome since I’m not responsible for any of that. As a matter of fact, I tried (and I am trying) to stop it.

Connecting with locals and understanding different worldviews is one
reason why I travel. As Americans, the best thing we can do right now
is to get out there, understand our place in our ever-smaller world,
and listen to what others have to say — so we can be good ambassadors
for our country, and do our part to be great global citizens.

I enjoy hearing what others have to say too, though honestly, my travels don't typically present all that many opportunities for lengthy conversations that might help me understand "different worldviews." That would be a real reach. Most often, I get to hear the local person's suggestions for things to see and do, or perhaps something as mundane as what's on their wine list. And whatever topics my conversations entail, I listen carefully just like I would to a fellow countryman back home - I just enjoy getting to know new people that I meet. I'm not really interested in being a "global citizen" (whatever that might mean??) or becoming an ambassador from my country (which I leave to the State Department officials.) Maybe there's something wrong with me?? I might be a failure in Rick's eyes. But I think I enjoy my travels more without the responsibilities his philosophy of travel might require of me.

As Americans, the best thing we can do right now is to get out there, understand our place in our ever-smaller world, and listen to what others have to say — so we can be good ambassadors for our country, and do our part to be great global citizens.

And whatever topics my conversations entail, I listen carefully just like I would to a fellow countryman back home - I just enjoy getting to know new people that I meet.

Russ, I don't think he's saying that you have to wave the U.S. flag when you're traveling or preach to Europeans about our country. I think he's saying that if someone talks to you, be polite, listen to what they have to say, feel free to speak your piece if you want, but be kind when you do. In other words, don't be a jerk.

And in fact, I think your words above mean that you are an ambassador. The word "ambassador" is meant to symbolize someone who is polite, who is friendly and who is respectful to the people whose country we are traveling in. I know that means you, Russ. I like to think that it means me, and in fact I like to think that it means most of the people on this forum. 😊

I am positive. Think too that people get more interested in eachother. It’s not something you have to push, it just goes by itself. Call it positive irony.

So automatically you will be an ambassador as a matter of speaking, it’s not a task.