The World Reacts to a Trump Presidency - January 2017

2016 was an incredulous year rocked by tragedy, scandal and upset. But of the many torrid events, one will be remembered in perpetuity.

People around the globe have been fixated on the U.S. presidential election with its outcome having repercussions not only in the United States, but sending shock waves felt the world over. With the inauguration this week, I asked my friends living outside of the U.S. to share their thoughts on how a Trump presidency may impact them, their country or the planet.

Here is the world sounding off:

KENYA: "There's a fair bit of anxiety in Kenya and the continent at the moment. While Trump has signaled he will be going for a quid pro quo relationship if current trade, aid and other humanitarian assistance is to continue, many doubt he understands the complexities of modern day Africa. The continent is witnessing fast-paced development and a growing middle class is now hungry for luxury goods and other conveniences. In approaching the continent, he needs to understand that many are looking east more and more. I believe his presidency will see China's influence grow in Africa." - Wanjiku, 34

GERMANY: "Donald Trump is a ticking time bomb. His statements worry us and we are scared." - Alex, 37, and Christoph, 37

IRAN: "The people of Iran are hopeful. We are waiting for Trump to get rid of the Ayatollah. The former administration caused more suffering and suppression for our people. If there is no real threat of war, our dictator can relax and escalate bullying in and out of the region. Dialog doesn't work with murderers who use religion to promote their agendas." - Mehrdad, 37

AUSTRALIA: "I'm completely freaking out about the Trump presidency. Combined with Brexit and the upcoming French and German elections, it feels like we're on the verge of World War III. If that happens Australia will be forced to choose between our Commonwealth (the U.K.), our Asia-Pacific neighbours, and our big brother and best friend, the U.S.A." - Amy, 36

UNITED KINGDOM: "People worry about the big red button and all the harm he will do but Trump isn't a dictator. He can't really go ape and get away with it without approval. Yes, he's appointing like-minded folks and is going to make changes, but don't we always hate change?" - Jason, 38

MEXICO: "It is still unknown what [Trump's] actual official policies will be but I can anticipate a good level of hostility towards us in one form or another. I will personally avoid the U.S. for a while until its government establishes a clearer position on foreign policy ... and by the way, that wall will never be constructed!" - Roberto, 35

PAKISTAN: "I was a big fan of 'The Apprentice.' Trump is not the idiot that he pretended to be during the campaign. He was playing everyone. He is a very sharp guy in disguise. I think he will be good for the world politically; the U.S. will hopefully mind their own business since his main focus will be on the American economy and his own wealth. As far as him being against Muslims, lol, he was just being a politician to win the votes of white conservatives. He's fooled the whole world!" - Imran, 36

CHINA: "Trump being elected president is an absolute joke. How could a business person be elected president? The Chinese government is now waiting to see what his attitude towards our country will be. Right now we aren't seeing anything in the Chinese media illustrating Trump's policy on China." - Kevin, 34

MALTA: "I think Trump will inspire a lot of right-wing Maltese people to take a stand to 'make Malta great again.' This makes me sad." - Luca, 25

ARMENIA: "Trump is very unpredictable and slightly mad. If he keeps his ties with Turkey, like Obama, it won't be good for Armenia, but if he improves relations with Russia and recognizes the genocide, it would be great for our country." - Elena, 37

TURKEY: "I feel it may be problematic to visit the United States after he takes over. I believe immigrants in the U.S. will have more pressure when extremist attacks occur in different parts of the world." - Olgun, 30

JORDAN: "I was relieved when Trump won. To us in Jordan, Clinton represents the establishment and a war was inevitable. It's time for the common, good Americans to have their voice heard. Trump is not my best choice but he accomplished the mission by cutting off the mainstream establishment." - Nizar, 50

BRAZIL: "We all know that water is the new petrol. Climate change is a reality which amazingly is denied by Trump. I wonder if he will raise his military power against Brazil and Argentina due to our supply of running water. I heard last week that the U.S. is building a military base at the Iguacu waterfalls. If that is true, I pray for God to help us as our water may be endangered." - Rodnei, 38

ESTONIA: "Based on where Estonia is located and how angry European and Russian relations have become, it's going to be playing with fire. Not sure how Trump will work with Estonia's female president and if he'll ignore NATO being needed to secure borders with Russia." - Helju, 58

RUSSIA: "The U.S. should stop thinking that their internal affairs are so influential that they can change the world." - Daria, 33

PHILIPPINES: "We need a reality check. We're all living in our own bubbles. No one noticed the angry old man in the street. Hence, Duterte, Brexit and now Trump." - Mia, 43

THAILAND: "This is the first time I've seen Americans fight each other. Trump brings conflict and war. He will also bring back some business to the U.S. instead of expanding production in Asia or Thailand. This means that the U.S. dollar will strengthen in Thailand and cause a low volume of imports." - Kannika, 64

ISRAEL: "We've been very disheartened with the past administration and disappointed in their lack of support for Israel. Trump's disapproval of the recent U.N. resolution gives our people hope that the future U.S. administration will be more favorable." - Charles, 54

CANADA: "I fear that [Trump's] reactive, myopic and egotistical approach will lead to global economic disruption with the result being a deepening gap between rich and poor. Canada needs to maintain a neutralizing position and Trudeau has the opportunity to demonstrate real leadership if he can make things work. The optimist in me feels the best case scenario is that [Trump] continues to make errors in judgment so that [the U.S.] can quickly build a case to impeach him." - Tamara, 42

FINLAND: "[Trump] is like a teenage boy getting a driver's license and his first car. Anything can happen! If Mr. Trump copes well with Mr. Putin and the economical sanctions towards Russia are stopped, Finland will get a lot of benefit." - Vesa, 59

RUSSIA: "I am curious to watch how this rather unprofessional-looking type will rule a country like the U.S. Does he really have as much power as people think? If he starts doing bad things, Americans will be able to stand against it. They have a long history of fighting for their rights and freedoms, unlike Russians, and I hope they have not lost that skill." - Anna, 31

CAMBODIA: "If the new president keeps playing games with China, my country will be affected. My government is in strong support of One China." - Peou, 44

PORTUGAL: "It's certain that Trump's presidency means a step back in the fight against climate change globally. World peace and stability is a wildcard at this point, but Portugal is usually a neutral country and I don't expect it to be affected in any particular way." - Octavio, 39

INDIA: "The new president wants to focus on jobs for Americans which means more insourcing rather than outsourcing. This could have huge impact on business being carried out by U.S. entities that have centers in India. One thing that could work in India's favor, however, is that [Trump] doesn't like China and they are currently our largest competitor and threat to India-U.S. trade." - Karthik, 38

THAILAND: "Trump is not the right man for the U.S. presidency because of his uncompromising personality. The U.S. may lose their political alliances because of his meager political experience. The U.S. will confront huge problems both inside and outside of their country." - Manit, 76

COLOMBIA: "Trump will change global geopolitics in that there are many issues that leaders will not take seriously and will affect relations. The important thing is that he be well-advised and the advisers forget their partisan disputes. Countries like Colombia and many in Latin America are not important to the U.S. and I don't think that will change." - Diego, 38

ICELAND: "Our country is focused on Trump - even the smallest things he does hit the news. Some speculate Trump and Putin will have their first meeting here in Iceland. I'm not excited about it; I think it'll be a circus." - Reynir, 51

TANZANIA: "Mr. Trump seems inclined to launch nuclear war. He thinks he can run a country like he has been running his personal business. U.S. citizens need to find a way to trim his erratic thoughts before he puts them into action. If not checked he might turn back all the good efforts intended to make the world better." - Switbert, 59

IRELAND: "I'm scared! The might of the American army under that man's control and his loose, poorly-chosen words could case consternation and unrest around the world." - Conor, 37

CHINA: "Having Trump as president is like the whole world playing Russian roulette. As a 70-year-old battle-tested businessman, he has picked up some bad habits. He will have to learn to treat other countries with respect otherwise there will be no happy ending." - Fiona, 28

ESTONIA: "I hope Trump will fix relationships with Russia and the world economy will start to grow again. He is a businessman and must know these things easily." - Kairi, 40

RUSSIA: "I assume that with Trump as president the U.S. and Russia will fight less." - Tatiana, 34

THAILAND: "I worry about corruption similar to what we've experienced in Thailand because Trump is a businessman. The Thai economy may be affected due to a decreased tax duty in the U.S. on domestic products. This will encourage cash flow and trade in the U.S. but many other countries will suffer in terms of profits." - Krerkwich, 37

UNITED KINGDOM: "The morning I woke up and found that Trump was to be the next president of the United States I was in the same shock as following Brexit. I feel that both results were heavily influenced by a disillusion with mainstream politics and maybe an apathy towards what the world has achieved over the last fifty years. I do not think America will be any greater than it was before the election, and personally I think [Trump's] legacy will be a step backwards for the U.S.A. on the world stage." - Craig, 44

PHILIPPINES: "There's a lot of fear going around, but I want to see what really happens on 'day one' rather than listen to all the noise from the media, social media and even [Trump's] own Twitter account." - An, 43

Today is "day one" and now the United States and the world will have a front row seat to the inner workings of a Trump presidency. No matter what side of history you are on, the world has greater hope if you take the time to see it differently through someone else's lens.

Ten Most Obnoxious Travelers: Don't be that Guy

After having crisscrossed the globe for more than a decade I feel I can talk honestly about the cast of characters I've encountered on my travels. It hasn't been uncommon for me to befriend someone and after a while hear, "Typically I don't care for Americans, but I like you. You're different." Let's be serious; that's B.S. I'm an American. If you like me, reshape your preconceived notions.

That being said, I'm going to throw out a disclaimer: this post zeros in on what society often considers taboo, stereotypes. Although not the end all be all and not true for everyone you meet, stereotypes are kernels of truth devised from a common perception so that we can best prepare ourselves and safeguard our sanity. So don't be a hater but instead commiserate with me as I describe the random lot I've experienced over the years. 

1. The Loud-Mouthed American. Let's put it out there right up front: the typical American who is brave enough to leave U.S. topsoil is a loud talking know-it-all. Whether they have been collecting factoids for a lifetime or read it all in the guide book on the way over the ocean, they will be the first to tell you what's up and which way is which in a foreign land. If you don't hear him from a mile away, you can surely recognize the guy with his white gym socks pulled up to the knees, fanny pack and ten-inch camera lens.

2. The Leaf-Loving Canadian. Yes, I know you've weeped quietly in America's shadow for too long and are sick of being mistaken for a Yankee, but come on. Do you really need to plaster the maple leaf on everything from your backpack to underwear? As soon as you mutter an affirmation-seeking "eh" or reference Tim Hortons people will know where you are from and all will be right in the world. Let's all hold hands and chant together "hail to the great white north."

3. The Stinky Traveler. This isn't country-specific but some cultures are more likely to be culprits than others. You know who you are. For the most part travel hygiene comes with minimal expectations: just shower regularly and slap on some deodorant each day. I don't care if you comb your hair. But if people clutch their noses or lose consciousness when you reach into an overhead bin or grab the bus safety strap, that's not okay. In the same regard, show some consideration and don't bring your sauerkraut pickle sandwich or onion breath when you know we'll all be traveling in close quarters for a while. Regular bathing is encouraged, passing gas on public transportation is not. 

4. The Travel-Boasting Australian. The Australian culture is unique in that due to its remote location or maybe its strange allegiance to the queen, young adults are encouraged to take a "gap year" between high school and university, or before the real world, to travel. Because of this accepted cultural norm, Australians (and Kiwis from New Zealand) are everywhere and often travel in packs. We know you've been everywhere, seen everything and still consider your home the most righteous on the planet. Spare us your gnarly travel stories and enjoy the moment with the rest of us.

5. The Chatty Seat Mate. (Also applies to bunk mate if staying in a hostel.) I know you're excited. I really do. You are on this plane/train/bus en route to somewhere awesome that most likely none of your friends at home have been or can relate. But you must understand, I partied until 3 a.m. last night, barely made this plane/train/bus ride and have a splitting headache. If I have my ear buds in or am reading a magazine, please don't see this as an invitation to chat me up. If you still don't get it, and I have to fake sleeping (or death), please just stop. You'll know the headache has subsided and the airplane safety pamphlet has thoroughly bored me when I smile back at you and ask you questions in return.

6. The Photo-Crazed Asian. I've been to some of the most spectacular spots on the planet: the Egyptian pyramids, Machu Picchu, the Taj Mahal ... and there is one thing I can always count on: a self-absorbed Asian photobombing my priceless shot. I'm not sure if the peace sign is still the "in pose" or if they have somehow evolved to grow a selfie stick out of their torso, but Asians are everywhere and are the most photo-crazed species on the planet. It's not good enough to have three photos in front of that random disheveled palm tree, let me wait while you ... and your friends ... and your parents ... and the busload you came with take thirty happy snaps.

7. The Homesick Ruminator. Right now it's five o'clock back home. I don't care ... and neither should you! The purpose of traveling is to go somewhere you haven't been and experience something different. If you are constantly comparing the food, the dress, the people, and the culture to home and pining for the latter, you shouldn't have left the comfort of your couch. Do us all a favor and catch the next plane home. We are tired of hearing about it and no, we don't want to grab lunch at that McDonald's you spotted around the corner.

8. The Penny Pincher. Let's face it, we are all not like Paris Hilton and can't jet set endlessly around the planet. However, when you are on vacation you need to get in a vacation state of mind. You are there for the experience and often times you'll never be back so you need to make the most of it. Nothing is worse than a penny pincher on holiday holding everyone else back from having a good time. Save up, devise a plan and stay within your means; fun can be had on all sorts of budgets but it's important to know what you are working with before you leave so you aren't bringing everyone else down.

9. The Anti-Planner. In high school it was acceptable if you overslept and were late for class. Now that you are an adult it's time to put your responsible pants on. It's no longer cute or funny to oversleep and miss your train or crash in my hotel room because you forgot to book yours. You forgot to pack your toothbrush and need to borrow mine? Forget it. With all the information you could ever want at your fingertips, there's no excuse for poor planning. Get with the program.

10. The Condescending Jet Setter. Once you've been around the block a few times, it's hard not to fall in this trap. I consciously put forth an effort so not to be lumped into this camp. With a cheeky nod to the Australians, you're well-traveled and have experienced more adventures than one deserves in a lifetime, but be weary not to sour your newbie travel mates. Every city and each country in this world is unique and deserves to be discovered with an open heart and open mind. Check your past experiences at the door and dive into the moment ... if not for yourself, for everyone around you. 

These ten obnoxious traveler types continue to urke me and set my eyes rolling. Let this be a public service announcement: the first step in reform is self-awareness. If you are guilty of any of the offenses mentioned, there's still hope for you. Most likely, I'll give you a second chance but when you come to make amends be sure to being a bottle of whiskey and know when to bite your tongue.