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Thursday, June 16, 2011

9e Ranch B&B - Rustic Cabins & Country Views

On our visit to 9E Ranch Bed & Breakfast in Smithville just 10 miles from the historic town of Bastrop, we were impressed with the log cabins, the horses, donkeys, playful cats, and don't forget Texas longhorns. The owners made us feel right at home. Head with us to the ranch as we discover a great hideaway.



Tuesday, June 07, 2011

A cruise experience that shouldn't happen

The elderly British passengers aboard the 72-day cruise that stopped in Los Angeles had all previously submitted their ESTA immigration forms for entry to 15 U.S. ports along their journey from Europe, the Arctic, Central and South America, and Alaska. What happened next was beyond bizarre, as the 2,000 passengers had to go through a 7 hour ordeal of finger printing and eye scans by U.S. immigration officials at the L.A. port. The delay forced the cruise line to cancel a scheduled stop in Honduras. Did they think that these elderly Brits were somehow undercover terrorist operatives? Just think what they'll tell their family and friends when they get home.

Photo: ALAMY
Read the full story here.
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA), which is now trying to unionize, has a tarnished reputation as well of being intrusive with going beyond what is necessary to ensure airport security.

In promoting the U.S. as a destination for world travelers, our security officials need to tone down the Big Brother mindset, learn how to smile, and take a public relations course.

Posted by Carl Burnham at 11:01 AM
Categories: Cruises