Some of my regular blog readers might recognize the name "Marie". She has been my partner in crime for a few of my trips abroad and is always a source of amusement and fun. I asked her if I could do an interview for this blog and, being the attention whore that she is, she quickly agreed.
1) What part of the U.S. are you from and what is the "swirling" scene like there?
I am from the deep South and I have seen a lot more interracial couples in the past five years than ever before. I think that taboo is really starting to lift and I couldn't be happier.
2) Why did you choose to go abroad?
Well, one of my first "real" jobs was for a travel agency, so traveling was inevitable really. But, I've always had a fascination with life on the other side of the pond. They just seem to live so differently from us and I couldn't wait to experience that firsthand.
3) In terms of interracial dating, which country do you think is the friendliest towards it, and why?
I would have to say England just because it's so widespread and few people seem to care, at least openly. You see mixed race children everywhere you look, so you know someone is swirling!
4) What have your experiences with swirling abroad been like? Did anything surprise you?
My experiences with swirling abroad have been great! When you're abroad, something great happens. You can enjoy your experiences for what they are, not for what you want them to be. My favorite trip so far was the one I took to England last year. I don't know what it was about me, maybe the fact that I had just broken up with a boyfriend but men were on me like gangbusters. I walked into my hotel and the handsome Englishman at the front desk looked at me and started stuttering. I thought he had a speech problem until I noticed his coworkers trying to suppress their laughter. His hands were shaking when he gave me my room key and I smiled knowingly as I switched my way to the elevator. That was a fun moment.
I also began a foolish and fantastic relationship with a bartender I met at a bar near the hotel. If you want to know about a city, befriend the bartenders. They know everything and then some. He took me to all of the lesser-known attractions of London. We even sneaked our way into a private party that turned into an orgy! Before your minds get carried away, we sneaked out really quickly. But not before we saw things that can never be unseen.
6) What's the weirdest thing that has ever happened to you abroad?
Well, that was actually with you Love. Love and I were on a train leaving Paris and had both fallen asleep, with her heavy head on my shoulder. I woke up first, and gently (note from Love- it was not gently!) tossed her head to the other side because I had to go the bathroom. When I was walking back to my seat, I noticed a well-dressed man kneeling in front of Love. At first I thought he was a train attendant telling her something, but then I noticed she was still asleep. He wasn't touching her, but he was staring at her with this crazy and psychotic look in his eyes. I still don't know what it was. He didn't look angry. He just looked focused. I started yelling at him to get away from Love and he slowly stood up, looked at me, and walked away. Like he wasn't in a rush at all. I told Love what happened and she started laughing like a deranged maniac, but I think that was just the sleep deprivation.
7) If money was no object, where would you make your home in the world and why?
Probably London, with Paris as a close second. London is a great place to be if only because you can get to everywhere in Europe from there. The culture, food, and atmosphere just can't be beat.
Friday, April 22, 2011
Monday, April 4, 2011
Tips for an Extended Trip Abroad
A poster named Simone e-mailed me looking for information about Amsterdam and traveling abroad for an extended period of time. I thought it would make a good post for everyone.
Amsterdam is a popular tourist destination for Americans. We share a common language, which means that culture shock will probably be at a minimum. This isn't to say we are the same, though. There are many differences that will baffle and amaze you. The most obvious is the legalization of marijuana. It's very important to note that marijuana is allowed only in certain cafes in Amsterdam. Sometimes, certain hotels will allow the use of the plant, but it's best to stick to the cafes. If I had to describe Amsterdam in one word it would be: tolerant. There is a relaxing vibe to the city that tends to affect you. It amazed me that so many different people could, for the most part, get along. Personally, I experienced no discrimination in Amsterdam.
Now, let's get down to the bone. Traveling abroad for an extended period is a tricky thing to do, at least at first. I will stick to the main things you might want to do. First, there is the subject of your current living arrangements. If you are in an apartment, think about subletting. If your lease allows it, it is a great way to ensure your apartment is kept in good shape, if you pick the right tenant. Make sure you put a clause in the tenant contract that ensures that if you have to come home quickly, for any reason, then the apartment will have to be vacated by the tenant within a reasonable period of time. If you live in a house, you can choose to rent it out as well. If you have the funds to do so you can always keep your apartment/house empty, and have a trusted friend or family member come by to check on it regularly. You can forward your mail to a PO Box or to a loved one's house. It's important to do this as well as stop your newspaper service, if you have it. You don't want your house/apartment to look as if no one is living in it.
The best tip I can give about making plans to travel abroad is to start early. When traveling, things will always go wrong. Always. If you are well prepared, then you can frequently overcome these obstacles. Try to book your flight at least four months in advance, six would be great if you can swing it. It's the classic demand/supply system. When there are plenty of seats available, the price is lower. The fewer seats available, the higher the price. I have found some amazing deals because I booked my flights early. Speaking of airlines, try to pack as lightly as you can. I know it might be tempting to try to take all of your favorite pieces, but fight the urge! Try to have a lot of "basic" pieces, meaning pieces that can be worn with a variety of outfits. Learn how to pack efficiently, so you won't be bogged down in a busy airport or foreign street.
Make sure your passport is up to date and with you while navigating through airports. I recommend putting your passport and ID in a plastic baggie in your zipped purse for easy access. Getting a safety pouch to put underneath your clothes is always a good idea. Keep it high on your stomach so that it can't be reached by an "accidental" touch. Always be alert. Pickpockets and criminals often target those that look distracted or preoccupied. Take close notice of your surroundings and the people around you, even if you are with a group.
The Internet is your friend when it comes to finding a place to stay for an extended period of time. There are websites dedicated to reviewing hotels, hostels, and even apartment buildings. Study these and see what other people have to say before you commit. If you're going to travel during the off season or have never stayed in the particular establishment, then I recommend making a short reservation, just to see if you like a place first. If you like the place or have been there before, it might be helpful to contact the owner of an establishment and see if there are any ways you can save money since you're going to be staying for an extended period of time. Once, I received an extra week free in a hotel in Canada because I talked to the manager and told her that I would her be staying at least three weeks.
Finally, have fun! Take a lot of pictures/video to commemorate your time. Make sure you savor the moments you have. The memories will be with you forever and you can reminisce about them forever.
Amsterdam is a popular tourist destination for Americans. We share a common language, which means that culture shock will probably be at a minimum. This isn't to say we are the same, though. There are many differences that will baffle and amaze you. The most obvious is the legalization of marijuana. It's very important to note that marijuana is allowed only in certain cafes in Amsterdam. Sometimes, certain hotels will allow the use of the plant, but it's best to stick to the cafes. If I had to describe Amsterdam in one word it would be: tolerant. There is a relaxing vibe to the city that tends to affect you. It amazed me that so many different people could, for the most part, get along. Personally, I experienced no discrimination in Amsterdam.
Now, let's get down to the bone. Traveling abroad for an extended period is a tricky thing to do, at least at first. I will stick to the main things you might want to do. First, there is the subject of your current living arrangements. If you are in an apartment, think about subletting. If your lease allows it, it is a great way to ensure your apartment is kept in good shape, if you pick the right tenant. Make sure you put a clause in the tenant contract that ensures that if you have to come home quickly, for any reason, then the apartment will have to be vacated by the tenant within a reasonable period of time. If you live in a house, you can choose to rent it out as well. If you have the funds to do so you can always keep your apartment/house empty, and have a trusted friend or family member come by to check on it regularly. You can forward your mail to a PO Box or to a loved one's house. It's important to do this as well as stop your newspaper service, if you have it. You don't want your house/apartment to look as if no one is living in it.
The best tip I can give about making plans to travel abroad is to start early. When traveling, things will always go wrong. Always. If you are well prepared, then you can frequently overcome these obstacles. Try to book your flight at least four months in advance, six would be great if you can swing it. It's the classic demand/supply system. When there are plenty of seats available, the price is lower. The fewer seats available, the higher the price. I have found some amazing deals because I booked my flights early. Speaking of airlines, try to pack as lightly as you can. I know it might be tempting to try to take all of your favorite pieces, but fight the urge! Try to have a lot of "basic" pieces, meaning pieces that can be worn with a variety of outfits. Learn how to pack efficiently, so you won't be bogged down in a busy airport or foreign street.
Make sure your passport is up to date and with you while navigating through airports. I recommend putting your passport and ID in a plastic baggie in your zipped purse for easy access. Getting a safety pouch to put underneath your clothes is always a good idea. Keep it high on your stomach so that it can't be reached by an "accidental" touch. Always be alert. Pickpockets and criminals often target those that look distracted or preoccupied. Take close notice of your surroundings and the people around you, even if you are with a group.
The Internet is your friend when it comes to finding a place to stay for an extended period of time. There are websites dedicated to reviewing hotels, hostels, and even apartment buildings. Study these and see what other people have to say before you commit. If you're going to travel during the off season or have never stayed in the particular establishment, then I recommend making a short reservation, just to see if you like a place first. If you like the place or have been there before, it might be helpful to contact the owner of an establishment and see if there are any ways you can save money since you're going to be staying for an extended period of time. Once, I received an extra week free in a hotel in Canada because I talked to the manager and told her that I would her be staying at least three weeks.
Finally, have fun! Take a lot of pictures/video to commemorate your time. Make sure you savor the moments you have. The memories will be with you forever and you can reminisce about them forever.
Tuesday, March 15, 2011
Engagement is Off (And Apparently Russia Sucks for Black People)
So, as many of you have seen, I have taken a small break from blogging due to some pressing issues. I had a lot of thinking to do and a lot of hard decisions to make. Long story short, I decided to call off my engagement. While I love my ex-fiancé very much, I couldn't see us reconciling our lives in a way that would work for both of us. It had nothing to do with any cultural or racial differences, but rather life just got in the way. I'm at peace with this decision because I know it's the right one.
Now, on to the point of this blog. I have never traveled extensively in Eastern Europe, but when a friend of mine told me she was going to Russia for a week, I was excited to hear about her experiences. We went out to lunch and I knew something was wrong because she looked positively frazzled. The things she told me made my blood run cold. She said that when she first arrived she noticed that some people were staring at her, intensely. It wasn't a friendly or a curious stare, but rather one of hatred or disgust. Then, when she arrived at the hotel, the workers there acted as if they didn't believe that she was really supposed to be there. They insisted on calling the manager to verify the booking and to make sure the credit card she was using was valid!
The next day, she was at a café and she heard Russians behind her, saying that she was probably a drug addict or prostitute and that they hated all of the "African trash" in the country. She told me that she had never felt so fearful. I was surprised at this comment because she has traveled more than I have, including to some war-torn and extremely poor nations. Needless to say, she won't be going back to Russia. After hearing about her experiences, I can't say that it will be on my itinerary anytime soon as well.
*Edited to include part of a comment I made on this post. Everyone's experiences are different when traveling, like with everything else. The things my friend told me about her personal experiences made me sick. She has since sent me several articles describing the intense racism towards black people in Russia and it is disgusting and terrifying. My decision to not visit Russia is not based on fear, but money. I refuse to spend my money there and support the country in any way.
Now, on to the point of this blog. I have never traveled extensively in Eastern Europe, but when a friend of mine told me she was going to Russia for a week, I was excited to hear about her experiences. We went out to lunch and I knew something was wrong because she looked positively frazzled. The things she told me made my blood run cold. She said that when she first arrived she noticed that some people were staring at her, intensely. It wasn't a friendly or a curious stare, but rather one of hatred or disgust. Then, when she arrived at the hotel, the workers there acted as if they didn't believe that she was really supposed to be there. They insisted on calling the manager to verify the booking and to make sure the credit card she was using was valid!
The next day, she was at a café and she heard Russians behind her, saying that she was probably a drug addict or prostitute and that they hated all of the "African trash" in the country. She told me that she had never felt so fearful. I was surprised at this comment because she has traveled more than I have, including to some war-torn and extremely poor nations. Needless to say, she won't be going back to Russia. After hearing about her experiences, I can't say that it will be on my itinerary anytime soon as well.
*Edited to include part of a comment I made on this post. Everyone's experiences are different when traveling, like with everything else. The things my friend told me about her personal experiences made me sick. She has since sent me several articles describing the intense racism towards black people in Russia and it is disgusting and terrifying. My decision to not visit Russia is not based on fear, but money. I refuse to spend my money there and support the country in any way.
Friday, February 25, 2011
Observations about Scotland
I realized that I never made an "observation" post about Scotland, so I decided to do that. I have to say I'm a little biased about this country because I love it so much on its own. It's one of my favorite countries in Europe.
Scotland is definitely more relaxed in terms of race relations, especially compared to Ireland. I got more curiosity in Scotland, as opposed to neutrality or hatred. The landscape is stunning and there's a rich history to the country, which makes it seem rustic. There is also a modern feel to the big cities, which makes it seem cosmopolitan. This isn't to say that Scotland is a utopia because it definitely is not. Like many European countries, there has been a rise in Nazism and violence against minorities. But, honestly, as minorities we have to be careful wherever we go in the world, even our hometowns.
I found Scottish men to be quite interesting. The ones I talked to had interesting stories to tell. Of course, they could be lying, but either way, I had a good time listening to them. They seem to be more direct and forward then men from other nationalities. The ones I met didn't have a problem telling me about their opinions about anything and everything. This was a refreshing change of pace, especially from Englishmen who have a reputation for being secretive or repressive.
Scottish food is unlike any other. How anyone lives past the age of 30 is beyond me. So much oil, so much fat, and so much everything in haggis, clapshots, etc. I had to work hard to find healthy food. I can say that if you crave fast food, you will not be disappointed. Pizza, fried chicken, hamburgers and french fries, and anything else you want is probably located within a 5 mile radius.
The Scottish Highlands are something that should be seen at least once in your lifetime. I can't even begin to describe the beautiful views. There is something healing about standing alone in a beautiful field in a foreign country and just feeling the wind.
There's nothing like it.
Scotland is definitely more relaxed in terms of race relations, especially compared to Ireland. I got more curiosity in Scotland, as opposed to neutrality or hatred. The landscape is stunning and there's a rich history to the country, which makes it seem rustic. There is also a modern feel to the big cities, which makes it seem cosmopolitan. This isn't to say that Scotland is a utopia because it definitely is not. Like many European countries, there has been a rise in Nazism and violence against minorities. But, honestly, as minorities we have to be careful wherever we go in the world, even our hometowns.
I found Scottish men to be quite interesting. The ones I talked to had interesting stories to tell. Of course, they could be lying, but either way, I had a good time listening to them. They seem to be more direct and forward then men from other nationalities. The ones I met didn't have a problem telling me about their opinions about anything and everything. This was a refreshing change of pace, especially from Englishmen who have a reputation for being secretive or repressive.
Scottish food is unlike any other. How anyone lives past the age of 30 is beyond me. So much oil, so much fat, and so much everything in haggis, clapshots, etc. I had to work hard to find healthy food. I can say that if you crave fast food, you will not be disappointed. Pizza, fried chicken, hamburgers and french fries, and anything else you want is probably located within a 5 mile radius.
The Scottish Highlands are something that should be seen at least once in your lifetime. I can't even begin to describe the beautiful views. There is something healing about standing alone in a beautiful field in a foreign country and just feeling the wind.
There's nothing like it.
Monday, February 21, 2011
American Black Chick in Europe Went Abroad...and Stayed.
Recently, I interviewed ABCiE about being abroad, Croatian businessmen, and interracial dating.
http://americanblackchickinlondon.blogspot.com/
1) What part of the U.S. are you from and what is the "swirling" scene like there?
I'm originally from Atlanta and the swirling scene there is getting better, but when I was growing up it definitely wasn't the norm.
2) Why did you choose to go abroad?
I actually decided to do a study abroad programme my final semester of undergrad because I just wanted to try something different. Plus I read a ton of books and I was intrigued by the idea of actually seeing the places I read about. After my first study abroad programme to England, I gotten bitten hard by the travel bug and I've been back and forth ever since.
3) In terms of interracial dating, which country do you think is the friendliest towards it, and why?
Hmmmm....this is a tough one. I think it depends. I know there are certain cities that are cool as far as interracial dating, but not necessarily the countries as a while. As an Africa-American, I'd say London and Paris are fabulous.
4) What have your general experiences with swirling abroad been like? Did anything surprise you?
So far, not to many issues as far as swirling abroad. I think I was most surprised by how much more common it is in the European cities I've been to and how much less of a stigma is attached to it. Not to say that there are no stigmas or no problems, but definitely not the same baggage as in the US. I would say that black women should be cautious that men are not going after them to fulfill some fantasy...but this applies to any country.
5) What are some particularly memorable experiences with swirling abroad that you have had?
Oh where to start? I guess the one that really stood out actually happened to a friend of mine while we were in Croatia. We met this Croatian guy our first day in Dubrovnik as we were searching for our hotel. We chatted with him a few minutes and he invited us to dine at the restaurant he owned. We did end up stopping by, but it was too expensive on our limited budget. We saw him later and told him why we didn't eat there and he said that he would have given us the meal for free. Turns out he was trying to get us to his restaurant to spend more time with my friend! He then proceeded to ask my friend out. When she politely declined (because we had an early bus to catch the next morning), he pleaded with her for just one date. He said, "Are you worried about your safety? Don't worry, when you are with me, you are like Swiss bank. You are safe." I'm pretty sure he would have happily made my friend his wife if he had any indication that she would have agreed...he feel for her hard.
6) If money was no object, where would you make your home in the world and why?
Hmmm...it's hard to pick just one. If I had an option, I'd split my time between NYC, Berlin, Paris and London.
http://americanblackchickinlondon.blogspot.com/
1) What part of the U.S. are you from and what is the "swirling" scene like there?
I'm originally from Atlanta and the swirling scene there is getting better, but when I was growing up it definitely wasn't the norm.
2) Why did you choose to go abroad?
I actually decided to do a study abroad programme my final semester of undergrad because I just wanted to try something different. Plus I read a ton of books and I was intrigued by the idea of actually seeing the places I read about. After my first study abroad programme to England, I gotten bitten hard by the travel bug and I've been back and forth ever since.
3) In terms of interracial dating, which country do you think is the friendliest towards it, and why?
Hmmmm....this is a tough one. I think it depends. I know there are certain cities that are cool as far as interracial dating, but not necessarily the countries as a while. As an Africa-American, I'd say London and Paris are fabulous.
4) What have your general experiences with swirling abroad been like? Did anything surprise you?
So far, not to many issues as far as swirling abroad. I think I was most surprised by how much more common it is in the European cities I've been to and how much less of a stigma is attached to it. Not to say that there are no stigmas or no problems, but definitely not the same baggage as in the US. I would say that black women should be cautious that men are not going after them to fulfill some fantasy...but this applies to any country.
5) What are some particularly memorable experiences with swirling abroad that you have had?
Oh where to start? I guess the one that really stood out actually happened to a friend of mine while we were in Croatia. We met this Croatian guy our first day in Dubrovnik as we were searching for our hotel. We chatted with him a few minutes and he invited us to dine at the restaurant he owned. We did end up stopping by, but it was too expensive on our limited budget. We saw him later and told him why we didn't eat there and he said that he would have given us the meal for free. Turns out he was trying to get us to his restaurant to spend more time with my friend! He then proceeded to ask my friend out. When she politely declined (because we had an early bus to catch the next morning), he pleaded with her for just one date. He said, "Are you worried about your safety? Don't worry, when you are with me, you are like Swiss bank. You are safe." I'm pretty sure he would have happily made my friend his wife if he had any indication that she would have agreed...he feel for her hard.
6) If money was no object, where would you make your home in the world and why?
Hmmm...it's hard to pick just one. If I had an option, I'd split my time between NYC, Berlin, Paris and London.
Monday, February 14, 2011
Kourt Brought Home Memories, Teaching Experience, and A Man
I recently interviewed Kourt, of http://kourt-overdoseofsatisfaction.blogspot.com/, who told me about meeting her Middle Eastern husband in an Asian country and being abroad in a foreign land.
1) What part of the U.S. are you from and what is the "swirling" scene like there?
I'm from a small town in Middle Georgia, interracial couples are around but I've known a few people who's families would disown them if they dated someone from another race
2) Why did you choose to go abroad?
I choose to go abroad because I know there was always something different from what I grow up with, I wanted a different experience and I wanted a bit of adventure in my life
3) In terms of interracial dating, which country do you think is the friendliest towards it, and why?
Out of all the countries I've been to, I guess England was the friendliest (I could be wrong because I was only in London) but London is such a melting pot that it's normal to date and have friends from different walks of life
4) What have your general experiences with swirling abroad been like? Did anything surprise you?
What surprised me about "swirling abroad" is how in most countries it's not a big deal, where is in America people are up in arms over it...I'm not saying ever country is ok with it, because when I was in Korea it was considered wrong for a Korean to date someone who wasn't Korean
5) What are some particularly memorable experiences with swirling abroad that you have had?
My most memorable experience is meeting my husband, who is Iranian, because I was really surprised at his range of friends and how relaxed who was with me, even more he didn't ask crazy questions because of the difference in race and religion
6) If money was no object, where would you make your home in the world and why?
I'm partial to London and Paris, I guess just Europe in general...but this would be a hard one for me, if money was no object I'd live in different places around the world; the problem with traveling is that you sometimes only stay in a major city for a few days, so I would spend a few months in England, a few months in Peru, a few months in Turkey, etc.
7) How did you meet your husband? What made you fall in love with him and has being in a Black/Middle Eastern marriage changed your perception of your family, society, etc.?
Against everything I was taught in a southern baptist church I actually met my husband at a club in Korea. Which to say I think is normal given our ages. What made me fall for him is that he was just a direct as I was, we had a lot in common but we are very different...and I can't lie, I love to hear him speak Farsi. What has changed is that I've had to look at my own family differently it's amazing how people you've known you're whole life can question your judgment and essential try to make you choose between them and your significant other. Another thing it has changed is my own sense of individuality. Before I was married I was more than happy to go it alone, I preferred to travel alone. But know I'm happy (90% of the time) my husband is able to travel with me. I can't wait for our first trip outside of the US.
1) What part of the U.S. are you from and what is the "swirling" scene like there?
I'm from a small town in Middle Georgia, interracial couples are around but I've known a few people who's families would disown them if they dated someone from another race
2) Why did you choose to go abroad?
I choose to go abroad because I know there was always something different from what I grow up with, I wanted a different experience and I wanted a bit of adventure in my life
3) In terms of interracial dating, which country do you think is the friendliest towards it, and why?
Out of all the countries I've been to, I guess England was the friendliest (I could be wrong because I was only in London) but London is such a melting pot that it's normal to date and have friends from different walks of life
4) What have your general experiences with swirling abroad been like? Did anything surprise you?
What surprised me about "swirling abroad" is how in most countries it's not a big deal, where is in America people are up in arms over it...I'm not saying ever country is ok with it, because when I was in Korea it was considered wrong for a Korean to date someone who wasn't Korean
5) What are some particularly memorable experiences with swirling abroad that you have had?
My most memorable experience is meeting my husband, who is Iranian, because I was really surprised at his range of friends and how relaxed who was with me, even more he didn't ask crazy questions because of the difference in race and religion
6) If money was no object, where would you make your home in the world and why?
I'm partial to London and Paris, I guess just Europe in general...but this would be a hard one for me, if money was no object I'd live in different places around the world; the problem with traveling is that you sometimes only stay in a major city for a few days, so I would spend a few months in England, a few months in Peru, a few months in Turkey, etc.
7) How did you meet your husband? What made you fall in love with him and has being in a Black/Middle Eastern marriage changed your perception of your family, society, etc.?
Against everything I was taught in a southern baptist church I actually met my husband at a club in Korea. Which to say I think is normal given our ages. What made me fall for him is that he was just a direct as I was, we had a lot in common but we are very different...and I can't lie, I love to hear him speak Farsi. What has changed is that I've had to look at my own family differently it's amazing how people you've known you're whole life can question your judgment and essential try to make you choose between them and your significant other. Another thing it has changed is my own sense of individuality. Before I was married I was more than happy to go it alone, I preferred to travel alone. But know I'm happy (90% of the time) my husband is able to travel with me. I can't wait for our first trip outside of the US.
Thursday, February 10, 2011
Intl Glamazon Showed Europe Her Beauty
Recently, I had the pleasure of interviewing Intl Glamazon, a sister of Nigerian origin who told me of her adventures through Europe. Check her out at
http://intlglamazon.blogspot.com/
1) What part of the world are you from and what is the "swirling" scene like in your region?
I go to school in Central Illinois, reside in Dallas, Texas, and I represent Nigeria! Well, considering that I'm at school that has less than 3,000 students, the "swirl" scene is pretty skewed. If there are any swirl relationships at my school, they don't usually include the black women at my school; most are in relationships away from school. In our college town, it's mostly black men/white women and other combinations of swirl. In Dallas? Well, I'm never home enough to get a solid look!=oP I'll get back to you on this!
2) Why did you choose to go abroad?
I went abroad because I consider myself a citizen of the world! I have a huge curiosity about the world that can't be satisfied by just reading about it=o) Also, I knew it would be an amazing opportunity for growth in my life, which it most definitely was! I studied abroad in Perugia, Italy, and traveled to a lot of small Italian towns, London, and Madrid.
3) In terms of interracial dating, which country do you think is the friendliest towards it, and why?
Within the realm of my experience, I'd have to say that England (London in particular) was the place that seemed most friendly towards the swirl. An apt description of London is its like someone grabbed people from all over the world and placed them into one city. With so many different cultural influences, people, and lifestyles, one can see how interracial dating isn't a big issue there.
4) What have your general experiences with swirling abroad been like? Did anything surprise you?
You know, when you tell folks that you're going to Italy, they'll talk about how Italian men love black women, blah blah blah. It's not quite true - Italian men love WOMEN, lol=o) When I was in Perugia, I either received an outward hostility, overt sexuality (from certain men), or just plain curiosity. Italy has a serious xenophobia problem right now, so many people thought I was an African immigrant, and treated me accordingly.It was hard for me because I am African! But when I spoke Italian most people would completely change their treatment towards me. I was not feeling that.
In regards to swirling, I didn't really get down with it, because I was in a program full of Americans, and Italian men sincerely believe that American women just want to have "fun" (i.e., American women are sluts). There were a few exceptions, but it wasn't too common since I was in a college town. Men from abroad are far more forward than their American counterparts! So when dudes approached me in that manner, I kind of shut it down to the "hey friend!" level, because I don't do "casual" relationships well, at all. I was treated really well in England, and in Madrid I just got curious looks, which is 100% fine. I rocked a full-on afro while abroad! Never be afraid to be yourself when you travel=o) Also, be aware that feminism hasn't quite made it to Italy yet. Men will pay for your drinks! And of course, this comes with its consequences, lol.
5) What are some particularly memorable experiences with swirling abroad that you have had?
I struck up some good friendships with a few Italian guys, they're so charming! We had a great time sharing languages and each others company=o) I do have some wild stories though! The two that I will NEVER forget:
1). Me and two buddies went to Florence for the day, and when we left the train station, an Italian man started yelling "i tuoi cappelli, è bellissimi!" (your hair, it's beautiful!). So me, being the friendly person that I am, turned to him and thanked him. Before I could even finish, the man (he was an older guy, lol) grabbed my arm, tucked it under his and basically dragged me away in another direction. OMG! I said "No thank you!" in Italian and ran away from him...my friends STILL can't get over it!
2). We get back to the train station in Perugia and have to hang around for awhile because there was a strike (as usual), and as we're waiting outside, what happens? Some disgusting man comes up to me and says..."Ciao coco." WTF. He continues to do this while trying to touch me; my friends and I had to go across the street to try to avoid this dude. It was pretty scary, and while I'd been inappropriately propositioned before this incident, this was certainly the worst. But it didn't happen often. The key to being abroad is to protect yourself, first and foremost. It has to be your number one priority.
6) If money was no object, where would you make your home in the world and why?
I'd definitely have to say that London would be my home! I could travel to other places around the world with ease; I'd be close to family; and most importantly, I'd feel the most comfortable in London. I felt safer there than I do in some major U.S. cities. And I didn't really frequent tourist areas, so I know a solid amount about London and its dangers.
Special note from Intl Glamazon
Please, don't let my cautionary tales discourage anyone from traveling abroad! I mentioned them because I don't want anyone going into a whole new world without realizing that it's just like U.S. or worse when it comes to how people will treat you. Just be confident, safe, and strong! Men will flock to you as long as you have these qualities, trust!
http://intlglamazon.blogspot.com/
1) What part of the world are you from and what is the "swirling" scene like in your region?
I go to school in Central Illinois, reside in Dallas, Texas, and I represent Nigeria! Well, considering that I'm at school that has less than 3,000 students, the "swirl" scene is pretty skewed. If there are any swirl relationships at my school, they don't usually include the black women at my school; most are in relationships away from school. In our college town, it's mostly black men/white women and other combinations of swirl. In Dallas? Well, I'm never home enough to get a solid look!=oP I'll get back to you on this!
2) Why did you choose to go abroad?
I went abroad because I consider myself a citizen of the world! I have a huge curiosity about the world that can't be satisfied by just reading about it=o) Also, I knew it would be an amazing opportunity for growth in my life, which it most definitely was! I studied abroad in Perugia, Italy, and traveled to a lot of small Italian towns, London, and Madrid.
3) In terms of interracial dating, which country do you think is the friendliest towards it, and why?
Within the realm of my experience, I'd have to say that England (London in particular) was the place that seemed most friendly towards the swirl. An apt description of London is its like someone grabbed people from all over the world and placed them into one city. With so many different cultural influences, people, and lifestyles, one can see how interracial dating isn't a big issue there.
4) What have your general experiences with swirling abroad been like? Did anything surprise you?
You know, when you tell folks that you're going to Italy, they'll talk about how Italian men love black women, blah blah blah. It's not quite true - Italian men love WOMEN, lol=o) When I was in Perugia, I either received an outward hostility, overt sexuality (from certain men), or just plain curiosity. Italy has a serious xenophobia problem right now, so many people thought I was an African immigrant, and treated me accordingly.It was hard for me because I am African! But when I spoke Italian most people would completely change their treatment towards me. I was not feeling that.
In regards to swirling, I didn't really get down with it, because I was in a program full of Americans, and Italian men sincerely believe that American women just want to have "fun" (i.e., American women are sluts). There were a few exceptions, but it wasn't too common since I was in a college town. Men from abroad are far more forward than their American counterparts! So when dudes approached me in that manner, I kind of shut it down to the "hey friend!" level, because I don't do "casual" relationships well, at all. I was treated really well in England, and in Madrid I just got curious looks, which is 100% fine. I rocked a full-on afro while abroad! Never be afraid to be yourself when you travel=o) Also, be aware that feminism hasn't quite made it to Italy yet. Men will pay for your drinks! And of course, this comes with its consequences, lol.
5) What are some particularly memorable experiences with swirling abroad that you have had?
I struck up some good friendships with a few Italian guys, they're so charming! We had a great time sharing languages and each others company=o) I do have some wild stories though! The two that I will NEVER forget:
1). Me and two buddies went to Florence for the day, and when we left the train station, an Italian man started yelling "i tuoi cappelli, è bellissimi!" (your hair, it's beautiful!). So me, being the friendly person that I am, turned to him and thanked him. Before I could even finish, the man (he was an older guy, lol) grabbed my arm, tucked it under his and basically dragged me away in another direction. OMG! I said "No thank you!" in Italian and ran away from him...my friends STILL can't get over it!
2). We get back to the train station in Perugia and have to hang around for awhile because there was a strike (as usual), and as we're waiting outside, what happens? Some disgusting man comes up to me and says..."Ciao coco." WTF. He continues to do this while trying to touch me; my friends and I had to go across the street to try to avoid this dude. It was pretty scary, and while I'd been inappropriately propositioned before this incident, this was certainly the worst. But it didn't happen often. The key to being abroad is to protect yourself, first and foremost. It has to be your number one priority.
6) If money was no object, where would you make your home in the world and why?
I'd definitely have to say that London would be my home! I could travel to other places around the world with ease; I'd be close to family; and most importantly, I'd feel the most comfortable in London. I felt safer there than I do in some major U.S. cities. And I didn't really frequent tourist areas, so I know a solid amount about London and its dangers.
Special note from Intl Glamazon
Please, don't let my cautionary tales discourage anyone from traveling abroad! I mentioned them because I don't want anyone going into a whole new world without realizing that it's just like U.S. or worse when it comes to how people will treat you. Just be confident, safe, and strong! Men will flock to you as long as you have these qualities, trust!
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