Years ago, when I worked at a warehouse, a trucker from Louisiana brought in a load and I honestly only understood a third of what he was saying.
Last year our school hired a young lady from west Texas. I was surprised at the lack of a strong accent, although we stilll here the typical American "y'all" once in a while.
When my wife and I went to Alaska on our honeymoon cruse we panned for gold, among other things. I danced with some Native Americans as well. Great time.