Honestly, there aren’t a lot of great world leaders out there right now. I lived in Italy when Bush was president. I got shit, sure. But I would reply “I’m not about that, that’s why I am here”.

Tell them that why you are out and traveling. You want to learn and see and do as opposed to spend. Ask them about their culture. And also ask if they have any questions about America. Many have a lot of misconceptions. And it is also good to state the positives, as life is a balance. Many times there are things that people don’t think of.

For example, Italians would say that it is crazy people can get fired (as FTE cannot get fired in Italy, very very very difficult). However I would point out that while that was true, there was more of a meritocracy and combined with additional education (courses, tutorials,etc), people “move up”. That’s the upward mobility that a lot of other countries don’t have.

In Italy, a secretary stays a secretary, then retires and gets a little pension. In American, it’s weird (these days) if you’re an Admin forever. Our yearly reviews are tied to performance plan and job growth.

So sometimes the “stupid Americans” comments can be the start of interesting conversations.

And also, not to sound like the old lady entered the chat, but please be easier on yourself. You’re born American, nothing wrong with that. Ultimately you decide who you are as a person (morals,beliefs, behaviour). I think wherever you go acting inquisitive and open is good. And they will ultimately appreciate it.

Ps. If somewhere “unsafe”, then yes, pretend you are Canadian! lol

PSs. I’m not spell or grammar checking, because I don’t care. Too busy drinking at the airport.