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February 19, 2004

Visa in Hand

I just picked up my China visa! A warning to future travelers: don't go to Chinese Consulate in Hong Kong for your visa, like Lonely Planet suggests. It's very expensive, and anything less than five-day processing costs extra. A lot extra. A next-day visa for someone on a U.S. passport costs HK$540 there! (U.S. passport holders have to pay an extra HK$160 or so.) And I snubbed my hostel's negotiable offer of HK$500 for next-day service as way too high.... Live and learn.

Posted by David M on February 19, 2004 08:00 PM
Category: China
Comments

There are often "unexpected" expenses with visas; they seem to be an easy source of extra income for innocent travellers. Just remember to hold on to your wallet wherever you go, as you will find a lot of people who are interested in sharing it with you!

By the way, Katy (f you are reading this), you might learn from David's well-written vignettes and drop some of the slang! You have a wider audience here than just your brother.

Love,
Your Loving Mother Who's Always Available For Counseling

Posted by: Mom (again) on February 20, 2004 05:09 AM

"Live and learn" is the right attitude toward such things. And it's useful to learn that the Lonely Planet Guide might be wrong. Perhaps the most reliable information will come from fellow travelers who have just visited your next destination.

Love Dad

Posted by: Dad on February 20, 2004 07:43 AM

Hey David,

Hope you have a really great time. Just remember that you are very fortunate to be able to do this. Don't take it for granted. Be safe.

Posted by: Melodie on February 22, 2004 09:28 PM
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