Meet the Natives: USA

Watch Meet the Natives: USA

  • TV-PG
  • 2009
  • 1 Season
  • 8.8  (78)

Meet the Natives: USA is a fascinating travel show that follows the journey of five South Pacific islanders as they explore different cities and towns across America. The show first aired in 2009 on the Travel Channel, and it quickly gained popularity among viewers who were interested in learning more about different cultures and lifestyles around the world.

The natives in question are Jimmy Joseph Nakou, Maki'iti Naeata, Pai'ea Manuals, Kuli'ana Kaihea, and Kario Imatib. They are from the remote island of Tanna, which is located in the southern part of the Pacific Ocean, near Australia. Tanna is known for its unique customs, traditions, and way of life, which differ greatly from those of the United States.

The show begins with the five men arriving in Los Angeles, where they encounter a bustling city that is far different from anything they have ever seen before. From there, they travel to different parts of the country, including New York City, Washington D.C., and Texas. Along the way, they meet a variety of people, visit different landmarks and attractions, and learn more about American culture and society.

One of the main themes of the show is culture shock. The natives are often surprised by the fast-paced, consumerist lifestyle that dominates American society. They are also taken aback by the lack of communal spirit and the emphasis on individualism. However, they are always eager to learn and to try new things, and they are quick to adapt to their surroundings.

Another major theme of the show is communication. The natives speak a language called Tannese, which is unrelated to any other language in the world. As such, they often struggle to communicate with Americans, who speak English. However, they are resourceful and find ways to overcome the language barrier, such as using gestures, facial expressions, and even music.

Throughout the show, viewers get to see America through the eyes of the natives. They offer a unique perspective on American culture, and they often make observations that would be overlooked by a native-born American. For example, they point out the vast disparities in wealth and poverty that exist in the United States, and they question the role of technology in modern society.

Meet the Natives: USA is not just a travel show; it is also a cultural exchange. The show's hosts are not simply passive observers of American culture; they actively engage with the people they meet and share their own customs and traditions. They participate in traditional American activities, such as football games and barbecues, but they also introduce Americans to their own way of life, such as their village life, dances, and music.

Overall, Meet the Natives: USA is an engaging and thought-provoking show that offers a fresh perspective on American culture and society. It is a must-watch for anyone who is interested in travel, culture, or anthropology. Through the eyes of the Tannese natives, viewers will gain new insights into the complexities and contradictions of American life.

Meet the Natives: USA
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Seasons
Reflections
6. Reflections
December 20, 2009
10 months after they said farewell to the men from Tanna, we sent the production crew back to the host families where they showed them the finished films for the first time and shared their memories of the visit.
Ft. Stewart, GA/Washington DC
5. Ft. Stewart, GA/Washington DC
December 20, 2009
The tribe from Tanna embark on the final stop of their journey - an army base in Fort Stewart, Georgia. Chief and the men learn about the extremes of war and witness troops returning from Iraq. The tribe visits Washington, D.C. to spread their message of peace.
Orange County, CA
4. Orange County, CA
December 13, 2009
Chief and the tribesmen visit Orange County, Calif., where the palm trees remind them of home but they are baffled by Botox parties and people infatuated with their own appearance.
Peoria
3. Peoria
December 6, 2009
The ambassadors of Tanna embark on a trip to Peoria, Illinois -- an industrial heartland in Middle America. Chief and the tribe partake in the tradition of Thanksgiving and discover the value of sharing equals their own in Tanna.
New York City
2. New York City
November 29, 2009
Chief and his tribe depart for fast-paced New York City and plunge into the rituals of "the wasp people". The tribe ring in the bell at the New York Stock Exchange, view the skyscrapers and pay tribute at the World Trade Center site.
Montana
1. Montana
November 29, 2009
Chief leads his tribe to big sky Montana where the natives learn how to brand cattle on the ranch and watch the cowboy celebration known as the two-step. On an excursion to Yellowstone National Park, the tribe encounters snow for the very first time.
Description
  • Premiere Date
    November 29, 2009
  • IMDB Rating
    8.8  (78)
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