Chinese Consulate

Traveled to the Chinese Consulate in Houston to apply for Judy’s “Z” visa (the visa needed to work in China).  Arrived early so we could get the “rush” service and pick up the visa later the same day (according to the Chinese Embassy website).  After a quick trip to a Walgreen’s for copies (needed copies of some of the documents sent from China to Judy), we were able to complete the process and told we could pick up the visa the next Tuesday.  When we tried to pay for the “rush” service, according to the embassy website, we were told it no longer existed, and hadn’t for a year.  Guess I’ll return in a few days, when my paperwork arrives, and pick-up Judy’s visa, then I’ll get to travel back again when my visa is completed (assuming my paperwork arrives in time).  The Megabus and I are about to get well-acquainted.

Extra fun moment of the day:  When we finished, we drove next door to Einstein Bagels.  As we left, we decided to walk back to the Consulate and get a picture at the front door.  Took two quick pictures, and walked back the 1/2 block.  When we arrived, our car was in the process of getting towed.  Apparently when anyone walks off the parking lot toward the embassy, someone is watching a camera and contacts a waiting tow truck.  We were gone 3 minutes.  Driver unhooked us and turned us loose.  Whew!  That was close!

Gordon