Hi There,

We're from Holland (Europe) and we want to visit the USA in may 2005. It's possible to book hotels all over the USA but we want to meet the real american people. We wonder how they live, what they think, what they do, etc. We are very interested in the american way of life. So we're looking for some places where we can stay a couple of days. Not in a motel, hotel but it would be great to stay at yours or friends home! In the countryard or in the city.
We didn't plan our route yet, so if you like to meet a family from europe, please send an e-mail and maybe we can met in a couple of months. By the way, we travel with our son, a 15 months old boy.

Greetings from Lisa & Steef from Bergen (Netherlands, Europe)

Lisaandsteefgousa@wanadoo.nl

Im Australian and was looking for exactly what you are lokking for;

I have just seen Las Vegas which was out of this world; like nothing I have seen before; BUT not recommended for jet lagged people!!

HOWEVER ..I am in Springdale; just near the Southern Entrance of Zion National Park ; beautiful village surrounded by canyons. The locals run beautiful affordable accommmod and restaurants. And we are driving to Bryce Canyons tomorrow... we are loving it..

I have often read posts with similar requests... People looking to get to know the "real American people". To be honest, I don't exactly get what you are looking for. The United States is a very diverse country with a wide variety of people and attitudes. I think you could spend the rest of your life looking to understand real american people. Having said that... if you realize the enormity of the task ahead, it could be very interesting to get to know americans across the country.

www.yourlifepassion.com

Hi Lisa and Steef,

I know exactly what you mean. I'm always disappointed that, wherever you travel, it's difficult to meet the locals other than those whose employment brings them into contact with tourists (waiters, taxi drivers, hotel staff, etc).

In the USA, try staying in "bed and breakfast" accommodation. In America this tends to be relatively upmarket, and has the feel of staying in somebody's home. In my experience the hosts are always friendly and helpful, and there's plenty of chance to talk to them and other guests. These places are listed in guides produced by the tourist boards in the US.

Have a great trip!

Pete

Hope this isn't too late.

There are many ways to see "real" Americans - just do what they do.

Go to a major league baseball game and see what its like with crazy fans, or better yet - go to a little league community game to see families at the park.

Go grocery shopping or to the local shopping mall and talk to other people (not employees).

The BEST way is to go to bars (sometimes restaurants) and talk to the patrons (not just the staff, etc.)

Ask the crazy guy on the street corner what he is ranting about.

Enjoy!!