NationStates Jolt Archive

I am, for the first time ever, going to the US - I'm going to stay with my cousins in New York. Here in Luxembourg, the stereotypicla American is brash, loud, rude, and wears bright t-shirts, that fail to conceal an overweight body. They are also on the darker side of intelligent. Now, I'm not intending to flame, and I'm convinced that is about as true as the story that Americans will get in their cars to drive round the corner, speak a funny version of English that I won't be able to understand, have McDonalds every street, and classify us all as Europeans? so what is the truth? What will it be like?

I am, for the first time ever, going to the US - I'm going to stay with my cousins in New York. Here in Luxembourg, the stereotypicla American is brash, loud, rude, and wears bright t-shirts, that fail to conceal an overweight body. They are also on the darker side of intelligent. Now, I'm not intending to flame, and I'm convinced that is about as true as the story that Americans will get in their cars to drive round the corner, speak a funny version of English that I won't be able to understand, have McDonalds every street, and classify us all as Europeans? so what is the truth? What will it be like?

Uhm, but ... aren't all people from Luxembourg Europeans? Or did you move to another continent?

New York City? I think you'll find it fun and amazing. I don't know how used to really big cities you are. If you aren't, NYC can be more than a little daunting, but don't let that bother you. There's more culture, nightlife, excitement there than just about anywhere.

* retreats to a defensible position to await the contrary opinions about NYC *

Depends greatly on where you're going. Uhm, but ... aren't all people from Luxembourg Europeans? Or did you move to another continent?

I think she means the dislike people have of being classed together as Europeans when they would rather their individual nationalities were recognised

I think he means the dislike people have of being classed together as Europeans when they would rather their individual nationalities were recognised

Oh, I guess. And she's a she.

You'll see what you want to see regardless of the state of reality. If you set out on this journey already convinced of a stereotype and keep that stereotype as your basis, then that stereotype is what you'll see. Enjoy your trip.

You'll see what you want to see regardless of the state of reality. If you set out on this journey already convinced of a stereotype and keep that stereotype as your basis, then that stereotype is what you'll see. Enjoy your trip.

Red Letter hit it spot on. If you are looking to prove that Americans are as absurd as you say they are then you will suceed, because you will "notice" everything that conforms to your stereotypes and will discount or ignore any that conflict with them.

I am, for the first time ever, going to the US - I'm going to stay with my cousins in New York. Here in Luxembourg, the stereotypicla American is brash, loud, rude, and wears bright t-shirts, that fail to conceal an overweight body. They are also on the darker side of intelligent. Now, I'm not intending to flame, and I'm convinced that is about as true as the story that Americans will get in their cars to drive round the corner, speak a funny version of English that I won't be able to understand, have McDonalds every street, and classify us all as Europeans? so what is the truth? What will it be like?

Expect the stupidest comments about your country - while not "on the darker side of intelligent" than anyone else in general, expect complete and utter ignorance about the world beyond either their state or possibly the US borders. Expect "brashness, loudness and rudeness" but the latter will be thinly veiled under false politeness - you will be surprised at how they think that just because they smile and *act* polite that they are excused for certain behaviour. Expect horrible food, expect not to be submitted to any news about the outside world, expect xenophobia, expect an alarming lack of secularism. Expect to be told opinions as if the person telling them is more entitled than anyone else to have them. Expect not to give a shit.

Also, expect nice scenery.

Well, New York is more or less the stinking armpit of America, so I'd be more aware of what I smell than see, if I were you.

You'll see what you want to see regardless of the state of reality. If you set out on this journey already convinced of a stereotype and keep that stereotype as your basis, then that stereotype is what you'll see. Enjoy your trip.

Red Letter hit it spot on. If you are looking to prove that Americans are as absurd as you say they are then you will suceed, because you will "notice" everything that conforms to your stereotypes and will discount or ignore any that conflict with them.

Maybe you should stay home and save the money. Send your cousins a picture.

No, seriously, I hope you'll have a good time. Americans are much the same as any other people, some are brash and annoying, others are thoughtful and intelligent, etc. New York, like many very large cities, is a mix of the beautiful and the grotesque. There are dull, dreary, dirty areas, and there are marvels of architecture and beauty (can you tell I used to live there and still miss it to pieces?).

Expect the stupidest comments about your country - while not "on the darker side of intelligent" than anyone else in general, expect complete and utter ignorance about the world beyond either their state or possibly the US borders. Expect "brashness, loudness and rudeness" but the latter will be thinly veiled under false politeness - you will be surprised at how they think that just because they smile and *act* polite that they are excused for certain behaviour. Expect horrible food, expect not to be submitted to any news about the outside world, expect xenophobia, expect an alarming lack of secularism. Expect to be told opinions as if the person telling them is more entitled than anyone else to have them. Expect not to give a shit.

Also, expect nice scenery.

This is an accurate summary of what could be expected in Paris.


You're such a bitter,pompous little guy.

Random thoughts: New Yorkers are a lot friendlier than even other Americans portray them, although my English accent might help. New Yorkers are more like Europeans than the rest of the US. In Manhattan everyone seems to be in a rush. Like most big cities though, there are places you don't go at night. Use the subway, but make sure you know the difference between the local and express trains. Central Park is great - the park, the art museum and the zoo are all worth a trip.

Well, New York is more or less the stinking armpit of America, so I'd be more aware of what I smell than see, if I were you.

New York is the center of the world.

The only stinking armpits are from other lands.

Expect the stupidest comments about your country - while not "on the darker side of intelligent" than anyone else in general, expect complete and utter ignorance about the world beyond either their state or possibly the US borders. Expect "brashness, loudness and rudeness" but the latter will be thinly veiled under false politeness - you will be surprised at how they think that just because they smile and *act* polite that they are excused for certain behaviour. Expect horrible food, expect not to be submitted to any news about the outside world, expect xenophobia, expect an alarming lack of secularism. Expect to be told opinions as if the person telling them is more entitled than anyone else to have them. Expect not to give a shit.

Also, expect nice scenery.

As this is a good example.

You should know by now, Maria, that asking for an opinion on something like the US in this forum is likely to get you an incredible range of opnions.

You'll see what you want to see regardless of the state of reality. If you set out on this journey already convinced of a stereotype and keep that stereotype as your basis, then that stereotype is what you'll see. Enjoy your trip.

Better yet-stay home. You clearly have little to contribute.

You dont deserve to see what we have here.

Let's see..Ironically I was in the very same position you are now in only two months ago..

Security: You will be asked to fill out two forms, which will ask questions like who you are, where you live, where you will stay, and for how long..As well as if you have a criminal record, and etc..
After this they take your index finger prints, and a have you look into some sort of a scanner thingamabob (they also may, or may not, check your carry on luggage)

Never been to NY, but I'd expect it to be well..Big..So one would assume that you can, literally, see all sorts of people there.

Don't belive in the stereotypes. There are people there that fit them, for sure, but that does not mean everybody does.

This is an accurate summary of what could be expected in Paris.

There is a reason the US and France are such unpopular countries opinion-wise - they are so alike. It's just that in France they have a superiority complex, while in the US there is one of inferiority, of having something to prove. The OP can expect repetitions of the meme "the US is number 1" at almost the same rate as jadedness in France.

You're such a bitter,pompous little guy.

Oh, and they have quite the delicate sensibilities.

Better yet-stay home. You clearly have little to contribute.

You dont deserve to see what we have here.

Hmmm... Do you really expect any "European" to like America when they're confronted with that kind of attitude?

New York is the center of the world.

The only stinking armpits are from other lands.

Yeah yeah yeah. We've heard it before, and it doesn't change the fact that New York is one giant stinking armpit.

expect to see US Americans that you think are cool, smart and friendly as well as those who are dumb, overweight, xenophobic and not so friendly - and any mix in between.

Expect to see some strange things as well as some familiar things.

Dont expect to see any good news coverage (especially international) unless you are watching BBC.

Americans differ by region and by race. In NY expect to see gangsta black guys, Puerto Ricans with spraypaint cans tagging every vertical surface, Smelly Pakistani cab drivers, and Italian guys wearing wife beater T shirts and gold who will likely ask you what you're looking at. If you come over to New Jersey you'll see the same types, also many women with big hair who still listen to Bon Jovi.

If you go to the Southeastern US you will meet up with Redneck crackers who will bury you in a swamp if you don't love Jesus and George Bush.

Out west are Indians. They have a rich culture that includes craps, blackjack, and texas Hold'em. Those are ancient games from their history that they keep alive to this day.

In California everyone surfs. Everyone. Also they're all very into leftist causes like banning fur guns.

Hope this helps.

I am, for the first time ever, going to the US - I'm going to stay with my cousins in New York. Here in Luxembourg, the stereotypicla American is brash, loud, rude, and wears bright t-shirts, that fail to conceal an overweight body. They are also on the darker side of intelligent. Now, I'm not intending to flame, and I'm convinced that is about as true as the story that Americans will get in their cars to drive round the corner, speak a funny version of English that I won't be able to understand, have McDonalds every street, and classify us all as Europeans? so what is the truth? What will it be like?
I would say, the best thing to do is ignore that and look at them with fresh eyes.

would you like people assuming things about you and your countrymen by stereotypes and other people's opinions?

would you like people assuming things about you and your countrymen by stereotypes and other people's opinions?

Yeah what is the stereotypical Luxembourger like anyway?

There is a reason the US and France are such unpopular countries opinion-wise - they are so alike. It's just that in France they have a superiority complex, while in the US there is one of inferiority, of having something to prove. The OP can expect repetitions of the meme "the US is number 1" at almost the same rate as jadedness in France.



Oh, and they have quite the delicate sensibilities.

There is no inferiority complex-and nothing to prove- its already been proven.

We're a young, yet widely diverse, highly successful country. Something you guys have a lot of trouble with.
Your assumptions and of course-the pure bullshit-are tremendous indicators of your own inferiority.

Delicate sensibilities? Hardly. Its the very fact that we dont give a shit when encountered with your absurdly petty critique that tightens your panties til they are unbearable.

The problem is you. You're inadequacy and self loathing is the common denominator.

Yeah what is the stereotypical Luxembourger like anyway?

There aren't enough Luxembourgers to form a stereotype. Any generalization one makes about two or three of them will actually be correct since you've now encountered their whole population. :)

Yeah what is the stereotypical Luxembourger like anyway?

Two all-beef patties, special sauce ... no, wait, that's a different kind of bourger.

I wouldn't worry about news coverage,anyway, you're going to be on holiday, right? Who cares about the news?

There aren't enough Luxembourgers to form a stereotype. Any generalization one makes about two or three of them will actually be correct since you've now encountered their whole population. :)

I seem to remember a newspaper report that showed them to have the highest percentage of alcoholics of any European nation but I might be wrong about that

Yeah what is the stereotypical Luxembourger like anyway?

They love wine... so I would assume they are winos.


ALso I bet they love to eat food and watch tv. They probably love futbol.

Yeah what is the stereotypical Luxembourger like anyway?

Half French, half-german.

Half French, half-german.

How does he know when to invade and when to surrender?

How does he know when to invade and when to surrender?

They don't. If the country was big enough to invade anything, it might matter.

Bon Voyage, New York ain't so bad. The legend about eye contact in the New York subways is a myth, and thats from personal experience.

New York City or New York State?

Upstate New York is nothing like New York City, there is a big difference. For that matter downstate New York outside of the city is not the same as New York City.

Notable things European visitrs have commented to me about with regards to the US. People are so friendly (this actually was made to me refering to New Yorkers who are notoriously unfriendly by US standards, I would hate to see how they would respond to a southerner). Everything is too far apart, outside the city of New York expect cities to be far apart - think Southern France style distances and a half hour car trip on uncrowded roads as being the norm to go anywhere.

As for being classified as Europeans, probably although you may be surprised by how willing people are to recognize your nationality or misidentify/confuse you as another European nationality ( my guess would be Dutch being the most common).

Brash/rude etc, well if you see it that way it can be. Instead consider it friendly, the person at the checkout counter will actually say "how are you doing?" and will listen if you decide to answer. Note that there is no requirement to answer the question or answer it honestly, saying "fine" or ignoring it is a perfectly reasonable way to indicate you have no desire to have a conversation. It is considered bad form to honestly answer the question "How you doing?" from a cashier if there is line behind you.

McDonald's. no not on every corner, Starbucks sure, but not McDonalds.

There are Americans who will get in thier car to go arround the corner. You are unlikely to meet one however. In New York City, cars are many places more hassle than they are worth though. Expect to do alot more car travelling than you would normally if outside the City but distances will tend to be further than you are used to.

Depending on where you are you may experience more litter than you are used to - but that is not a definite, it varies much by where you are.

I'll respond to this point by point;
Brash, loud, rude:
It depends on where you go, most big cities I'd say thats the case, so you might experience a bit of that in NYC. But if you aren't on the streets there, and aren't direspectful and condescending to the people you run into in the little restaurants, you will be more than surprised by their hospitality. I know I was, coming from the South with that impression due to the people that have moved down here from Boston & NY.
bright shirts...overweight body:
don't get the shirts thing at all, and there are a good amount of extremely overweight people, but the number of overweight people is about the same. We just get a bad rep due to the people we have that are overweight, being extremely so.
darker side of intelligent:
fair analysis that we don't know too much about the world outside of our own borders, and I apologize for this, but I couldn't give less of a damn. I could waste my time and energy learning about european history and politics, or I could devote that time to learning things that are going to make me better at what I do. Point is, what we consider important things to learn is different than what people do from European countries.
drive around the corner:
unlike in europe, America is much more spread out. People in NY are gonna be walking around the corner, because they live in a city. At school, I walk everywhere because I'm in a city. At home, though, a walk to the grocery store would be irrational as its 2.5 miles away. Do that during the summer, and the milk WOULD go bad.
speak a funny version of English:
yes, because accents that develop due to hundreds of years of localization of language makes it an inferior form of the same language...New York and Atlanta are 750 miles apart. Its the same language, with relatively mild distinctions in pronunciations that do next to nothing to prevent people from each town to understand each other. That's somewhat comprable to the difference between Paris and Madrid, which results in two entirely different cultures and languages. So to say that we speak a funny version of English is somewhat ignorant to the entire reality of how languages develop and change over time.
classify you as European:
If you were capable of distinguishing what portion of what state in the US that I am from just by looking/talking to me, I might feel it was unfair for me to classify you as European, but you wouldn't be able to. That being said, Americans will classify you based on your nationality if its truly a distinguishable one, which Luxembourg isn't really(not meaning to offend you, it just isn't).



Overall, I have to say that if you come here with such ignorant and blatantly unreasonable stereotypes on your mind, you will not receive a warm welcome. I say this because of the attitude you bring with you is not going to make people want to accomodate you with hospitality. But if you realize that stereotypes of the type you mention are completely worthless and come here with an attitude of openness to all the things you will experience, you may just enjoy yourself.

And just so its out there, the stereotype I have learned about people from Luxembourg(through my friend who lives in Brussels) are that your people tend to be smelly, ugly, stupid, unathletic, and almost impossible to deal with on a personal level due to their condescending attitudes. I visited a few summers ago, and found some of those stereotypes to be true thanks to some wonderful hospitality I felt everywhere I went in Luxembourg and Belgium :rolleyes: , but did not find it nearly as bad as it was made out to be in spite of that. I hope you can come here with as open an attitude, and you enjoy yourself. I seriously recommend finding some small (non-fastfood) restaurants in the city, because they are often very good.

McDonald's. no not on every corner, Starbucks sure, but not McDonalds.

Unless you go south. Waffle House is freakin' everywhere, literally speaking, I swear to god I've been able to stand in one spot and see three distinct Waffle Houses.

I think she means the dislike people have of being classed together as Europeans when they would rather their individual nationalities were recognised

Too bad it is impossible to distinguish many nationalitiess apart.

Unless you go south. Waffle House is freakin' everywhere, literally speaking, I swear to god I've been able to stand in one spot and see three distinct Waffle Houses.
Waffle House has nothing on Dollar General or Wal-Mart.

Waffle House has nothing on Dollar General or Wal-Mart.
there is an intersection about 25 miles from me with a Dollar Tree on the NE corner, a Dollar General on the NW corner, a shopping center on the SE corner that has a Family Dollar, among other stuff and on the SW corner is a big huge freaking Walmart with a Mc Donalds in it. ;)

Unless you go south. Waffle House is freakin' everywhere, literally speaking, I swear to god I've been able to stand in one spot and see three distinct Waffle Houses.

Yes, I have been to a location in South Carolina with 2 Waffle Houses on opposite corners. It was most puzzling as it was pretty much in the middle of nowhere, 2 state highways crossing (not major ones either) with maybe 4 houses and a gas station in view. Starbucks in New York though, across the street from each other.

Unless you go south. Waffle House is freakin' everywhere, literally speaking, I swear to god I've been able to stand in one spot and see three distinct Waffle Houses.

:D In my neighborhood in Brooklyn I could stand in the middle of an intersection and see a pizza place in each direction. Assuming I was crazy enough to stand in the middle of that intersection long enough to look in each direction. New York pizza, the only true kind!

Unless you go south. Waffle House is freakin' everywhere, literally speaking, I swear to god I've been able to stand in one spot and see three distinct Waffle Houses.
#1 it's 5 from one spot in Atlanta
#2 it sucks so much when you're drunk, left your phone at one and can't remember which one you were just at.

How does he know when to invade and when to surrender?

:D

I am, for the first time ever, going to the US - I'm going to stay with my cousins in New York. Here in Luxembourg, the stereotypicla American is brash, loud, rude, and wears bright t-shirts, that fail to conceal an overweight body. They are also on the darker side of intelligent. Now, I'm not intending to flame, and I'm convinced that is about as true as the story that Americans will get in their cars to drive round the corner, speak a funny version of English that I won't be able to understand, have McDonalds every street, and classify us all as Europeans? so what is the truth? What will it be like?

Americans are kind of loud, and not exactly the most formal people. They will call you European. They don't all eat at McDonalds, and are not all overweight. They don't speak very formal English, not like British English, and British clipped accents are oftem made fun of. They do use cars a lot more than in Europe, though. Now, have a good time, and don't make fun of anybody. Americans can also be very aggressive. :)

:D In my neighborhood in Brooklyn I could stand in the middle of an intersection and see a pizza place in each direction. Assuming I was crazy enough to stand in the middle of that intersection long enough to look in each direction. New York pizza, the only true kind!

Bay Ridge ? Corner of 86th St & 3rd Ave ?

I am, for the first time ever, going to the US - I'm going to stay with my cousins in New York. Here in Luxembourg, the stereotypicla American is brash, loud, rude, and wears bright t-shirts, that fail to conceal an overweight body. They are also on the darker side of intelligent. Now, I'm not intending to flame, and I'm convinced that is about as true as the story that Americans will get in their cars to drive round the corner, speak a funny version of English that I won't be able to understand, have McDonalds every street, and classify us all as Europeans? so what is the truth? What will it be like?

Well, let's break it down:

Brash, Loud, Rude: Yes. Most people won't have any problem speaking their mind here, and usually their mind is full of a brown substance that is secreted by the rectum.

Fail to Conceal an Overweight Body: More like generally fails to conceal body, period. Kidding, no this isn't really true. And actually, if I remember correctly, New York isn't that fat of a city(people wise). To get REALLY fat people, you need to go to texas.

Unintelligent: Some, yes. Most are fairly intelligent.

Driving around the corner: It does happen. I've seen it. Someone drives a block to get somewhere. I just walk, though. But it can happen.

Funny version of English: Well, to you, it will sound odd. It's the accent of the area. There are many accents, that are more or less split into regions. However, the further west you go, the more "standardized english" of an accent you get, apparently, due to all the mixing and whatnot(Alright, I didn't pay much attention to this part in class).

McDonalds on every street: Not sure about New York, but in my area it's every town.

And you are European, just as we are North American. :D

#1 it's 5 from one spot in Atlanta
#2 it sucks so much when you're drunk, left your phone at one and can't remember which one you were just at.

Another popular place is Cracker Barrel.

Really, what is with the south and waffles, though?

Another popular place is Cracker Barrel.

Really, what is with the south and waffles, though?

Waffles are awesome and simple.

New York you say?

http://www.nzherald.co.nz/section/6/story.cfm?c_id=6&objectid=10410655

He was being a dick, but still - that is more than a little overreaction.

I am, for the first time ever, going to the US - I'm going to stay with my cousins in New York. Here in Luxembourg, the stereotypicla American is brash, loud, rude, and wears bright t-shirts, that fail to conceal an overweight body. They are also on the darker side of intelligent. Now, I'm not intending to flame, and I'm convinced that is about as true as the story that Americans will get in their cars to drive round the corner, speak a funny version of English that I won't be able to understand, have McDonalds every street, and classify us all as Europeans? so what is the truth? What will it be like?
A bunch of fat people holding bibles saying you'll go to hell if you don't follow them. :(

McDonald's. no not on every corner, Starbucks sure, but not McDonalds.
And Duane Reade's, those goddamn things are like the plague in Manhattan, except, instead of giving you boils, they give you overpriced laundry supplies.

And Manhattan and the Bronx are a lot friendlier, cleaner and safe than you have been lead to believe, and desipite what they Fass-thing would have you believe, even the South is pretty mild about religion. Sure, they go to Church and if you challenge them they'll respond, but the majority of Americans are willing to let sleeping dogs of all forms lie.

There is no inferiority complex-and nothing to prove- its already been proven.

We're a young, yet widely diverse, highly successful country. Something you guys have a lot of trouble with.
Your assumptions and of course-the pure bullshit-are tremendous indicators of your own inferiority.

Delicate sensibilities? Hardly. Its the very fact that we dont give a shit when encountered with your absurdly petty critique that tightens your panties til they are unbearable.

The problem is you. You're inadequacy and self loathing is the common denominator.

See. "We've nothing to prove," but yet you try and try and try so hard and valiantly to do just that (you fail dismally, but still), it's almost reminiscent of labour pains. "We claim we don't care, but you're a big old bed-wetting doodie head for not liking us!"

Thank you for making my point, honey.

Waffles are awesome and simple.

But do they really need 10,000 waffle houses per square mile?

See. "We've nothing to prove," but yet you try and try and try so hard and valiantly to do just that (you fail dismally, but still), it's almost reminiscent of labour pains. Thank you for making my point, honey.

Stating a few plain facts hardly qualify as trying hard or valiantly to prove anything.

You have no point to make, just petty bitterness. And the haughty,nonsensical dismissals are of the lamest I've seen.

Stating a few plain facts hardly qualify as trying hard or valiantly to prove anything.

You have no point to make, just petty bitterness. And the haughty,nonsensical dismissals are of the lamest I've seen.

Haha, I couldn't have asked for a better example of what the OP can expect. Again, thank you for participating. Brilliant.

But do they really need 10,000 waffle houses per square mile?

Yes. Yes they do.

A bunch of fat people holding bibles saying you'll go to hell if you don't follow them. :(

In Minnesota, the people really aren't fat, they just look that way because of the huge winter coats they have to wear from September 1st to June 1st. :p

Uhm, but ... aren't all people from Luxembourg Europeans? Or did you move to another continent?

No, i just mean that I'm Luxembourgish, not European.
Oh, I guess. And she's a she.

Red Letter hit it spot on. If you are looking to prove that Americans are as absurd as you say they are then you will suceed, because you will "notice" everything that conforms to your stereotypes and will discount or ignore any that conflict with them.

I'm not saying that thats what I think they're like - I'm saying that's what I don't think they're like!
As this is a good example.

You should know by now, Maria, that asking for an opinion on something like the US in this forum is likely to get you an incredible range of opnions.

Not only did someone remeber I'm not a man 9why does everyone always assume I'm a man:D ) but they knew my name too! :)

I would say, the best thing to do is ignore that and look at them with fresh eyes.

would you like people assuming things about you and your countrymen by stereotypes and other people's opinions?

Once again, I was going against those stereotypes.

Yeah what is the stereotypical Luxembourger like anyway?

Arrogant. Stuck up. Loads of people have told me Luxembourg is too elite and exclusive for their liking - which i never thought it is, but there you are. Also, unfashionable. Rich andegotistic. But sometimes friendly. Make horrible food. The list goes on - but you get the idea, we're not all that popular (but what would expect from a country famous for nothing but being small:p )

Yes. Yes they do.

Alright, good to know.

No, i just mean that I'm Luxembourgish, not European.

And. If Luxembourg isn't n Europe, what's with all these Euros?


Make horrible food.

I dunno, that Chez Mario place is pretty good.

Arrogant. Stuck up. Loads of people have told me Luxembourg is too elite and exclusive for their liking - which i never thought it is, but there you are. Also, unfashionable. Rich andegotistic. But sometimes friendly. Make horrible food. The list goes on - but you get the idea, we're not all that popular (but what would expect from a country famous for nothing but being small:p )

Oh, you do have horrible food, and "unfashionable" is right on the spot. Stuck up? Not more so than your neighbours...

Haha, I couldn't have asked for a better example of what the OP can expect. Again, thank you for participating. Brilliant.

I bet you make yourself sad. A clown thats crying on the inside.

In Minnesota, the people really aren't fat, they just look that way because of the huge winter coats they have to wear from September 1st to June 1st. :p
Not anymore, sadly. It hardly ever snows here anymore. Damn global warming. :(

In Minnesota, the people really aren't fat, they just look that way because of the huge winter coats they have to wear from September 1st to June 1st. :p

That's a lie. It's actually from September 2nd to July 1st.

And just so its out there, the stereotype I have learned about people from Luxembourg(through my friend who lives in Brussels) are that your people tend to be smelly, ugly, stupid, unathletic, and almost impossible to deal with on a personal level due to their condescending attitudes. I visited a few summers ago, and found some of those stereotypes to be true thanks to some wonderful hospitality I felt everywhere I went in Luxembourg and Belgium :rolleyes: , but did not find it nearly as bad as it was made out to be in spite of that. I hope you can come here with as open an attitude, and you enjoy yourself. I seriously recommend finding some small (non-fastfood) restaurants in the city, because they are often very good.

I never said I followed those seteotypes - but yes, we are a rather unathletic nation. Rude? Only because we have a rather xenophobic belief that anyone who doesn't speak French, german or Luxembourgish isn't worth talking to - which they are, some of my best friends are English, from Plymouth.

Too bad it is impossible to distinguish many nationalitiess apart.


Waffle House has nothing on Dollar General or Wal-Mart.

1) I suppose it was rather unreasonable for someone used to Europe to assum that you can't tell nationalities apart - though I don't remeber saying that, but there you go.
2) What's a Waffle House or a Wal-Mart?

Alright, good to know.

They're key to the spatial integrity. Without them the south would implode.

I am, for the first time ever, going to the US - I'm going to stay with my cousins in New York. Here in Luxembourg, the stereotypicla American is brash, loud, rude, and wears bright t-shirts, that fail to conceal an overweight body. They are also on the darker side of intelligent. Now, I'm not intending to flame, and I'm convinced that is about as true as the story that Americans will get in their cars to drive round the corner, speak a funny version of English that I won't be able to understand, have McDonalds every street, and classify us all as Europeans? so what is the truth? What will it be like?

Darker side of intelligent? You mean we Americans are evil geniuses? :eek: :p

I've never been to NYC, but I hear that it's amazing and quite diverse. *nod*

However, if you ever have the misfortune to visit, oh say, Kansas, Missouri, North Carolina... I feel your pain. :fluffle:

But we're not ALL loud, rude, stupid, and fat, actually there's some smart people. :)

I bet you make yourself sad. A clown thats crying on the inside.

Look, sweety, I know you're terribly upset I hurt your little feelings by not liking your country or your countrymen or you, but, really, grow some skin already.

That's a lie. It's actually from September 2nd to July 1st.

:p

Whereas in the South, we really are that fat because of all the home-stal All-'merickin cookin'!

Though I'm actually very skinny... 5'3 and >100 lbs.

Darker side of intelligent? You mean we Americans are evil geniuses? :eek: :p

I've never been to NYC, but I hear that it's amazing and quite diverse. *nod*

However, if you ever have the misfortune to visit, oh say, Kansas, Missouri, North Carolina... I feel your pain. :fluffle:

But we're not ALL loud, rude, stupid, and fat, actually there's some smart people. :)

Quiet, polite, smart people of more ideal body size. ;)

:p

Whereas in the South, we really are that fat because of all the home-stal All-'merickin cookin'!

Though I'm actually very skinny... 5'3 and >100 lbs.

And you're 14, Pancake. Just wait 30 years or so .... muwahaha!

:p

Whereas in the South, we really are that fat because of all the home-stal All-'merickin cookin'!

Though I'm actually very skinny... 5'3 and >100 lbs.

In the north, our fat is evenly distributed for maximum energy storage and to keep in the heat. We are not lean, but we have a "winter fat" to feed off of during the cold winters. :D

And I always thought the south were fat due to the heavy cheap-beer drinking.

I wouldn't last a minute in the south. I'd be lynched in a second.

Only because we have a rather xenophobic belief that anyone who doesn't speak French, german or Luxembourgish isn't worth talking to - which they are, some of my best friends are English, from Plymouth.

What's so great about speaking French? I can't say I've ever liked that language. And what's Luxembourgish like?

Look, sweety, I know you're terribly upset I hurt your little feelings by not liking your country or your countrymen or you, but, really, grow some skin already.

You'll not see me upset. Nor stooping to the pet name condescension.

Quit yappin' already.

I am, for the first time ever, going to the US - I'm going to stay with my cousins in New York. Here in Luxembourg, the stereotypicla American is brash, loud, rude, and wears bright t-shirts, that fail to conceal an overweight body. They are also on the darker side of intelligent. Now, I'm not intending to flame, and I'm convinced that is about as true as the story that Americans will get in their cars to drive round the corner, speak a funny version of English that I won't be able to understand, have McDonalds every street, and classify us all as Europeans? so what is the truth? What will it be like?

New York City? You can expect to experience the best and worst that America has to offer. Most people you meet will be real people with real strength and real weakness. Some will treat will suspicion, because life in any large American city is a deflowering experience for human compassion. You will find people who are unable to sustain themselves, people who can sustain themselves, and people who have more sustenance then they know what to do with. Treat them with the courtesy that you expect others to treat you with, and be open-minded yet vigilant to protect yourself if TSHTF.

What's so great about speaking French? I can't say I've ever liked that language. And what's Luxembourgish like?
Half French, half-german.

.

In the north, our fat is evenly distributed for maximum energy storage and to keep in the heat. We are not lean, but we have a "winter fat" to feed off of during the cold winters. :D

And I always thought the south were fat due to the heavy cheap-beer drinking.

I wouldn't last a minute in the south. I'd be lynched in a second.

The beer could also be why. Cheap beer + home-stal 'Merickin cookin= fat.

And lynching doesn't happen much any more, not in my area at least. Though I'm in a very safe little corner of North Carolina, where there is virtually no crime except vandalism and stealing the sherriff's car and drving it into the sound. :eek:

The beer could also be why. Cheap beer + home-stal 'Merickin cookin= fat.

And lynching doesn't happen much any more, not in my area at least. Though I'm in a very safe little corner of North Carolina, where there is virtually no crime except vandalism and stealing the sherriff's car and drving it into the sound. :eek:
The sheriff has a supersonic car? :confused:

The beer could also be why. Cheap beer + home-stal 'Merickin cookin= fat.

Not to mention that the favorite sport of the South is Nascar, which involves the audience to sit on their ass for five hours straight, drinking beer. At least i Football, you stand up to cheer everyone once in a while.


And lynching doesn't happen much any more, not in my area at least. Though I'm in a very safe little corner of North Carolina, where there is virtually no crime except vandalism and stealing the sherriff's car and drving it into the sound. :eek:

They'd reinstate it just for me.

There is no inferiority complex-and nothing to prove- its already been proven.

Delicate sensibilities? Hardly. Its the very fact that we dont give a shit when encountered with your absurdly petty critique that tightens your panties til they are unbearable.
Your indignant response to his diatribe proves his point.

The problem is you. You're inadequacy and self loathing is the common denominator.
You don't know what self-loathing is, do you? Fass has a huge ego.

2) What's a Waffle House or a Wal-Mart?Waffle House is a restaurant chain, think McDonalds, prevalent in the Southern US. Based more upon a diner theme than McDonalds and far less uniform, it tends to stick to "traditional" american foods (which are not solely hamburgers and pommes frittes). Food quality is decent if a little on the bland side and it is nice to be able to find a restuarant you can rely upon to have edible food anywhere you go. Not being a fan of grits, it is a little annoying for me since grits seem to be part of every menu choice, but not enough for me to refuse to eat there, and I may be exageratiing the prevalence of grits in my memory (memory is like that, we tend to remember things which annoy us and please us and forget the mundane). There are people who go out of thier way to eat at Waffle Houses, but I have never found them worth that effort - I usually prefer to be a bit risky and discover that Charleston has some top notch sushi and New Jersey has some cafes that rats would be advised to avoid ( after a discovery of the latter type, Waffle House becomes far more appealing).

Wal - Mart, think Carrefour or Auchan. There are differences but the basic concept is the same, big building with everything for sale.

Americans differ by region and by race. In NY expect to see gangsta black guys, Puerto Ricans with spraypaint cans tagging every vertical surface, Smelly Pakistani cab drivers, and Italian guys wearing wife beater T shirts and gold who will likely ask you what you're looking at. If you come over to New Jersey you'll see the same types, also many women with big hair who still listen to Bon Jovi.

If you go to the Southeastern US you will meet up with Redneck crackers who will bury you in a swamp if you don't love Jesus and George Bush.

Out west are Indians. They have a rich culture that includes craps, blackjack, and texas Hold'em. Those are ancient games from their history that they keep alive to this day.

In California everyone surfs. Everyone. Also they're all very into leftist causes like banning fur guns.

Hope this helps.

LOL, for the first line I thought you were serious.

I dunno.... you might want to ask a New Yorker, or someone who's actually been here.

A bunch of fat people holding bibles saying you'll go to hell if you don't follow them. :(

You SO have never been to New York City. In New York, if you are overtly over-religious, people will avoid you as if you're insane.

Basically, to answer the OP, you will find the greatest people in the history of the Earth. Period. The fact that they are from America makes them amazing. Our serial killers are better than your Nobel Prize winners. Because they are from America, the land of the Free! We won World War I, World War II, The American Revolution, the American Civil War, The War of 1812, the Third Punic War and the Cold War USA! USA! USA!

Now excuse me while I go drive to my next door neighbor's house. We're having a barbeque, and I'm going to eat a double bacon cheeseburger, a plate of ribs, some steak, and a bunch of cheap beer to wash it down. After that, we're gonna run 'round shootin' stuff with our assault rifles! Yeeehaaw!

I am, for the first time ever, going to the US - I'm going to stay with my cousins in New York. Here in Luxembourg, the stereotypicla American is brash, loud, rude, and wears bright t-shirts, that fail to conceal an overweight body. They are also on the darker side of intelligent. Now, I'm not intending to flame, and I'm convinced that is about as true as the story that Americans will get in their cars to drive round the corner, speak a funny version of English that I won't be able to understand, have McDonalds every street, and classify us all as Europeans? so what is the truth? What will it be like?

I'm assuming you mean New York City, versus somewhere else in the state. I find that one of the biggest assumptions most people make is that all of NY is like NYC - fact is, most of NY is pretty rural and is beautiful country.

I find NYC to be one of the most polite US cities, contrary to expectations. There is such a wide degree of cultural diversity in the city itself that while you can find the crude stereotype if you look, you may be surprised by the hospitality and diversity in the city itself. Go with an open mind and I think you'll be pleasantly surprised.

Unfortunately, there are a load of McDonalds all over the place - that much is true... but they're quickly being overtaken by Starbucks, so that's alright (if you like overpriced coffee).

As far as "the stinking armpit of America" comment? I hate to say it, but I reserve that for the wastes between Gary Indiana and Chicago. I don't mean to offend people living in that area, but having been there plenty of times, that's my impression. Now, Chicago is another of my favorite cities, but I lament having to drive through that area to get to it - the smell of "refinery" is all over the place.

I have to admit that at night, there's a "Dante'esque" feel to it though - kind of worth seeing in its own right... :-D

Awright, Carnivorous Lickers and Fass both, knock it off. Cut the stereotyping and bickering now.

Fass, you were just unofficially warned for flaming and baiting by HotRodia elsewhere. Since that seems not to have made an impression, you can have an OFFICIAL warning for it here.

Don't be afraid of NYC. It has something for everybody.

Don't be afraid of NYC. It has something for everybody.
including a naked cowboy playing a guitar

Be prepared for ludicrously priced stuff. Also be prepared to bring loads of money with you if you ever want to come to Jersey by car. Also expect the people who fit your stereotype to be in your primary line of sight. Everyone who doesn't conform to international American stereotypes is busy doing something better.

Have you seen Borat? That will show you exactly what to expect.

including a naked cowboy playing a guitar
Probably.
Have you seen Borat? That will show you exactly what to expect.
DO NOT let a chicken loose on the New York subways.

I've found New Yorkers to be a bit ruder(at least thats the impression I got) than most Americans, so be careful about that. America really isn't that bad though. Especially if you like pointless excess.

DO NOT let a chicken loose on the New York subways.

Yes, Borat has many tips for surviving in the U.S. That is one of them.

I am, for the first time ever, going to the US - I'm going to stay with my cousins in New York. Here in Luxembourg, the stereotypicla American is brash, loud, rude, and wears bright t-shirts, that fail to conceal an overweight body. They are also on the darker side of intelligent. Now, I'm not intending to flame, and I'm convinced that is about as true as the story that Americans will get in their cars to drive round the corner, speak a funny version of English that I won't be able to understand, have McDonalds every street, and classify us all as Europeans? so what is the truth? What will it be like?

Well, I'd not say we're less intelligent then everyone else. Can't say I've looked up the statistics though. May be true for all I know.

I actually have gotten into a car to drive around the corner. In my defense, the corner was across a busy street. I don't like getting run over. As for funny version of English . . . maybe? I think the British talk funny, but they had the language first.

McDonalds are only located on every other street, and we don't know enough about y'all to tell the differences between the countries based on just your accent. Calling you European means we probably won't be wrong.

Well, as for overweight. . . 'fraid I can't defend that one. We do have more fatties over here then y'all do.

As for New York . . . haven't been there since I was a kid. Can't really say what you'll find.