T&T: Just now

[Milt Baker]

One of the most useful terms I've found for official entry, when asked when I arrived, is "Just now."  Depending on the culture of the country and even locality you're entering, that rather vague answer seems to be open to wide interpretation, yet I've never been asked for a more definite answer.  In most countries, it seems that "Just now" can mean anything from five minutes ago to sometime yesterday--maybe more.

I erred when I violated my rule about using that answer to check in at George Town, Exuma, Bahamas, a year ago.  Instead of saying "Just now" when asked when I'd arrived, I forgot and told customs/immigration agent that I'd arrived at noon.  It was about 2 pm at the time.  She berated me for not coming to the office IMMEDIATELY.  

Lesson learned!  I've gone back to "Just now," and haven't had another problem. 

YMMV.

--Milt Baker, Nordhavn 47 Bluewater