With their famed patriotism and economic opportunities, Americans are not traditional emigres - yet the events of September 11 have forced some to consider a new life overseas.
Australia and New Zealand - both perceived as safe, quiet English-speaking nations - have experienced a sudden rise in interest from Americans wanting to leave.
Diplomats say it is too early for the interest to show up in immigration statistics.
'It is going to be very intriguing to see if this sudden burst of activity does come to anything,' one Australian envoy in Washington said. 'We are hearing from people that they have a sudden urge to go somewhere safe and calm. It has really shaken up some people and they are seriously looking at their options.'
Australian offices in both Los Angeles and Washington have fielded increased telephone, letter and Internet inquiries.
Sales of its US$10 (HK$78) migration booklet - an introductory document that includes an application form - have risen from 177 the month before September 11 to 267 in the four weeks that followed.