US Consulate Conquered!

..by me, that is. I managed to get into fortress US Consulate in Hamburg this morning, to get extra pages added to my passport. It was a feat, let me tell you. First, I went by yesterday evening to scope out the land. The whole building is surrounded by barriers and gates, and I couldn't for the life of me figure out how to get to the front entrance. It seemed that there was no opening in the barriers at all. But, after a good, strong cup of coffee this morning, and a prayer, I headed back to try to get in. I found that during opening hours, some of the barriers are moved, so I saw a clear path to the armed guards. Trying to look as little like a terrorist as possible, I walked up to them. Showed my passport, explained my business - and the Uzi holders let me through. Whew! Then, of course, one trots about 400 meters to a enclosed security screening center. There, you go through an exact replica of airport security: the bag and coat had to go through the x-ray machine, and I had to take my shoes off, because they set off the alarm. Plus, I had to turn in my mobile phone, because it had a camera. So...walked into the actual consulate, found the correct room, and in 5 minutes, my passport had extra pages. I cheerfully saluted the picture of GWBush hanging in the foyer, got my phone back, smiled and waved to the guards, and sauntered off to work. Mission accomplished!

I must say, though, the whole thing reflects the broader picture of trying to get into the US itself - really irritating, with lots of overkill, but once you're in, everyone is nice! At the consulate, it was a pleasure dealing with people who understand customer service. It was even 5 minutes before the actual opening time of the passport office, but people were smiling and ready to help anyway. This does not happen in German Aemter (official offices). I make my trek to the Auslaenderbehoerde (immigration office) get my residence permit extended on November 1. Will let everyone know how that goes!