I think Americans and Europeans have different ideas about what each country is like. Europeans probably view America as a place that features many of the best places to shop, very unique and interesting people, and great places to have fun. Americans probably see Europe as a very culture rich, historical, and relaxing place to visit. Just looking at the types of places that were showcased as the premier tourist destinations in America and Europe, the messages were very different. In the U.S., Forbes had rated New York City's Times Square, Las Vegas's Strip, and Orlando's Walt Disney World 1,2,and 5 in the top ten tourist destinations. This is not really a surprise to any American citizen because of the country's emphasis on commercialism and consumerism. I think this is what the general perception is about the U.S.; it's a great place to spend money and have fun.
In contrast, I believe Europe's tourist attractions highlight a totally different culture. Many of Europe's top tourist destinations were classical architecture, historical sites showing the history of the country, and national monuments. Some of the top tourist destinations in Europe were the Eiffel Tower in Paris, Big Ben in London, The Roman Coliseum in Rome, and Acropolis located in Athens. Americans probably expect to experience more of the culture than the commerce, and the overall perception is that Europe is rich in tradition in history.
I think it is important to remember that these places do have some things in common. The is great shopping in Paris, just like there is great shopping in New York City. Also, there are places to gamble and amusement parks in both Europe and in the U.S. What sets these destinations apart is the emphasis placed on these locations by residents and visitors alike. While the United States is one country and Europe is home to many countries there is still a consensus about which destinations are most popular among tourists. I think many of the shopping and amusement locations in the U.S. are uniquely American because of the experience they provide tourists. There is nothing like walking Times Sq. at three in the morning with thousands of people, similarly there is nothing like the view of Paris from the top of Eiffel Tower. I think both places have unique themes which represent the people and their personalities accurately. The U.S.'personality is centered around commercial and entertainment and Europe's is more historical and serene.
I think Americans and Europeans have different ideas about what each country is like. Europeans probably view America as a place that features many of the best places to shop, very unique and interesting people, and great places to have fun. Americans probably see Europe as a very culture rich, historical, and relaxing place to visit. Just looking at the types of places that were showcased as the premier tourist destinations in America and Europe, the messages were very different. In the U.S., Forbes had rated New York City's Times Square, Las Vegas's Strip, and Orlando's Walt Disney World 1,2,and 5 in the top ten tourist destinations. This is not really a surprise to any American citizen because of the country's emphasis on commercialism and consumerism. I think this is what the general perception is about the U.S.; it's a great place to spend money and have fun.
I think it is important to remember that these places do have some things in common. The is great shopping in Paris, just like there is great shopping in New York City. Also, there are places to gamble and amusement parks in both Europe and in the U.S. What sets these destinations apart is the emphasis placed on these locations by residents and visitors alike. While the United States is one country and Europe is home to many countries there is still a consensus about which destinations are most popular among tourists. I think many of the shopping and amusement locations in the U.S. are uniquely American because of the experience they provide tourists. There is nothing like walking Times Sq. at three in the morning with thousands of people, similarly there is nothing like the view of Paris from the top of Eiffel Tower. I think both places have unique themes which represent the people and their personalities accurately. The U.S.'personality is centered around commercial and entertainment and Europe's is more historical and serene.
I like how you focused on the different views and themes of places. There really is nothing like Times Square or the view from the Eiffel Tower(not that I have been to the Eiffel tower, but I'm sure). Looking at a skyscraper is much different than exploring the Roman Colosseum, but both places are unique in their own ways. Each one is a different world. I feel like the U.S seems much more commercialized, but I bet that the high level of commercialism still exists in Europe, it is just not as advertised like the amusement parks are of the U.S. I wonder if the commercialism is just not as advertised for us because people from the U.S. going to Europe do not want that. They want to expect something different even if there are similarities present. I love your pictures too.
ReplyDeleteI like your observations on commercialism as theme, and I also agree with Caitlin that Europe may be just as commercialized as America. Europeans EXPECT commercialism in America, though. It goes along with the image of America as fun (and rich), but also tacky and materialistic. They don't EXPECT "culture" here. Wonder what they think when they find it . . .
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