Helsinki Notes

[Anthony D'Costa <dcosta@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

All this discussion about Russia is just too tempting.  Here I am trying to get a visa to get to St. Petersburg and I have realized how disorganized the Russian consulates are.  The bloody Indians seem to be doing a better job:)  Their web sites have little information except that some subcontractor has taken over the processing of invitations for a fat fee.  The Russian government wants everyone to have an official invitation (whatever that means) and a travel agent will do that for a fee.  Here I am told that I should apply for a visa in the US but in the US they give you a visa for 30 days and I don't get to travel to St. Petersburg until Oct!  I could apply but the consul could reject my application!  Ah the joys of globalized travel for those holding the wrong passports (although in this case the Americans don't go scott free, all males above 18 must fill out a special form as well).  In the end the costs involved might force me to settle for Stockholm!

cheers, anthony

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Anthony P. D'Costa, Professor
Comparative International Development
South Asian and International Studies Programs
University of Washington                        Campus Box 358436
1900 Commerce Street
Tacoma, WA 98402, USA

Phone: (253) 692-4462
Fax :  (253) 692-5718
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