US visa and security system to blame for Chicago's failed Olympic bid?
October 05 2009 by Liam Clifford
The US immigration system may have been a key reason Chicago lost out to Rio de Janeiro in its bid to host the 2016 Olympics.
It has been suggested that attempting to acquire a US tourist visa or deal with the country's airport security issues can be "a rather harrowing experience".
The New York Times points out that one of the "toughest questions" posed to Chicago's bid team in Copenhagen last week concerned the type of welcome anyone travelling to the US might receive from US immigration officials upon their arrival.
Syed Shahid Ali, an International Olympic Committee member from Pakistan, made the "harrowing" assertion and was assured by the American president that all US visitors would be welcomed adequately.
"One of the legacies I want to see is a reminder that America at its best is open to the world," said Barack Obama.
However, after Chicago lost its bid, the US Travel Association acknowledged claims that the US immigration system - in particular its rigorous entry process - functions as a deterrent to tourism.
"It's clear the United States still has a lot of work to do to restore its place as a premier travel destination," stated Roger Dow, president of the organisation.
"We need to take seriously the challenge of reforming our entry process to ensure there is a welcome mat to our friends around the world, even as we ensure a secure system," he added.
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