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No-Passport-Required Destinations
Forgot to renew your passport? Didn’t apply for one in time? Back Child Support keeping you from getting a passport ? That won’t keep you from a last-minute getaway to one of these amazing destinations. These No-Passport Countries is places US Citizens can actually fly to.
US Virgin Islands
A Caribbean vacation isn’t out of reach without a passport if you stick to the US Virgin Islands: St. John, St. Croix and St. Thomas (pictured here). Since they’re US territories, a driver’s license or birth certificate will suffice.
Vieques, Puerto Rico
Another option in the Caribbean is Vieques, a small island that lies about 8 miles east of Puerto Rico. Along with the Puerto Rican mainland, it is a United States commonwealth with a strong Spanish influence.
Culebra, another island municipality of Puerto Rico, offers some of the Caribbean’s most serene beaches.
Not to be overshadowed by its islands, Puerto Rico’s capital, San Juan, is steeped in Spanish heritage and culture without sacrificing waterfront sunsets.
Have your sights set on a Canadian ski vacation? You can hit the slopes of Whistler Blackcomb, but not without restrictions. First, you’ll need to travel by land, and second, you’ll need either an enhanced driver’s license or a US passport card. These travel documents were created in conjunction with changes to the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative that took effect in 2009.
Who says you can’t find an island paradise in the continental US? Just off the coast of Florida, Key West is the southernmost city in the country and is unlike anywhere else.
Guam is the westernmost US territory, and while it’s known for its military base, it’s also one of the leading tourist destinations in the Western Pacific. This tropical paradise features beach clubs, luxurious accommodations and world-class golf courses.
Of course, if you want to be on an exotic island far, far away, your first thought should be of Hawaii and the islands of Kauai, Oahu, Molokai, Lanai and Maui.
You can also experience the heart of Polynesia and Samoan culture in the 5 volcanic islands that make up the territory of American Samoa.
If you’re feeling adventurous, travel to Swains Island in American Samoa, one of the territory’s 2 atolls (coral islands) halfway between Hawaii and New Zealand.
Your last option for a tropical vacation without a passport is Saipan, one of the 14 lush Northern Mariana Islands, a US commonwealth. The Micronesian paradise has been called “America’s best-kept secret.: