‘Fantastic’ hosts are wowing World Cup travelers, dispelling anti-U.S. buzz that preceded tournament

Sweltering temperatures, rampant crime and unfriendly locals. That’s what the soccer fans who have flocked to the U.S. for the World Cup were told to expect in America. Instead, international visitors tell The Washington Times they have fallen in love with great restaurants and bars, modern shops, supersized gas stations, historic sites and friendly Americans.