Explore compelling reasons to get a passport now, unlocking endless travel opportunities and expanding your global horizons.
A passport really is your ticket to freedom. With one, the world is wide open, and you have the choice to go anywhere you can imagine. Sure, most people don’t have unlimited resources, but in the event that money isn’t an obstacle, how upset will you be if this small document is standing in the way of an exciting adventure? Here are a few reasons you should get a passport now.
Cruising
If you plan to start and finish your cruise in the same U.S. homeport and will only be traveling to Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, or the Caribbean, you don’t need a passport. (Barbados, Guadeloupe, Haiti, Martinique, St. Barts, St. Martin, and Trinidad and Tobago, however, all require cruise passengers to have a valid passport in order to enter their countries.) These are called closed-loop sailings. It’s important to know that in the event of an emergency, however, you won’t be able to fly out of a foreign port easily without a passport. You’ll get home, but there will be delays.
Also, certain on-shore excursions require a passport if they cross a land or sea border into a foreign country.
Winning
Whether you win a getaway through a contest or are gifted a trip by a friend or family member, you’ll want to be ready to pack your bags and go! What if someone asks you to jet-set off to Europe on their dime (a proposal, a business trip, a friend using up her airline miles)? You don’t want a mere passport to stand between you and an amazing opportunity! Applying for one takes time (approximately six weeks), so start the process now to be prepared later.
ID
A passport is a legal form of identification. The likelihood that you carry it in your handbag is slim, but having your wallet stolen or leaving your driver’s license somewhere is actually a very real possibility. If you have a passport, you can still travel and purchase alcohol, which will make getting a new license a breeze.
Pride
It’s estimated that more than 60 percent of Americans have never left the country. That’s kind of embarrassing considering how much the rest of the world travels. We live in a great place, but sometimes, experiencing how other cultures live can make us even more grateful for what we have back home. It also gives us a sense of cultural awareness and unifies humanity, so get out there!
Street Cred
Let’s be honest: It would be pretty cool to show and tell that little book full of stamps from around the globe! Every time a friend whips hers out, I feel a little bit like a slacker!
Growth
Need I say how fulfilling travel can be? There’s a saying that goes, “Getting lost is the best way to find yourself.” I couldn’t agree more. While travel within the United States can be enriching, there’s a great big world out there. Start checking off destinations from your travel bucket list now instead of waiting for someday.
In conclusion
Getting a passport opens doors to a world of adventure, cultural enrichment, and personal growth. Don’t miss out on the countless opportunities awaiting you beyond borders. Take the first step towards your global journey today and apply for your passport. Your next adventure awaits!
