If you're a US citizen, you're in a pretty good position to travel the world, as your passport allows you to visit up to 189 countries without a visa. However, to enter most of them, you still need a valid passport, and it's best to take care of this well in advance. In this blog post, we'll cover the formalities involved in obtaining a US passport and suggest 7 fantastic travel destinations you can visit visa-free. So, off to new horizons!
How To Obtain A Passport
If you apply for a passport for the
first time, here are the steps to take:
- Fill
your form DS-11 on the government website and print it on a single-sided
paper.
- Prepare
your birth certificate and its photocopy to prove your US citizenship.
- Prepare an ID with a photo, i.e. your driver’s license, and make its photocopy.
- Make a photo meeting the following requirements:
●
2 inches by 2 inches (51 x 51 mm)
with the head centered;
●
white or white-off plain background
with no shadows;
●
good quality, sharp photo with
natural colors;
●
direct head position and neutral
facial expression;
●
eyes and face fully visible, bare
head except for religious or medical reasons.
Your ID
photo must be taken within the last 6 months. You can do it in post offices,
libraries or local government offices which accept passport applications, at a
photo service or even at home, which is the cheapest and the simplest way of
all. Just ask someone for help (selfies are not accepted), find a white wall
and get an easy-to-use passport size photo
maker to crop and print your perfect
passport photo in mere seconds.
- Pay
your application and acceptance fees. The application fee for a passport
book for an adult is $130.
Note that you can apply for a passport card as well. It costs $30 only,
but is not valid for international flights. But this is a form of passport useful to fly
domestically or to cross the border by land or sea.
- Submit your application in a passport acceptance facility or at a passport agency if you need it in a short delay (less than 3 weeks).
Normally,
you should count from 6 to 8 weeks to obtain your passport. Meanwhile, you can
choose your destination from dozens of visa-free countries for US
passport holders.
Here are some ideas for you.
7 Amazing Visa-free Countries For US
Citizens
We’ll start with destinations close
to the USA, then we’ll move overseas to give you a glimpse of 7 of the
uncountable amazing places of our beautiful planet.
1.
Mexico, North America
Mexico, a vibrant fusion of ancient
civilizations and contemporary culture, welcomes visitors with its stunning
landscapes, diverse culinary delights like Beef Birria Tacos, Chiles en Nogada
or Guacamole, and rich heritage. The majestic Mayan ruins, beautiful beaches of
Cancun, bustling metropolis of Mexico City, and the lively Day of the Dead
celebrations make Mexico a captivating destination worth exploring.
2.
Bahamas, Caribbean
The Bahamas, an idyllic Caribbean
archipelago, offers the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. Famous for
its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, rich marine life, and warm
hospitality, it's a paradise for sun-seekers, snorkelers, and boating enthusiasts.
The colorful local culture, delectable cuisine, and vibrant festivals make the
Bahamas an enticing destination.
3.
Peru, South America
Peru, a South American gem, presents
a rich tapestry of ancient Incan heritage, diverse landscapes, and vibrant
culture. It's home to the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu, the biodiversity hotbed
of the Amazon Rainforest, the former Incan capital Cuzco which is a UNESCO
World Heritage site, filled with colonial buildings, ancient ruins, and
bustling markets, the world's highest navigable lake Titicaca and the culinary
capital, Lima.
4.
Philippines, Asia
Consisting of almost 7000 islands,
The Philippines offers stunning natural wonders, including the famous Puerto
Princesa Underground River and the picturesque islands of Boracay and Palawan.
Besides, the country is known for its warm and friendly locals, who speak
English fluently. Additionally, the Philippines is an affordable destination,
offering great value for money, whether it's for accommodations, dining, or
activities.
5.
France, Europe
France is known worldwide for its
incredible architecture and world-class museums. Aside from iconic attractions
of Paris like the Louvre or the Eiffel Tower, every region offers its gems.
From the picturesque French Riviera to the charming countryside of Provence,
each corner provides diverse landscapes, vibrant dining and shopping scenes and
culinary delights, including exquisite pastries, cheeses, and wines, making it
a paradise for food enthusiasts.
6.
Kenya, Africa
Kenya offers a unique and diverse
travel experience for nature lovers. With its magnificent wildlife, including
the Big Five, and world-renowned national parks like the Masai Mara, visitors
can witness incredible animal migrations and go on thrilling safari adventures.
Kenya's stunning landscapes, from the Rift Valley to beautiful beaches along
the Indian Ocean, provide breathtaking scenery and great opportunities for
outdoor activities like hiking and hot air ballooning.
7.
Norway, Europe
Whether seeking outdoor adventures,
cultural immersion, or simply awe-inspiring scenery, Norway captivates tourists
with its stunning natural beauty, including fjords, mountains, and the
mesmerizing Northern Lights, and its vibrant cities like Oslo and Bergen, where
visitors can immerse themselves in rich cultural experiences, from exploring
museums and historical sites to enjoying the renowned Scandinavian design and
culinary specialities.
