Understanding Anti-American Sentiment and Travel
When I think of anti-American sentiment and travel, I’m reminded of the guy who visited İzmir, Turkey, and suddenly found himself in the wrong place at the wrong time.
He’d taken a casual stroll through the streets of the coastal city on a Saturday morning, but when he turned a corner, he was confronted by a group of young men who looked like they were up to no good.
“American!” one of them exclaimed.
Another one shouted, “Donald Trump!”
He backed away, and they started following him. He walked faster; they walked faster. Then he made a break toward a crowd and disappeared to safety.
How do I know this story? Because I was the guy. And, say experts, if you’re not careful, it could happen to you.
The Growing Concern of Anti-American Sentiment
Anti-American sentiment is a growing concern in 2025. Tourists are growing increasingly worried that they’ll get a less than enthusiastic welcome when they cross the border. Even the professionals, the platinum-card-carrying corporate travelers, are hitting the panic button.
“They’re expecting a drastic increase in anti-American sentiment this year,” says etiquette expert Sharon-Frances Moore.
Although my would-be assailants made references to my nationality, that wasn’t the real problem. I didn’t have a clue where I was going and ended up in the wrong part of town. So let’s start with a small disclaimer: Many, if not most, incidents of anti-American behavior are the result of ignorance. There are places foreign visitors should avoid, and knowing where those places are is more important than ever.
Is the World Becoming More Hostile Toward Americans?
With a new U.S. administration in office, and more Americans venturing abroad, many travelers are concerned about encountering increased anti-American sentiment on their trips. Are these concerns warranted? How can you avoid such confrontations? And what do you do if you are criticized or attacked for being American?
It’s difficult to measure anti-American sentiment in a systematic way.
It’s more of a feeling — the stares, the hostile reception, and perhaps more confrontations about U.S. foreign policy.
It’s talking to your travel companion in English at the airport lounge and seeing someone glaring at you. It’s the icy reception when you check into a hotel abroad and hand them a U.S. passport.
Avoiding Confrontations as an American Traveler
Confrontations are avoidable. In my case, asking at my hotel about where I should walk and what parts of town to avoid would have been a good first step.
“Educate yourself,” says Frank Harrison, regional security director of the Americas for World Travel Protection. “Having an understanding of the country’s current view of U.S. politics is a critical enabler for personal safety, and also possibly a red flag.”
The best way to avoid being profiled is to stay alert and to be discreet, experts say.
“First, engage in zero conversations that discuss politics, governments, policies or the U.S. in general,” advises John Rose, the chief risk and security officer for the global travel management company Altour.
Avoid flashy clothing and jewelry. Be mindful of your behavior in public, and try not to fit the stereotype of a loud and boisterous American tourist.
Blending In as a Traveler
How do you blend in? Constance Scharff, a researcher with a specialty in global mental health issues, offers a few suggestions.
- Lower your volume when speaking.
- Choose tailored clothing over casual wear and sneakers.
- Avoid carrying a fanny pack or backpack that marks you as a tourist.
- Don’t eat, drink or talk on the phone while walking.
Dealing with Confrontations and Attacks
If someone angrily confronts you because you’re American, you have a couple of choices.
First, don’t stick around to find out what happens next. That’s why I fled when I encountered the young Turks. Their intentions may have been harmless, but why find out?
That’s also true for verbal confrontations.
“If you’re being respectful and someone is looking for a fight, the only thing to do is tell them that they are right,” Scharff says. “Get away as fast as you can.”
Don’t immediately return to your hotel, in case you are being followed. Instead, go to a public place, like a restaurant or a mall. It’s not likely anyone with bad intentions will follow you into a place like that, particularly if there are lots of people there.
Conclusion
Anti-American sentiment is a real concern for travelers, but it can be managed with education, discretion, and respect. By understanding the local culture and politics, avoiding confrontations, and being mindful of your behavior, you can minimize the risk of encountering anti-American sentiment. Remember to stay calm, be kind, and seek help if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about anti-American sentiment and travel:
Q: Is it safe to travel as an American? A: Yes, but it’s essential to be aware of your surroundings and take necessary precautions to avoid confrontations.
Q: How can I avoid being targeted as an American? A: Blend in with the locals, avoid discussing politics, and be respectful of the local culture.
Q: What should I do if someone confronts me for being American? A: Stay calm, avoid responding defensively, and try to diffuse the situation by listening and being respectful.
Q: Can I pretend to be Canadian if someone confronts me? A: While it’s not recommended to lie, some travelers have reported success with pretending to be Canadian in situations where they felt threatened or uncomfortable.
