Originally Posted by faultytowers
This is not anti- American, it is just to point out that things you can say/do in the USA don't work overseas. In many Far/Middle Eastern countries it is far easier to ''Switch off'' and smile , it saves getting stressed out and will more than likely get you through the system quicker.
I respect another country's ways of life and their customs, that's not a problem. If anyone does the "I'm an American" business, they deserve what's coming to them.
Over the past eight months, I have flown in the US, Canada, Australia, Europe and South Africa, with flights within the countries and internationally. The security overseas (and Canada) is much less humilating and more professional. The only difference is trying to learn whether I needed to take my laptop out of my briefcase, which most countries do not require (which I do not mind in any country).