Oh, please, not the "Canadian flag on the American backpack" again.

We do seem to get our r0cks off by believing Americans envy us, or want to be us. When they travel, when they seek medications or healthcare, etc

Hate to burst your bubble but Americans don't care much about us. Neither do Europeans. 
Stereotyping is common in Europe anyway...while visiting a museum in Italy the curator told me, with a grin "I always wanted to visit Canada" ...to see Saskatchewan". 

And to believe most people think less of you (as tourist) because your country's leader is not liked is childish. Have Canadians sewn the American flag on their backpacks during Harper's days?