Tropical Places to Visit without a Passport

There are plenty of tropical places you can visit without the need to take your passport. Most of these places are U.S. territories, except for some Caribbean countries; where you can use your driver’s license for identification purposes.

Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico is just two hours from Miami or a little over three and a half hours from New York. Geographically, it is mountainous interiorly and beautiful beaches on the coast. The Island has influences from Africa, Spain, and Latin America. Puerto Rico has a lot to offer, and it will make you want to come back once you leave.

Hawaii

Located in the Pacific, the Hawaii islands are another U.S. Territory. Hawaii has pristine beaches that will make you forget all about work. If you love to snorkel, you will enjoy the crystal clear and warm water. For sightseeing, you can also visit some of the active and dormant volcanos. If you are one who loves hiking, Hawaii has beautiful flora and fauna.

U.S. Virgin Islands

The U.S. Virgin Islands include St. Croix, St. Thomas, and St. John. These islands have a rich history of their indigenous Indians, European settlers, and African slaves. You will also enjoy sandy beaches, the warm water, and diving.

The Caribbean

There are many Caribbean countries to visit without a passport. But to do so, you must travel by sea and not air. That means taking a cruise will get there and back by just using your id card. Countries like Bermuda, Jamaica, the Bahamas, and others are ready for you to visit. They provide sandy beaches and kind people anywhere you go. You will enjoy the water and scuba diving if you do.

American Samoa

Located in the South Pacific, the six Polynesian islands are another tropical island destination. If you are looking for peace, here is the place you want to be. Leave everything behind and relax on the beach or adventure into the jungle.

Northern Marina Islands

The Micronesian islands are other U.S. territories in the Pacific. There you can relax on the beaches enjoying the music, food or scuba dive near the coral reefs. You can also adventure out to see World War 2 shipwrecks off the coast. Once you get to enjoy the island life, coming home will be the last thing on your mind.

How Do I Expedite a U.S. Passport?

Expediting a passport is one way to get it in time for your trip. There are two ways to expedite a passport. The first way is by going to a post office, county clerk’s office, or a public library. Not all of these locations will offer to expedite your U.S. passport except the post office. The next way is to hire a private expeditor or go to a regional passport agency for same day processing.

Post Office Expedited Service

The post office offers two forms of processing to get a passport, routine and expedited. To expedite an application will get you a passport in 2 to 3 weeks. To apply for this process, submit all the documents related to a new or renewal of a passport and pay the fee. The post office charges an additional $60.00 for expedited service.

Private Expeditor Service

A private expeditor can expedite a passport application in two weeks or less. Like the post office, all the required documents are necessary when applying. Also, proof of travel must be provided with your application.

Unlike the post office, you do not need to visit an expeditor’s office. All the information can be delivered via mail. However, if you choose to get a passport the same day, the cost will be more than the standard processing fee. You will have the option to select from the different processing time based on how soon you will need your passport.

Regional Passport Agency Service

A regional passport agency can expedite your passport application. However, you must go to an agency in person to submit your application. Also, you must have an appointment before showing up. To get an interview, call the National Passport Center hotline. This service is available 24 hours and seven days a week.

Unfortunately, not every State has an agency, so you may need to travel to another State if you choose this option. When you go to an office, you must present all your documents and fees for processing. You must also provide proof of travel for expedited processing.

Overall

You have three options to expedite a passport application. These options are the post office, private expeditor, and a regional passport agency. The post office will only offer a 2 to 3-week processing choice while a private expeditor and a regional passport agency can process it the same day. The cost for processing varies because of the quickness on processing. Regardless of your choice, you will have your new passport in hand and ready for your next vacation.