Early Conceptions of Culture

My earliest conceptions of Taiwan were night markets, hot weather, and good food. As I've grown, though, I've started to understand the politics, economics, and culture of the nation more in-depth. That being said, I'm sure we've all been prone to early conceptions about culture--whether those misconceptions are about the United States or any other country. (I know from personal experience that many students in Taiwan do believe that Americans eat hamburgers and fries every day.) What are some of the earliest conceptions you've had about culture? How have they influenced your current perspective(s) on it?