U.S. rolls up the welcome mat

My wife and I spent 12 days in British Columbia (Vancouver Island mostly). In that time, we found the Canadians we dealt with, beginning with the passport and customs officials and the staffs of motels, restaurants, markets, shops, etc., to be unfailingly courteous, helpful, patient and friendly.

On our return trip . . . the very first U.S. staff person with whom we dealt was surly, uncommunicative and generally unpleasant. That is when I realized I was home.

This is unfortunate, as it is often the very first experience foreign travelers have with the U.S.

Charles Vorsanger

Pasadena