I recall a Japanese skater once said that ice in North America tends to be harder and thus has more kick back than ice in Europe in general. He said he preferred European ice. I also heard it had something to do with some North American rinks being shared with ice hockey. There were some concerns about the venue at Vancouver Olys being shared with short track, as the temperature needed to be adjusted depending on which sport.
Also I remember this special ice technician in Japan talking about how to create ice for speed skating - something to do with the temperature control at each time they spray water or something like that - so that good results can be made on it. Allegedly he was famous for creating record-making ice. So much for just a sheet of ice...