[joez]

The data is also a good indication of brand consciousness in a country. People are paying a premium for the American brand.

In Beijing, a big mac meal could cost double or triple what you could get at a local restaurant. It's seen as high class (partially because it is so expensive) and parents treat their kids to a happy meal on their birthday.

[mrtron]

I would argue the east asian McD's are more seen as trendy than 'high class'. High class perhaps in pricing, but nobody sees it as 'high class food'.

[32587]

This is exactly what I've seen here in Mexico. The majority like to go to McDonald's for a mediocre event, like good grades, a pay raise or something to that effect. You would still be able to get a better meal for much less at your regular taco stand, but people pay the premium for the American brand. Whereas in other parts of the world some people go even twice a day.

[jerf]

Sitting here in Michigan, going to McDonald's is of course a total non-event, but going out for a birthday party at the local Mexican joint would not be considered out of line. All of the local Mexican joints are far more "upscale" than a taco stand, of course. (Oh, and Taco Bell is of course lumped in with McDonalds.)

The grass is always greener...