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I hate to start a thread about national stereotypes, knowing that any generalization is inevitably wrong as exceptions always abound. However, as an American new to Europe, I've noticed some unexpected trends in national characters. I now live in Belgium and have traveled a bit in western Europe. Prior to this, I spent my life in north America, so I'm pretty much unaware of generalizations Europeans have of one another. I wonder if my observations are in keeping with general impressions.
Are the Dutch generally thought of as extroverted? Prior to traveling in the Netherlands, I assumed they'd be more introverted as a more northern people, but I find them to be very outgoing. I was bicycling in the Hague yesterday, and a Dutch man who was drinking at a sidewalk establishment reached to give me a high five. Yes, he was drunk, but I haven't encountered this kind of openness to strangers outside of the US. I have him a hearty high five and pedaled away. This kind of interaction is somewhat usual in the US, but I haven't seen this anywhere in Europe. I've also noticed that when a lively conversation is happening, the Dutch often are drawn to it and add their opinions. I've also been approached several times by random Dutch strangers to offer assistance and directions when I appear lost. You see this in some parts of America (Midwest and South mostly), but I was surprised to find this among the Dutch. Do others notice this as well?
Other national characters that have stood out as extroverted: Serbians and Estonians. I had no pre-formed notions about them before coming to Europe, but I find both groups to be friendly and open. Is that the impression of others are just mine? I'm curious.
If you care to, please share your ideas of how other Europeans view different nationalities with a clueless American.
I hate to start a thread about national stereotypes, knowing that any generalization is inevitably wrong as exceptions always abound. However, as an American new to Europe, I've noticed some unexpected trends in national characters. I now live in Belgium and have traveled a bit in western Europe. Prior to this, I spent my life in north America, so I'm pretty much unaware of generalizations Europeans have of one another. I wonder if my observations are in keeping with general impressions.
Are the Dutch generally thought of as extroverted? Prior to traveling in the Netherlands, I assumed they'd be more introverted as a more northern people, but I find them to be very outgoing. I was bicycling in the Hague yesterday, and a Dutch man who was drinking at a sidewalk establishment reached to give me a high five. Yes, he was drunk, but I haven't encountered this kind of openness to strangers outside of the US. I have him a hearty high five and pedaled away. This kind of interaction is somewhat usual in the US, but I haven't seen this anywhere in Europe. I've also noticed that when a lively conversation is happening, the Dutch often are drawn to it and add their opinions. I've also been approached several times by random Dutch strangers to offer assistance and directions when I appear lost. You see this in some parts of America (Midwest and South mostly), but I was surprised to find this among the Dutch. Do others notice this as well?
Other national characters that have stood out as extroverted: Serbians and Estonians. I had no pre-formed notions about them before coming to Europe, but I find both groups to be friendly and open. Is that the impression of others are just mine? I'm curious.
If you care to, please share your ideas of how other Europeans view different nationalities with a clueless American.
i think the dutch are stereotyped as being incredibly pragmatic , they often appear as ultra liberal as the likes of the swedes but its often merely a way of bringing in more business
Well, I guess I'll perpetuate a sterotype, but it seems to be generally true. There is a dividing line running through Europe and north of it Europeans tend to be more introverted and reserved, and south of it, with the exception perhaps of the Portuguese, people seem more extraverted and gregarious. But there are so many exceptions and these stereotypes are changing.
In England I find people outside of London especially in the north are friendlier and more accessible.
But we're talking about general national stereotypes, not regional differences 50 miles apart. Stereotypes exist for reasons, they aren't formed out of nothing.
In Germany the Dutch have a reputation as being cheap. I have no idea if it's true, but it's definitely the stereotype.
Also, keep in mind that Amsterdam and adjcacent areas are NOT typically Dutch. That would not be the place to get a "typical" Dutch feel. It would be like going to NYC or SF to get a "typical" middle-American feel. Not gonna happen.
In Germany the Dutch have a reputation as being cheap. I have no idea if it's true, but it's definitely the stereotype.
Also, keep in mind that Amsterdam and adjcacent areas are NOT typically Dutch. That would not be the place to get a "typical" Dutch feel. It would be like going to NYC or SF to get a "typical" middle-American feel. Not gonna happen.
Italians : cooks, yes, French : lovers ? Huh...
Just wait till someone tell you you're not thinking straight.
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