I was walking in Tehran one evening in the middle of the revolution; this was after most ex-pats had left on the evacuation flights with on piece of hand luggage.
I saw these three tough looking Iranians approaching. They said 'Go home Yank'. Well I was English then, so it struck me as funny and I shook my head and laughed. After an initial surprised look they too started laughing and they walked on past.
So yes Larry and Joe a smile can work wonders.

Bert.