Archive for Travel News
Current Passport information – How, When, and Where
Passport
If you are planning on traveling abroad the most frequently asked question is usually about your passport.
How do you get one, when should you get it, and where do you go to apply for it?
Since 9-11, travel in and out of the US has been getting more complex with good reason. The recent travel laws have gotten more strict to provide safety to all travelers. Air travel is a bit more complex and passport regulations have definitely gotten a bit more strict. In fact, until recently you could travel to Canada by simply having you identification, but with the new laws, a passport is required even for travel to Canada.
Travel is still possible and as long as you have your passport before you leave, you should not have any trouble on your next vacation. Here is the information you may be searching for on the how, when and where of getting your passport.
How do I get my passport?
Decide first if you need a passport book or a passport card. A passport card is used to enter the United States from Canada, Mexico the Caribbean and Bermuda at land crossings only, no air travel and no sea ports. The Passport book is good for international travel by air, sea and land. The process is not to difficult as long as you go in prepared. You will need proof of citizenship i.e. a birth certificate, proof of who you are, an id card or your drivers license, a filled out DS 11 form, 2 identical photos and money to pay for your passport.
DS-11 form – You can get this online at the following link: http://travel.state.gov/passport/forms/ds11/ds11_842.html
If you prefer, you can get this form at your local post office.
Photo – You can have your photo taken at many places that offer picture services such as Walmart or kinkos.
Cost – When you submit your form in person the cost is as follows:
16 or older passport book – $100.00
Under 16 passport book – $85.00
Passport Card under 16 – $45.00
16 or older passport card – $35.00
When do I need to get my passport?
According to the U.S. Department of State Travel processing times vary but it varies with regular service or no expedited service between 4-6 weeks. Expedited service will get your passport to you in 2-3 weeks on average.
Where do I get my passport?
If you have had a passport or currently have a passport, you may be able to apply by mail and would fill out a passport renewal form instead of the previously state form. If you have never had a passport before you may need to apply in person at an acceptance facility or a Passport agency. An acceptance facility is usually a county clerks office or a post office in your area. There are not many passport agencies in the US but some of the locations are: Detroit, New York, Boston, San Francisco, Honolulu and a few others throughout the US. Some locations even issue on sight passport cards such as Detroit.
I hope this helps you travel more easily. Good luck in your journeys and remember to bring your passport!
Top Travel Destinations from All Inclusive Excursions
Traveling across the globe into 6 continents, highlighting the most popular travel destination for each continent in 2009.
North America
The Bahamas wins the hottest North American destination for 2009.
South America
Brazil wins the hottest South American destination for 2009.
Brazil is a lively country with beautiful sun-kissed beaches and a colorful atmosphere. Brazil is a country that has a lot to its visitors. The culture of the people of Brazil is very diverse with many influences. Brazil is the 5th largest country of the world and it has some of the most famous attractions for visitors from all over the world. Brazil has something to offer for everyone! Here is a look at 2 of the most famous places that Brazil has to offer.
Europe
Prague wins the hottest European destination for 2009.
Prague, capital of the Czech Republic, lies at the heart of Central Europe. An eventful history, fascinating sightseeing and good value entertainment make this one of the true ‘must see’ cities in Europe.
Africa
South Luangwa, Zambia wins the hottest African destination for 2009.
Often overlooked, experts have dubbed South Luangwa as one of the greatest wildlife sanctuaries in the world, and not without reason. The concentration of game around the Luangwa river and it’s ox bow lagoons is among the most intense in Africa.
Asia
Dubai wins the hottest Asian destination for 2009.
Dubai offers facilities of the highest international standards combined with the charm and adventure of Arabia – an exceptional blend of modern city and timeless desert.
Australia
Sydney wins the hottest Australian destination for 2009.
Sydney has many attractions and a great setting in which to enjoy them. The city’s harbor features the spectacular Opera House, the Rocks (the original penal colony in Australia), Darling Harbor, and the Sydney Harbor Bridge. Add in some great beaches (Bondi, Chinaman’s) and equally fun shopping ( in the market for an Opal?) and you begin to realize why Sydney is a world class city.
All Inclusive Excursions
All Inclusive Excursions offers an array of options and price quotes from a variety of travel suppliers, giving you the upper hand when making your final travel decisions. We also help to make your travel dollars go farther because we have access to finding deals ranging from flights to hotels to dinner recommendations.
Have a favorite that we missed? Send us your comments below.
Travel Deadline Extended to June 2009
U.S. Citizens
Air Travel
All U.S. citizens including children must present a passport or secure travel document when entering the United States by air.
Land/Sea Travel
Beginning January 31, 2008, the United States will end the practice of accepting oral declarations of citizenship at the border.
- U.S. citizens ages 19 and older must present documentation that proves both identity and citizenship. Identification documents must include a photo, name and date of birth. View the complete list of acceptable documents at CBP.gov for land travel and sea travel.
- Children ages 18 and under will only be required to present proof of citizenship, such as a birth certificate.
- U.S. citizens can also apply for a U.S. Passport Card, which facilitates entry and expedites document processing at U.S. land and sea ports-of-entry when arriving from Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean and Bermuda. The card may not be used to travel by air. Otherwise, it carries the rights and privileges of the U.S. passport book and is adjudicated to the exact same standards.
Beginning June 1st, 2009 you are required to have a passport to re-enter the United States even from Mexico and Canada.