**While now is not the time to travel, it is the perfect time to start figuring out when and where your next vacation will be. Check out our upcoming posts for some stunning travel inspiration. I hope that this post spurs your imagination and your bucket list. Read on to learn about some fantastic passport-free vacation destinations. **
Have you ever wanted to just jump on plane and get away to a relaxing beach? Did you have to think twice because you remembered that you didn’t have a passport? Well, pack those bags because there are a number of wonderful, relaxing tropical vacation destinations that you will not need to pack your US passport.
This blog will introduce you to 5 US Territories that would be fantastic options for your next vacation.
#1 U.S. Virgin Islands
This gorgeous Caribbean island group, which is just a few hours from Florida, thrives on tourism. The U.S. Virgin Islands has created a vast array of opportunities to satisfy any vacation style. Travelers can visit St. Croix, St. Thomas or the smaller St. John and explore white sand beaches, crystal clear waters, legendary diving and snorkeling, secluded coves, rainforests, world-class shopping, diverse dining, and so much more (or nothing at all). St. Croix and St. Thomas, the bigger islands, have a little more “action” where St. John strives to keep the civilization blending with nature. Accessible only by ferry from the larger islands, St. John is a little quieter especially since much of the island is set aside as a US National Park.
#2 Puerto Rico
This Caribbean island is another excellent choice for a quick getaway or a longer stay as it is also just a few hours from Florida. Puerto Rico boasts stunning beaches, rainforests, and nature to explore, exciting nightlife, delicious food, vibrant culture, and fascinating history. A smorgasbord of activities for every visitor is available on this wonderful island. Check out this blog post for more about Puerto Rico.
#3 American Samoa
The Pacific Ocean is not without some terrific options for a vacation without an American passport. One such option is American Samoa. This island nation is one of the least touristy and most remote options, a 13-hour flight from Los Angeles. American Samoa is probably better for adventurous people. There aren’t any chain resorts but instead a small variety of nice family-run accommodations of different sizes and experiences. Relaxing the days away is one of the best activities on American Samoa. If you need a little more then there are some island tours, shopping, and dining that really immerses guests in the Polynesian culture. You can also explore the most remote US National park and the National Marine Sanctuary of American Samoa. Since American Samoa is below the equator the hottest months are December and January and the coolest is July.
#4 Guam
Due to the military presence, Guam is a relatively know destination but not usually considered for a vacation. But don’t let that stop you from booking your next vacation to this intriguing locale just a few hours from the Philipines. Guam is a fantastic place to experience another distinct culture and also wonderfully preserved World War II history. Combine that with the beautiful beaches, resorts, colorful marine life, many attractions, vivid entertainment, nightlife and places to eat and you have a recipe for one very exciting passport-free vacation destination!
#5 Northern Mariana Islands
Raise your hand if you have heard of the Northern Mariana Islands. This one is new to me but definitely now on my list. Even though they are a collection of 15 islands, 3 are the most popular- Saipan, Tinian, and Rota. There is so much to see and do on these little islands. Resorts and country clubs dot the spectacular beaches looking out over the vast ocean awaiting divers, snorkelers and other marine enthusiasts. Casinos, nightlife, activities, shopping, and dining also make up the civilized area. Head out of town a bit and discover untouched beauty. If you enjoy learning about history and cultures you can not only experience World War II artifacts and remnants but also the long archeological and prehistoric history of the Chamorro people.
Bonus Destinations
There are some other destinations that I would like to mention as great tropical destinations you obviously don’t need a U.S. passport because they are actual states:
- Hawaiian Islands
- Key West, Florida
- Sanibel Island, Texas
Cruising Without a Passport
I also want to mention that there are a number of cruises that passports are not necessary for American citizens. If you have a closed loop cruise–meaning they cruise begins and ends at the same U.S. port–certain itineraries are made up of countries in the Caribbean that do not require passports.
IMPORTANT NOTE: I DO NOT recommend doing this but it is possible. I always recommend you cruise with passports because if something happens while you are in one of the countries you are unable to fly back to the U.S. without a passport.
I hope this post has kick-started your imagination with these 5 beautiful and relaxing passport-free vacation destinations. We will travel again someday so enjoy dreaming as you wait!
Happy travels to you…until we meet again!
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