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Ugly American is an epithet used to refer to perceptions of arrogant, demeaning, unthoughtful behaviors of Americans abroad. The term originated as the title of a 1958 book by authors William Lederer and Eugene Burdick, which I did not know until I started writing this blog. In fact, in the book, the lead character is physically unattractive, but nice. The “bad guys” are quite handsome, so it seems what is remembered of the book was the opposite of what was intended but in any case, the term became a derogatory one. I have had many opportunities to see “ugly Americans” overseas (and some at home as well) – and I bet if you have traveled, you have too.
In case you are thinking of becoming an ugly American, here are some tips to help you do it really well:
* Assume that everyone in the world should speak English and take US dollars
* Speak more than you listen
* Tell more than you ask
* Act like you own the home where you are staying
* Swoop in and fix everything you see, whether broken or not, whether you have the tools or not
* Look at EVERYTHING through your American eyes and judge harshly if you notice differences
* Look for simple answers to complex problems. Surely if they just listened to you, you could solve SO many problems!
* Have an answer for everything – say “If you would just . . . ” a lot.
* Assume that everyone wants to drop everything, just to accomodate you.
* If people don’t understand you, roll your eyes, speak a lot more loudly and more slowly
* Dress however you want – who cares about local standards! And how antiquated is it to go to Africa and have people expect you to dress up – it’s hot, for pete’s sake!
* Flaunt your money where ever you go.
* Don’t do any research on local customs – assume that the American way is not only the best way, it’s the ONLY way to do anything
* Don’t worry about your first impression – after all, you’re an American, so you must be right.
* Make lots of comments on the differences you see. Make sure everyone can pick up on your disdain, since different = worse.
And please, if you are traveling to Africa (or anywhere else), re-read these “hints” and do the exact opposite! You represent not only the US, but adoptive parents, others who share your religion and more. Be kind, respectful, patient and gracious and you’ll love your travels.
AMEN! Great post and should be posted EVERYWHERE! Maybe the airports should give this out with the onflight meal!!!
LOL – we could try suggesting it . . . and thanks.