VISTA Archived Blogs

Effective January 12, travelers from countries participating in a US Department of Homeland Security Visa Waiver Program must register on-line through the department’s Electronic System for Travel Authorization before you embark on a trip to the US.

On-line applications may be submitted at any time before you travel, and once approved, will be in effect for up to two years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first.Authorizations will also be valid for multiple entries into the U.S. DHS recommends that applications be submitted as soon as you begin planning travel to the US, and not less than 72 hours prior to travel.

I’ve been working as a locum tenens in the emergency department of a public hospital in New Zealand since April of 2010. The international phase of my EM career is going well. To keep my brain limber, I took and passed the Certified Wound Specialist certification. I took the test at the testing center at The University of Auckland. Now I can take care of your wound on any continent.

Monday, Sept. 13, 2010

IIt seems unbelievable to me that I am actually writing from Khovd, in the western part of Mongolia, on my laptop, in a hotel, looking out over the unpaved, dusty streets as the sun starts to rise on another day.  A woman is herding her cow through what serves as a parking lot in front of the hotel, by throwing stones at its rump, as a pack of a dozen large dogs marches around the corner, off to do some damage someplace. From what I saw yesterday, these are not your sweet household pet type dogs, but serious animals who contend with all manner of abuse, from wolves to other animals, as well as competition within the pack.  We are told to grab some stones if we are out walking and come across the dogs.  Life is not easy here.

My 17-year-old daughter is throwing the dice. With much angst and inspiration. With as much guidance and support as we can work in. But she’s still throwing the dice on her future. She is filling out college applications.                    

Whether your exposure to the process is recent or a distant memory, you will no doubt recall the feeling that everything is possible and nothing is for sure. 

• Complimentary upgrades
• Priority boarding and check-in
• Waived baggage fees and other SkyTeam Elite or Elite Plus member benefits

Here’s how it works: Email, fax or phone your request by December 31, 2009 to receive matched status. Be sure to include your full name, SkyMiles number, Continental Elite status, and Elite OnePass membership number in your communication.