Invite to US teams to attend Waterloo Regional

[Travis Hoffman]

Originally Posted by Karthik

As of this morning, the US dollar is worth $1.27 Canadian. That would account for a significant savings for any American team wishing to make the trip to the Waterloo.

For any teams who have concerns about additional shipping costs, our local planning committee in conjunction with our regional director will work with your team to ensure that the costs of brokerage and duty will be minimized.

Going into its 5th year, the Waterloo Regional has always been one of the most interesting an dynamic events in all FIRST. Known for its intimate atmosphere on the campus of the University of Waterloo, this regional always succeeds in providing great value and a great experience for the teams who attend. I encourage everyone to come check it out.

We've never been to the Waterloo Regional, but Team 48 is very familiar with border crossings, international shipping, and other logistical affairs in attending Canadian regional events. If any are on the fence and would like more information, feel free to PM me.

For those who might be concerned about land crossing border regulations and the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI), don't be. Here are a few links to the current guidelines, which are quite similar to what our team has done for its land crossing trips to the Canadian/Greater Toronto Regional:

http://www.dhs.gov/xtrvlsec/crossing...s/index.shtm#0
http://www.cbp.gov/xp/cgov/travel/va...o/land_travel/

Land/Sea Travel

• U.S. citizens ages 19 and older must present documentation that proves both identity and citizenship. Identification documents must include a photo, name and date of birth [driver's license and birth certificate, or simply a passport are valid documents]. View the complete list of acceptable documents at CBP.gov for land travel and sea travel.
• Children ages 18 and under will only be required to present proof of citizenship, such as a birth certificate.

The Canadians really know how to organize and stage exceedingly well-run events every year. There are many things to do and to see both in the regional cities as well as sites such as Niagara Falls. We highly recommend you consider competing up north.