TRAVEL POLITELY
Dear Héloïse: My husband and I just returned from a pleasant trip to Europe. For the most part, it was enjoyable, except for a few embarrassing moments that weren't caused by our fellow Americans.
We were in Germany when an American started shouting and insulting the young man who was stamping our passports. He brought up World War II and made all kinds of ugly accusations.
Finally, his wife grabbed his arm and told him to be nice. Airport security was called and things went downhill from there. As an American, I was appalled by this man's behavior while being a guest in another country.
We finished our trip in England, where we went to dinner one evening in a very nice restaurant. Two Americans were seated at a table next to us and when the waiter asked them how they were enjoying their trip, they complained loudly about hating the food in England.
We were also in a beautifully restored historic building, but they said there were too many “old things” in England. They also didn't enjoy their trip to Stonehenge because “it was just a pile of old stones.” They did not see the mystery or the historical value.
Americans are not well liked in many countries because of such attitudes. If our trip was a sample of “American politeness”, I can understand why we are not appreciated. When traveling abroad, it's always best to be polite and use the good manners your mother taught you. — Abby H., Franklin, Pa.
Abby, I agree with you that politeness is the best policy. When we travel, we should try to appreciate the things we like about a place rather than looking for what's missing. Yes, they are different from the United States, that's why we choose to go abroad. Discover and enjoy the culture of a new place! Remember, the people of this country probably love their country as much as we love ours. — Héloïse
HEALING MISFORTUNES
Dear Héloïse: I'm only 5'4″ tall and about 15 pounds overweight. Even though I'm not really overweight, when I wear jeans and a t-shirt I look like a sack of potatoes tied in the middle. Do you have any tips for dressing slim as I try to lose this extra weight? — Gloria S., Lima, Ohio
Gloria, there are tips to look slimmer:
- A boat neck t-shirt generally makes the hips appear smaller.
- A V-neck t-shirt places emphasis on the neck rather than the hips.
- Wear the same color top and bottom for a slimmer look.
- Avoid floral prints, tent dresses, or anything too loose or tight.
- Stretchy fabrics often highlight every bump, so avoid them.
- Keep jewelry at or above the neckline. Avoid wide belts and shiny fabrics.
- Vertical stripes are your new best friend! — Héloïse
SMOKE DETECTOR RECALL
Dear readers: Make it a habit to check your home's smoke detectors every Memorial Day or July 4th. (Or you can choose any day, but just make sure you choose one you'll always remember.) Make sure it has working batteries and is working properly. — Héloïse
SEND A GREAT TIP TO: Héloïse@Héloïse.com
(c) 2024 by King Features Syndicate Inc.
