What is up with this winter? The northeast has been pummeled with snow, and another nor’easter is on the way next week. In the midwest “wintry systems” are expected to dump even more snow before spring arrives. I don’t know about you, but I’m ready to head south for the winter and thaw the eff out.
One thing that keeps many would-be travelers at home is not having a passport. Many people think without a passport, travel outside the continental U.S. is off the table. It’s not! There are several island destinations you can reach that don’t need a stamp.
While I do recommend investing in a passport, it’s not a prerequisite for a tropical adventure. And, hey, I didn’t get my first passport until I was in college.
If you don’t have your passport yet, that doesn’t mean you’re limited to the first 48. These are tropical destinations you can visit without a passport.
Puerto Rico
Bioluminescent bays. Ancient fortresses. Rum on deck. The Caribbean island of Puerto Rico is sure to keep you busy with plenty to do and see. If you want a trip full of adventure, delicious food and dancing in the street, book a ticket to PR.
Since the hurricane, the country is rebuilding and is ready for tourists! Your tourism dollars aid in the recovery by boosting the local economy. When you’re there, be sure to go local. Check out a boutique hotel or inn, buy from street purveyors and eat local.
Guam
Slow, relaxed and secluded are words that come to mind for Guam. Life moves slow on the island, which is not a bad thing. Taking time to breathe, disconnect and meditate may be the remedy you need.
Rent a car and wander the hillsides, exploring 4,000 years of history. You may come across a WWII site, ancient villages or a deserted beach. The small island sits closer to Japan and Taiwan than the United States, so prepare for a long journey. And, be sure to check the weather. It’s warm year round but the rains are hot and heavy.
U.S. Virgin Islands
Want a romantic getaway? St. John’s got you. Best beaches in the world? Magens Bay on St. Thomas tops dozens of lists. Are you all about food? Hit up St. Croix for excellent West Indian curry. What I’m trying to say is, whatever you need in an island retreat, USVI can provide.
The U.S. Virgin Islands encompasses the islands of St. John, St. Croix and St. Thomas in the Caribbean. Like Puerto Rico, USVI was hit hard by the 2017 hurricanes. While most of the big resorts are still repairing, that doesn’t have to stop you from visiting. Come to enjoy the history, nature and most of all the beautiful people of the islands.
Hawaii
I’m not sure I have to tell you this, but Hawaii is an island paradise in the South Pacific…and the 50th state in the US. You may know it for pineapples, luaus and surfer dudes. Hawaii has all that and lot bit more.
Each of the six islands offers a different flavor of life. From remote rugged landscapes to sprawling resorts with all the comforts of home. Getting here is incredibly easy, it’s going home that will be the hard part.
American Samoa
If you want something more off the beaten path, American Samoa is the move. . It’s tourism industry is much less developed. You won’t see giant hotel chains, but you will find pristine rainforests and beaches.
This island chain in the South Pacific also has a rich culture and history to discover. A day on the islands could include lounging on the beach, snorkeling a lagoon or chowing down on delicious seafood. It’s an eco-tourism paradise and home to the friendliest people in the South Pacific.
If you’d like to venture a bit further abroad, you can also book a cruise. If you’re departing from and returning to a U.S. port, most cruise lines allow you to travel with a birth certificate. You’ll need to bring other forms of ID, but not having a passport won’t be a problem.
