As a Canadian who often travels to the U.S., I find that entry to the U.S. is now probably quite similar to what you experience when travelling North to visit Canada.

Prior to 9/11 crossing the border was a simple procedure – especially for someone who has visited many times in the past, and didn’t have a criminal record. Often a Provincial Government issued driver’s license was sufficient to gain entry.

Why this no longer is the case is beyond me, as a passport, imho, is only different from a driver’s license, by possessing a colour photo. The information available to a Customs Officer from one’s name, address and driver’s license number is surely sufficient?

Perhaps the previous entrees in a passport belie our true nefarious intentions when we finally get Stateside. . .

The treatment received by yourself and other Americans when travelling abroad is likely a result of the policies which were put in place by your Government and the heavy handed treatment to foreigners travelling to or through your country. Our Government just copied you and your procedures, to keep the illusion of security intact.

We still appreciate American tourists visiting us – don’t let it stop you, as it hasn’t really stopped us from going South.

Because supposedly Delta and the Port Authority Police will be looking for loiterers in the terminal towards the end of the night not at a gate of their flight with a valid boarding pass. They plan to seek out those who clearly are not there to fly and escort them out.

You are correct. Thanks. I just corrected it.

Happy Flying!

-Fish