chaos EXPOSED

I have waited so long for this day. The day I could apply for aBusiness visa. It's no longer about the "X","Z", "J" or whatever "letter" visas anymore. It's all about the "F" visa! I received all of my paperwork from the USA Pavilion over the weekend (surprised they're working over the weekend!) and rushed to the Chinese Consulate during my lunch break today.

I did everything the USA Pavilion told me not to do. "Don't go in the afternoon" and "don't go on Monday or Tuesday". Whoops. I went Monday afternoon and paid the price.  I waited in a tiny, hot lobby for two hours.  What a waste of my lunch break. However, I did get to meet some cool strangers.  Just a few Americans wanting to visit the expo, study abroad, etc... Also some crazy asian families that found out I was working at the world expo and couldn't stop spreading the news. "他七月在世博会美国管工作！” Translation : "In July, she's working for the world expo's USA Pavilion!"  They told me that I should go to the "dignitary line". I scoffed. If only I was considered that kind of ambassador! Many of them said they would come visit me. Hah, once they see the non-Asian ambassadors, they'll forget all about me. Hey, it's the truth.

Two "joyous" hours later, I escaped into the smoggy Manhattan air. I will have to repeat the scenario again on Thursday when I pick up my passport. I'm pretty sure the pick up line will go much faster, but another wasted lunch break and $10 cab rides across the island each way. Oh China, what I do for you!

Visa - check!

Onto my flight itinerary. I am confirmed to fly out of LaGuardia on July 4th. Yes, I miss all the die-hard American festivities - like BBQs and fireworks.  I will make sure to bring a bucket of Buffalo wings on my airplane ride(s) and will be flying over the fireworks! Unfortunately, I am not as enthusiastic about my trip to Asia because it consists of 3 flights. Oh yes, three.  In order to receive my free roundtrip flight to Shanghai, I must fly through Chicago - and arrive in Shanghai, duh. But...my destination on July 5th is Hong Kong!  I will arrive in Hong Kong at 9pm on July 5th. I am losing TWO days of my life!! Ahh!


Oh well...see China, this is what I do for you.




I have made a map of my tentative travel plans.


View Cassie's Asia Adventures in a larger map


I will give dates and details once I have solidified the dates and details...
After making this map, and realizing most of my trip is taking a public bus, I think I am going to die. No, seriously. How do the backpackers do this? I'm going to smell like none other- eau de toilette s'il vous plait! I can't even imagine what I will look like in my photos. Be prepared!


Lastly. I have purchased new luggage at my parents expense. Hi dad! :)
Of course they will be thrilled that it's SKY BLUE! Hey, it could be worse for them - "Dusty rose". Haha! I got the 3 piece set for $200! Beats the fake Chinese one I bought last year! It lasted me 3 trips...pretty good for $20. 

This suitcase set is not the most travel friendly for the adventure I am going on. So I am also on the prowl for a great backpacking backpack. Any suggestions?