I will be gone for a while

[zolayes 14,489]

Hi all! We are having a marvelous time in New Zealand and I am getting some much needed rest. Any LOTR fans need to visit here!!

Anti-American sentiment... Yes it does exist here, I find myself constantly defending my home country, not that I don't see both sides of the argument. No, I don't always agree with my government but I believe you need to look at things from every angle and you need to realize that the Americans here do actual find some of the crap you bandy about offensive. I am not my government and blatant statements about "America" or "Americans" aren't accurate! The US is huge and "normal" Americans don't get elected, especially when you consider the fact that our votes are only to determine the "electoral college". Until you understand our politics fully please do not attack the "average American" and don't assume we all agree.

glad to know you are well ..missed you ..All the best for the New Year.

[chrismada9 1,948]

Hope you're having a lovely time in NZ Kerry! Have you seen any Rugby players doing Haka dances yet?

[LDN Blue 7,903]

Love people from NZ! They're great banter

[BluesChick 1,260]

glad to know you are well ..missed you ..All the best for the New Year.

Thanks!! I've missed you too! I wish you a New Year full of joy and happiness!

Chris, our trip has been amazing and so much fun! I hope your holidays we're amazing and your new year is wonderful! No rugby players doing the Hakka but we've been to the museum and visited a Maori cultural center (we did see a Haka and other songs and dances there). It is beautiful country and the Kiwis are very friendly.

Alex and Nicola,

Thank you and I've missed you!

Kieran, I wasn't being dramatic, just honest. Somedays I get tired of having to explain/defend my home country. It is not only here but at work and in Shanghai. Until you live in foreign country for an extended period I din't think you can understand the depth of the misconceptions and the way others view the US. It gets tiring quickly.

[BlueLion. 21,491]

Glad to hear you've having fun Kerry, despite all the travelling!

[BluesChick 1,260]

thanks Alex, I don't mind the travel when I get to see a new place especially one as amazing as New Zealand!