The Departments of State and Homeland Security announced today that the requirement for citizens of the United States, Canada, Mexico, and Bermuda to present a passport to enter the United States when arriving by air from any part of the Western Hemisphere will begin on January 23, 2007.

This change in travel document requirements is the result of recommendations made by the 9/11 Commission, which Congress subsequently passed into law in the Intelligence Reform and Terrorism Prevention Act of 2004. These new travel document requirements make up the Departments' Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI). In order to obtain national security benefits as quickly as possible, and to expedite the processing of arriving passengers, the plan will be implemented in two phases.

The first phase involves travel by air and requires all citizens of the United States, Canada, Mexico, and Bermuda to have a passport or other accepted document that establishes the bearer's identity and nationality to enter or re-enter the United States from within the Western Hemisphere. The final rule for the air phase of the WHTI rule will be published in the Federal Register on November 24, where it can be viewed at www.regulations.gov . That rule is also available on the Department's consular web site, travel.state.gov and on the Department of Homeland Security's web site, www.dhs.gov.

A separate proposed rule addressing land and sea travel will be published at a later date proposing specific requirements for travelers entering the United States through land and sea border crossings. As early as January 1, 2008, U.S. citizens traveling between the United States and Canada, Mexico, Central and South America, the Caribbean, and Bermuda by land or sea could be required to present a valid U.S. passport or other documents as determined by the Department of Homeland Security. While recent legislative changes permit a later deadline, the Departments of State and Homeland Security are working to meet all requirements as soon as possible.

http://www.state.gov/travelandbusiness/

For the first time ever, the 10 Disney theme parks around the world will join together in a celebration to mark the 50th anniversary of Disneyland in Southern California. Beginning May 5th and running throughout 2006, the milestone will be celebrated in all of the Disney theme parks around the world with the opening of new shows and attractions for all to enjoy.

Don't miss your opportunity to be a part of this magical celebration!

Avoiding Jet Lag
Jet lag is your body's way of letting you know that its normal sleep cycle has been disrupted. When crossing multiple time zones, your body will tend to fall asleep at its normal time. Any changes to your routine sleep patterns can cause extreme fatigue both physically and mentally.

• Stay hydrated - Combat dehydration by drinking plenty of water. Alcohol can counteract hydration, so avoid drinking alcoholic beverages while flying.
• Stay comfortable - To help eliminate swollen feet, give your feet plenty of room by wearing comfortable travel shoes a half size too large. You can exercise on long flights by walking up and down the aisle or by doing stretches in your seat.