Originally Posted by
the810
I also avoid US like a plague, but there are more options - in addition to Canada, one can also do Mexico or Panama which both count as North America. I was very impressed with Panama City when I visited in January, and it's a convenient gateway to Latin America and Carribbean.
Wanting to visit Australia is obviously a must for the challenge to work. I've been torn between wanting to try it at least once and being put off by the very unfriendly image their immigration authorities have. This challenge had a potential to break me to do it, but not with the new rules
I have been to Australia twice this year (and many times before). Had no issues. Immigration was very quick. You register your passport at a digital kiosk, get a printout that you show to the customs officer who decides whether you need to put your bags on an x-ray or not. both times I was just let through - however when I was travelling with my nephew we were interviewed about 2 minutes - "purpose of visit, what's your relationship, what are you planning to do, how often do you travel together, why only 3 days in Australia?". That was it.
After a few years of absence I also went to the US this March. Absolutely no issues at immigration - the only thing that is annoying is how expensive the States have become (not speaking of tipping culture) - anyway the Euro is getting stronger again and I'll be back in the Big Apple this August.