The Host Nation

Posted by admin on January 28, 2010

In the early 80s I had the opportunity to work for a sumer in Washington DC. I was 21 years old and although I had moved out of home I had never been so far away from home and for such a length of time! I had a three month contract as a trainee manager in a small, exclusive hotel two blocks from The White House.

I was met at Dulles International Airport by a friend of the man that had arranged the work placement for me. He showed me out to the car - a limo! On the 40 minute or so drive into DC he asked where I would be staying. Well I hadn’t arranged anything and was planning on staying in a hotel for a couple of days in the hope of finding some accommodation for the rest of my stay. He said that there was no need as I was welcome to stay with him for the duration.

I was surprised, being british I didn’t expect this, I cetainly wouldn’t have made such an offer to someone I had just met. I was soon to learn that this was the norm.

Starting work the next day the welcome was similar. Being a trainee manager I was asked which department of the hotel I wanted to work in first as I was to work my way around the hotel in each of them. I went for the restaurant and fitted in straight away. This was not because I was such an affable young chap but because the americans were just so welcoming. The restaurant staff immediately helped me to settle into the job and the guests did exactly the same. I have never felt so welcome anywhere since.

Each department was exactly the same - it was a great experience!

But the welcome didn’t stop there. For three months my feet hardly touched the ground. I was invited here, there and everywhere by these extremely hospitable people. On top of that my english accent went along way, especially with the young ladies!!

Our press seam to like to “yank bash”, all I can say is that if you hold the opinion that the Americans are bullying, loud egocentrics then you couldn’t have been there. I have returned to The States six times since, though sadly never managed to get a green card, so just for pleasure. Every single time I have found the same warm, heartfelt welcome.

My advice - go there and enjoy the company of the warmest people you are likely to meet.