A recent statement by the Discover America advocacy campaign revealed a 17 percent decline in overseas travel since the September 11 attacks, costing the U.S. $94 billion in lost tourist spending. The statement attributes the decline to a world-wide perception that foreigners don't feel welcome here, coupled with reports of the U.S. entry experience being excessively difficult and inhospitable.

Sure, it would be nice if we could just leave the key to our country under the doormat at JFK airport, but in case anybody forgot, we're a nation at war. Luckily, the Department of Homeland Security's US-VISIT program stands as the best way to encourage international tourism in a friendly, convenient manner, while also making sure that only "the good ones" are allowed in.