There are few things I love more on a warm spring day than seeing gobs of Italian and Spanish tourists walking at a snails pace down Broadway in New York City. They seem to only travel in packs of 6 or more and are a little hard to navigate around when you're rushing to the deli during your lunchbreak. But they're extraodinarily nice and spend plenty of money to keep the economy moving. They get my vote!

Posted By Pete on June 4, 2008, 2:10 PM

Hi, Pete,
Thanks for the fun comment.
I was at the Apple store in SoHo the other day. Everyone was speaking a European tongue. I asked the guy at the Genius Bar about it, and he said there is no Apple store in Paris, so they come over looking for their iPods at the dollar to euro discount (which I guess is cheaper than buying from the online store in France http://store.apple.com/fr).
Cheers,
Sean

Posted By Sean on June 4, 2008, 3:00 PM

Pete, unfortunately most of the world's 'tourists' - Americans included, I'm afraid to say - unfortunately travel in big groups and independent travel by Americans is becoming increasingly rarer due to the perception that packages are cheaper (not true).

Sean, the Paris Apple store has recently opened, although it's always been possible to buy Apple products in Paris, including iPods, just not from the official store. But to Europeans with their strong euros, anything and everything is going to be cheaper in the states right now, even a New York hotel room. Well, perhaps not a New York hotel room, but you know what I mean.

The Expedia survey is intriguing, Sean, it would have been great to read more about why they voted this way. I'm going to have to track that one done! Thanks!

Posted By Lara Dunston on June 4, 2008, 5:04 PM

I have always found German tourists to be the ones not to honor lines/cues. Maybe hotel management does not see this. I would not rate them in the top 10.

Posted By Harry on June 5, 2008, 12:29 PM

When ranking most sports competitors a tie uses up two spots. Applied to this tourist list, the Germans and Brits who are tied for second would also "use up" the third place slot, so that the Canadians would be fourth, and so on. Using this method of comparison, we Americans would be less favored than at least 14 other nationalities, not just 10.

Posted By Paul on June 5, 2008, 12:32 PM

I've never understood why anyone would want to travel in large groups!

Everything is so much easier - shopping, getting a table in a restaurant, meeting people, etc., when a traveler is alone or with one or two others. Besides, when have more than 2 or 3 people ever wanted to do the same things at the same time? Some want to shop, others want to rest, one wants to walk fast while others want to saunter. And just when you find something really interesting, it's time for the group to move on.

Even when I travel with my husband, I prefer to spend some time just "wandering" by myself. I've done this in the US, Japan, Australia, Spain, Scotland - pretty much everywhere we've traveled. It's the best way to get a feel for a place, watch the people who live and work there, get into conversations, and just enjoy being somewhere different from your home town. And isn't that the point of travel?

Posted By Margaret Smith on June 5, 2008, 12:59 PM

my personal favorites are the kiwis and aussies and canadians. all funny knowledgable and very outgoing. and sadly i have seen some hidious examples of why usa is so far down on the list. i was also very happy to meet a broad spectrum of kenyans over a 4 week period in 2006. oops the irish are splendid too. and the tahitians were so warm and giving. i am hoping to visit south africa and india and greece in the future. need some new luggage!

Posted By pat sherwood on June 5, 2008, 1:08 PM

I am extremely well travelled and have found the Japanese Tourist to be the most rude of any country especially when travelling in the Orient and in particular, China! I am surprised they cam in number one. Could it be the hoteliers are looking at the money they spend and not their manners?
I have always found the Swiss, Germans and Scotts to be among the best tourists! They do especailly well on off the beaten path tourist spots and always go with the flow and enjoy the moment no matter what happens!
The few ugly Americans I have seen over 50 years of travel has dwindled because other well travelled Americans just won't tolerate it! There are many of us Americans that are respectful tourtists that travel to enjoy the difference in cultures and the complete experience of "seizing the moment" wherever it may be! If more people travelled, there would be more understanding in the world! Travel on!!

Posted By Barbara Dawson on June 5, 2008, 1:14 PM

I would like the names of the hotels that ranbk Americans low so that I can avoidgiving them my business!

Posted By Angry on June 5, 2008, 1:16 PM

I found the high Canadian ranking amusing (especially that part about ranking so high in their own country too). When I was doing solo travel (backpacking) around Europe in the mid-90s, I bumped into a number of Canucks who had sewn Canadian Flags and Maple Leafs onto their bags so as not to be mistaken as Americans. I found THAT so annoying that I sewed Old Glory on mine as soon as I could and started my research on the Canadian Napoleon Complex:-)

Posted By Bill McGowan on June 5, 2008, 1:22 PM

Actually the US is tied for 15th, according to this list, because there are 14 countries ranked higher. Your mistake was in not properly taking account of ties; when, for example, the British and Germans tie for second place, the next listing (Canadian) should be shown as fourth place, and so on.

Posted By Dick on June 5, 2008, 1:41 PM

Have to agree that the Chinese are low on the list. I went to Australia which is swarming with them, and they were rudest people by far I've ever seen. We were shoved in the bathroom when they wanted to get to the sinks or stalls. They would shove their way past us in line, pretending they didn't understand, and I was repeatedly shoved in the back while waiting my turn to get on a plane. I let the woman go ahead of me in line and then gave her some of her own medicine.

Posted By Peg on June 5, 2008, 1:47 PM

"In France, service charge is always included, and so tipping, or le pourboire (lit. "for a drink"), is not expected." (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tip#France)

I would not say the French are "fiscally conservative" when traveling, simply that they are not used to tipping. It really is a strange custom that I enjoy doing without when traveling in France.

Posted By Christina on June 5, 2008, 1:52 PM

My husband and I traveled to Italy for the first time in '06. I vowed not to be an Ugly American. My Italian was fractured but I managed to say Good Morning and Good Evening in Italian from the moment I got off the plane. And I spoke Italian as much as I could and asked pardon for my inability to communicate better. I must say the peope were wonderful as we traveled from Rome down to Sicily and up the Adriatic. They realized we were making an effort to adapt to their culture and gave us gifts as we left. Only one man didn't respond to my greeting in the two months we were there. It's important to respect them as we visit THEIR country.

Posted By Rita Siciliano on June 5, 2008, 1:54 PM

In my travels throughout Europe, U.S., Asia and Oz/NZ I've found Aussies and Kiwis to be very good travelers and fun. Americans (both Canada & U.S.) to also be very good travelers and tippers and are generally independent sometimes tainted by the odd and rare exception of the bearishness of a few.
Europeans usually do get the tattoo of very poor tippers but pretty good explorers.
Many of the Asian groups tend to be big group travelers and quite insular so might miss out on some items.

Posted By Spence on June 5, 2008, 2:15 PM

In a way I can believe why we were so low. I am a senior citizen. The seniors who think the rest of the world owes them something is probably the reason we ranked so low. They are rude, pushy, loud, want to get in front and very impolite. I myself get upset with them so I can imagine what other nationalities think.

Posted By William Dooley on June 5, 2008, 2:16 PM

My wife and I have traveled to Europe many, many times in the past ten years, and we have found the most obnoxious tourists to be the Japanese in tour groups. They dominate walking space, they'll run over you to get to a sight seeing spot first and no one has a chance to get a photo next to a historic spot if they are there first.

Posted By Charles Franke on June 5, 2008, 2:41 PM

The posted comments were very entertaining and information. As for me, I witness very nice people and very rude people of all nationalities in the host countries as well as in the role of tourist. I guess it just goes to show that we're all human.

Everyone needs to cut each other a little slack on both sides of the equation. Traveling can be tiring and stressful at times which does not always bring out the best in people. Just like working in a hotel or restaurant can be wearing at times.

Basically, we are all more alike then we are different. Let's celebrate the similarities and embrace and honor the differences.

Posted By Becky from Arizona on June 5, 2008, 3:14 PM

If there is a tie for 2nd between Germans and British travellers then Candians must be 4th and not 3rd. Similarly, Australians and Swedes tie for 7th, not 6th, and Belgians are 9th and not 7th. This is pretty elementary math used in all rankings in any category, such as sports. Just because 2 entrants are tied doesn't mean they each count as only 1/2 of a country!

Posted By Paul Nethercut on June 5, 2008, 3:16 PM

Obliviously The survey team never observed the Japanese sex tours in Asia. However, I guess the hotels appreciate the business and keep their eyes closed while counting the Yen.

Posted By Carlos Munroz on June 5, 2008, 3:58 PM

Your British Survey is Bias.I live and work in Tourist Country,and for the last 20 yaers British are the WORST TROUBLEMAKERS,and you ranked them as second best !Your unreliable Survey is equal to your offers.

Posted By Mario on June 5, 2008, 4:27 PM

I been to France and to China.. The peo[ple in China were really super.. They went out of their eay to help us when every we got lost.
But in France, Paris especially, they hate Americans and they let you know it.
China should get a better mark then that and France
should be at the bottom of the list. This is not only my feeling but every American who went to France, can away with the same feeling.
Thanks, Ralph

Posted By ralph Milteer on June 5, 2008, 5:55 PM

I agree with the comments that the Japanese are the rudest of travelers whether within a group or not. They cut in line and are very rude in pushing or shoving just in ordinary walking and traveling. I love the Brits and the Aussies.

Posted By Markie on June 5, 2008, 6:21 PM

I have traveled all over the world and the worst tourists are...Asians and Germans.
I was in the Louvre and not one excuse me or pardon me...they muscled in (elbows up) to take pictures and so forth...I found my group and I to be very polite...Americans have manners :)

Posted By maggie on June 5, 2008, 8:01 PM

My question is are these 4,000 hotels evenly dispersed across the globe or in some places that are biased against numerous cultures/ nationalities (note not just americans) Honestly our ranking does not surprise me in the least- I actually thought it would have been lower. When I was overseas (France and the UK) I witnessed the ugly americans firsthand (and yes I am an american as well - a texan in fact) Some americans have no clue that they are the prima donna in the role of the ugly american. I hate that label and try hard to avoid it by being culturally aware and at least learning the basics in that particular country. Some people would be surprised to see how far , Hello, goodbye, thank you, How are you, in a foreign tongue will get you. Mais oui, it is tres facile. You can even use your local library to find some phrasebooks and even guidebooks at that. Sorry I just had to get that off my mind.

Posted By Sarah on June 5, 2008, 8:56 PM

I don't find much difference between the nationalities but I do find cultural differences that aren't always understood. What may be rude in one country is not in another. Americans have a tendency to greet people they don't know with a nod or a hello; not so others. We don't slurp soup; other groups do. You can't judge other nationalities by our own cultural patterns. They differ quite a lot. I can suggest, though, that large groups of tourists sitting together having a meal in a restaurant can be so noisy that they make it unpleasant for others.

Posted By J-P on June 5, 2008, 11:18 PM

I can understand why Americans ranked where they did. My husband and I are now living in Holland, having previously lived in Germany, and also having traveled overseas extensively (roughly 160 nights per year for the past 15 years) mainly on business but also for pleasure. So we've watched many fellow American tourists in action. Very few bother to learn so much as how to say a simple greeting in the local tongue, which is (understandably) viewed as arrogance. I've heard loud complaints at hotel reception for everything from "pillows not fluffy enough" to "what do you MEAN, you don't accept US dollars!?!" (as though everyone should, even though it's not the local currency), to demands when buying stamps to send postcards back home that they want "American" stamps, insisting that the local postage won't work in the US! (seriously, I tried to intervene and convince the irate American that absolutely the Italian stamps would get their postcards home, and that putting American stamps on a card mailed in Italy wouldn't work, but this person just wouldn't listen to reason, accused the hotel desk clerk of trying to "rip them off"). I could go on and on. So to those insulted and irate writers who wanted to know the names of the hotels that voted American guests so low on the totem pole, open your eyes to the impression some of your countrymen's actions leave! And p.s. -- your knee-jerk angry and "get-even" reaction suggests to me that maybe YOU're part of the reason we have this ranking, if that's how you act when traveling! I agree with the many other writers about Kiwi and Aussie travelers being great -- delightful, entertaining company, and NOT complainers! The Brits, too -- they tend to take everything in stride with good grace. I've found Americans to be generally liked and well-treated, if not terribly respected (probably due to the general lack of attempt to learn even a phrase of the local tongue, and also for the mentality of "throw around some tips and be demanding") It's important for my countrymen to understand that especially as we are a huge super-power, most people in other countries would MUCH more prefer the respect they feel when we try to speak even just a few phrases in their language, and the courtesy of at least prefacing our comments or questions with a simple "do you speak English?", to having a tip thrown their way. Even if you mangle your greeting, they'll be so grateful for the attempt. Try it! It's a door-opener.

Posted By Tammy on June 6, 2008, 4:47 AM

Where ever you travel, take your luggage, but leave your "baggage" at home. You are the guest. Go with an open mind, ready to learn about a new culture and other ways of doing things. Learn a few phrases in the native tongue and make an effort to communicate. Open your mind and heart and it will returned to you a thousand times over.
Enjoy!

Posted By Dan Geldert on June 6, 2008, 9:08 AM

What was this list based on? Those who spent the most money? I have always found Japanese and German tourist to be at the top of the list of worst tourists and I can provide examples!!

Posted By M Henkel on June 6, 2008, 9:58 AM

I hate making gross generalizations, but will add my 2 cents worth of them!

Anyone who has ever travelled to a photogenic destination will disagree about the wonderfulness of the Japanese. And why does a group of 100 Chinese decide the best place to rest is on the wall in front of the moat at Angkor where everyone wants to take a picture?

Even on a French island like St Barth, they prefer American tourists to the French - because we're not snobby and we tip! Not to mention the French habit of coming up with derogatory names for all their colonists.

Just took what was probably my last tour ever (at least until I'm 60) - of Southeast Asia - and the ugly Indonesian vied with the ugly American for who was the worst/ugliest tourist in my group. The Indonesian guy snapping his fingers and demanding things from every server we encountered. The ugly American (from Los Angeles) screaming at the Cambodians for not decorking his wine to his specifications. Not to mention the "I want my wine NOW!!!" before the waiter had taken all of our orders!

But, here the worst are the European visitors who insist on walking 6 abreast slowly on the sidewalk. If we did that in Paris or London at rush hour, we'd be mowed down! A group of Spaniards was blocking my way the other day in a store and one woman said something about the impatient senora. I gave her my lispiest "gracias" then told her we all understand Spanish here! So much for the dumb Americans who cant speak foreign languages.

Posted By Eva on June 6, 2008, 2:34 PM

We were on a Caribbean cruise early in May. There were many Japanese on the cruise. I found them to be unfriendly, and they travelled in "packs" and pushed their way ahead of people waiting in lines.
My biggest complaint is that I sat at a table on the deck where food and drinks were out for self-serve. They took their water bottles to refill at the drink station----held them up to the tube that comes out of the machine and refilled the bottle. While filling it, the top of the bottle they drink from each day kept touching the tube; therefore, exposing all of us to any contagious ailment they might have!! Also, tongs were there to take the donuts, rolls, etc.----they sorted though them with their bare hands, often putting back something they'd inspected and found not to their liking. And.....they call us "ugly" American travellers. My mom taught me to use the tongs and I'd never let the water bottle my mouth touches come in contact with the water tube at the drink station!! Apparently, the survey didn't travel with this group!!!

Posted By marge on June 6, 2008, 3:34 PM

My family and I travel extensively and feel we courteous and pleasent travelers but I have to say I am disappointed when we see/here other Americans that are not. We were in Croatia a couple of years ago when some American's were waiting in line to use the facilities and complained to no end about the lack of a formal commode. Personally we found it funny and in the end much cleaner than many in the US. I don't understand why anyone would want to travel to see other countries/cultures but Not really want to experience it. Isn't that the point of travel?
By the way-We have also been in Southern France and I found them very polite and even had one young man in a local shop apologize for not talking clearer English--I quickly informed him he had nothing to apologize for -- I was in his country Not the other way around.

Posted By Kris on June 6, 2008, 6:15 PM

Chinese tourists are at the top of my list of rude, loud tourists. They seem to have a knack for disrupting the moment and ambiance. Their determination to get the perfect picture is especially grating.

Posted By martine on June 7, 2008, 12:07 AM

I am really surprised that the Japanese came in first place- too bad there were no reasons for ranking included in this article. The Japanese that I have some in contact with while traveling have all been rude, unfriendly, and appear to have tunnel-vision as they cannot see that the other travelers around them are trying to take photographs too!

As for the comment about flags sewn on backpacks and the Canadian Napoleon complex: the attitude expressed by this person could be why Americans are referred to as "ugly Americans". If you've ever stayed at a hostel, almost all of the backpackers have their national flags on their gear. And so what if Canadians want to be distinguishable from Americans? Why would that necessarily have to be a bad thing?

Unfortunately, there's this attitude that exists among some Americans and it becomes obvious when talking with others while traveling abroad: some Americans want everyone around them to know they consider themselves better than everyone else. They can be very loud, inappropritely opinionated, and insulting. Not all Americans mind you- but the outspoken ones are very outspoken and have no qualms about insulting non-Americans.

Posted By Sheila on June 7, 2008, 9:25 AM

I think Americans are great friendly people in our own country. We are helpful to tourists. Unfortunately we can be presumptuous and loud in other countries. By far, the worst are American businessmen in other countries. Two weeks ago while in Argentina, I was embarassed by three Texans in the cafe that we were at. Not a word of Spanish even attempted, blatant sexual remarks being made to the waitresses and to top it off LOUD. That was without alcohol. I agree that Germans are not the best and well mannered tourists. AS far as the Asians...try going to a grocery store there. You have to fear for your life with their agression in getting through the store quickly. Unfortunately there is a negativity towards Americans now but it is based on our govt. and not its people.

Posted By ANYKKA on June 7, 2008, 8:46 PM

Wow, I just read through all of these comments, and, except for that one lady who wants everyone to get along, everyone sure seems to have a lot of negative things to say. I agree with the person who points out that we are all just humans. Who hasn't run across someone in their own circle of life who is rude?!? Right there where you are, whatEVER country you are from! At work, at the store, in traffic... Who hasn't, as one other person pointed out, had a rough time travelling, and been grouchy themSELVES!! People who CAN travel, are very fortunate. To generalize about any specific nationality or culture is just ignorant. That is the same thing as sexism or racism or profiling, all of which, when YOU are the target, you DESPISE. And besides, as others have pointed out, what criteria was used to rate/rank people? Maybe the people everyone so eagerly rated as rude, were not too thrilled, themselves, to have to be in a group that large just to be able to GET somewhere else. I don't know, maybe I'm being cavilous like most everyone else, but I'm just saying that you should choose your battles and try to disregard the people you label as rude or unpleasant, not FOCUS on them!!!

Posted By Jeanett on June 7, 2008, 10:01 PM

Due to American international politics, America is now the most hated country in the world. It doesn't surprise me that people judge ALL Americans based on the actions of the government. It also wouldn't surprise me if the the international hotels were prejudiced for this same reason.

I was amused by the responder who was offended by Canadians sewing Canadian flags on their clothes. I'm a New Yorker and, given the current international climate, I sew Canadian flags on my clothes. --MB

Posted By Mykel Board on June 8, 2008, 12:24 AM

Wow, most readers don't seem to catch the hotelier reference. Hotels look for who will pay the highest bill without too much complaint. The list becomes easy to understand under that circumstance.

As for tourist horror stories, anywhere you go you can run across rude people. Hispanic visitors to the big theme parks in Florida seem to have the worst manners in breaking lines, but I've been to India and saw real pandemonium in ques. In order to get anywhere there, you have to play the stupid ferhanghi, barge to the front and demand attention.

Contrary to others' statements here, I've rarely been treated rudely in France, and then only ignored for a while. I don't have a problem making my presence known in such cases. Germany and Austria are more difficult--Ve haf rules!! You must wait.

The Japanese are a bit insular, but if you know a few phrases in their language, you can easily break the ice. If they are in a spot where you want to take a picture, say "sumimasen" and hold up your camera and point at the scene you want to shoot. It goes even better if you offer to take their picture for them in front of the scene. With gestures you can get the same cooperation from Chinese,Koreans and other Asians, although some will continue to ignore common courtesies because they learn they can get away with it.

Posted By Charles Griffin on June 8, 2008, 3:14 PM

I have to agree with the survey. Whenever I have traveled to Europe, Carribean or Mexican (Baja & Mainland), it never fails that Americans do not seem, on the whole, to be able to conduct themselves in a respectful manner. I have seen loud, pushy, arrogant in Paris, loud, cursing snobs in Mexico, and have witnessed crude and overbearing behavior in stores where Americans are being this way to intimidate shop owners. I have also witnessed like behavior in American children - throwing tamtrums (really bad) and food, stomping on packages in retail stores and screaming in hotels. I do not see other nationalities behave this way, nor do I and my family. But, you know, Americans are like this now in America, so what's new, right?? I don't think we need a worse image than what the Iraq war has caused either - I went over to Europe several times after the war began, and Europeans treated me a lot different than before.

Posted By Nancy on June 8, 2008, 10:10 PM

Travelling is a joy except when it's spoiled by someone who travels with an overloud voice and an opinion that everything is better back home. In my experience those two things are top of the packing list for Americans. I'm not sure why.
Americans really are loud - if you've ever travelled anywhere and there were Americans there -you'll know what I mean. It wouldn't be hard to change this - and the rest of the world would appreciate it. Now about the fact that all those American travellers seem to think it's better back home - well if that's how you feel why don't you stay there?

Posted By Louise on June 9, 2008, 7:10 PM

I agree with Peg. I am of Chinese ancestry living in NYC. My biggest lament is they do not honor lines. It is me, self and I, they pretend not to notice or play dumb. Thank you and please does not exist in their vocabulary. I thought it is the New Yorker Chinese only, but apparently this is a global trait. Very selfish people, leave the toilet seat dirty for next user as well. I find the HK Chinese living in Canada is much more friendly and civilized. I have no tolerance for it any more. I speak up and embarress them on the spot. Oh, they are also cheap when it comes to tipping.

Posted By Lily on June 10, 2008, 5:19 PM

AS the survey was conducted by Expedia, I'm assuming it was conducted with the hotels that Expedia sends customers to. There are probably a great many more hotels not surveyed than were surveyed so I think I'll take the results with a grain of salt.
Also I would like to see how each nationality fared in each category

Posted By traceek on June 11, 2008, 3:47 AM

You will never rush a Spaniard during their paseo, you learn to just walk around them. Amazing they didnt get killed in NY. Also, it depends on the section of the country. Chicago is nothing like Charleston, SC. We still have manners and know how to act like humans in public. As do our children. While Cordoba has some of the nicest, warm humans you will ever find....Cadiz makes East St. Louis look warm and inviting. Learn a few good curse words, comes in handy. You will know what the rude moza is calling you. And able to reply in turn! LOL

Posted By rick on June 12, 2008, 7:14 PM

I think this survey is meaningless, except, perhaps, to the hoteliers. I agree whole heartedly with the person(s) claiming there are rotten apples in every nationality. It's pure folly to generalize.

We Canadians tend to be categorized as polite. And maybe, just maybe, we are on our best behaviour when travelling. But I can tell you of several instances of bad manners here on home turf that have given me pause for thought. We mustn't delude ourselves by taking much stock of the general "polite" label.

As for the Americans, I can tell you from experience that I have yet to encounter an ugly American in the S.F. Bay area or even in N.Y. where they're supposedly cold and indifferent. Nope, I found people helpful and as a guest in the homes I've visited, the best

Still, I have come across a few American tourists who've left their manners at home--as have some Germans, French, Chinese, Japanese, etc., etc.

Nah, notwithstanding cultural differences, people are people around the globe--good, bad, and indescript--and that's the truth.

Posted By Ann on June 13, 2008, 3:12 AM

To Bill McGowan:
I believe that it is a requirement of the Canadian government that all Canadians have their flag on their luggage. I have worked for an airline for many years and have asked several Canadians about this and they all said that they have to have it on there.

Posted By Julie on June 15, 2008, 8:29 AM

Well your survey may be correct for hoteliers (guys who own and operate the hotels), but guys who work in the hotels for tips have a different perspective. For the tipping category workers the best tourist are from the USA, followed by the Canadians, Europeans, Japanese, etc. Personally I found that among celebrities and the very rich the Saudis are the most generous and the French are the most demanding.

Posted By Leroy on June 16, 2008, 2:51 PM

Having worked in the service industry and being a foreign traveler on many occasions, I have to affirm that CERTAIN groups of Americans are loud and oblivious to their surroundings.

On a recent visit to Paris I encountered one (1), only one rude person. This was likely due to studying the social habits of the French before I put foot on their soil. When one enters any shop, it is customary to greet the proprietor in the native tongue. Certainly that is not the norm in my urban community, but I took that lesson home with me.

Indeed, I try to immerse myself into other cultures to gain perspective of my own actions. The rest of the sites are brick and mortar when compared with understanding how we each embrace life.

Posted By Barbara on June 23, 2008, 1:56 PM

I think it's mostly the elderly who give American tourists the bad rep overseas. They can be very demanding and needy. I work at JFK Airport and see it every day. Younger Americans are almost always easy going and great to deal with.

As for foreign tourists, the Chinese get my vote for the worst. They travel in packs and have no qualms about pushing and cutting lines.

Posted By Patrick on June 26, 2008, 11:05 PM

I would like to highligh a point, when 1 comment that this or that particular country or race is deemed to be the worst.

Does he have experience with all the citizen from the various nationalities listed above to make the comparison?

Just list the bad experiences you have had and the readers will judge.

Posted By relativity on July 7, 2008, 12:14 AM

Since this is a poll of hoteliers, it only covers experience at the hotel, and not elsewhere. It simply says that hotels prefer the customers at top of the list because they are quiet, don't leave a mark, have good manners, as opposed to those who

1) Stampede in and out
2) Leave a very untidy room behind for the person cleaning up
3) Skip the tip when it is expected
4) walk away with items not meant to be kept by the guests.

As for the experience out of the hotel, you need another poll. By the way, how can you tell the nationality of a particular tourist when you don't speak their language. I mean how can you tell whether someone is Chinese, Korean and Japanese, Thai etc...tourist assuming you don't know any words in those languages. I doubt most tourists would admit to their nationality after they just inconvenienced you, but some might.

Posted By Just curious on July 8, 2008, 1:46 AM

My international travel experience only encompasses the last 10 years... but I have found, without a doubt, that whatever you give in your attitude towards people from other countries, you get back. Travel with patience, consideration, and a sense of humor and you will be treated with respect and consideration by practically everyone you meet. Since my experience at home with the Floridians I meet on a daily basis is far, far worse than any experience I have had overseas, I am quite frankly amazed that the US did not rank lower. We are habitually rude to each other on a daily basis and tend to ignore that in each other, but then take great offense when we are somewhere else and our hosts or fellow tourists from around the world do not act the exact way we expect them to act, we are incredulous at these "rude foreigners."

Posted By George Sherrington on July 29, 2008, 3:32 PM

I'm an American, and studying abroad last semester made it interesting to watch tourists in a new context. The thing about Spanish tourists only traveling in large groups was very true in Rome. I saw more groups in Rome that I've seen in New York. It was absurdly annoying, as I had places to be and it was near impossible to pass these 30+ person groups on Rome's narrow streets. Other than their walking habits, they seemed to be all right. The French, on the other hand, were openly rude. I don't speak French, but I do Italian, and the Italian waiters were not fans. Americans are generally seen abroad as they are in this poll, from what I've experienced. People think we're really friendly and generous and blah blah blah, and tend to like us despite some of our perceived faults. I think the biggest thing was that Americans in general don't like to make a fuss. We don't haggle prices or argue. Of course, then the Italians try to take advantage of you by adding desserts that you didn't order to your checks, then try to act like it was a mistake (one that happens 50% of the time) when you call them out on it.

Posted By John on August 6, 2008, 6:35 PM

I had thought Germans were the worst until I traveled outside the US and Canada. My first trip to France I was pushed and prodded by the Japanese more than any other country. In the museums they would take photos of paintings even when reminded that cameras were not permitted and push in front of you with no "so sorry" or pardon. Groups were even worst.
I decided that they were only agreeable when it was to their advantage and they can get something from you, forget pleasantness otherwise.
I also found the Germans to be more pleasant while traveling in Europe and other countries and they were good travelers.

Posted By Hal on August 28, 2008, 3:52 PM

I think many people making comments have confused Japanese with other East Asians. I spent 6 months in China and at least a few of the complaints here about Japanese sound more likely Chinese. Pushing, not standing in line, touching all the food. Definitely sounds like China. Oddly Chinese wont eat using their hands (unsanitary).

Posted By Traveler on January 18, 2009, 5:29 AM

I have to agree with Traveler that many of the commenters probably can't differentiate between Chinese and Japanese tourists. I think the majority of Japanese tourists are very polite while Chinese are generally rude, both in line with their national culture. And I know the difference because I speak Chinese and understand a little Japanese and Korean. And lest anyone accuse me of being racist, I am an American of Chinese ancestry.

Posted By Chino on March 23, 2009, 11:15 AM

Hoteliers are different from everyday people, with different criteria. I am a Canadian who has travelled Europe extensively in the last couple of years, and I have to say I have yet to meet an obnoxious American, either there or in my own country. (There is a big difference between being ignorant about a country or culture and being deliberately rude.) I'm sure there are bad-mannered Americans out there, just like I'm sure there are obnoxious Canadians, but I think in the case of the USA, their political reputation precedes them.

The rudest people I have met while travelling would have to be the Italians. They are exclusive, unfriendly and rude to tourists in their own country, and travel in obnoxious, pushy packs in other countries. On a recent Mediterranean cruise on an Italian cruise line, we learned pretty quickly how to hold our own in queues, and, unfortunately, it wasn’t by being courteous and friendly. We tried that and were deliberately ignored. No, in order to make an impression, you had to give as good as you got. And, the only time I had a ‘tourist’ problem was with Italians pushing ahead of me - in Prague, (a shop), Malta, (a bus), and Barcelona, (a rest room).

That has been my personal experience, but that is all it is.

And, just a note about putting the Canadian flag on luggage, etc. - It is not a requirement of the Canadian Government, nor do we do it to particularly distinguish ourselves from Americans, or any other nationality for that matter. We do it because, one, we are proud to be Canadians, and two, so we can distinguish our luggage on the baggage carousel. At least, that is why I do it. :o) Some Americans might be overly sensitive about it, but they have to realize that not everything is about them.

Posted By jamjude on March 24, 2009, 10:28 PM

Being someone who has traveled around the world and lived in 3 different continents, I have to agree with the survey and what many viewers said about the Chinese: they are hands down the worst travellers, even in their own country.
I myself have chinese heritage and in some occasions had to pratically waive around my passport in order to not be confused as another chinese tourist and avoid trouble.. Japanese travellers are more civilized, but I don't agree with them being numero uno as they also are quite obnoxious when travelling in groups...

Obviously it's not fair to generalize, but nordic and oz/nz (natives, not immigrants) tourists are usually the most pleasant ones.

Posted By Nomad on March 26, 2009, 8:42 AM

Most people who think someone is Japanese are people who can't tell the difference between the Japanese and Chinese languages. The Japanese are over the top polite because that's how their culture is. The Chinese are the ones known for bumping and getting in the way...

Posted By Jimjimjimmy on March 26, 2009, 12:11 PM

This survey seems to be the most fabricated of them all. American tourists ranking in 11th with the Thai and British tourists up there with the Germans!!! Both of them need to be pushed to the Bottom RUNGS and fast.
Nothing ruins America's reputation more than its boisterous, callous, arrogant and mis-informed tourists....well nothing except Bush, while he was in power!
The Japs are great tourists, its just that they're extremely poor hosts in their own country.
The Indians I've noticed are the most courteous, so it's amazing how they've managed to drop down on the list. Probably stereotyping them with the Pakistanis and Bangladeshis...?
The brits are habitual alcoholics and I've always noticed Brits are at the forefront of brawls around the world and NOT just in Britain. ;-)
The germans are extremely polite in their own country (Big points there) but they're extremely racist and make no bones about it.
The Swiss, what can i say~ We all Love 'em, those of the Swiss Kiss and dreamy chocolate.
Greeks, Polish and Russians made it that high up...?
GIVE ME A BREAK> Anyone who has seen one of these tourists, knows they're worse than a Korean Fishmonger selling you a 3 day old stale fish as one that's freshly caught.

Come on Expedia, out with it.... was the survey only done on numbers, paid for by the Brits, the Americans or was it done in terms of volume which did not consider measuring population densities and travel patterns. Come on.....? Be a |Sport!

Posted By Sosueme on March 26, 2009, 1:23 PM

Please be specific on the Indian and Chinese, Because unless you state that tourist from India and China. Many Indian and Chinese from various developed countries are going to be branded as rude and inconsiderate tourist. As you know, unlike french is from France, and Japanese is from Japan, Chinese and Indian is all over the world, besides their motherland. I'm gonna pay the price for your report, next time travelling abroad as well as travelling domestic.

Posted By John on March 26, 2009, 3:20 PM

I am Chinese and I have to say to some of the commentators here that just because you're of Chinese descent doesn't mean you can't be prejudiced against your own ethnic group. Especially if somehow you feel superior than them because you have lived in a developed country all your life . There are cultural differences about speaking volumes, eating noises and interacting styles. Tips are very rare in China so Chinese tourists are not accustomed to leave them. They are also the least accustomed to the West because China has been open for only about 30 some years. I hope they will get better at western manners.

Also to those people who are comparing the Japanese and Chinese, I think it speaks volumes that the Chinese are good hosts in their own country (many foreign travelers have said so). It means that they do care but maybe they just don't understand enough of the Western etiquette. It's what you do when you're in power that reveals your true character.

Posted By sarah on March 30, 2009, 8:35 AM

Lovely comments, y'all. :^)

I just have a reminder that this is a survey of 4000 hotels--how guests behave inside! NOT how they are when outside sightseeing!

Also, I question [in earnest] whether some of you really can tell the difference between the asian ethnic groups or, for that matter, the european ethnic group? Given they look so much alike.

Hotels can easily aggregate that info. But if you don't speak Japanese how would you know that an asian person is Japanese or not? See? Tsk, tsk.

Posted By Davey on April 6, 2009, 5:33 PM

I want to address the commentators of this site. There is a huge difference between Chinese and Japanese tourists. Some of the white people are confusing the two groups. I'm Japanese but understand some Mandarin. Japanese are more quiet and experienced in international travel. The Chinese are boisterous and their traveling experience is less. Whites, especially Americans think all Asian people are Chinese. If you hang around Asians long enough, the differences are markedly clear.

Posted By Meg on June 24, 2009, 8:51 PM

I do agree with the people saying that the japanese are being confused for the chinese. The japanese are so respectful while a lot chinese people don't usually care about others people who are traveling as well. I am chinese although i've grown up in the us and i've travelled alot, even one time in Japan with a chinese tour group. There were heated arguments and multiple times where different groups of people in the tour would piss the others off. The chinese (not all) tend to ignore the norms that americans would hold as being respectful of others.

Posted By Wei Zhu on July 9, 2009, 2:37 PM

Four years of French classes built up my expectation of France - a mature and politically progressive people. After all, they're supposed to have a progressive social system, prolonged close-proximity exposure to the Enlightenment, and a proud tradition of popular revolts and strikes.

When I finally visited (Paris) last year, I found the majority of les parisiens I met to be an insecure, uncouth, conservative/reactionary, and severely limited people... a narcissistic remnant of a wonderful civilization. There was perceivable judgment in people's eyes. The immigrants seem beaten-down and irrelevant. Ugly nationalism and insistence on describing the world in the "French way" was everywhere. And to top it all off, I get to be audience to some dude in a business suit casually setting his suitcase down in a metro walkway and peeing on the wall... and none of the passersby seemed to care!

Having been ashamed that Bush was from my country for so many years, I nevertheless felt a momentary sense of pride - or relief - that I get to go home after that week, while these Parisian sisters and brothers are stuck there, in that illusion of a progressive country.

Posted By Brian on July 9, 2009, 4:15 PM

For those who are of Chinese ancestry, please give your fellow ethnic brothers and sisters a break. They may embarrass you because China has just reached a level where foreign travel is possible, and give them a few eyars, and I am surethe level of courtesy will rise.

What I find most obnoxious is the superior attitude exhibited by those of Chinese ancestry who speak so disparaging of Chinese in general. Yes, they are boisterous, but guess what, your parenst, or grandparents were/are like that too. Note their weaknesses, but dont be so condescending...otherwise, if you hate yourself so much, get a face job.

I know many Chinese from the mainland and Taiwan as being very courteous and polite. Perhaps you are dealing with a different set of people.

Posted By Mike on July 9, 2009, 7:10 PM

In my view, this ranking more or less reflects the social behavior of the people in their own countries. The most Japanese you encounter here are decent, reliable, polite and kind, though a bit shy.

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