False sense of security as a Canadian?
Feb 22nd, 2003, 10:01 AM
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False sense of security as a Canadian?
Travelling to Europe, I plan to carry my bag with a small Canadian flag sewn onto it. Somehow,it makes me feel more secure should people hear us speaking English & mistake us for Americans.False sense of security?
Feb 22nd, 2003, 10:06 AM
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Yes.
By advertising yourself as a tourist, you may be robbed. About 2 weeks ago, an American young lady was stabbed in Hackney.
In 1990, IRA terrorists mistook 2 Australian couples as British soliders and shot the 2 men in the head. The IRA later said "sorry" but they did not turn themselves in for jail.
By advertising yourself as a tourist, you may be robbed. About 2 weeks ago, an American young lady was stabbed in Hackney.
In 1990, IRA terrorists mistook 2 Australian couples as British soliders and shot the 2 men in the head. The IRA later said "sorry" but they did not turn themselves in for jail.
Feb 22nd, 2003, 10:09 AM
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If confronted with an argument, simply say political actions are those of the government, not you. However, nobody will yell at you for the American government's enforcement of Iraqi violations.
If there is a terrorist attack, they do not ask for your passport or check your pack. In Egypt and in Rome/Vienna airports a few years ago, the terrorists starting shooting with machine guns and did not ask about people's citizenship.
If there is a terrorist attack, they do not ask for your passport or check your pack. In Egypt and in Rome/Vienna airports a few years ago, the terrorists starting shooting with machine guns and did not ask about people's citizenship.
Feb 22nd, 2003, 10:25 AM
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If you are seeking security from being harrassed, then I'd say, yes, it is false. People who are unreasonable enough to start harrassing tourists on the basis of assumed political views will likely harrass for any reason, which is to say no reason at all. As it is I have never been harrassed, with or without flags.
Which does not mean you don't need a plan, in the event that such an unfortunate event occurs. Better to give such people that for which they are truly looking - an audience. Invite them to express their views, nod as they speak, then when you have an opportunity to make an exit, thank them, and leave.
Which does not mean you don't need a plan, in the event that such an unfortunate event occurs. Better to give such people that for which they are truly looking - an audience. Invite them to express their views, nod as they speak, then when you have an opportunity to make an exit, thank them, and leave.
Feb 22nd, 2003, 01:18 PM
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As a fellow Cnd I have the same concerns; most Europeans hearing us speak English aren't going to be able to differentiate between Americans and Canadians. What we do is try to be unobtrusive when speaking so as not to draw unnecessary attention to ourselves; if asked where we're from we answer. My last visit was just 2 weeks after 911 and there were no problems. But I agree with previous posters that a flag on your bag tends to let thieves know you're a tourist.If you wanted to, maybe a discreet lapel flag pin would do.
Feb 22nd, 2003, 01:29 PM
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This whole business about being harassed if, heaven forbid, you should be thought of or recognized as an American in Europe have been way overblown and exaggerated. The chances of it happening to you are slim.
Feb 22nd, 2003, 01:30 PM
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Reading my replies, it seems a bit negative so I should clarify.
Terrorists tend to strike American associated targets. Only rarely do they single out an American individual. So a flag will not help.
Individuals usually don't pick up a fight though it is possible. Individuals are chosen by robbers, but the motive is cash not a political statement. A flag might even attract attention.
In short, act normally. Avoid cities or countries if you feel concerned. Don't rely completely on government warnings because these are sometimes incomplete for political reasons (such as not wanting to offend a certain country). If there is a warning, it's probably real. (for example, the British foreign office advises against all travel to Afghanistan, except essential travel only for Kabul).
Terrorists tend to strike American associated targets. Only rarely do they single out an American individual. So a flag will not help.
Individuals usually don't pick up a fight though it is possible. Individuals are chosen by robbers, but the motive is cash not a political statement. A flag might even attract attention.
In short, act normally. Avoid cities or countries if you feel concerned. Don't rely completely on government warnings because these are sometimes incomplete for political reasons (such as not wanting to offend a certain country). If there is a warning, it's probably real. (for example, the British foreign office advises against all travel to Afghanistan, except essential travel only for Kabul).
Feb 22nd, 2003, 02:20 PM
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Going along with what Hirosi said I think a Canadian flag will not make any difference. The terrorists did't mind the murdering people from 87 other countries including Muslims in the WTC. These are people filled with hate and will stop at nothing to spread their anger towards civilization. Where you are from makes no difference in their "cause". As I've said in other posts, go, have a wonderful time and don't let fear keep you from enjoying yourself = ). Best wishes.
Feb 23rd, 2003, 07:41 AM
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Weenies? wow..I wouldn't say so. That was a bit uncalled for. I have a flag on my pack because I am a very proud Canadian not because I am a "weenie" afraid of being considered an American. Please don't throw around insults on this board...I come here for travel advice and shouldn't have to expect to defend my Country. Have a lovely day everyone.
S
S
Feb 23rd, 2003, 09:00 AM
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I presume that Christina is just a bit jealous of the fact that she can't travel around Europe in total confidence with the American flag secured to her luggage. While having a Canadian flag on the luggage may not make any difference, it certainly does not hurt!
Feb 23rd, 2003, 09:20 AM
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Question for Christina: why is it if Americans's display their flag it is to show their love of their country but if Canadians do it they are "weenies" ?
Guess what - other people are proud of their countries too ! For years I have worn a canadian flag lapel pin and intend to continue doing so in spite of rude and ignorant people like you ! I apologize to the board for the flame but frankly she deserves it.
To Syl: Will it make any difference - I doubt it but if it makes you feel any better do it. Personally my pin and a small patch I used to have on my pack inspired some great conversations with people about Canada.
Guess what - other people are proud of their countries too ! For years I have worn a canadian flag lapel pin and intend to continue doing so in spite of rude and ignorant people like you ! I apologize to the board for the flame but frankly she deserves it.
To Syl: Will it make any difference - I doubt it but if it makes you feel any better do it. Personally my pin and a small patch I used to have on my pack inspired some great conversations with people about Canada.
Feb 23rd, 2003, 10:07 AM
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Use the patch.
This brings backs memories of my youth when I lived in England near an American military base. I was Canadian but it was always assumed I was an American and my father was military. Neither was true. It soon became obvious that when I told people I was Canadian I was treated more like a member of the family so to speak. The locals were not strongly anti- American; they were just more pro- Canadian.
I deliberately made a point of sewing a Canadian flag on each shoulder of my denim jacket.
When I traveled on the continent I wore that jacket everywhere.
I live in the U.S. and I am very happy here but I will never give up being a Canadian and being treated better abroad is one of the reasons why. Unfortunately most people in this country and abroad have a stereotypical view of foreigners.
It just so happens that that in the present day that view is more negative for Americans than Canadians.
This brings backs memories of my youth when I lived in England near an American military base. I was Canadian but it was always assumed I was an American and my father was military. Neither was true. It soon became obvious that when I told people I was Canadian I was treated more like a member of the family so to speak. The locals were not strongly anti- American; they were just more pro- Canadian.
I deliberately made a point of sewing a Canadian flag on each shoulder of my denim jacket.
When I traveled on the continent I wore that jacket everywhere.
I live in the U.S. and I am very happy here but I will never give up being a Canadian and being treated better abroad is one of the reasons why. Unfortunately most people in this country and abroad have a stereotypical view of foreigners.
It just so happens that that in the present day that view is more negative for Americans than Canadians.
Feb 23rd, 2003, 12:01 PM
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Hiroshi, my good man, you don't know the half of it. Americans seen on this side of the border are hunted down and forced to eat, among other things, rappie pie. Selfishness doesn't begin to describe this cruel governmental order! (And here Syl was worried about Europe.)
Call the Japanese ambassador to Canada. Call the UN. For God's sake, Hiroshi, do something!
Call the Japanese ambassador to Canada. Call the UN. For God's sake, Hiroshi, do something!
Feb 23rd, 2003, 12:40 PM
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I would hardly characterize the Canadian government as selfish. One of the reasons that Canada has such a good international reputation is because we are involved in peace keeping missions all over the world and donate millions of dollars of foreign aid while our GDP is much smaller than that of the USA. As far as your comment is concerned, I think it would be more appropriate to characterize Canadian governments as nationalistic towards Americans and American companies rather than selfish.
Feb 23rd, 2003, 02:16 PM
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Pleeeeeease people. All I wanted to say was that I indeed feel very proud to be a Canadian. The flag brought many smiles and friendly conversation in past trips abroad. I guess it is a feeling of security.
Feb 23rd, 2003, 03:50 PM
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Hiroshi, I don't believe Canada is a place where tourists come for "legal prostitution". Where the heck did you hear that? It's not like Nevada or Amsterdam. Publicly communicating "for the purpose of engaging in prostitution or of obtaining the sexual services of a prostitute" is illegal and punishable on summary conviction (s.213 of the Criminal Code of Canada).
A little off-topic, too, don't you think?
I don't think that wearing a Canadian pin will help or hinder you in Europe. When I lived in the UK, I used to laugh at all the Canadian flags (never wore one myself) but who does it hurt? If it makes you feel more secure, go for it. Just be careful and aware of things going on around you and you'll be fine.
A little off-topic, too, don't you think?
I don't think that wearing a Canadian pin will help or hinder you in Europe. When I lived in the UK, I used to laugh at all the Canadian flags (never wore one myself) but who does it hurt? If it makes you feel more secure, go for it. Just be careful and aware of things going on around you and you'll be fine.
Feb 23rd, 2003, 04:30 PM
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I am American and have met and traveled with several Canadians in Europe over the past 24 years.
The stereotypes I have heard about US and CND people are rediculous. I can site so many travel incidents which prove there are so many misconceptions.
One small example: I went into an Edinbough pub with a Canadian I met earlier. We got into a conversation with three local women. After over an hour of conversation we told them that one us was from the US and one from Canada. All three gave their opinion on who was who and told us why. All three got it wrong and neither of us were trying to fool them.
Just one small example, and if someone judges me with false conceptions I don't think they may be worth talking to. So in answer to your question Syl, Let them get to know you and drop the flag.
The stereotypes I have heard about US and CND people are rediculous. I can site so many travel incidents which prove there are so many misconceptions.
One small example: I went into an Edinbough pub with a Canadian I met earlier. We got into a conversation with three local women. After over an hour of conversation we told them that one us was from the US and one from Canada. All three gave their opinion on who was who and told us why. All three got it wrong and neither of us were trying to fool them.
Just one small example, and if someone judges me with false conceptions I don't think they may be worth talking to. So in answer to your question Syl, Let them get to know you and drop the flag.
