aquaman

American men are not more masculine. They might act a little more gruff, but I wouldn't characterize that as more masculine. American men are full of hang-ups and fears. For exmaple, most American men are generally afraid of their own sexuality - they're afraid that they'll be seen as effeminate if they care for themselves or if they sit too close to another guy, etc. Pretty pathetic and insecure (and, therefore, not very masculine) if you ask me. Europeans, in general, are much more relaxed and mature.

pchsmiles

Why is it always that men are in a restaurant with a US woman, and at all the other tables are more chic, better dressed, more coiffed women from other countries? And suddenly you wonder, why can't I have one of those sleek foreign women instead of this run of the mill American woman. Why can't my woman wear something other than pants and tennies? Why does my woman accessorize with only a tennis bracelet? Why don't they bring dressy clothes to Europe instead on planning to always shop for something to wear. They sport a fanny pack all the live long day - why? Why can't they be sharp like foreign women? Why can't they keep all their original equipment? It's so unfair that American men get saddled with second rate U.S. women!!!

Now, how does that feel?

ira

Where's Degas?

nocinonut

I find that men in some European countries take their sexuality as a natural part of life, I agree with you on that aquaman.

I think the British and American men are a little more uptight about expressing themselves in that way.

I don't know if this generalization holds for European women too.

pchsmiles

... and on a less serious note, have you ever noticed female teens in foreign countries. The french, spanish, italian teenagers - so with it, so chic at a young age. Have you seen an American female teenager and how she dresses when travelling? Ha!! This is a preview of coming attractions, and how can they be serious now, in their 30s, 40s. 50s, getting down on U.S men. Look in the mirror, ladies ... you can do a lot better. Why participate in this type of arrogance until you have! IMHO.

SeaUrchin

Well, pch (are you a man?), that feels fine to me. I agree that we could all dress better, it is mostly here that I read about comfort as number one concern.
When I travel I spend alot of prep time coordinating outfits that are classy, classic and alluring, maybe you haven't seen me at a nearby table yet.

I think that alot (more?) women and men from some other countries have a more classic idea of how to dress when on a trip, kind of like in the past when people dressed to the nines for The Grand Tour.

Also, I think it depends on the person's own value system, to some it matters what they look like, to some it doesn't.

gualalalisa

To paraphrase the Beach Boys:

"I've been all around this great big world and I've (had) all kinds of guys. But I couldn't wait to get back to the States, back to the cutest guys in the world!"

Hands and other body parts down, the winners are the men from the good ole USA!

nocinonut

pchsmiles, does your wife know you feel this way? If not, tell her and she will probably dress as you like.

pchsmiles

... oh, what i said was of course a fabrication ... I'm quite saitisfied with American women. LOL, the one I'm lucky enough to have dresses rather italian.

... so my fabrications fits with the others. I think it's quite fine to enjoy looking at foreign men, but why the comparisons?

... lol, but have you discussed italian men with italian women?

Calamari

Italian men! They are so beautiful. The Italian men I know are so into quality of life. Food, style, the arts. They are not timid or offensive. Don't know or care about the "macho" stuff. Must admit to limited experience with American men. Was once engaged to a football player and realized I needed more out of life especially since I loath "macho" sports. Other boyfirends were really into their cars, surfing, partying and then there was this one sweet, yet very nerdy engineer while I was away at school. He turned out to be gay. Hope I did not have anything to do with that.

For me, the best are Italians and the worst (again based soley on two experiences) were the Brits. Sorry, Mr. Haines or course I never met you.

glassman

Italian men are know to live at home with mama unlil late in their 30's. This is because no woman can take care of them like "mama" Pretty macho.

nocinonut

I don't keep up with Fodorites like I used to, but, calamari, don't you have an Italian husband? Must be wonderful.

From my experience I agree with you about Italian men, they seem to be so life-affirming and playful, but sincere and intelligent.

I think their image has been sullied by stereotypes, and when you get to know them they are not that way at all.

BrimhamRocks

Call me crazy, but....

One man who really floats my boat is Jean Reno. Not a classically good looking man to be sure, but (insert purrrr here) there is SOMETHING about that man....my oh my. I think a lot of it has to do with his voice.

pchsmiles

... yes, lets all avoid stereotypes, lol.

... Calamari, seems to me your bevy of US beaus over the years was rather limited. Many of us hung out at the beach, without taking on that macho hue you seem to disdain. In fact, you know I love Malibu, and I could have been a surfer boy, no problem. But other things were afoot.

... but why italians? I think they're great, but apparently they are the IT folks for most of you posters. Anyway, have fun and enjoy. But don't get too down on the local brands - the exchange rate really favors shopping at home these days.

nocinonut

You mean there are single men in Malibu?
Where?

Intrepid

Looks as if there are a lot of horny women, and perhaps a few men, too, on the board these days!

nocinonut

It is because Mars is so close to the earth, we are feeling the vibes from the Martians, aren't you?

swalter518

Italian men may be attractive but most are so dang short!!! I'm 5'7" and tower over most, especially in heels. I, on the other hand have the best of both worlds, a second generation Spaniard who's all American!

Statia

I have to weigh in here, on invitation from Calamari on another thread.

I don't think there is a sexier man on earth besides my DH, who is as corn fed American as you can get. I will admit, however, to having the occassional dreamy encounter with a well toned Frenchman.

OTOH, Calamari, I totally understand your infatuation with a certain Italian gentleman, though.....ha.

Calamari

Brimham Rock.

HA! HA! At first glance I thought you wrote the Janet Reno floats your boat! LOL! I really need some caffiene.

nocinonut.

Yes, my DH is an Italian stunner. Shall I bring him to the get together in SF? Maybe not, since you might snag him from me. And yes, there are a few single men in Malibu. My little brother is still available.

PCH -
I did preface my comments with the fact that my experience w/ Yanks was limited.
I'm doing me "shopping" at home these days.