Problem in Europe - need answers....
 

<BR>I've been hearing some stories about racial attacks, and problems in the UK. I'm planning on a trip to England, France, and Spain next June. I'm also a black female - and I was wondering if I'd have many problems with racial discrimination in Europe? <BR>I live in the US, I actually thought the people in the UK would act differently!

It's a bummer-- too bad racism is universal. I'm a white female, so, no, I really don't know everything you go through. However, I don't think you need to worry about anything like Montgomery, Ala, in 1950. If you do all the same things I do to get along with the Europeans-- wear a skirt or slacks in cities, not short shorts; learn in advance about the countries you'll be visiting so that you can appreciate their culture; and above all, try to learn at least a few phrases of French and Spanish-- you will probably find that most people are more impressed with your attitude than your skin color. Hang in there, and have a good trip.

Dear Rachael, <BR> <BR>Oh, the broad range of rumours and prejudice ! I know the States very well and have just come back from a three-week vacation over there, and I can tell you that if I were black I would rather live in the UK or France than in the US. Let me just explain my point : as capitals of former colonial powers, London and Paris have a very large black community (actually, I saw less blacks in the streets of San Francisco that I do every day in Paris), either nationals or immigrants, either from the Caribean or Africa. There is no such thing as a ghetto (even Brixton in London is quite mixed) or a "wrong side of the track" issue in Europe. Of course, I don't mean to be candid, and I know that the National Front scores 15 % of the votes here, and some neighborhoods are definitely more "ethnic" than others. But, on a practical point of view, no danger is to be feared for a black female. What you might encounter, though, in smaller towns and in Spain, is a kind of curiosity in those communities less used to seeing non-white people. But no aggressivity - especially if you're a foreigner. <BR> <BR>Don't hesitate to write me on my e-mail if you need further information. <BR> <BR>Good trip-planning ! <BR> <BR>Vincent

I have no idea what you mean by "racial attacks". In our travels, we have observed tourists from absolutely everywhere wherever we go and have never once observed an incident of any kind anywhere. With good manners, a smile, and a few practiced phrases in the local language, you'll be just fine. The only folks I've ever noticed who have "problems" are the ones who haven't got a clue and demand to be accomodated aggressively, loudly, and in English (because they assume everyone, everywhere "took it in school"). If you act like a polite and respectful guest, you'll be treated as such. The European economy depends on tourists who are there spending money these days, but they are not accomodating at the expense of their own personal pride.

I do agree 100 percent with Vincent's post. Although the economic situation is tough, I find that the inter-communities relationship are a lot better in Europe compared with the USA. I wish you a wonderful trip. However, be prepared to experience three countries with radically different "way of life". <BR>