6/21/2009

Immigration by Austen

apparently being away from people to actually converse with - stranded in lands of strangers- at least has the side effect of reanimating my blogging activities - as there is one more story to relate concerning my journey:
chatting with the immigration officer or "It is a truth universally acknowledged, that a single woman traveling to the US alone, must be in want of a green card."
Because, as always, I claimed to be here on tourist business only, so not to excite any suspicions connected to possible business activities if I mention the word conference or university summer school. Traveling all alone, without knowing anyone at the point of destination and being less then serious (see fully rested from the flight) raised a number of questions by the immigration officer.
Why Boston? - Well, that one I had covered: I study American studies and had not yet been to this cradle of the idea of America, an unpardonable neglect on my part, I thus intend to remedy (though answered in slightly less words). As I claimed I do not know anyone here - So you plan to find someone? - *laugh* Äh no, and anyway I am already married. - Then why is your husband not with you? - He did not get off work, and anyway, we are separated. - *puzzled look, unsure of whether that would possibly make me even more suspicious* - that's a loooong story you don't want to hear - *more suspicious puzzlement in those watery blue eyes* How much money do you carry? - About 9 US-dollars and slightly less than 20 Euros. - *shocked surprise added to puzzlement* Do you carry a *mumblemumblemubmle* - Sorry? - *even more suspicion* a credit card?! - Of course, and about 3 ATM cards. - Well .... ähm ... have a great stay. - Will do!

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