I've visited Wales in 93, 94, 96 and 99. I have friends and family in Cardiff, Aberystwyth, Pontrhydygroes and Cwmystwyth. Aside from a couple used syringes dumped in an alley along Bridge St in Aberystwyth, I've found my visits to be pleasant and cordial. The exchange rate for pounds vs dollars makes it much more expensive to visit now compared to the 90's. Last weekend I attended the
Malad Welsh Festival (in southeast Idaho). That city has the largest number of ethnic Welsh people outside of Wales. We had a great time. The Scots and Irish brought some of their dancers from Boise and Idaho Falls. The culture is alive and well...even outside the UK.
The exchange rate is definitely at present in my favour but with my father's health it is unfortunately impossible for me to take advantage and visit the US. I did visit back in the 90s (1997) and had a wonderful time especially in the White Mountains and traveling through New Hampshire, Vermont and New York State to Niagara.