Saturday, October 25, 2008

what Europeans think of Americans

Cherie asked me what Europeans think of Americans. I told her I will do an extensive research on the subject matter. hahahaha

The truth is, I don't know.

When I came to Hengelo in 2001, there were a number of things that struck me. First, there were no McDonalds, Pizza Hut, Dunkin Donuts, Starbucks, Pancake House, or even Wendy's. Second, no malls. And third, the tallest building is the Cathedral of Hengelo.

Dutch people aren't ANTI-Americans, I suppose. They are anti-commercialism, anti-fastfood chains. They are anti-excessive, anti-extravagant. Anti-democracy. LOL They aren't very flexible people, so they are not very fond of change.

But this labeling thing always makes me nervous. You see, I live in a small city with 68 thousand residents. I have few acquaintances and friends. When we're together, we seldom talk about politics. And if we do, they aren't very interested really. They even couldn't care less about the monarchs or the church. But to say that they are apathetic, would be fallacious either.

So what do Dutch think of Americans? I don't know.

3 comments:

cherie said...

now i see why many americans want to go to europe to retire. there are so many quaint places! i would love to visit with you someday and just savor the 'music' the aura of the scenery i would think overflows with!

Droomvla said...

Yes, there are so many quaint villages here and they still practice so many traditions. Last week, there were kids from ages 4-9, parading (more like, a procession really) around our street with lanterns while singing something. It was pitch dark outside, and I felt like being transported in time. Sinda lang pati an naghirimo san lantern ninda. hahahahahaha

cherie said...

ka-cute! :)