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Latin Americans are also Westeners, so are different Asians whose culture is partly Western.
Race does not have much to do.
The two countries in the Americas with the largest European populations are the ones that are more different from Europe, I'm referring to Argentina and US.
As to Sweden, is a new country that entered into civilization less than 1000 years ago, some consider them western.
I would class them as Hyperboreals, as they were classified at the Sorbonne during the Low Middle Age.
There will always be varying definitions of what a westerner is.
Quote:
Originally Posted by Neutre
I think you're right that Rosling is questioning the term "Western".
Here are just a few countries or areas that can be part of "the West" or "the Rest" depending on what criteria one takes: Former Eastern Bloc, including former GDR.
Japan and the Asian Tigers.
Many Latin American countries.
Australia & NZ.
Israel.
Large chunks of Africa, including the Arab countries in the North.
Greece & Cyprus.
Turkey and other (former) allies of the Western Bloc in Asia.
Philippines and other Christian areas in Asia.
That's like half of the world where opinions vary on whether they're "western" or not.
Since the OP started this thread, I'll just stick to her/his definition.
Quote:
Originally Posted by bonetaniard1
So for a month I will be staying in Sweden and I am from the USA.
How hard is it in your experience for a Westerner to fit into mainland European countries? Any experiences?
You'll be fine.
Don't forget that there's so much diversity among European mainlanders themselves.
So in some ways you'll find out that Sweden is closer to America than to, say, Macedonia or Hungary.
Just enjoy your stay and try not to worry too much about you being a westerner. My experience in Sweden has been quite positive, even better than in Italy even though I'd expected the opposite.
I'd say let go of any preconceptions and try enjoy your time in Sweden as much as possible instead of focussing on how different or weird things are in a foreign country.
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Quote:
Originally Posted by bonetaniard1
So for a month I will be staying in Sweden and I am from the USA.
Business or pleasure ?
How hard is it in your experience for a Westerner to fit into mainland European countries? Any experiences?
You mention mainland European countrie(s) ...
So, are speaking of, just Sweden, or are you planning on visiting other countries also ?
If on business, then spent time with your colleagues.
Do not ever compare *your home* with theirs, unless they ask you, and then NEVER *talk down*
Be genuinely interested in *their way of life* !
As another poster mentioned -- leave your politics *at home* !!
If for pleasure only, then just enjoy yourself. Most of all, remember where you came from, who you represent (especially when you are on business !!), and that you are a guest in *their* home turf !! So behave like a guest and be civil always.
When you have time to *explore* other countries, keep in mind that each one of them have their own *quirks* Accept them as they are and be open to learn !!!
Last but not least, no need to worry if you would *fit* in their surroundings,
You will not be there long enough to *fit* !
Just have a fun time and enjoy this opportunity !
I'd say let go of any preconceptions and try enjoy your time in Sweden as much as possible instead of focussing on how different or weird things are in a foreign country.
a question about swedish women, are they open to dating men who aren't from sweden or even europe?
What I meant about not worrying too much also includes this area.
Swedish women are diverse with various tastes.
Some are open to dating non-Swedish men, others prefer European men, others aren't open to dating men at all..
Latin Americans are also Westeners, so are different Asians whose culture is partly Western.
Race does not have much to do.
The two countries in the Americas with the largest European populations are the ones that are more different from Europe, I'm referring to Argentina and US.
As to Sweden, is a new country that entered into civilization less than 1000 years ago, some consider them western.
I would class them as Hyperboreals, as they were classified at the Sorbonne during the Low Middle Age.
The US is the most different from Europe? Really? Well i'm from "europe" and I find that Americans are the closest people to my country in the world.
Not exactly, because as OP stated, British are considered "Western" only in some cases.
Apparently in some cases they don't even make the list.
I think they should be concerned.
Very concerned.
You won't fit in over there. It's a totally different and non-Western place where the socialist population doesn't have XXL-sodas, diversity, restrooms, Mexicans, Black people or CNN. Heck, they do not even have the Extra Bacon-Big Mac menu option!
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Swedia
