One of the wonderful things about the Sony Ericsson Open, apart from the great tennis, is being among people from other countries, hearing different languages.

It's a very American thing, ours being a nation of immigrants. But lately tourists - at least those who don't play tennis - haven't been so eager to come here. A recent report from the U.S. Department of Commerce noted that we had two million fewer overseas visitors last year than we had in 2000. And this at a time when the dollar's as attractive as George Clooney.

There are a number of explanations, stricter visa and immigration policies being among them. But there is also the inescapable fact that a lot of people are upset at the United States and no amount of bargains will convince them to visit.

A warmer welcome?

It's a start. But it's not enough. Please help by sending me your ideas - serious or ridiculous - on how we can get more people to visit the U.S.


photo: Mary Jane Watson / http://www.flickr.com/photos/avigon/