October 8, 2008, Copacabana, Bolivia
Yesterday we had our border crossing into Bolivia from Peru. I was nervous because of the strained Bolivian-US relations since President Evo Morales declared the American ambassador to Bolivia a persona-non-grata in September and for reasons related to Bolivia´s decision to de-privatize its vast oil and natural gas industries.
Since December 2007 Bolivia has required that Americans obtain a visa and pay a fee of US $100. We are also required to bring a plethora of paperwork to the border, to show that we are not trying to emigrate to Bolivia, the poorest nation in South America.
The rationale? Supposedly "reciprocity" for treatment of Bolivians who are trying to enter the United States on visas. While this theory may hold some water, most developed countries, i.e. Canada and European countries, have stringent requirements for people entering from Bolvia or other developing countries. Yet citizens from other developed countries are not required to pay for visas or provide paperwork to enter Bolivia. My theory is that President Morales "hearts" americanos.
As we entered the border station, after passing through Peru immigration, the border officials said gleefully "americanos!" All other people were already on our bus, Europeans, Israelis, Canadians, and Peruvians . . . not having to go through the visa process. But, all in all the process, though lengthy, went very smoothly.
Since arriving in Bolivia, we have found people to be completely hospitable and kind--a welcome reminder that politics are not necessarily a representation of the people. Something both Presidents Bush and Morales should keep in mind.
Note: to fellow travelers--make sure to have all documentation photocopied and check the Bolivian embassy´s information before heading to the border!
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