Being An American Visiting Europe
When an American goes to Europe, whether for work or vacation, it is usually not for as long as they would like. Planning to see as much as possible in a place you might never see again is very important. Most people want to see the big attractions such as churches, art sculptures, monuments and architecture. Good examples of this would the Coliseum in Rome, Stonehenge in England or the castles of Germany.
When an American goes to Europe, whether for work or vacation, it is usually not for as long as they would like. Planning to see as much as possible in a place you might never see again is very important. Most people want to see the big attractions such as churches, art sculptures, monuments and architecture. Good examples of this would the Coliseum in Rome, Stonehenge in England or the castles of Germany.
I feel Americans view Europe as a place full of culture and history that has been around for hundreds of years not found in America. Examples of this history are the museums of Italy having first century artwork as well as libraries with ancient documents and books.
Experiencing the culture of a country is equally as important as site seeing. Eating at a famous restaurant or going to street markets with traditional foods of that area is another common activity. Attending a sporting event or festival is one of the best ways to experience local customs first hand and is common of tourist.
Being A European Visiting America
Europeans view America as a place of the future with the newest and most up to date technologies. They often see America as one big party as it is often portated in movies and on tv. The festivals and holidays that go on throughout the year also lead to this stereo type. Some major events are, Marti Gras, New Years Eve, Halloween, “Spring Break”, and Fourth of July.
Of course they want to see the famous attractions such as the statue of liberty, the beaches of Miami and the Hollywood scene in Los Angles. Just wanting to experience city life is common with tourist, due to large lights, casinos, bars and billboard advertisements.
Eating the common food thought to be associated with America such as cheese burgers, fried chicken and soda pop is another way of experiencing the culture of America. Ice cream shops, shopping malls and fast food are associated with the view of American life in Europe.
Foodways, and expectations and stereotypes surrounding them, are very revealing. What does it mean that Europeans expect fast food in America--but not gourmet food, or ethnic food? Back home, they go to McDonalds in Paris. Do they figure we eat like this all the time? Why?
ReplyDeleteConcerning the fast food comment, Europe is at a much slower pace, literally. Having dinner in Italy and France is a three hour process. In America it is much different. It is rare for an American family to all get together at the dinner table. It is much more likely that a family in America eats at separate times. It is also very common for many meals in America to be on the go. This does not happen in Europe. European meals is similar to a ritual ceremony.
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