If the Italians

[globalvillage]

hated Bush before this incident (they really, really did), imagine what they're thinking now.
Here are some pix from my trip to Rome two years ago.

[countingbluecars]

1. Travel plans...

Our lunchtime conversation at work just last week was about where one could travel in Europe and not be ashamed to be American. Everyone agreed that Italy would be the best bet. Check that off the list.

[globalvillage]

3. Here's one more picture

just for you.
I have to say, we were treated very well by the locals. We did put a PACE flag on our balcony, so our neighbors knew where we stood. Rome is fabulous. I hope to return some day if Bush doesn't screw it up permanently for all of us.
I was in Ireland last year. They hate Bush as much as the Italians, but totally love Americans, so that would be my vote. They really supported Kerry and think Clinton is a saint.
Guess this year's vacation will be local (sigh).

[countingbluecars]

4. Thanks for the info.

It's time for some big protests here so that the rest of the world knows
how many Americans feel.

[FreedomAngel82]

7. You could always

take a John Kerry pin with you on a bag. ;)

[Kathy in Cambridge]

2. I was in Italy in November 2004

anti-Bush graffiti and "Pace" flags everywhere.

[LeftPeopleFinishFirst]

5. I had a similar experience in Spain

There were points during my trip last year where I was tempted to say I was Canadian. However, I believe if you admit you are American and let it be known that you are against what your government is doing, then it makes more of an impact. We had an exchange student in our home for a short time this past year from Germany, and we tried to make it clear that many US citizens do not agree with what our government is doing. Anything done overseas to help clean up our image (even on a small scale) will be effective. :)

[Djinn]

6. As long as Berlusconi the bover boy is in charge

it doesn't really matter what Italian people think - much like in Australia it doesn't matter that most people would prefer we weren't involved in Iraq, or that some folk actually beleived Howard when he said that no more troops would be sent. As long as Howard has his way (thanks all those folk who gave him the majority in BOTH Houses) we're in like Flynn whether we like it or not.