Personal Enrichment Through Travel
 

What was the first foreign country you visited and what were your first impressions?? If you were with the military at the time, do you think that affected how you viewed the experience?? If so, how do you feel it would have been different if you were a civilian?? Do you think these visits affected how you felt about a certain group of people?? Did you come to realize that things you had thought about that place or those people were skewed?? And if so, why do you think that happened??

My first foreign country (believe it or not) was Keflevik, Iceland. I was in the Navy at the time, it was my first sea duty assignment. I had a lot of free time while there, so I personally do not think that my being in the military affected how I viewed the place or the people. Before I went, I had never been out side the US, so I really hadn't formed any opinions about foreigners. I had no real interest in politics nor did I watch the news. What struck me as the strangest thing was how people could survive in that environment. Cold and in the winter dark for 20+ hours a day. But depsite the isolation, the weather or environmental conditions, the people there were amoung the friendliest I have ever encountered, and also amoung the most trusting. I also realized that they did not live in igloos. :D

Mexico. My parents dragged me along for shopping in Nogales.

What did they get for you?

TR

1968. Mexico.

We went shopping in Ciudad Juarez and I bought myself some shiny blue maracas that I annoy my family with to this day. :D

And how long did it take you to find your way home after you had been traded for a Basket and some sandals?:D

Iraq.

Actually, that probably answers all of your questions, lol.

California.

Australia. It reinforced the rugby rivalry and made me realise how much the countries are similer culture wise. It also made me realise how good NZ was, though Australia does have a few points over us, namely the weather.

But I won't ever repeat that :p



I'd like to hit Europe or North/South America after Uni. I think I'll leave the Mid East and Africa alone. Would love to go to South Africa one day, but the current situation negates that to some extent.

That shit aint funny! :o

My wife comes to the conclusion that I need to see a Psyhchiatrist/ologist in San Francisco...because of my need to recognize/understand other walks of life.

I have to tape one of our conversations.

Listen Doc..."I don't drink non-fat chai tea latte...never been in a STARBUCKS until I got out here...here is my resume to help you".

SOB didn't even know what SF was!:eek:

No shit? Dude, you need to come down here.

ROTFLMAO @ Guy

My first overseas visit was Augusta Bay, Sicily. It was turnover so interaction with the people was minimal. I did get to go on a tour to Mount Etna which was ineresting to see all the lava and etc.

During my Navy time I visited 39 cities in 15 countries and they seem all about the same. The people were mostly nice, especially the english women on "Holiday". Only a few places stick out in my mind that I would like to travel back to.

SO YOU ACTUALLY WENT???

You ARE whipped!

TR

Of course he went. You don't think Guy would pass up a chance to mess with a Kalifornia shrink do you?

I'll bet the poor man is still being treated by his colleagues. LOL

Laughing Too Hard To Type! Do all these other folks worry about understanding yours? I think that would be a good beginning.

That would make for some serious reality tv. I'd give up a credit card no. for pay per view!