I have been asked what you need to cross the border into Canada to attend the NASS Conference in Vancouver. The rumours about more rigorous checks and extensive documentation are overstated. At this time, the system is much like it used to be. Here is a quick summary un-official of what to expect at the border.
For Americans to get into Canada by car or airplane, all you need is picture identification, like a drivers licence. For Europeans I would recommend a passport. You are welcome to come in as a tourist for a visit without a lot of formalities. Expect your car license and your ID to be scanned and questions asked like: "Where are you going? Where are you from? What is the purpose of your visit" etc. At the present time and at least until the end of this year, that is also all you need to get back into the US. Homeland Security is working on stricter requirements for all people crossing the border into the US, including passports or special passes with biometrics like fingerprints or iris scans. Visas and intensive identity checks are now required by the US for those entering from some countries but not yet for Americans, Canadians or Europeans. If you have a criminal record, or are wanted by the police, expect problems. Don't bring in guns, drugs or explosives. Imports of cigarettes and alcohol are limited. Duty and taxes must be paid on commercial goods, even samples or gifts. You may have problems bringing in sundials to sell or even display for sales purpose. Come as a tourist attending a non-commercial international conference being held in Vancouver. NASS is a registered "not for profit organization". For the west coast, summer is a great time to visit as the weather is fine, the sun shining, the air clear and the temperatures moderate. The trip up the west coast is wonderful, as are Seattle, Vancouver and Victoria. Take the time to enjoy "Super Natural BC". I really look forward to seeing you in August at the conference. Regards, Roger Bailey NASS Secretary N 48.6 W 123.4 Sidney by the Sea Vancouver Island British Columbia, Canada --------------------------------------------------- https://lists.uni-koeln.de/mailman/listinfo/sundial
