Travel Services by Elaine

10/09/2024

🌴 Did you and your family go on a cruise vacation this year?

🌴We want to see your cruise memories! 🚢🌊 If you and your family rocked matching cruise vacation t-shirts, share a photo of your crew in the comments below! 📸.
Making unforgettable memories at sea!
💬 Drop your photo in the comments and tell us all the name of the cruise ship.
Grisilder Eleen Lightbourne

09/09/2024

https://www.msn.com/en-us/travel/tips/7-ways-to-travel-the-world-for-free/vi-AA1qgzen?ocid=socialshare&pc=EDGEDB&cvid=2fe47444dec44eaf823659abd0ab1e77&ei=11

Pack your bags for free by using these travel hacks.

30/08/2024

**📢 Important Information for Parents Considering U.S. Education for Their Children! 📢**

Many parents unknowingly fall into the trap of sending their children to the U.S. on a B1/B2 visa (visitor visa) to attend high school. While it may seem like a convenient option, this can lead to significant challenges later in life if the child wishes to further their education in the U.S. or maintain a positive immigration record. 🚫

**Here's what you need to know to avoid these issues:**

1. **B1/B2 Visa Restrictions:** A B1/B2 visa is strictly for short-term visits for business or tourism. It **does not** allow for enrollment in U.S. high schools. Attempting to enroll on this visa can lead to a violation of visa terms, impacting future immigration status.

2. **F-1 Visa for Students:** To legally attend a high school in the U.S., your child needs an **F-1 student visa**. This visa is designed specifically for international students who wish to study in the U.S.

3. **Types of Schools and F-1 Visa Conditions:**
- **Private High Schools:** Children can attend a private high school with an F-1 visa, provided the school is SEVP-certified. There are no time restrictions for private school attendance.
- **Public High Schools:** If considering a public high school, remember that F-1 visa holders can only attend for a **maximum of 12 months**. Additionally, parents must pay the full, unsubsidized cost of education for that year.

4. **Steps to Obtain an F-1 Visa:**
- Your child must be **accepted** by a SEVP-certified school and receive a Form I-20, which is the Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status.
- Demonstrate the financial ability to cover tuition and living expenses without relying on U.S. government funds.
- Apply for the F-1 visa at a U.S. embassy or consulate with all necessary documentation, including the I-20 form.

**But what if your child was born in the U.S.? 🇺🇸**

If your child was born in the U.S., they are automatically a U.S. citizen. This means they **do not need a visa** to attend any school in the U.S., whether it's public or private. However, if your child has been living outside the U.S. and plans to return to the U.S. for high school, here are the steps you should consider:

1. **Proof of Citizenship:** Ensure your child has a valid U.S. passport. This is the most straightforward way to prove citizenship.

2. **Enroll in School:** Your U.S.-born child can directly enroll in any public or private school without visa restrictions. You may need to provide additional documentation like proof of residence, immunization records, and previous academic records.

3. **Dual Citizenship Considerations:** If your child holds dual citizenship, be aware of any requirements or obligations from their other country of citizenship that could impact their U.S. education plans.

**👉 Why is this important?** Enrolling a child on the wrong visa type can create legal challenges, impact their ability to pursue higher education in the U.S., and affect their future immigration status. By following the correct process and understanding the visa requirements, you can ensure your child’s education journey in the U.S. is smooth and legally compliant.

For further information and personalized guidance,
please contact us on 649-241-6007. Over 20 years of experience offering US Visa Services.
Let's make sure our children's educational paths are clear and unrestricted! 🌎🎓

24/08/2024

https://www.msn.com/en-us/travel/news/americans-will-need-a-visa-to-visit-europe-next-year-heres-what-to-know/ar-AA1pgN0F?ocid=socialshare #

After several delays, ETIAS is now on track to launch in the spring of 2025.

21/08/2024

🌳Apple Doesn't Fall Far from the Tree🌳

For the past few weeks, I’ve been praying and reflecting on my career path, and it’s becoming clearer that my journey as an entrepreneur was always in my DNA. Many of you know that a traditional 9-to-5 job has never been my thing. I often joke that I was “forced” into the entrepreneurial world, but looking back at my roots, it’s obvious that entrepreneurship runs deep in my family.

My grandparents, Gustavus and Kathleen Lightbourne, were pioneers in so many ways. My grandmother was one of the first ticket agents on the island, back when the airport was just a wooden structure. As a little girl, I spent countless hours with her at the airport, and that’s where my love for travel truly began. My very first business was a travel agency, which wasn’t surprising given how I was raised.

My grandfather, on the other hand, was a politician who had an immense love for his country. He was one of the first on the island to own a vehicle, and he played a key role in starting the taxi business and even ventured into the car rental business.

I often joke with my brother GrGregory Lightbourne truly believe our grandmother packed his lunchbox to share with someone—who else was fortunate to take two cheese hamburgers to school at that time? Her generous spirit was evident in everything she did.

I also remember my grandmother purchasing items from Texas Supply to resell but often giving them away instead. When she ordered things for us grandkids, it would come in a big box, and she’d call us over, saying, "Come and see what fits you." We were definitely spoiled by our grandparents, and I’m so grateful for the legacy they left behind.

As I stand at this crossroads, contemplating whether to reopen my travel agency or continue in logistics, I’m reminded of my roots. I love travel, and I love booking travel for others. Sometimes, when something isn’t working, it’s a sign to realign with your true path. And right now, I’m feeling the call to return to my first love.

Love of travel, love of service, and a pioneering spirit—it’s in my DNA. 💫

17/08/2024

🌍🎤 **From Behind the Scenes to World-Class Dreams!** 🎬✈️

Hey, everyone! It’s Min. Eleen here—your behind-the-scenes whiz for all things media, flyers, and live events! When I’m not crafting the perfect visuals and vibes for my church, I’m busy helping entrepreneurs shine with stunning flyers, business cards, and websites, or planning unforgettable travel experiences for you! 😇🌟

Need a break from reality? Want to explore new horizons? I’ve got you covered with everything from designing your brand to booking your dream vacation—and even taking care of your visa and passport renewals! 🛳️🌴

Life’s too short to stay in one place—let’s create some unforgettable memories together! Ready to pack your bags? Let's chat! 🎒💼