Travel the World and Feel At Home

A question I get quite often on both sides of the Atlantic is "what is it like in (name of country)?"  The question is very broad but I would like to address it over several posts.  My primary perspective is that of a North American asking about Europe and in particular Norway and France.

After stepping off of the airplane in Europe a person may feel that they have not left the US/Canada as many merchants and products are global; Starbucks, McDonalds, Burger King, Subway, Dominoes, Coca Cola, M&M's, Snickers, Twix, Pringles, A&F, GAP, Levis, Nike, adidas, Reebok, 7-11, Relay, Swatch, Burberry, Armani, Sephora, Toys R Us, Apple, Samsung, Holiday Inn, Hilton, Best Western, Avis, Hertz and Enterprise to name a few.  A large portion of the songs on the radio are American.  The familiarity continues with American TV shows and movies.  In Norway, American TV/movies are in English with Norwegian subtitles.  The exception are children's programs which have Norwegian voice overs since the children may not know how to read English.  With the aid of language setting on your television some TV shows may be viewed in English, true for much of Europe.  English television networks can be found in many cities (CNN, CNBC, National Geographic, BBC, MTV).  Cinemas in the larger markets of France may offer foreign films in their original language (VO).  You may see familiar fashion brands (see familiar merchants above) and particularly with the youth you will see New York Yankees hats, NBA jerseys and other trends popular with youth culture of North America.  A very high percentage of Scandinavians speak excellent English.  In large European cities English will be common, especially in touristy areas and in restaurants and hotels.  Large tourist attractions often have brochures, guides and/or audio guides in English.  Pizza, burgers, sodas and junk food are everywhere.  WiFi is everywhere and often at higher speeds than in North America.  Luxembourg City has hot-spots at random spots on the street.  Estonia boasts of the ability to be virtually anywhere in the country and have WiFi.

The highest concentration of familiar Americana is found in large cities and touristy areas.  As one moves into smaller towns and the rural area the landscape may revert back to its natural/national/traditional position.

Europe is a continent where a North American can feel at home.  It is possible to visit Europe, have a great time and still have the comfort of familiar Americana.