An American tourist is even a greater potential source. Partly this is because Americans basically want people to like them, so you hate to disappoint. We also tend to have money. We also don't travel in foreign countries as much as Europeans and Australians.
Some coping factors that I have developed while here.
My best so far is when they ask if I am American I always say: "Ana younani." Then I ask if they speak Greek in Greek. It terminates the whole spiel they use on Americans, which is tiresome, and makes English a common language to communicate. Used it on these kids and they proceeded to sing Guantanamera followed by Freres Jacque. Tara tells vendors she is from Canada. They have a reputation for not buying anything.
When little kids come and start begging with a forlorn look and hand outstretched, usually asking for a dollar, I just mimic their expression and mannerisms and beg back. It just cracks them up. Pretty cute.
The guards at archaeological sites often are the worst, but you can play it to your advantage. They often have keys to things locked up, can remove gates in the way or grant special privileges to take photos. But beware, once you give them some money, they will keep pestering you to show you more and ask for more. A blessing at a great site, a curse, if you want privacy or the site isn't that great. Along that same vein, at mosques you can often climb the minaret or see a special tomb for a little baksheesh.
Then there are the other coping techniques, such as don't linger, look straight ahead, never look at their goods, etc.
Now for some snakes.
