Lady_Mad_Hatter
Raivis of Riga
Well there's discussing your pairings, which there's nothing wrong with. Then there's talking about graphic yaoi and "OMG HOT BUTTSECKS!!!" in crowded public places, and even acting out stuff. Or forcing unwanted contact on people, even when they've told you to stop (note, that Russia that "kidnapped" me put me down when I started complaining). While every fandom has those people, Hetalia has become notorious for them. It bothers me greatly, because I know that when I cosplay at AWA this year, so many people are gonna see me and think "Great, another Hetafag. Better stay away."
*Sigh* Yeah, I hate people like that too, but they exist amongst almost any anime-related fanbase with a large number of characters. I think that while some people may think badly about all Hetalia fans based on the stupid actions of a few, a greater number of people will understand that they are a minority.
I'd like to believe that, but I haven't seen much proof of it.
Oh! On this subject: Because we love the series so much, my friends and I host or help with panels at almost every con we go to, and we start each one with a "How to be a good fan" lecture. Our main points are things like "Treat flags with respect, no means no, certain phrases and gestures are frowned upon by the public." Mostly common sense, and some good tips for any fandom. The first time we did it, a girl got up and stormed out. After the panel her friends approached us and thanked us for "putting her in her place." Apparently she was guilty of all of the things we said not to do, and didn't appreciate us saying she gave the fandom a bad name. And her friends didn't want to tell her themselves because... well, obviously she didn't take it well.
UGH! Finally! Freaking gaia, going all glitchy on me. That took forever.