The chronicles of one girl's journey for love, education, and life down under.







Sunday, October 17, 2010

"Are you from Canada?"

"When Aussies pick up on your "North American" accent, they will likely ask you if you are from Canada, not if you are from the U.S. This is partly because they run into more Canadians than Americans, but mostly because they know Canadians are more sensitive to being mistaken for Americans, while Americans don't care.
As for Americans: when asked that question, don't be offended, it's a great opportunity to strike up a conversation. Outside of tourist areas, Americans are a novelty. "

I found this little gem of information in a book called Americans' Survival Guide to Australia and Australian-American Dictionary by Rusty Geller.

It is funny because I do get asked if I am from Canada, a lot. More in the last 4 months than I have in my entire lifetime of traveling internationally. Before I found this information, I had already asked Adsy why everyone asks me if I'm Canadian or American? He told me that because of the Commonwealth connection there are more Canadians here than Americans. Plus, a lot of Aussies go to Canada for the snow.

Anyway, I thought it was funny and interesting constantly being mistaken for a Canadian. At lease it is good to know that if I ever need to hide my nationality I can easily add a few a's? at the end of my sentences and say I'm from Canada.

2 comments:

  1. When I studied abroad in France...everyone thought I was Swedish before I opened my mouth. Then when I would say something in my horrible french accent, it was clear that English was my first language. First I was asked if I was British (the French HATE the British), and when I said no, then I would get Canadian, and after another no, THEN American. And believe it or not, being American was a novelty and the person I was talking to thought it was pretty cool. Probably b/c I was speaking French, and most American's visiting probably don't speak it...Shabadoo...

    Blah Blah Blah...how many days until I get to see you!?!?

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  2. How funny! I think from now on I may start saying I am from Canada to mix it up. Too bad I have never been there and do not know anything about it. Details details

    Good idea, Seester! I'll put a countdown until I arrive in Texas clock so we can count down the days!

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