Floyds Direct Travel Insurance News Section

Bulletin for Travel to East Timor

This bulletin was taken from the Governments Foreign Office Department of Health webpage, which you can find here: http://www.dh.gov.uk

Still Current at: 31 March 2005
Updated: 30 March 2005

East Timor (Democratic Republic of)

This advice has been reviewed and reissued with amendments to the Summary and Health section. The overall level of the advice has not changed.

SUMMARY

East Timor shares with the rest of South East Asia a threat from terrorism. Attacks could be indiscriminate and against civilian targets.

In the first three months of 2005 at least 40 people have died from Dengue fever, which is transmitted through mosquito bites. There is currently no vaccine to prevent infections. You should take normal precautions against mosquitoes.
You should avoid demonstrations and large crowds.

You should consult the British Embassy in Dili before travelling to border areas, as there remains the potential for trouble there.

We strongly recommend that you obtain comprehensive travel and medical insurance before travelling.


SAFETY AND SECURITY

Terrorism

Westerners were deliberately targeted in terrorist attacks in Bali (October 2002) and Jakarta (August 2003 and September 2004). In the light of this and continuing terrorist activity in South East Asia we believe there is a threat from terrorism in East Timor. Attacks could be indiscriminate and against civilian targets, including places frequented by foreigners.

In 2001, Usama Bin Laden condemned the fact that East Timor was no longer under the control of a Muslim country (Indonesia) and in 2002 there were reports of possible terrorist threats from groups linked to Al-Qaida to UN, Australian, United States and Portuguese interests in East Timor.

Please read: Risk of Terrorism when Travelling Overseas and Security and General Tips pages for further information and guidance.

The main air routes to Dili are via Bali (this normally involves an overnight stay) and Darwin. Due to the ongoing threat of terrorist attacks in Indonesia you are recommended to consult the FCO travel advice for Indonesia before planning to travel via Bali. You should reconfirm bookings in advance of departure from East Timor.

Crime

There have been a small number of personal attacks in Dili during both the hours of daylight and darkness, including on foreigners. You are advised to remain vigilant at all times and to avoid displaying expensive items of jewellery or large sums of money.

Political Situation

The security situation in East Timor has greatly improved but there remains a risk of violence. You should avoid demonstrations and large crowds.

Consult the British Embassy in Dili about the latest security situation if you are planning to travel outside Dili, particularly near the border where the situation can be volatile.

Local Travel

Accommodation and transport for independent travellers are extremely limited, particularly outside the capital, Dili.

You are advised to take extra caution if travelling during the hours of darkness, and to avoid travelling alone.

Road Safety

Drivers should take extra care on the roads, especially when it is wet. Travel in convoy whenever possible. Main routes are often single-track mountain roads, which can deteriorate rapidly and become impassable, particularly during the rainy season (December-April). Road quality even in Dili is poor and there is little street lighting. You should avoid walking on the road at night where possible.

Drivers must hold a current driving licence valid for the class of vehicle they plan to drive. Third Party motor vehicle insurance is not available.

Sea Safety

There have been incidents of piracy and armed robbery against ships in neighbouring waters. Mariners are advised to be vigilant; reduce opportunities for theft; establish secure areas onboard; and report all incidents to the coastal and flag state authorities.

LOCAL LAWS AND CUSTOMS

You should not become involved with drugs of any kind. Penalties for breaking the law can be severe.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

Visas do not need to be obtained in advance for entry into East Timor. Instead an Entry Permit costing $30 US for a visit of not more than 30 days is normally issued to valid passport holders on arrival (provided entry into East Timor is regarded by the local authorities as being for a legitimate purpose). Extensions cost $30 US for each subsequent period of 30 days. Fines for overstaying can be much higher than the cost of arranging an extension in advance. There is a departure tax of $10 US.

Children (under 16) travelling alone need to have with them a letter of consent from their parents to obtain entry to East Timor. Authority is not required if they are accompanied by one or both parents.

HEALTH

You are advised to consult your GP about vaccinations and health issues before travelling.

In the first three months of 2005 at least 40 people have died from Dengue fever, which is transmitted through mosquito bites. Dengue is a mosquito-borne infection found in tropical and sub-tropical regions around the world. It is not normally fatal. There is currently no vaccine to prevent infection. You should take normal precautions against mosquitoes.

For more information, including the latest human fatality figures, please consult the World Health Organisation's Dengue fact sheet (under ‘health topics') at the following website: http://www.who.int/topics/avian_influenza/en.

Avian Influenza (Bird Flu)

In 2004, 31 people died, 20 in Vietnam and 11 in Thailand, following outbreaks of avian influenza (AI) in parts of Asia. There have been recent renewed outbreaks of avian influenza amongst poultry in Vietnam, Malaysia, Thailand, China and Cambodia.

Travellers to East Timor are not likely to be affected, but you should avoid live animal markets and poultry farm and places where you may come into contact with live poultry. For further information, please check the World Health Organisation (WHO) website at: http://www.who.int/topics/avian_influenza/en and the Department of Health’s website at: http://www.dh.gov.uk.

Medical services in East Timor are severely limited. Malaria, Dengue Fever and Japanese Encephalitis are common throughout the island. Tuberculosis is prevalent and cholera and rabies may also be present. There are no dental or optical services. Comprehensive medical and travel insurance is essential. In the event of medical emergency, evacuation to Australia is likely to be the only option for treatment, and insurance policies should cover this eventuality.

NATURAL DISASTERS

East Timor is located in an earthquake zone and major earthquakes can occur at any time.

GENERAL

You are strongly advised to bring either US dollars in cash or travellers cheques, as the US dollar is the currency in use in East Timor.

The limited banking system in East Timor will not exchange Pounds Sterling cash or sterling travellers cheques. You are also advised that the same often applies to the Euro currency.

Consular and Visa Services

The British Embassy in Dili is unable to offer any consular or visa services.

All consular or visa enquiries should be made to the nearest British Mission at either:

The British Embassy in Jakarta at Deutsche Bank Building (19th Floor), 80 Jalan Imam Bonjol, Jakarta 10310; tel: +62 21 390 7484; fax: +62 21 316 0850; website: http://www.britain-in-indonesia.or.id/

or

The British High Commission in Canberra at Level 10, SAP House, Canberra Centre, ACT 2601; tel: + 61 2 1902 941 555; fax: +61 2 1902 941 600.

Floyds Direct on 31.03.05 @ 10:05 AM GMT [link]

Foreign Office Travel Advice for France

The Governement's web pages on Foreign Travel have released the following bulletin on precautions for travelling to France. This information was released on the 29th of March, and is still up to date as of the 30th of March.
You can find more information at the Goverment's Foreign Travel pages here.


FRANCE

Summary
France shares with the rest of Europe a threat from international terrorism. Attacks could be indiscriminate and against civilian targets, as demonstrated by serious bomb attacks on trains in neighbouring Spain in March 2004.

You should be alert to the dangers of street and car crime, but most visits to France are trouble-free.

A parcel bomb exploded outside the Indonesian Embassy in Paris on 8 October 2004 (see Safety and Security Section).
We strongly recommend that you obtain comprehensive travel and medical insurance before travelling.

Passengers and freight operators using the port of Calais may experience delays as several berths are currently out of action. Please also see the Sea Travel section of this Travel Advice.

SAFETY AND SECURITY

Terrorism
France shares with the rest of Europe a threat from international terrorism. Attacks could be indiscriminate and against civilian targets, as demonstrated by serious bomb attacks on trains in neighbouring Spain in March 2004. The French Government has to date exercised a strong counter terrorism policy. French authorities have raised their level of security, particularly at airports and on the railway and metro systems – following the bombings in Madrid in March 2004.

A parcel bomb exploded outside the Indonesian Embassy in Paris on 8 October 2004. Ten people were injured, four of them in the Embassy building itself. No group has yet claimed responsibility for the incident. Previous terrorist incidents in mainland France include the bombing of the Paris Metro in 1995, and two explosions in Nice in 2003 claimed by the Corsican nationalist group FLNC.

On Corsica itself, the FLNC have been responsible for a continuing series of sporadic bomb attacks on public buildings. While there is no specific threat to British tourists, you should take care, particularly in the town centres and near public buildings, and be wary of unattended packages.

In early 2004, a previously unknown group calling themselves the AZF claimed to have laid a number of explosive devices on French railway tracks timed to detonate at various future dates. Two devices were discovered and both disarmed by the French police. The French press received a letter from another unknown group calling itself the Servants of Allah, which threatened attacks in France and on French interests overseas. The French authorities are treating both threats seriously and have asked the public to remain vigilant. However, they have not issued any specific advice against using public transport in France. A second group, also using the title AZF but who the French authorities believe are unconnected with the group referred to above, has recently written to major food manufacturers in France threatening to poison their products unless a ransom is paid. The claim is being investigated by the French police.

For further information and advice please read the Security and General Tips and Risk of Terrorism when Travelling Overseas pages.

Crime
Sensible precautions should be taken to protect against street and car crime. Try to avoid carrying passports, credit cards, travel documents and money together in handbags or pockets. In Paris, at Charles de Gaulle airport or at the Gare du Nord railway station, you should protect your baggage against theft and beware of pickpockets. Thieves and pickpockets also operate on the Paris Metro and RER (suburban) lines especially RER line B, which serves Charles de Gaulle and Orly airports and the Gare du Nord. Thefts have also occurred at Nice Airport, particularly at the car rental car parks where bags have been snatched as drivers have been loading luggage into hire cars. Pedestrians should beware of bag snatchers operating both on foot and from motorcycles. You should be particularly careful in and around shopping centres and car parks.

Mugging incidents have occurred at isolated rest areas on some French motorways, usually those without petrol stations and cafeterias. There have also been several cases of burglary during the night whilst travellers have been asleep in their caravans, mobile homes or other vehicles. In a number of cases victims had first been rendered unconscious by the thieves using gas. Try to avoid parking in isolated or dark areas of camping grounds or car parks, and consider installing an alarm in your caravan or mobile home.

In Calais British registered cars may be targeted by thieves, both while parked and on the move (eg by thieves flagging down drivers for a lift or indicating that the vehicle has a flat tyre). Valuables, including tobacco and alcohol, should not be left unattended in parked cars and kept out of sight at all times.

Visitors to Commonwealth War Grave cemeteries in northern France, many of which are in isolated areas, are advised not leave handbags or other valuables in parked cars as they can be the target for thieves.

In populated areas of the South of France, particularly in the Marseille to Menton area, you are advised to keep car doors locked and windows closed when driving as it is common for bags to be snatched from the front passenger seat, often when the vehicle is stationary at traffic lights and usually by individuals on motorbikes. In the Rhone-Alps Region a British couple were recently robbed after their car had been flagged down by thieves who had indicated that something was wrong with the vehicle. If you decide to stop in such circumstances, be extremely wary of anyone offering help, ensure that car keys are not left in the ignition and that the vehicle doors are locked while you investigate the alleged problem.

In Corsica you are advised to avoid leaving your vehicles unattended by the roadside especially on coastal/beach roads, as thefts are frequent. Armed robbery can occur but such incidents are rare.

Sea Travel
Several berths are currently out of action at Calais port. Delays, which could continue for a period of weeks or possibly some months, may therefore occur on all services. You are advised to check the latest situation with your ferry operator before travelling.

Road Travel
You should take particular care when driving in France as driving regulations and customs are different from those in the United Kingdom. Roads in France, particularly motorways, are of an excellent standard but speed limits are higher than in the United Kingdom and the accident rate is greater. Many drivers undertake long journeys in, or through, France. Care should be taken to plan journeys and take sufficient breaks; a minimum break of 15 minutes after every two hours of driving is recommended.

The RAC or AA can advise on special requirements for driving in France while further advice, in French, on safety and on potential traffic black spots during the holiday seasons is available on the French Government-run website: http://www.bison-fute.equipement.gouv.fr. The minimum age for driving a car in France is 18 years old. 17 year-old British drivers with valid British licences are not permitted to drive a car. Anyone who contravenes this law may be fined and the vehicle impounded.

Radar detectors are illegal in France whether in use or not. If you should be caught with such equipment in your vehicle, you are liable to a prison sentence, a fine, confiscation of the device and the vehicle. You should therefore ensure radar detectors are removed from your vehicle before commencing any journey to France.

Almost all roads in Corsica are mountainous and narrow, with numerous bends. You should be extra vigilant and beware of wandering animals. The majority of road accidents occur during the tourist season.

The Mont Blanc road tunnel between France and Italy is open to all vehicles but with the following restrictions: maximum height 4.7m, maximum and minimum speeds respectively 70 kph and 50 kph. There are no weight restrictions. For details of temporary restrictions (e.g. during school holidays), please consult the tunnel website on www.tunnelmb.com. Although the information is currently available only in French and Italian, an English version will shortly be added. Vehicles unable to use the Mont Blanc Tunnel should use routes along the Mediterranean coast or through the Frejus tunnel; there are however some restriction on HGVs using the Frejus tunnel. Full details of these and alternative routes are available on the French Government-run Website: http://www.bison-fute.equipement.gouv.fr.

Severe penalties for road traffic infringements are in force. These include imprisonment and a heavy fine for causing death whilst over the alcohol limit or under the influence of drugs and a similar penalty for causing death by dangerous or negligent driving. The French police strictly apply speeding restrictions and drivers exceeding speed limits face heavy on-the-spot fines. Drivers who break French driving laws can also have their British driving licences confiscated by French Police; and the driver concerned prevented from continuing to drive the vehicle. This could lead to the vehicle being temporarily impounded if no alternative driver with a valid licence is available.

British road hauliers should be aware that French authorities are imposing fines on hauliers who have differing sets of documents aboard the vehicle. Road hauliers should contact the Road Hauliers Association for further information (and see "Know Before You Go" "International Road Haulage on the FCO website). It is now compulsory for drivers of vehicles weighing more than 3.5 tonnes to fasten their seat belts in France (except in vehicles which did not have seat belts fitted when they were manufactured). Offenders face a fine of 135 Euros.

There are a number of periods during the year, including all Sundays and public holidays when heavy goods vehicles over 7.5 tonnes are banned from driving on roads in France. Road hauliers should contact the Road Hauliers Association, the Freight Transport Association or the Department of Transport for further information.


ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

British nationals need a valid passport to enter France.

Single parents or other adults travelling alone with children should be aware that some countries require documentary evidence of parental responsibility before allowing lone parents to enter the country or, in some cases, before permitting the children to leave the country. For further information on exactly what will be required at immigration please contact the French Embassy in London. (Website link to French Embassy: http://www.ambafrance.org.uk).


HEALTH

We strongly recommend that comprehensive travel and medical insurance is obtained before travelling to France.

You should take with you a completed E111 form. This is available free of charge from most United Kingdom post offices. It will cover part of the cost of emergency health care at State hospitals in France during your visit. However, an E111 does not cover all medical fees (you will still have to pay for treatment by the French State health service, but you can claim back up to 70% on return to the UK), or medical repatriation, or on-going medical treatment of a non-urgent nature. We therefore recommend that you also obtain comprehensive travel and medical insurance. New health insurance cards will eventually replace the current E111 (and other E forms valid for temporary stays in EU and some other European countries). They have already been introduced in some countries. The United Kingdom is committed to doing so by December 2005. Until then, E111s will continue to be issued in their current form and remain valid for use in France.

Rabies cases occasionally occur in France, and you should therefore avoid contact with cats and dogs.

For further information on health, check the www.dh.gov.uk.

NATURAL DISASTERS

Forest Fires
Fires can be a regular occurrence in forested areas along the Mediterranean coast during summer months. The fires are generally extinguished quickly and efficiently by experienced French authorities, though short-term evacuations are sometimes necessary. Visits to forested areas will for the most part remain trouble-free, but if you plan to stay in such an area you should familiarise yourself on arrival with local emergency procedures in the event of fire.

SPORTS ACTIVITIES AND WINTER SPORTS

Alpine travellers should take out comprehensive insurance to cover extra medical costs, repatriation or, in the départements of Savoie and Haute-Savoie, possible transfer to Switzerland for hospital treatment. For sports activities such as skiing, potholing and mountaineering, travel insurance must include mountain rescue services and helicopter costs. You should be aware of the risks involved in the more hazardous sports activities. Be aware of weather forecasts and conditions, well equipped, not undertake the activity alone, study the itinerary and inform someone of your plans. Off-piste skiers should follow the advice given by local authorities and guides; to ignore such advice could put you and other mountain users in danger. Information on snow and avalanche risks is available, in French, on website: http://www.anena.org.

GENERAL

Following the withdrawal of duty free facilities within the European Union, customs authorities in all member countries have introduced guidance levels for the import of tobacco, alcohol and other products bought by visitors for their own use. The levels you can bring into the UK should be checked with Her Majesty's Customs. If you buy more than the amount specified, you must be able to satisfy Customs Officers at both the points of departure and arrival that the goods are for your personal use. Heavy Goods Vehicle operators should be aware of the revised seizure policy being operated by Her Majesty's Customs and Excise against any vehicles detected with illicit alcohol or tobacco.

You should also be aware that guidance levels for the importation of duty paid cigarettes into the UK are currently higher than in the rest of the EU. The current limit for importing duty paid cigarettes into the UK from other EU countries is 3,200 but the limit within the rest of the EU is 800.

If you intend to carry or transport valuables (including works of art and antiques) or amounts of cash in excess of 7,600 Euros, you should consult French customs regulations beforehand.

Do not leave your luggage unattended at airports, railway stations and other public places as it may be removed and destroyed by security staff. Notices to this effect are prominently displayed. No compensation can be claimed for destroyed property.

Don’t get involved with drugs. The penalties are severe, and in addition to a stiff prison sentence any smuggling offence will also attract a customs fine.

Remember where you are staying. Keep a note of your hotel address. Enter next of kin details into the back of your passport.
Floyds Direct on 30.03.05 @ 11:05 AM GMT [link]

Foreign Office Travel Advice For United States

Still Current at: 21 March 2005
Updated: 21 March 2005

SUMMARY

• The US Government remains concerned about continued threats. Since the terrorist attacks on 11 September 2001, the US Government has issued a number of warnings of potential further terrorist attacks in the US. The US domestic threat level stands at "elevated" (yellow).



• You should expect stringent security checks at airports and public buildings.



• You should be alert to the dangers of car and street crime in cities.



• The US is a hugely popular destination for British travellers and most visits are trouble-free.



• The Mount St Helen’s Volcano remains active. Some surrounding areas are closed to the public. If you are in the northwest of the US and plan to travel close to the area, listen to local news reports and follow local advice. For further information, visit the US Geological Service website: www.usgs.gov.



• We strongly recommend that you obtain comprehensive travel and medical insurance before travelling.

SAFETY AND SECURITY

Terrorism

The US Government remains concerned about continued threats. Since the terrorist attacks on 11 September 2001, the US government has issued a number of warnings of potential further terrorist attacks in the US.

The US domestic threat level stands at "elevated" (yellow). The US Government is maintaining heightened security, especially at airports. This may result in cancellations and delays to flights to and from the US. You should continue to expect more stringent security checks at airports and other public buildings.

You should be aware of the global risk of indiscriminate terrorist attacks, which could be against civilian targets including places frequented by foreigners. Given that terrorist attacks have taken place in public areas, there is a risk that foreign visitors could be caught up if there were other attacks in the future. You should therefore be particularly vigilant in high-profile public places. (See: Security & General Tips and Risk of Terrorism when Travelling Overseas).

We recommend that you also look at relevant US government websites, especially: http://www.fbi.gov , http://www.fema.gov , and http://www.dhs.gov and monitor news reports before and during your trip to the USA.

Crime

You should use common sense and bear in mind the following:
If staying in a hotel, do not leave your door open at any time.
Avoid wearing expensive jewellery and carrying valuable items in run down areas.
Do not sleep in your car on the roadside or in rest areas.
Avoid leaving luggage on display in cars.
Try to stay on main roads and use well-lit car parks.
If hit from behind while driving, indicate to the other driver to follow you to a public place and call for Police help.

Road Safety

Learn US traffic laws before coming to the country.
Speed and drink driving limits are lower than in the UK.
An international driving licence is recommended.
UK driving licences are required for each driver on a fly-drive holiday. If you have a photocard licence remember to bring the green ‘paper’ section
Insurance cover with the rental company should cover the occupants of your vehicle and any third party claims including personal injury.
Ask for directions from the rental company. It is worthwhile buying a detailed road atlas of the areas through which you are travelling.
Find out the prevailing weather conditions before embarking on a long journey, e.g. in mountainous and isolated areas where there is increased likelihood of snowfall, or in dry desert areas where you may need extra water and petrol stations could be scarcer than usual.


LOCAL LAWS AND CUSTOMS

Do not make flippant remarks about bombs or terrorism, especially when passing through US airports.

Laws vary from state to state, including speed limits and the age of consent. So does the age at which you may legally buy and consume alcohol, but this is usually 21 years.

The plant Khat (or Qat) is an illegal narcotic in the US. You will be arrested and detained with the possibility of a prison sentence if you are caught trying to take Khat into the US.

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has added all lighters to its ‘Prohibited Items List’. This list gives details of items prohibited on inbound and outbound flights to the USA. Further information can be found on the TSA website: www.tsa.gov. This ban is effective immediately, but TSA will not begin enforcement action, as there will be a grace period to allow travellers to adjust to the new policy. Travellers should be aware that the ban will be enforced from Thursday, April 14, 2005.

If you get into any difficulties with US Authorities, you should explain to them that you are a British national and ask to speak to a UK consular officer.


ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

Most British Citizen passport holders do not need a visa to visit the US on business, pleasure or in transit if they intend to stay in the US for less than 90 days and as long as they have a Machine Readable Passport. This is called the Visa Waiver Programme, and more information on this is available on the US Embassy website (details at the end of this section). If you are unsure whether you are eligible to travel to the USA without a visa, the following Questions and Answers may be helpful.

Is my passport machine readable?

If your passport is machine-readable it will have at the foot of the personal information page (at the back of the passport) 2 lines of text as letters, numbers and chevrons (>>>).If there are no lines of text, then the passport is not machine-readable and you need a visa. The personal information page should also describe your nationality status as, "British Citizen".

Why might I need a visa?

There are reasons why a British traveller will need a visa. These include one or more of the following: (If you think that your situation falls into any of the following categories, you should consult the US Embassy about whether you need to apply for a visa – you must do this well in advance of any plans to travel to the US.)

The personal information page of your passport does not describe you as a "British Citizen", but instead says "British Subject", "British National (Overseas)", "British Overseas Territories Citizen", "British Dependent Territories Citizen", "British Protected Person" or "British Overseas Citizen"
You intend to stay longer than 90 days
You have a passport that is not machine readable
You intend to travel to the US for a reason other than business, pleasure or transit
You have been arrested, even if not convicted
You have a criminal record
You have a serious, communicable disease (including HIV)
You are HIV Positive
You have been refused entry to the US on a previous occasion
You have been deported from the US
You have previously overstayed the 90 days permitted under the Visa Waiver Programme (ie travel without a visa)
You are a child included on your parent's passport

In all of these cases, you need to apply for a visa, or seek further information from the US Embassy Visa Information Service on 09055 444546 – (calls are charged at £1.30 a minute) or www.usembassy.org.uk.

The US Government has legislated that anyone travelling to the US under the Visa Waiver Programme with a passport issued on or after 26 October 2005, will have to have a biometric passport in order to travel visa free. Biometric passports will contain data about the holder’s face, and may also contain other unique personal information such as fingerprints and iris details. The UK is working on its programme to introduce biometric passports, but it will not be fully ready in time for the 26 October 2005 deadline. British Citizens who would normally travel under the VWP may therefore require a visa, which will include biometric data, to enter the US on or after 26 October 2005, if their passport is issued after that date and is not biometric.

UK Passports

All British Passports now issued in the UK and overseas are machine-readable. However, some older passports issued overseas are not. Before travelling to the US and seeking entry under the VWP, you should check your passport. Your passport is machine readable if the foot of the personal information page (at the back of the passport) bears 2 lines of text as letters, numbers and "<"s. If there are no lines of text, then the passport is not machine-readable. Further information on UK passports is available from the UK Passport Service website: UK Passport Service.

You are advised to check the remaining validity of your passport as soon as you plan to travel to the US. Although the US and the UK have an agreement that allows people travelling from one country to the other to enter with a passport that only has six months validity or less, you should nevertheless try to renew your passport beforehand. This is in case your departure from the US is delayed for any reason; if you wish to make side visits to other countries; or if you have further travel plans immediately after your visit to the US.

Transit Without Visa (TWOV) and International to International (ITI) transit programmes.

These programmes were suspended on 2 August 2003. Those travellers who are passing through the United States ‘in transit’ but are not eligible for the Visa Waiver Programme must obtain a visa prior to travel.

US Visas

All applicants for immigrant visas and most applicants for non-immigrant visas are now required to have a personal interview at a US Embassy or Consulate prior to issue. The waiting time for an interview is currently approximately four weeks.

To comply with US law, the US Embassy in London started finger-scanning applicants for immigrant visas on 17 May, extending to non-immigrant visa applicants in August 2004. Each applicant will be asked during the visa interview to place their index finger on an electronic scanner.

If you are in the United States and hold either a C, E, H, I, L, O or P visa, you will now be obliged to leave the country if you wish to renew or change your visa status. For further information, we recommend that you visit the State Department website at: American Representation in the UK. or consult an attorney specialising in immigration law.

For further details on entry requirements for the USA, visit the US Embassy website line at: American Embassy, 24 Grosvenor Square, London W1A 1AE; Tel: 020 7499 9000, option 1.

On arrival/departure

In 2002, the US authorities introduced the National Security Entry-Exit Registration System. This requires nationals or citizens of certain countries identified as presenting an elevated national security concern - including those who also have British passports - to register on arrival and departure from the US, and in some cases, to register again with US authorities in-country. Those required to register may be asked to provide fingerprints, have their photographs taken and be interviewed.

For full details about the National Security Entry-Exit Registration System you should consult the nearest US Embassy, or visit website: http://www.ice.gov (go to Enforcement - immigration) BEFORE travel.

On 5 January 2004, the US Authorities introduced the US-VISIT Programme. This means that all those aged between 14 and 79 travelling to the US are now finger-scanned and digitally photographed on arrival at passport control. The US authorities are confident that this will not add significantly to waiting times at immigration. Special arrangements are in place for travellers with disabilities.

The Department of Homeland Security is piloting a scheme at various US air and sea ports to register the departure of non-immigrant visa holders and, from 30 September 2004, people who are visiting the US under the Visa Waiver Programme. Exit procedures are mandatory at locations where the pilot scheme is in place. Pilot exit procedures are in place at airports in Baltimore (BWI) and Chicago (O'Hare) and at the Miami sea port, but in the coming months the scheme will be extended to include the following US points of departure: Newark, Atlanta, Dallas/Fort Worth, Philadelphia, Detroit, Las Vegas, Phoenix, San Francisco, Denver, San Juan, Seattle, and Los Angeles (Long Beach and San Pedro). We anticipate that checkout procedures will take longer in ports where the pilot scheme is operating and we recommend that you consult your airline or travel agent who can advise on the optimum time to start checking in.

For more information about the US-VISIT exit scheme please visit the Department of Homeland Security website: http://www.dhs.gov.

Dual Nationals and Renounced Citizenship

A recent change to US law has important implications for dual nationals. If you (or your children, e.g. those born in the US whether or not they have ever held a US passport) are a dual US-UK national travelling between both countries, you should carry both passports with you. US law now requires dual US nationals to enter and depart the USA carrying a valid US passport. They are not entitled to US visas or to travel to the US on the Visa Waiver Programme. US citizens who attempt to travel to the US from the United Kingdom on foreign passports risk being denied boarding pending acquisition of a valid US passport. Further US dual national information can be obtained from the US State Department’s website: www.travel.state.gov/travel/uk.html.

If you have renounced your US citizenship, you should carry a copy of your Certificate of Loss of Nationality when you travel to or from the US. If you do not, you may not be allowed to board your aircraft.

US Criminal Records

US Criminal Records are closely linked to databases held by US Immigration Offices at Ports of Entry. If you have a previous conviction in the US, if you have violated the terms of a probation agreement, or if you think you may have a US arrest warrant against you, we strongly advise that you consult the US Embassy in London before you travel to see if you need to obtain a visa. Failure to do so may result in detention and/or deportation. Exclusion periods for aliens with previous convictions are as follows:

3 years - After being found inadmissible as an arriving alien.
10 years - Being ordered removed/excluded.
20 years - After being found inadmissible and having previously been excluded, deported or removed (i.e. illegal re-entry).
Life - Aggravated Felonies.

Lone Parents Travelling with Children

Single parents or other adults travelling alone with children should be aware that some countries require documentary evidence of parental responsibility before allowing lone parents to enter the country or, in some cases, before permitting the children to leave the country. For further information on exactly what will be required at immigration, please contact American Representation in the UK.


HEALTH

Medical treatment can be very expensive; there are no special arrangements for British visitors. The British Embassy and Consulates-General cannot assist with medical expenses.

Comprehensive travel and medical insurance is essential; at least $1,000,000 cover, which includes hospital treatment and medical evacuation to the UK, would be wise.

For further information on health, visit the Department of Health’s website at: www.dh.gov.uk.

NATURAL DISASTERS

You are strongly advised to follow advice from the local authorities on preparing for a hurricane, and on evacuation and seeking shelter when one is close. You can obtain information about the progress of hurricanes and tropical storms by visiting the National Weather Service website at www.nhc.noaa.gov and reading the public advisories posted there.

Forest and bush fires are a danger in many dry areas in the US, particularly on the west coast – please listen out for news bulletins about fires in your areas and take all necessary precautions.

The original information can be found on the Foreign Office website, here.

Floyds Direct on 21.03.05 @ 04:21 PM GMT [link]

Skiing Travel Insurance Cover From Floyds Direct

At Floyds Direct Travel Insurance we have some great deals currently running for ski trip cover.

Here are a couple of examples of the great value we have to offer:

Skiing in Europe for 10 days is only £29.99.

Annual policies including Ski from only £52.98.

Winter sports enthusiasts are being urged to get the proper insurance before hurling themselves down the piste.

Italian ski officials are calling for safety helmets for all skiers and snowboarders to be made compulsory.

Foreign Office research shows that over a third of 18-34-year-olds taking a last minute skiing holiday fail to adequately insured themselves. And a recent survey shows that as many as one in ten winter thrill seekers have been involved in a collision on the slopes.

And for many of these this not only resulted in personal injuries, but also caused injury to other people and resulted in costly legal bills.

Add to this, the fact that medical care costs in foreign countries have rocketed in recent years, it is imperitive to take out skiing travel insurance to avoid expensive bills.

And with prices like the ones offered here at Floyds Direct there is no reason to be risking it.

CLICK HERE TO GET A QUOTE.
Floyds Direct on 04.03.05 @ 02:30 PM GMT [link]

Tsunami Crisis: 'Tourism Has A Vital Role To Play'

Event: Travel Foundation Meeting
Location: Foreign & Commonwealth Office, London
Speech Date: 17/01/05
Speaker: Bill Rammell

Introduction

Ladies and gentlemen, may I welcome you here this evening and thank you for giving so much of your time to today's important discussions. I hope that you will join me in remembering all those who lost their lives - including colleagues and friends - in the Indian Ocean tsunami and their families who endure the agony of grief and must now rebuild their own lives.

It seems inappropriate and almost insensitive to talk about tourism when so many people still await news of their loved ones. Yet tourism will have a vital role to play in helping to rebuild those shattered communities and to give hope and a future to those who have been left destitute.

May I take this opportunity to pay tribute to those in the travel industry who are giving their time, energy and expertise to help local communities who depended on tourism for their livelihood. They need your support more than ever.

Today you have come together to discuss how a united travel industry can make a difference. We will support your efforts, in whatever way we can.

The British Government has so far pledged or spent around £200 million, including the suspension of debt servicing, for the relief effort.

We cannot conquer the destructive power of nature but we can mitigate its worst effects by ensuring that we have effective early warning mechanisms and that we build strong defences and solid infrastructure while preserving the natural beauty of the environment. That is why the international community has agreed that a warning system is needed for the Indian Ocean region. The World Conference on Disaster Reduction in Japan later this month will consider how to take this forward. And why the Prime Minister has asked the Government's Chief Scientific Adviser, Sir David King, to advise him on the mechanisms which could and should be established for the detection and early warning of global natural hazards.

People travel great distances to admire and enjoy the wonders of nature. But we must protect the natural environment if it is to endure and remain a motor for development and growth as well as a source of pleasure and enjoyment for millions. When you look at the figures they are quite staggering. According to the World Travel and Tourism Council, tourism generates over 10% of global GDP and employs 200 million people. It has become the main money earner for a third of developing nations and the primary source of foreign exchange earnings for most of the 49 least developed countries. There are over 700 million international travellers a year, including 19 million from the UK. That figure is expected to double by 2020.

Sustainable tourism is a key part of our commitment to ensuring sustainable development world-wide. It is central to the developing world's own efforts to expand economic activity and help alleviate poverty through sustainable development. That is why the Prime Minister launched the Sustainable Tourism Initiative in preparation for the World Summit on Sustainable Development. And why we actively and fully support the partnership between government, industry and the non-governmental sector which is the Travel Foundation. I'd like to take the opportunity to congratulate the Foundation on the important contribution is has already made to sustainable tourism in the first year of its existence.

Supporting the partnership approach

FCO funding for the Sustainable Tourism Initiative ended in December 2004. I am delighted that the Travel Foundation is now largely self-financing, with the majority of funding coming from travellers who make voluntary contributions when they book a holiday.

I would like to take the opportunity to commend tour operators First Choice, Thomas Cook, Sunvil, the Adventure Company, Hidden Greece and Frantic Tours, who are successfully piloting this consumer donation scheme. Their target for 2005 is £600,000. May I thank also Thomson-TUI (pronounced Tooey) and Virgin Holidays for their generous corporate donations to the Foundation in 2004. I hope that they will continue to support the Foundation in 2005.

Working in partnership, as The Travel Foundation is doing, is vital and fundamental if we are to succeed. So I am encouraged that so many organisations with interests in the tourism industry are here today. I hope that you will give your support to the work of the Foundation in whatever way you can.

Key achievements in 2004

As I said earlier, the Foundation is already achieving results.

In 2003 projects were launched in Cyprus to encourage holiday makers to visit villages inland, away from the coast and, in the Gambia, to create dialogue between tour operators and the local tourist industry to improve the quality and standard of tourist facilities. In 2004 a video explaining the importance of protecting Tobago's coastal environment, including coral reefs and wildlife, was shown to visitors on arrival.

The Foundation has also developed information and training programmes to encourage travel companies and tour operators to work with local communities so that they can make the most of the natural environment and local traditions and culture for the benefit of tourists and residents alike.

Role of the FCO

The FCO's Global Opportunities Fund is supporting a number of projects to promote sustainable tourism as part of a wider sustainable development programme in priority countries. Our Embassies overseas are genuinely keen to work with the Travel Foundation and the industry as a whole on these initiatives - many of which go beyond the current scope of the Foundation's work.

Cross Government working

A new Cross-Whitehall Sustainable Tourism Working Group will help to spread best practice and information on sustainable tourism and co-ordinate initiatives, both at home and abroad. These include studying the impact of climate change on the UK tourist industry, managing a 'Promoting Sustainable Tourism' awards scheme for local authorities and working with the industry to encourage Corporate Social Responsibility.

In all these areas we need to work together: national and local government, the travel and tourism industry and local communities. In conclusion we must help each other. As we are doing in the countries affected by the tsunami.

Talking to Jack Straw following his recent visit to the region, he was astonished by the pace of clean-up and reconstruction that is already taking place in Thailand. The Thai authorities are confident that they will get the tourist industry on its feet very rapidly. But in Sri Lanka and the Maldives they need our money to help rebuild tourism. And our encouragement to holidaymakers to keep visiting. Through the Foundation the British public and the travel industry can make a real contribution to their long-term reconstruction.

The FCO, for its part, will continue to ensure that we get the right balance in our travel advice so that British nationals get the information they need and developing countries are able to build up their economies through tourism. That means helping those countries develop a secure environment for their own citizens and for visitors. That is what sustainable development is about - creating the conditions which allow stability and prosperity to grow.

That is one of the government's key objectives in 2005. And, for the sake of the 700 million international travellers, the industry which supports them and the millions whose lives depend on their business, we will keep at it until we succeed. But we can't do it alone, we need to work with you - the industry - your support is vital.

The original article can be found on the Foreign Office website, here.
Floyds Direct on 04.03.05 @ 11:05 AM GMT [link]

Welcome To The New Floyds Direct Travel Insurance News Section

Welcome to the all new Floyds Direct Travel Insurnace new section.

In the coming days, weeks and months we will be adding various articles to this section about all things 'travel insurance'!

This will include special offers, changes in travel insurance legislation, hints and tips, aswell as other travel related subjects such as travel advice by country from the Foreign Office and anything else we think might be of interest.

So make sure you bookmark us so that you can keep up to date with all the latest news.

Or subscribe to our rss/xml feed and never miss a thing!
Floyds Direct on 03.03.05 @ 05:17 PM GMT [link]