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Expert: Jason Curodeau - 11/30/2010


Question
what advice would you give on what kind of impression to give US customs of my intention to travel from vancouver canada to san francisco? I am meeting someone in person I met online and am wondering how to word my presentation if there is any chance they would frown upon certain reasons for visiting the US like meeting a potential girlfreind or something like that. if you can't offer advice in that area what about travel by train on the route I mentioned...what should I expect to take along for example?

Answer
Peter
That's an interesting question. Personallly I would just tell them I am travelling for leisure and that is all. It really isn't their business in my opinion wether you meet a friend or not. As long as all your paperwork is in order and legal there shouldn't be any problems.

The only time I have had any U.S./Canada border experience was back in 1997. Going into B.C. I was warmly greeted by a cute blonde girl who welcomed me into Canada and wished me well on my stay. Upon returning to the U.S. I was basically interogated by a bitter man who asked me: How long I was in Canada, why were you there, are you bringing anything back... It was ridiculous. My point is that as an American citizen I was treated poorly and began to doubt my own innocence based on the treatment I recieved.

So just tell them you are here for leisure and don't take anything personally, the people doing that job in the states are a**holes, I had a similar experience coming back from Mexico. Once your in it gets better. As far as what to bring goes, that depends on the time of year. I would bring layered clothing, something I am sure you are accustomed to in Vancouver. I don't know how these people are about liquids, I know it's kind of tricky at the airport. A toiletry bag with the mini size toothpaste etc. should be fine.

I wouldn't worry about it, fear and intimidation unfortunately is the American way, probably because the majority of us have crappy and expensive health insurance. Just have a good time and enjoy your stay San Francisco is a beautiful city enjoy it with your new friend.

I hope I have been of some help.
Jason Curodeau

California

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Jason Curodeau

Expertise

I can answer all questions regarding best routes of travel. Although I cannot predict traffic conditions, I can provide the most scenic and dynamic route for the traveller on a budget and or schedule. I also know the most direct and yet scenic routes.

Experience

I have had the opportunity to travel quite extensively throughout the Southwest and the Pacific Northwest, both as a resident and traveler. My search for adventure and new experiences has given me the thirst for the "road less travelled". Because I am not independently wealthy, the road I travel is as an admirer of the journey. As long as I can find a place to sleep for next to nothing, pack some food, and afford the gas I am down the road. If given a description of the prospective travelers needs I can easily provide them with detailed route options independent of their finances and suited to their needs. Most of my travels have been by automobile. I recently purchased a motorcycle and I am taking ten day trip from Joshua Tree to Auburn California and I am taking back roads and state highways the entire way. I will take a day trip around Lake Tahoe, where I lived for two years, and cruise the old highways of the Gold Mining era. I will cut across towards the Pacific and slowly wind my way down the coast taking in every minute smell and experience temperature changes subtly created by the shadow of leaves

Organizations
Some friends and I from the area have started a local music and art "zine" and have experienced some very positive community feedback.

Education/Credentials
I am currently a full-time, thirty-seven year old student and I am preparing to begin a career in primary education. I have chosen this field not only because I feel it will be rewarding but also for the travel time it will allow me. I anticipate frequent world travel in my near future.

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