Canadian author Jane Christmas recounts her experience on a Rhine river cruise where Canadian passengers were a distinct minority among Americans. Despite initial hopes for camaraderie, the Canadians faced disdain and 'stink eye' from many American passengers, perceived as a reflection of U.S. trade tensions and political rhetoric (e.g., 'MAGA tone,' '51st state' joke). Christmas uses this anecdote to highlight Canada's need for greater self-belief, entrepreneurship, and international presence, arguing that Canadians should not solely measure success against the U.S.
Opinion: A river cruise with our American frenemies – what could go wrong?
Opinion
AI Summary
TL;DR: Key points with love ❤️Canadian author Jane Christmas recounts her experience on a Rhine river cruise where Canadian passengers were a distinct minority among Americans. Despite initial hopes for camaraderie, the Canadians faced disdain and 'stink eye' from many American passengers, perceived as a reflection of U.S. trade tensions and political rhetoric (e.g., 'MAGA tone,' '51st state' joke). Christmas uses this anecdote to highlight Canada's need for greater self-belief, entrepreneurship, and international presence, arguing that Canadians should not solely measure success against the U.S.
- 1 Recent: Jane Christmas takes a Rhine river cruise.
- 2 During cruise: Canadians win pub quiz, encounter 'MAGA tone' American.
- 3 Ongoing: Trade tensions between Canada and U.S.
- Perceived animosity between Canadian and American tourists
- Author's reflection on Canada's national identity and international standing
- Call for Canada to be more assertive globally
What: A Canadian author's personal experience of perceived animosity from American tourists on a river cruise, which she interprets as a symptom of broader U.S.-Canada relations and Canada's need for a stronger global identity.
When: During a recent Rhine river cruise.
Where: On the Rhine river, Europe.
Why: The author believes the American passengers' behavior reflects current U.S.-Canada trade tensions and political rhetoric, particularly from Donald Trump, which has fostered a negative perception of Canadians among some Americans.
How: The author describes incidents on the cruise, such as a pub quiz win leading to glares and a '51st state' comment, and the general 'froideur' from American passengers. She then extrapolates this to a broader critique of Canada's passive international self-promotion and reliance on the U.S.