Quote Originally Posted by Banquo's Ghost
Most Americans take pride in their directness, which can be alien to those of us from more "subtle" Europe.
do they? From my expiriense, Americans are very polite people and not as direct as Germans or French or Italians.

Americans (just as Arabs) have quite the opposit nasty habit, however, and that habit is saying something in fact rude choosing polite words and hiding behind a polite smile. Very nasty habit, I say. If you want to insult somebody, don't hide behind your polite smile then.

Quote Originally Posted by Fragony
So true. No surprise we dutchies avoid eachother when abroad. Best tourists, americans and germans, always polite always calm. Worst, brits, dutch, russians.
so true... our chavers make me feel embarrassed when I see them
Seeing them on vacation couple of times is the reason why I'll never travel to Turkey or Egypt - their favourite leisure grounds.