Most of my traveling prior to this adventure has been in America or Europe. Getting a visa in advance has only ever really been required for working in America, everything else is a do it as you get there.
However, when traveling to the other side of the world it is best to arrange a visa earlier than 2 weeks before you leave. It can leave you a liiiiiitle bit nervous and without fingernails. I knew that I needed a visa for a long trip to New Zealand so had arranged something or other. When I came to print it out, so I could put it in my 'useful folder of things I'm taking with me' (Mother's influence), I noticed that the information about me was incorrect. I'm pretty sure I wasn't born on 30th September 2014!
After a bit of running round like a headless chicken I decided to flirt my way out of it, a late night phone call to a young lady in NZ later, flattery included, a replacement visa was being prepared.
Then I thought it was probably best to get round to sorting out a visa to get through Australia, this was an unexpected minefield. After looking at all the available visas I found the one I thought I needed, a 72 hour transit visa. DON"T DO IT! After spending an hour filling out the form I saw that you needed to post it in with a passport, cue more shitting myself and pulling my hair out.
Then after another cross-world phone call to Amanda in Callcentreville, Australia I was sorted out. Now I have a 12-month visa, who would have thought it was easier to go to Australia for 3 months than 3 days.
With all that sorted, I can now get into and out of the countries I plan on visiting, score. Less than 2 weeks to go.
Woodie's Wisdom: Planning is a good thing!
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