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I was very glad to visit Europe, at least while there still IS a Europe. There is an enormous clash of cultures coming in Europe, and we, as Americans, need to take note of how that clash is handled, for the sake of our own future. Amsterdam in particular felt like a powderkeg, with the growing Muslim culture coming in very strong conflict with the laid-back “pot, porn, and prostitution” culture of the Netherlands.

Also, we were pleasantly surprised that the people in various countries, especially Briton and France, were much friendlier to American citizens than we had been led to believe they would be. (I get the impression that German tourists are more disliked than Americans, but I could be wrong.) And apparently the mainstream media is more “left wing” than the populace even there. But based on the people we met and spoke with, I wasn’t as surprised as some that more conservative people are being elected in Europe, largely on economic and anti-immigration platforms, as some were.

It was a great experience to travel to Europe, and a very illuminating one. I’m glad you and your wife got the opportunity as well.

There were some interesting things we saw in Italy. We observed what we believed to be Muslims because the women were wearing the traditional head scarfs or burkas, doing some interesting things. Many of those we presumed Muslim toured the Christian churches in our tour groups. Seeing this, I wondered if I am allowed to tour their mosques? We observed another Muslim woman begging for money in front of a Christian church - this in Venice. Also in Venice, we observed a Muslim woman walking down one of the many alleyways holding hands with her male companion. I was led to believe that outward signs of affection were forbidden by the Koran and those enforcing the Koran. In Venice, we told the desk clerk what is happening in some airports regarding an area of worship, footbaths in colleges, praying in some public schools, taxi drivers refusing passengers with wine or dogs. His eyes widened and I don't think he quite believed us.

Observing how some of these Muslims behave in Europe and what they are demanding here in the states, my impression that we are being played for fools was reenforced.

I did not have any problems with the locals. Everyone was polite and helped out the ignorant Americans who could not speak their language as best they could. While the Germans and Italians were both friendly to us, I tend to like the Italians more, mainly they are more "real." I did have problems with an American family on the plane back home. It was a great trip and I am glad my wife got to see a little bit of Europe and become a "world traveller."