beat the brochure

There is nothing better then grouping millions of people together and assuming that they are all the same. This mass stereotyping of nationalities not only saves time, but it allows us to laugh at others and is generally just a bit of fun – isn’t it?

But what are the most common stereotypes, how did they come about and are they actually true? Let’s take a look:

Germans have no sense of humour

In the UK, it is often said that our German friends have no sense of humour. This stereotype may well originate from the fact that Germans are known for their methodical approach to industry and life in general. But is it true? According to a survey conducted in 2011 by a social network site, yes. Germans were deemed to be the least funny country in the world.

Fact or myth? Fact: Surveys are gospel.

The British have terrible teeth

According to many American TV’s shows which I have watched, I mean studied, us Brits are considered to have pretty awful teeth on the whole. My own set of gnashers are near perfect, so in this sense it is not true, but when you consider the vast majority of Americans have perfectly straight, gleaming white teeth we Brits simply cannot compete.

Fact or myth? Fact. How do you compete with perfection?

French people are arrogant

France has one of the most beautiful cities in the world, has arguably the best cuisine on the planet, is home to some of the best ski resorts and wonderfully sunny beaches and coastal towns. With this in mind, is it really a surprise that French people are known to be arrogant?

Fact or myth? Myth. Everyone is just jealous!

Americans are Loud

Put a group of Americans together, throw in some spicy chicken wings and a few kegs of Coors and just listen as the decibel levels increase and increase… Compared to the more conservative Brits, Americans can seem a lot louder – but is this because we are just ultra reserved? Who can judge?

Fact or myth? Fact. They are loud, us Brits are quiet. Isn’t there a happy medium, people?

All Chinese people know Kung-Fu

If you walk down the street in Beijing and you accidently bump into a little old man, he could quite easily bust a move that would leave you in a crumpled heap on the floor – or so we are led to believe. In reality, this is not true, just another Hollywood fantasy that has become enshrined in our brains.

Fact or myth? Myth. Unfortunately.

Have you come across any other stereotype myths on all inclusive holidays that you want to confirm or bust? Let us know by leaving a comment below.