I however, am not allowed into the United States (bastards). They calculated the duration of a previous stay in the US incorrectly, turned down an ESTA a year ago, finally admitted that my ESTA was valid after all, then when I needed a new ESTA for a new passport, turned it down again. I guess I have another 6 month redress battle on my hands (again). One I intend to win (again)!
In the meantime I'm at Panama Airport and I'm just reeling from the fact that I've been had by the airport security staff.
Prior to the trip I had very carefully made my mosquito repellant purchase. 50% deet (as advised by the nurse) aerosol (better spray coverage) 100ml (within airline guidelines). Plus a little 30ml non aerosol repellant, in case aerosol cans weren't allowed. Both had gone through Amsterdam airport without a problem
But at Panama airport they pounced on them with a surprising zeal. I pointed out that they should be allowed (below 100ml) etc, but they took both off me.
It was only when I went to purchase more mosquito repellant at the airport pharmacy and found that they had sold out I realised I had been hoodwinked by the security staff. In the current Zika epidemic, mosquito repellant must be like gold dust. I hope we can find some when we get to Nicaragua!
We'll be back in Panama City in 2 weeks time after cycling from Nicaragua through Costa Rica, so next time we are here we'll be arriving by bicycle. I can't help but notice that Panama City seems to be surrounded by a ring of mountains. The mountains of doom. I hope they have cut a nice bike path through a mountain pass!
2 days after returning home I received a letter confirming that my ESTA was in fact valid!
No comments:
Post a Comment