Friday, May 15, 2009

Lessons Learned

Lesson 1: Always have someone around who can read Mandarin symbols.

My work permit and letter of invitation came in yesterday and guess what, it was 98% Mandarin symbols. I had a question about if I should sign it but I couldn't read a word of it. I ended up faxing it to my travel agent, Wendy, in Dallas and she informed me it was a space to put my wife and children's names. oh well, I know there will be more of that.

Lesson 2: Always ask your travel agent if she has all the documentation to apply for your visa.

Yesterday, after I got my permit and letter, I overnight FedExed them to Wendy, along with a $200 check. She called me this morning and left a message saying to call her immediately, it was urgent. I did and I had not sent her my visa application, travel declaration, passport, or recent photo. I didn't know she needed all of this and she assumed I knew to send it. So today, I got all of that together and sent it on its way. A day late and a dollar short, as always.

1 comment:

  1. Stephen,
    I have a close friend who speaks Mandarin.
    Call me if you need help again and I will give you her telephone number.
    So glad you are getting all details worked out and have your ticket.
    We are going to miss you.
    Nana W

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