Traveling – it leaves you speechless, then turns you into a storyteller

Announcing another Travel Advisor article for the readers of the Beaverton Resource Guide. Years ago, when I was in another sales job, I would visit the local coffee shops, place a sign that said “Questions? available for Answers”. You would be amazed on the amount of folks that would stop and ask their questions. Most of the time, I had an answer. Sometimes, I needed to research and provide the answer later. Everyone loved the service provided. I know everyone would like to travel to faraway places, see all, do all and return home with stories to tell. It’s very much like what Ibn Battuta said in 1340 AD “Traveling – it leaves you speechless, then turns you into a Storyteller”.

So, if you have a question about traveling either, domestically or internationally, let me have it and let’s become like Ibn Battuta, a storyteller of our speechless experiences.

Question: What’s new in the field of travel? Here is what’s new. Sometime in 2025 in the European Union (EU), you will need an electronic visa, it’s called the EU Travel Information & Authorization System (ETIAS) or if you’re going to the United Kingdom, it’s called the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA). Basically, they are QRC pixels that provide a short-term visa that allows entry and exit for a period of 6 months.

Each Country sets its own payment schedule, i.e. in England it’s 10 pounds, or $12.70 in US Dollars. For the EU the cost is $7.35 in US Dollars. Mexico and Canada are on the list to start their own later in 2025. Whiles it’s a minor charge, all of this is done by the traveler on their personal electronic device and must be done before arrival at the border. The Border Entry/Exit official will need to see the QRC pattern, along with your passport.

Is there an exemption? Yes, but only for that country’s citizens. Oh, and if you’re wondering, does the US have such a thing? The answer is yes. We have been doing it since 2023. Our fees are based on the purpose of the visit.

So, is there any good news concerning this? Yes, there is. This has been delayed several times because of the electronic devices needed to read all of the different country’s passports and may be again delayed in 2025.

Do you have a question about travel? Email me at patrick.pgstravel@gmail.com or give me a ring (as the Brits say) at 503-521-9338. I promise to provide you truthful answers to your questions.