I have absolutely no gripe with any of the ATC units (east of 30W and W of 30W) mentioned. When I used to operate over there I could only marvel at the ability of the unit concerned that managed to keep New York airspace running. Breathing seemed to be an option for those controllers.
IF you listen to the controller then it is usually pretty clear (wherever in the world they are from) what they would like you to do.
This thread will now predictably degenerate into a USA v Rest of the World slanging match so I thought I would get in early.
Keep up the good work.