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08-09-2002, 06:34 AM
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#1 (permalink)
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Join Date: Oct 2001
Posts: 3,539
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Question About Travel to the US
Ok I'm an Austrian national and citizen. My passport is obviously Austrian. My roots happen to be Arabic, so is my name.
Now I would like to travel to the US, under the Visa Waiver Program, I have been reading a lot about it. Obviously according to the law I 'should' have no trouble getting in using the VWP.
I am of course aware of the tension and understand that I will face closer scrutiny at the airport which is understandable and expectable.
Now my question to anyone who might have answers in all honety is:
What should I watch out for?
Any tips or advice?
Any experiences or experiences of friends?
Thanks,
CM.
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08-09-2002, 07:13 AM
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#2 (permalink)
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Join Date: Mar 2002 Location: Ft. Walton Beach, FL
Posts: 4,056
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Re: Question About Travel to the US
Quote: Originally posted by clubmed
What should I watch out for?
Thanks,
CM. | Rude Americans...yes I'm a proud American serving in the US Air Force, but I have to admit that Americans are the rudest bunch of people that I have ever seen. I've been to several different countries, so I'm not just blowing smoke.
Where do you plan on going? If you plan on swinging by the FL area I would be glad to put you have you as a guest...take you out fishing on the Gulf of Mexico, cruising the white sandy beaches, etc.  (Sorry if I got off the subject a little!) | |
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08-09-2002, 07:38 AM
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#3 (permalink)
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Join Date: Oct 2001 Location: TOO close to Wash DC
Posts: 7,956
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Hmm don't even carry a pocket knife (regardless of your nationality)
If people do ask you to 'step aside' to check you, be courteous and do as asked and you shouldn't have a problem.
I had a friend that flew back to his home in Iraq recently and he didn't have too many problems, he came back ok 
If you'll be in the DC area check out www.allnva.com for all the stuff to do
__________________
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08-09-2002, 07:39 AM
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#4 (permalink)
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Join Date: Oct 2001 Location: NC
Posts: 1,191
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I guess It depends on where you go....
I don't see any of it around where I'm at (Southeast) and there are a few arabic people here...
but I may be missing it also  | |
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08-09-2002, 10:33 AM
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#5 (permalink)
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Join Date: Oct 2001
Posts: 3,539
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Well I'll be touching down in SF. Heard they are friendly over there? At least thats what my GF tells me | |
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08-09-2002, 11:02 AM
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#6 (permalink)
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Join Date: Oct 2001 Location: D-Fw Texas
Posts: 695
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Also, portion sizes of meals will appear HUGE to you.
One good thing about that is drink re-fills are usually freebies, so if you are really thirsty, that helps.
Be ready for rush, rush, rush when eating in restaurants as compared to Europe where you can relax and enjoy your meal.
When we went to Australia, I really liked the fact they weren't slapping the bill down on the table 5 minutes after they bring the food out.
And in Mexico, they consider it rude to bring the check to the table without you asking for it, it's viewed there as saying"get out" if the waitstaff brings it without you asking for it.
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08-09-2002, 03:02 PM
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#7 (permalink)
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Join Date: Oct 2001 Location: Trent University
Posts: 1,864
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I have to agree with Martoch. Americans are pretty rude.
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08-09-2002, 04:03 PM
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#8 (permalink)
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Join Date: Oct 2001 Location: New York, New York
Posts: 254
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There's a word for it "brusque". We New Yorkers invented it here.
Keep your wallets in your front pocket and don't sleep on the Subway...
Enjoy your stay!
Last edited by Imanage; 08-09-2002 at 04:05 PM.
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08-09-2002, 04:22 PM
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#9 (permalink)
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Join Date: Oct 2001 Location: Newport News, VA
Posts: 1,510
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Coming into the country, all you'll really have to deal with is customs. They might ask you if you have anything to declare and might have you open up your bags. Just make sure you have all your documentation straight, and that should be no problem.
It's the return trip that's likely to be more of a hassle. Show up early...the lines are bad. They recommend 2 hours prior for international flights. Upon check-in, make sure you have all your credentials handy. Be prepared for them to open up your baggage and go through it. When you go through security, you should be prepared to remove your shoes, and have them fiddle with your belt (if you're wearing one).
Above all, keep a good attitude about it. | |
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08-09-2002, 04:30 PM
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#10 (permalink)
| | Registered User
Join Date: Oct 2001 Location: Southern California
Posts: 820
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Yep, they're only doing their job.Keep your id/passport in your pocket, not your carry-on luggage. You'll be pulling it out many times.
When do you plan on visiting? San Francisco is pretty mild yet gets pretty fogged in. Are you only staying in "Frisco"?
Some things to do/see:
SF Trolleys
Alcatraz Island
Golden Gate Bridge/Park
Fisherman's Wharf
Lombard Street
Nob Hill
Fee free to add more, people.
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