Male

42

I think I'm an idealistic, hard-working, intensly loyal introvert who also likes to travel and go out a lot. Life for me is a big grand adventure, there will be scary moments, heroic moments, fun, sadness, and romance. I've traveled a bit in Europe and all around the US and come to the conclusion that there is a lot we (US)Americans can learn from Europe and Canada, and also some things they could learn from us. But I have to say, I kinda like the differences in various countries and lament the steady march to hegemony. I despise the Dunkin Donuts next to the Trevi fountain in Rome, the Starbucks next to the Brandenburg Gate in Berlin, and the ubiquitous KFCs everywhere in Prague. I want to try pizza in a late night tavola calda and discover the "cheese" is actually mayonaise (much to my disgust) I want the struggle to find a store that carries Gatorade in Barcelona (not that I like to look for Gatorade, but when my friend Gene was sick and getting dehydrated, it was the only thing I knew that would help. just before we gave up, I whined in a very American way, "Where is a 7-11 when you need one!" Then I looked across Plaça Urqinaona, and to my amazement, there was one! As if I willed it into being.) But then I see the reverse of globalization in the US. I love going to Ikea. I love H&M. But then again, it's become far too easy for me to find kinder eggs and Pompelmo soda in NYC. Now if only I could find Nivea Rasier Creme.