China has affinity for 'fake Americans'

In many parts of the world, Canadians are perceived as fake, unarmed Americans - albeit with better manners and affordable healthcare.

Truth be told, that's pretty accurate - especially when compared to the fanciful image (propagated by many Americans) that we live in huts made of snow and subsist mainly on maple syrup and moose meat.

It's not a big deal. To be honest, I'd rather be mistaken for a fake American than any other nationality - and I know several Yanks who like to pass themselves off as counterfeit Canucks when it suits their purpose ... like when a Brit is buying the beer.