Tag: virgin islands

10 tropical destinations you can visit without a US passport

A trip to the tropics is one of the best family vacation ideas any time of the year, but many tropical destinations can’t be accessed without a passport. And while in an ideal world everyone in the family would have valid passports ready at any moment, that’s not always possible − especially with busy work and school schedules, historically long wait times for passports, and kids needing new passports every five years.

I’ve heard countless stories of people postponing or canceling family vacations because they discovered their passports were expired or damaged. Even those with valid passports may find they can’t travel because their passports expire within three to six months, which could prevent entry in many countries.

For my family, fears of delays in issuing new passports are already getting in the way of planning a tropical vacation abroad for spring break, so we’re turning instead to tropical vacation spots that do not require a U.S. passport. Fortunately, there are a lot more than you might expect. Some are easier to reach than others, but it’s always good to know all of your choices. Here are the best options.

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1. Hawaii

Beach, Hanauma Bay, Oahu Island, Hawaii, United States of America.

Beach, Hanauma Bay, Oahu Island, Hawaii, United States of America.

The islands of Hawaii are probably the first passport-free tropical destination that comes to mind for many families. Legendary for their beauty, rich culture and hospitality, they’re also far-flung enough from the mainland to feel like a genuine tropical vacation despite being one of the 50 United States. That means U.S. citizens not only don’t need a passport to enter, but the islands are also easy to get to, with loads of direct and nonstop flights from all across the country. Hawaii has near-perfect summer-like weather

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Check out these places that don’t require a passport

San Juan, Puerto Rico

San Juan, Puerto Rico


Sean Pavone

Shutterstock

The approximately 200 nations that make up the world can be accessed with a passport, but even without that official travel permit, Americans can still visit some fascinating regions of the world.

Because of the current delays, passport applications are taking an extra eight to 12 weeks to process, which severely restricts people’s ability to plan trips. Fortunately, there are still plenty of exciting vacation options available for U.S. travelers with just their state-issued ID. While international destinations may not be accessible without a passport, there are still many great places to explore and enjoy.

Five U.S. territories are home to permanent populations: American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. You’ll need a passport to enter American Samoa. However, per the federal government, citizens of the United States can visit the Northern Mariana Islands, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands without a passport.

Caribbean, St Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands
Caribbean, St Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands SCStock Shutterstock

The U.S. Virgin Islands offers the perfect opportunity to soak up the sun on their internationally-recognized white-sand beaches, such as those found on St. Croix and St. Thomas. In addition, you also have the chance to discover the vibrant marine life in crystal-clear blue waters.

Top view of the poolside and beachside of Mariana Resort & Spa on Saipan, a tropical destination in the Northern Mariana Islands.
Top view of the poolside and beachside of Mariana Resort & Spa on Saipan, a tropical destination in the Northern Mariana Islands. RaksyBH Shutterstock

The Northern Mariana Islands are a great destination for those seeking a perfect blend of serene beaches and thrilling mountains that make them ideal for hikers. Puerto Rico offers travelers the opportunity to explore the rich history and culture of San Juan, as well as embark on exciting adventures in the El Yunque tropical rainforest.

Beautiful jungle path through the El Yunque national forest in Puerto Rico.puerto rico” loading=”lazy”/
Beautiful jungle
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Where can I travel without a passport? Check out these 6 destinations.

With travel restrictions easing in many countries and COVID-19 case counts down in the United States, international travel is expected to pick up this summer. 

But for those who don’t have a passport yet, don’t expect to fly off to Rome or Paris anytime soon.

Routine wait times for a passport are eight to 11 weeks, and that doesn’t include mailing times, according to the State Department. Paying a $60 fee can expedite the process, but travelers will still need to wait five to seven weeks for processing.

Luckily, not all destinations require U.S. tourists to carry a passport. Here are some popular destinations you can visit without the document.

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Puerto Rico passport requirements

Puerto Rico, a U.S. territory and popular Caribbean destination, is about as easy to fly to as any state if you have a state-issued ID.

The island does not require a passport among U.S. citizens, and as of March 10, domestic travelers do not need to show proof of vaccination or a negative coronavirus test to enter.

San Juan, Puerto Rico.

San Juan, Puerto Rico.

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US Virgin Islands passport requirements

The U.S. Virgin Islands, another Caribbean destination, allows domestic travelers to enter without a passport. 

“If you are a U.S. citizen a passport is not required, but it still serves as the best identification when traveling,” the U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Tourism’s website says. “Otherwise, you must be prepared to show evidence of citizenship when departing the islands, such as a raised-seal birth certificate and government-issued photo ID.”

Domestic travelers 5 and older must

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