thanks for all info so far provided. does anyone have any idea how long it takes to get an appointment at the embassy, wondering about a trip to london or belfast to make a mini break of it. do you have still have to make an appointment by phoning the £1.50 a minute line?

Also my friends passport runs out in February, 2007. should she apply for a new one now in anticipation of a appointment at the embassy in September/October or take her old one with her which shows 8 visits to the USA in the last 9 years? Advice on this would be appreciated.

Thanks again
Paula