In addition to these promotional activities. the Travel Service has also been busy helping to facilitate travel to this country. to create a more friendly welcome for our visitors and to improve our knowledge of international travel habits. As examples. USTS has: Led the drive for cutting redtape at our borders. with such advances as the waiver of personal appearance requirements for tourist visa applicants. the institution of oral baggage declarations at major ports of entry. accelerated screening of Mexican visitors by Government inspectors and noticeable improvements in the overall efficiency and courtesy with which all incoming travelers are processed by Federal officers. Designed and erected 12 welcome signs at our principal ports of entry. featuring a message from President Kennedy. Visited nearly every State. contacting civic leaders. community service organizations. travel industry associations. and other local groups urging them to begin or strengthen grassroots hospitality programs for guests from abroad.