Lesson 1 - At the Airport

Getting Through Customs:

When travelling to any foreign country, your first encounter with language will probably be at the airport. Getting through customs can be a little less scary and nerve-racking if you are familiar with the process. Here are some target phrases and questions to keep in mind.

Possible Questions	Possible Answers
May I see your passport please? Could I see your passport? Where are you coming from?
*Have you (ever)* been to __________ before? Is this your first time to __________?**
What’s the purpose of your visit? Why are you visiting __________?	*- as a tourist / for sightseeing* *- on business* *- visiting relatives* *- as an exchange student*
How long are you planning to stay? How long do you intend to stay?	*- three weeks* *- 1 month* *- until tomorrow* *- until next Tuesday*
Where will you be staying?	- *at a hotel* *- at my aunt’s house* *- at a dormitory* *- with a host family*
Do you have anything to declare? Do you wish to declare anything?
Enjoy your stay!

Sample Dialogue: Here’s an example of a conversation that you might encounter.

Customs Officer:          Welcome to America. May I see your passport please?
Traveler:                      Sure. Here you are.
Customs Officer:         Where are you coming from?
Traveler:                     I'm coming from Seoul, Korea.
Customs Officer:         What’s the purpose of your visit?
Traveler:                     I'm here on business.
Customs Officer:         How long are you planning to stay?
Traveler:                     I'll be staying for three weeks.
Customs Officer:         Where will you be staying?
Traveler:                     I'll be staying at a hotel.
Customs Officer:         Have you ever been to America before?
Traveler:                     No, this is my first time.
Customs Officer:         Do you have anything to declare?
Traveler:                     No, nothing.
Customs Officer:         Ok, enjoy your stay.
Traveler:                     Thank you.

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Now try the exercises to familiarize yourself with these questions and phrases.

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