When I was a child, our family hardly ever did the "huggy" thing. I would kiss my mom and such, but the hug just wasn't usually a part of the equation. As a result, I am not very "touchy-feely" and will usually shy away from a hug from a stranger. However, I could get used to hugs from strangers...if they were good-looking guys...and would certainly return the favor.
People in the U.S. just do not do the "huggy" thing much. Americans like a little personal space around them at all times, and to hug someone means to invade that space, which can make us uncomfortable. Europeans, on the other hand, tend to hug much more and will invade your personal space and get right up in your face. This will usually make Americans then take a step or two back to regain that personal space.
