I noticed that with Italians I've met in different countries as well - they tend to gesticulate a lot. In my experience encountering most Americans in other countries, you're right about the cultural insensitivity. I know to be respectful to others cultures and beliefs but the ones I encountered were ridiculously disrespectful. As for getting along with people from other cultures, I pretty much get along with anyone - I find that no matter where I am, most people are generally very kind to me.