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I have been in the US about ten times and I think one of the initial barriers is our that our perception of the US is formed through Hollywood. Some things tha
by danieldk 16y ago
I have been in the US about ten times and I think one of the initial barriers is our that our perception of the US is formed through Hollywood.
Some things that did not match my expectations/assumptions:
- The average American is much poorer than I expected. Wealth is less evenly divided, than say West-Europe.
- Americans are extremely nice and warm. Some Europeans say it is superficial, but I really liked when eating at some place that a stranger would pass by and have a chat.
- Apart from the West coast and North-East, Americans are pretty conservative.
- Americans have a positive attitude towards life.
- Americans are prepared to take risks, where Europeans are for more risk-averse. This (IMO) has a bad effect on the social system, but a positive effect on entrepreneurism.
- protomyth 16y agoDon't let appearances dictate your perception of wealth (well, in the midwest at least). A lot of farmers, business people in the midwest don't look the part, but have the bucks.
- rgraham 16y agoAnd as you might learn in 'The Millionaire Next Door' many doctors and lawyers have nothing but debt and the appearance of wealth. Or in Texan: "Big hat, no cattle."
- js4all 16y agoI have been in the U.S. as often as you (like 20 times) and had the same experiences. I go with all your 5 points. I especially like their openness and friendliness. The very positive experiences changed the way I behave when meeting strangers outside of the U.S. Things changed a bit after 9/11 though, but I can understand that.