Being a North American Abroad

Tourists from North America can sometimes be classified abroad as demanding, wealthy, inconsiderate, individualistic, loud and not willing to learn other languages. This label is something that you may have to deal with during your time abroad. However, you will find that people are often willing to be open to you as an individual.

Understand that stereotypes go both ways: North American culture is constantly portrayed in the global mass media. Just as you see stereotypes about other cultures through the media, so will people from your host country about the the place where you come from. While addressing questions based on mass media and stereotypical images, it is best to explain your daily life by finding common themes between the life styles of the countries through a story format. It is very important to not take these questions personally, but to use them as a spring board to learn more about your host culture and reflect on your own.

Do not advertise your nationality, but be open when asked: If they ask, you can generally be open to telling people about where you are from. However, as a visitor in another country, it is a good idea not to draw attention to yourself, especially as a foreign tourist (see "Safety Tips").

Understand different cultural standards of defining wealth: When studying overseas, you might be surprised to find that many people will consider you to be rich, even if you don't think of yourself that way back home. Although you may have had to work and save money for months - or take out various student loans - in order to pay for your study abroad, you may still be considered wealthy in some countries because you have the opportunity to attend college or university and you have direct access to the job market in North America. This access to jobs and education can make you wealthy in the minds of those you might meet in your host country.

Remember the Golden Rule of Cultural Interaction: Do not judge a person because of cultural stereotypes if you do not want them to be overly critical of you. Just be polite and friendly, and they should begin to see you as an individual.