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Part 2, no passport?…Travel to These Stunning International Destinations Without One (with alternate documentation)……..

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The beautiful pier in Hanalei, Kauai.

I stumbled across the following article, which may appeal to Americans (or others) who do not have a passport.

Americans without a passport can still travel to these tropical (and international) destinations. By Evie Carrick, Travel and LeisurePublished on January 22, 2025

“The US is the fourth largest country by land mass, with over 3.5 million square miles to explore. It’s home to 63 national parks and some of the most well-loved cities in the world. We’ve got Alaska for those looking for extreme wilderness and Hawaii for those looking for an island beach vacation.

America is so big that you could live your whole life without leaving the country — and many do. But you don’t need to limit yourself to the confines of the US just because you don’t have a passport or are waiting for a new one to arrive. There are several international destinations Americans can visit with no passport at all. (It’s worth noting that starting May 7, 2025, a Real ID will be required at TSA checkpoints. More on that here.)

American Samoa
To visit American Samoa without a passport, you must show your government-issued ID and a certified birth certificate demonstrating your nationality. You’ll also need a ticket for onward passage out of American Samoa or proof of employment there.

Guam
To visit Guam without a passport, you must book your flights through Honolulu first, as traveling through other major hubs like Tokyo or Seoul requires a passport. Then, you’ll need to show your government-issued ID and an original or certified copy of your birth certificate.

Puerto Rico
Traveling to Puerto Rico is different from traveling to Pennsylvania. US citizens wishing to visit the island nation must show their government-issued ID; no birth certificate is required.

US Virgin Islands
You’ll need a valid government-issued ID and birth certificate to visit the US Virgin Islands of St. Thomas, St. John, and St. Croix. According to some travel forums, the latter is not always required but is recommended if you’re asked to show proof of citizenship.

Northern Mariana Islands
Just northeast of Guam are 14 islands comprising the Northern Mariana Islands (The Marianas). Like Guam, to get to the islands without a passport, you must fly through Honolulu to avoid layovers in countries requiring passports. You can enter the Northern Mariana Islands with a government-issued ID and an original or certified birth certificate.

International Closed-loop Cruises
Another way to travel internationally without a passport is to book a “closed-loop cruise,” or a cruise that starts and ends at the same US port and only travels within the Western Hemisphere.

For example, a closed-loop cruise might depart from Miami and visit Bermuda or The Bahamas before returning to Miami (no passport required). However, you couldn’t leave Miami and travel to Panama before ending your cruise in San Diego. This trip requires a passport because the cruise doesn’t start and end at the same port of call.

On closed-loop cruises, you can bring along a government-issued ID and a government-issued birth certificate instead of a passport and still visit foreign countries like Belize, Canada, Costa Rica, Jamaica, and Mexico.

Of course, many of these situations can change quickly, and verifying this information in detail at least a month before you travel is imperative.

Be well.

Photo from ten years ago today, January 23, 2015:

It was so exciting to stumble upon this pier at Hanalei Bay. Notice the “beach closed” sign on the left, which no one observed, including us. For more photos, please click here.

Booking using a travel agent/agency as opposed to booking travel yourself…

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This was Birdie, a red Cardinal, a popular bird with whom I developed a special connection. Within days of “meeting him,” we became fast friends, and he visited several times a day, singing a special song for freshly chopped nuts. Later on, his mate joined him. He was a precious treat during our four months on the island.

Often, we are asked if we use travel agents/agencies for any of our travel. The answer for us is simple…if it’s a cruise, we use Vacations-to-Go or Costco Travel. On a rare occasion, we may book a cruise directly through the cruise line when there is a perk-related benefit. We check multiple sources for pricing before committing.

We use Expedia or Hotels.com for hotels, which can be found on our site. We use our Expedia link or Costco Travel for car rentals, whichever offers a better price. For rental cars, we usually get the best pricing using Expedia. (We suggest you carefully review the base prices for any travel, plus any port charges, taxes, tips, and other fees).

(Please use the links on our site for Expedia, Hotels.com, and VRBO for vacation rentals. These are all located on the right side of our homepage on your laptop or computer and at the bottom of the page on your phone. We receive a tiny commission to offset some of the expenses of managing our site, and we appreciate your patronage. You do not pay more to use our links. They are the exact pricing you’d receive on your own. Thank you to our many readers who’ve been using our links for years).

Thus, whether or not to use an agent/agency is entirely up to you. However, at Costco, we get “shop cards” when booking cruises through them and rewards for using Costco’s Citibank Card. Plus, we receive monetary rewards from shopping at Costco since we have an Executive account (check with Costo for details here). A credit card through Citibank is not required, but the Costco membership is required to book travel through Costo Travel.

However, there are still over 500,000 travel agencies worldwide, which we expect will eventually be replaced only by online services/agents. In the interim, many seniors or others who are not adept at booking travel online use travel agencies, and if you fall into that category, we suggest you find a good agent you can use by phone, email, or text.

Booking travel through an agent versus doing it yourself comes with its own set of pros and cons. The best approach often depends on your priorities, experience, and the type of trip you’re planning.

Using a Travel Agent

Pros:

  1. Expertise and Connections: Agents often have insider knowledge and industry connections that can unlock perks like upgrades, exclusive deals, or access to fully booked destinations.
  2. Time-Saving: Planning a trip, especially a complex one, can be time-consuming. A travel agent takes on the research and logistics for you.
  3. Tailored Advice: Good agents take the time to understand your preferences, budget, and travel style, curating options you might not think of on your own.
  4. Support During Emergencies: Agents can quickly troubleshoot and adjust your
  6. plans if something goes wrong, such as missed flights, cancellations, or natural disasters.
  7. Special Packages: They may offer bundled deals for flights, hotels, and tours that can save money or simplify planning.

Cons:

  1. Less Control: You’re relying on someone else to make decisions that might not perfectly align with your preferences.
  2. Service Fees: Some agents charge fees for their services, which can add to your overall cost.
  3. Availability: Not all agents are equally knowledgeable or responsive, so finding a good one might take effort.

Booking Travel Yourself

Pros:

  1. Complete Control: You decide everything, from the itinerary to the exact seat on the plane.
  2. Cost Transparency: You can directly compare prices and choose the most budget-friendly options.
  3. Flexibility: When you’re in charge, making changes or experimenting with different routes is easier.
  4. Tools and Reviews: Platforms like Google Flights, Skyscanner, and Airbnb offer user reviews and tools to fine-tune your planning.
  5. Learning Experience: Researching and booking independently helps you learn about your destination and makes you a more resourceful traveler.

Cons:

  1. Time-Consuming: Searching for the best deals and figuring out logistics can take hours, even days.
  2. Risk of Overlooking Details: You might overlook essential factors such as visa requirements, transit times, or cancellation policies.
  3. No Backup: If something goes wrong, you’re on your own to navigate the fixes.
  4. Overwhelm: The sheer volume of options can make decision-making stressful.

When to Use a Travel Agent

  • Planning a honeymoon, luxury getaway, or a once-in-a-lifetime trip.
  • Traveling to a remote or less-known destination.
  • Booking group travel or multi-stop itineraries.
  • If you value personalized service and peace of mind.

When to Book Yourself

  • Taking simple trips (e.g., one flight and one hotel).
  • Traveling on a tight budget and you’re comfortable researching.
  • If you enjoy the process of planning and learning.
  • For last-minute or highly flexible travel.

We hope you find this information useful as more and more services roll into the digital/AI age and fewer and fewer face-to-face interactions for various services are implemented.

Be well.

Photo from ten years ago today, January 10, 2015:

A single cactus-type plant against the backdrop of the roaring sea in Kauai, Hawaii. For more photos, please click here.

Speaking of visas…Important news for cruisers and other travelers…

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Ten years ago, we traveled to Kauai to stay for four months. Known as the “garden island,” Kauai is exceptionally lush and green.

When we first began cruising in 2013, the cruise booking company we used provided some, although not all, visa requirements for countries we’d visit along the way. Many countries require visas for cruising foreign visitors whether they get off the ship or not. In many cases, in the past, the cruise line would have local immigration officers board the boat, and we’d receive visas, one by one, in lines formed to accommodate this purpose.

Since the pandemic, a lot has changed, and neither cruise lines nor cruise booking companies are providing information about required visas for any ports of call. It is entirely up to the passenger to figure this out on their own, although some travel agencies, as a unique service to their customers, may explain the visas needed for the cruise to their customers.

To verify if visas are needed (for US citizens) to any country worldwide, click here for the US Department of State.

For citizens of the countries, check with your embassy or Department of State.

Cruise lines typically don’t assist passengers in obtaining visas for the countries on their itinerary. Still, they may provide the name of a travel document company to help get the required visas for various countries in the itinerary. However, these companies are costly, and what might be a $15 fee for an ETA (electronic travel authorization) if a person applies on their own suddenly costs almost $100.

Many cruises with multiple ports of call may require four or five ETAs, resulting in extensive fees when using a travel document service. On occasion, when it’s been challenging and time-consuming to obtain a specific visa, we have had no choice but to use such a company.

When boarding a cruise, your visa documents (ETAs) will be verified, or you won’t be allowed to board the cruise. This disaster could result in lost cruise fares, added air travel costs to return home, and other related expenses.

Here’s why cruise lines operate this way and how you can prepare:

Why Cruise Lines Don’t Handle Visas

  1. Individual Requirements Vary: Visa requirements depend on the passenger’s nationality, the countries visited, and the type of cruise. Handling this complexity for every passenger would be a logistical nightmare.
  2. Legal Responsibility: It’s up to travelers to comply with international travel laws. Cruise lines cannot be held accountable if passengers are denied boarding or entry into a country.
  3. Timing and Process: Visa processing times and procedures vary widely, and some require in-person appointments or specific documentation that cruise lines cannot facilitate.

How Cruise Lines Support You

  • Pre-Departure Communication: Cruise lines previously (before the pandemic) provided detailed information about the required travel documents for each destination. You can try to get this information, but most often, you will be referred to a travel document company. Thus…
  • Partnerships with Visa Services: Some cruise companies work with third-party agencies to assist passengers in obtaining visas, though this comes at an additional cost. Using the recommended company doesn’t ensure discounted prices.
  • Onboard Immigration Support: In rare cases, cruise lines might arrange for visas on arrival in specific ports, but this is usually limited to certain destinations and itineraries.

How to Handle Visa Requirements as a Passenger

  1. Research Early: Check visa requirements for every country on your itinerary as soon as you book your cruise.
  2. Consult Experts: Use services like VisaCentral or your local consulate for detailed advice and processing help.
  3. Allow Extra Time: Start the application process months in advance to account for delays or additional requirements.
  4. Carry Copies: Bring digital and physical copies of your visas and travel documents during the trip.

A Pro Tip for Smooth Sailing

If you’re unsure about visa needs or processes, join online forums or social media groups dedicated to your cruise line or destination. Fellow travelers can provide firsthand insights and tips based on their experiences.

Have you encountered visa challenges while cruising, or are you planning a trip where this might be an issue?

The proper preparedness and handling of the visa process is crucial for a good cruise experience.

Thanks for stopping by!

Be well.

Photo from ten years ago today, January 8, 2015:\\

A map illustrates how tsunamis wiped out the city of Hilo near the bay. A notice at the Lyman Museum, which we also visited in December, is at the top of this page. For more photos, please click here.

Five places to travel with the current value of the US dollar…Seven days and counting…

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The surf was so strong on the Big Island that we could feel the spray, even from the house.

The countdown has begun. We leave Cleveland one week from today. Yesterday, I packed one bag, and over the next several days, I’ll pack more. It’s easy to pack when we’re driving to our next location when the weight of our bags isn’t an issue. Next time we pack for South Africa, the weight will be important, at a maximum of 23 kg, 50 pounds.

Flying internationally on many airlines, the baggage allowance is two bags each, which helps since I want to bring my frying pan and some kitchen items I’ve accumulated over the past year.

Speaking of South Africa, this morning, I stumbled across the following article about how the value of the US dollar positively impacts travel in some countries, five of which are listed below.

“5 places to travel while the US dollar is strong to get the most bang for your buck

Story by kvlamis@businessinsider.com (Kelsey Vlamis)
  • The strong US dollar can go further in countries with weaker currencies.
  • Americans looking for value in their travel plans may want to consider exchange rates.
  • Here are some popular tourism destinations where the US dollar goes far right now.

The US dollar is strong right now, meaning Americans’ spending in countries with weaker currencies could go further, making it a convenient time to consider taking that impromptu trip you’ve been dreaming about.

Some Americans are already seizing the moment.

“American travelers are looking for value right now,” Amir Eylon, president and CEO of Longwoods International, a market research consultancy that specializes in the travel tourism industry, told Business Insider.

Historically, the value of currencies can influence travel behavior. A weaker currency generally attracts travelers but makes it more expensive for the residents of that country to travel abroad. Likewise, a strong currency can raise outbound travel demand but might deter international tourists from visiting that country.

Eylon said demand for leisure travel is still at record highs, but more Americans say they actively seek value and deals when planning trips. One way to maximize that value is by visiting a place with a weaker currency than the US dollar.

Here are five popular tourist destinations where Americans can take advantage of the strong US dollar.

Japan

Japan is often considered an expensive destination for Americans due to the long flight and accompanying airfare. Still, the weak Japanese yen has fueled a surge in tourism and international travelers visiting the country.

According to the Japan National Tourism Organization, the country attracted a record 3.31 million tourists in October.

As of writing, $1 was equal to about 150 Japanese yen.

Egypt

Egypt, a common bucket list travel destination, is among the countries where the US dollar goes the furthest right now, according to data compiled by NetVoucherCodes. This British travel deal site analyzes exchange rate trends.

According to the site, the strength of the US dollar compared to Egypt’s currency has increased by 207.5% in the past five years.

Argentina

Argentina’s peso hit a record low this year, making it a cost-effective place for an inflation vacation, as The Wall Street Journal previously reported. An Airbnb spokesperson told the outlet the number of nights booked by Americans in Argentina increased by 40% in the first few months of the year.

According to NetVoucherCodes, the value of the US dollar against the Argentine peso has risen by $1,589% in the past five years.

As of writing, $1 was equal to about 1,012 Argentine pesos.

South Africa

South Africa’s currency has also declined significantly in value compared to the US dollar, making the country’s famous safaris potentially more affordable for wildlife lovers.

According to NetVoucherCodes, the dollar’s exchange rate to the South African rand has increased by about 23% over the past five years.

Brazil

The US dollar will also go further in Brazil, where the Brazilian real recently reached an all-time low. Tourists are taking advantage of the record spending by foreign visitors in the first eight months of the year.

According to NetVoucherCodes, the exchange rate of the US dollar against the real rose by about 22% in the past year alone.

As of writing, $1 was equal to about 6 Brazilian reals.”

Over the past many years since we’ve traveled to South Africa, we’ve enjoyed the benefit of the value of the US dollar, enabling a very affordable stay, including the cost of housing, rental cars, dining out, and groceries.

We hope you have an opportunity to travel to any of the above-mentioned countries to “get a bang for the buck.”

Be well.

Photo from ten years ago today, December 7, 2014:

Last night’s moon, rising over the sea on the Big Island. For more photos, please click here.

Flight delays during holidays?…What are your rights and options as a traveler?…

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Hawaii is a treasure trove of unusual flowers and plants.

This morning, we encountered this article that may impact many of our readers as they go home after the Thanksgiving holiday.

“Is my flight delayed? Here are Sunday’s flight delay cancellation numbers
Zach WichterKathleen WongJosh Rivera, USA TODAY

Early reports signal little travel disruptions nationwide as millions of Americans hit the road or take to the skies post-Thanksgiving.

According to FlightAware’s flight-tracking website, only 43 U.S. flights had been canceled by 8 am ET, and another 568 had been delayed. It is worth mentioning that Saturday saw 6,357 flight delays, while today is expected to be the year’s busiest travel day.

Airlines have urged travelers to check flight statuses before heading to the airport, and a few have issued waivers for changes or cancellations due to weather concerns.

TSA reminders
Today, TSA projects are one of the busiest travel days.

Enjoy your worry-free vacation: Best travel insurance policies.

“Many members of the TSA workforce will be on duty throughout Thanksgiving Day and week, and I am immensely grateful for their selfless dedication and professionalism,” Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro N. Mayorkas said in a news release. “I encourage travelers to plan, follow TSA’s travel tips, and take advantage of programs like TSA PreCheck – simple steps that will make everyone’s journey smoother, our skies safer, and TSA’s job easier.”

As a reminder:

The TSA advises passengers to start packing with an empty bag to reduce the likelihood of bringing prohibited items through a checkpoint. All liquids, gels, and aerosols must be 3.4 ounces or less when packed in a carry-on bag.

Certain foods—considered liquids or gels —such as gravy, cranberry sauce, wine, jam, and preserves—must be packed in a checked bag if they exceed 3.4 ounces.

“If you can spill it, spray it, spread it, pump it or pour it, it is a liquid, aerosol or gel and must be packed in your checked bag if it exceeds the 3.4-ounce limit,” TSA said. “As always, passengers may bring solid foods such as cakes and other baked goods through the checkpoint.”

And yes, breast milk is an exception to the liquids rule.

What day will be the least busiest one to fly?
Today will be the busiest day for air travel, while the least busy days were Thanksgiving Day, Nov. 28; Black Friday, Nov. 29; and this coming Tuesday, Dec. 3.

What is the DOT Dashboard?
The Department of Transportation created a dashboard so travelers can easily access information about U.S. airlines’ services in case of cancellations or delays.

Click here to access the DOT Cancellation and Delay Dashboard.

A new DOT rule that went into effect at the end of October requires airlines to refund passengers if their flight is significantly delayed for reasons within the carrier’s control. The rule also makes airlines more responsible for following their own customer commitments in those cases.

What is a significant delay?
The DOT defines a significant delay as a departure or arrival three hours late or more for a domestic flight or six hours for an international flight.

What is a controllable delay?
According to the DOT, an airline-caused delay is controllable. Controllable reasons include maintenance or crew problems, cabin cleaning, baggage loading, and fueling. Weather or air traffic control flow programs do not count against the airline.

What am I entitled to if my flight is delayed?
If your flight is delayed significantly for a reason in the airline’s control, you are entitled to a refund if you choose not to travel. If you decide to stick it out, you may still be entitled to some compensation or accommodation, including rebooking on another flight or airline at no cost, meal and lodging vouchers for qualifying delays, and other benefits.

No U.S. airlines currently offer cash compensation for delays. Still, the big four (American, Delta, Southwest, and United) all offer hotel and ground transportation vouchers for overnight stays due to a flight cancellation.

What to do if your flight is canceled
Your best bet is to know your airline’s policies before your trip and be your advocate. Get in touch with the airline however you can, whether through the app, social media, phone, or at the airport help desk if you’re already on your way. It’s usually a good idea to have some alternative flights in mind when you speak to an agent, and be sure to ask for any accommodation or refunds you may be entitled to if you plan to take advantage of those policies.”

Hopefully, the above information may be helpful for you during the busy holiday season. With more and more travelers after the end of the pandemic, the entire scenario has changed, and it’s imperative to stay up-to-date on your rights and options. Although “reading the small print” is irritating and time-consuming, it may be a good resource for transportation issues.

Be well.

Photo from ten years ago today, December 1, 2014:

The bananas in the yard in Maui grow bigger each day and are soon ready for picking. For more photos, please click here.

We’re back!…Planning future international travels!!!…Looks like a new itinerary for us is upcoming soon…

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A manmade pond on the golf course in Maui created a pretty scene.

We’ve got the bug! As much as we wanted to wait to start making new plans, Tom spent considerable time yesterday checking out cruises for 2025. When new sailings are posted, they are often at their lowest prices for some time, which has proven to be a good time for us to begin booking cruises far out.

The disadvantage is that the cruise line will have deposit(s) for so long. If something goes wrong, passengers can get the deposit back if they booked a “refundable” fare, which we don’t prefer due to the increased cost.. Before COVID-19, depending on the cruise line, passengers had 60 to 90 days before departure to cancel. But everything changed since the pandemic. It’s essential to check on cancellation policies for each cruise.

Of course, if the cruise line cancels at any point, which happened to us for eight cruises booked for 2020-2022 due to the pandemic and the war in Ukraine, the entire deposit and/or total payments were refunded to the original credit card we used for the bookings.

Once the final payment is made, each cruise line has its refund schedule for customer-generated cancellations, depending on how close to the sailing date the cancellation has been made. There are no exceptions for illness, only for a death confirmed by a certified death certificate.

Right now, we are considering four cruises for 2025/2026. The deposits for each cruise are either $450 or $500 per passenger and non-refundable. Thus, the total deposits will be $4000 if we book these four cruises. In an earlier post, after sailing on Azamara, we made a statement in a few posts that for future cruises, we’d most likely book Azamara’s smaller ships with about 600 passengers.

However, as time has marched on and prices have changed due to losses incurred by the cruise lines during the pandemic, it makes more sense for us if we book all four cruises on Royal Caribbean. Yes, their ships are more significant, with more passengers, but we always had fun on those ships, regardless of the size.

We will report back with the information on these cruises, which we may book with Costco Travel over the weekend. It is exciting to be at this point after all this time.

Otherwise, we’re doing well. Three weeks from today, we leave for Nevada, but we won’t begin packing until a few days before we depart. Since we’re driving an SUV, we have no concerns over the weight of our bags. That will only become an issue when we leave for South Africa on March 1. Wow! Having this extended break from international travel certainly makes planning future trips exciting.

As for my workout schedule, I am up to 18 minutes on the treadmill and have recently added elevation to make climbing hills easier. Walking around the Village at Lake Las Vegas, there are numerous hills, which I struggled with a year ago when we were there. Hopefully, I’ll experience enough progress in the next three weeks to improve over last year’s hill walking struggles. We shall see.

If we book these four cruises, we’ll share pricing, itinerary, and details in posts over the next few days. Hmmm… it looks like an itinerary posting is coming soon now that we’ve started to accumulate enough international travel.

Be well.

Photo from ten years ago today, November 23, 2014:

It was a lovely drive into the Kahili Golf Course in Maui. For more photos, please click here.

Part 2…Solo travel…Added costs…

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A vendor cutting a coconut for me in Maui. I prefer the meat over the milk.

With such a lengthy post today on potentially added costs for single travel/supplement, we decided to extend this post topic to three parts. Tomorrow, we’ll cover precautions for single travelers, whether domestic or international. Please check back for Part 3, keeping in mind that many of these precautions also apply to couples and groups of travelers.

Singles often face additional charges while traveling, primarily due to the price of travel accommodations and packages. Here’s a breakdown of expected extra costs that solo travelers might encounter:

1. Single Supplement Fees

  • Hotels and Cruises: Most accommodations are priced based on double occupancy, meaning a solo traveler might have to pay nearly the same rate as two people. This “single supplement” can add 25-100% to a room or cruise cabin cost.
  • Tours and Group Trips: This fee is often included in group tours to offset the cost of an unused spot in shared accommodations.

2. Limited Options for Shared Rooms

  • Many budget-conscious travelers save money by sharing rooms with friends or family. Solo travelers usually don’t have this option, making private rooms the only choice—and often the pricier one.

3. Transportation Costs

  • Car Rentals: Splitting the cost of a rental car or gas with travel companions is not an option for solo travelers, leading to higher per-person expenses.
  • Ride-sharing: Similar to car rentals, taxis and ride-shares aren’t shared, so the total cost falls on one person.
  • Group Discounts: Many transportation options, like train passes or guided tours, offer discounts only for groups.

4. Meal Costs

  • Dining solo can sometimes feel more expensive, as set menu deals or shared dishes aren’t as feasible. Additionally, some regions’ minimum restaurant charges or tipping standards can disproportionately affect singles.

5. Custom Itineraries

  • Solo travelers might opt for private tours, guides, or custom itineraries for convenience or safety, which often come at a premium compared to group tours.

6. Limited Package Deals

  • Vacation packages frequently cater to couples or families, bundling their prices to reflect double or group occupancy. Finding solo-specific packages can be a challenge.

7. Specialty Travel Insurance

  • Travel insurance doesn’t necessarily cost more for singles, but policies may be tailored to individuals rather than families, sometimes lacking the discounts available to groups.

Tips to Minimize Extra Charges

  • Seek Single-Friendly Deals: Some companies specialize in solo travel and waive single supplements. Examples include Solo Traveler World or companies like Intrepid Travel.
  • Book Shared Accommodations: Hostels, shared Airbnb stays, or co-living spaces can provide affordable alternatives.
  • Look for Off-Peak Deals: Traveling during less popular seasons might help avoid extra fees.
  • Join Travel Communities: Partnering with other solo travelers to share costs, such as through forums or Facebook groups, can help.

While these extra costs can feel like a penalty for wanting to explore the world solo, with strategic planning, they can often be reduced—or avoided entirely!

Be well.

Photo from ten years ago today, November 19, 2014:

“Another boring day in Paradise.” Ha! No boredom here! For more photos, please click here.

Part 1…Solo travel…

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A classic car hanging from the ceiling at the former Hard Rock Cafe in Lahaina, Maui since destroyed by the horrific fires in August 2023.

After all these years of posts, we have yet to write about solo travel. As more readers write about the sad loss of a spouse or interest in traveling the world as a “solo traveler,” we felt it was time to raise this as a topic for our site.

While cruising, we’ve often met many solo travelers who enjoy participating in various activities geared toward singles. On occasion, these single events result in meeting another passenger, whether the same sex or not, which results in spending the remainder of the cruise together either as a couple or friends.

Some of these relationships last beyond the duration of the cruise. In contrast, others fade away due to distance from their respective homes and the cost and inconvenience of getting together in the future. Whether or not the passengers connect in pairs or groups of three or more, the experience can leave a pleasant memory of a special time.

Many times, we’d dine with small groups of passengers who’d met at singles events, and they seemed to know one another forever, let alone for a few days. How quickly they learned about one another and developed a commonality of traveling solo with the sense of bravery of venturing out on their own, especially after a period that may have been filled with grief and sorrow after losing a mate.

Many singles didn’t lose a spouse or recently ended a relationship and may have been single for a long time. Some passengers cruise hoping to ” meet someone” more easily than through singles apps, which are constantly becoming more complex and dangerous in some cases.

Today, we’re sharing information about traveling solo and, if you do so, what that can mean for you. We’ll share additional costs and precautions to exercise as solo travelers tomorrow.

The Joy of Solo Worldwide Travel

Embarking on a solo journey worldwide is an act of courage, curiosity, and self-discovery. It’s a leap into the unknown, where the only constant is yourself and your will to embrace what lies ahead. For anyone considering it, the joy of solo travel isn’t just in the places you’ll go—it’s in the person you’ll become.

Freedom to Choose

Solo travel offers unparalleled freedom. You wake up daily with the world at your feet, deciding where to go, what to do, and how long to stay. There are no compromises or negotiations. Want to hike a mountain at sunrise? Go for it. Do you prefer to linger in a café, watching the world pass by? The choice is yours. This freedom allows you to tune into your desires, learning what truly brings you joy without the influence of others.

Connection in Unexpected Places

When you’re on your own, the world can open up. Strangers become friends over shared meals, random conversations, or chance encounters on a train. Without the buffer of a companion, you’re more approachable, open, and likely to connect with locals and fellow travelers. These connections often lead to memorable moments—a guided tour of a hidden gem, an invitation to a family dinner, or simply a story that sticks with you forever.

Learning to Trust Yourself

Traveling solo forces you to rely on your instincts and problem-solving skills. Navigating foreign cities, tackling language barriers, and dealing with unexpected hiccups build a sense of resilience. You learn to trust yourself in ways that extend far beyond the trip. There’s a deep satisfaction in figuring things out independently, proving you’re capable, adaptable, and resourceful.

A Front-Row Seat to Self-Discovery

Solo travel strips away distractions, allowing you to delve deep into who you are. It’s not just about discovering new countries; it’s about finding yourself. Without the familiar framework of your everyday life, you see your strengths and vulnerabilities with newfound clarity. You have time to think, reflect, and grow in ways that the comfort of routine rarely allows.

Embracing the Unknown

Traveling alone makes you more comfortable with uncertainty. Plans change, flights get delayed, and sometimes, you take a wrong turn. But in these moments of unpredictability, you find hidden treasures—a breathtaking view you hadn’t planned for, a quirky little shop, or a festival you didn’t know existed. The joy of solo travel lies in the unexpected, teaching you that not knowing is part of the adventure.

Cultivating Gratitude

Every moment, from sipping a hot chai in a bustling market in India to watching the aurora borealis dance across the Arctic sky, feels more vivid when you’re alone. Without distractions, you can immerse yourself fully in the present. These moments of awe remind you how vast and beautiful the world is and how lucky you are to experience it.

Challenges as Opportunities

Solo travel isn’t always easy. There will be times when you feel lonely or unsure. But these challenges are opportunities in disguise. They teach you resilience, resourcefulness, and how to find joy in your own company. The pride in overcoming obstacles is one of the most rewarding aspects of the journey.

Writing Your Own Story

When you travel alone, you become the author of your story. Every decision, every path taken, is entirely yours. This empowerment is transformative. You return not just with photos and souvenirs but with a sense of ownership over your life, knowing that you can shape it however you choose.

Solo worldwide travel isn’t just about seeing the world; it’s about experiencing it profoundly and authentically, with no one else’s preferences or judgments clouding the view. It’s about savoring the richness of life, embracing your individuality, and discovering the boundless joy of standing on your own two feet in a world full of wonder.

So pack your bags, take a deep breath, and enter the unknown. The joy of solo travel awaits.

Be well.

Photo from ten years ago today, November 18, 2014:

Tom got a kick from this old Ford “Woody” displayed at the Maui Tropical Plantation. For more photos, please click here..

Travel stats 2024, after the pandemic…Is it a benefit or deterrent for travelers?…

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Exquisite mountains and hills surround Maui’s landscape.

It’s interesting but vital for us to know travel statistics as we plan future international travel. No, we aren’t going to spend all of our time in Africa, although there are still many countries on the continent we’d like to explore, and we will in the next several years.

Let me add here that all future travels, dreams, and hopes are subject to good health and our physical ability to carry on. Subsequently, now that we’re free to travel again, I won’t keep mentioning this reality since our readers know this is always a prerequisite for international or domestic travel.

Why is awareness of travel stats vital for travelers?

  • The volume of travelers directly impacts the cost of travel, but this can be important in two ways: 1. High volume can lower prices based on profits and the capacity of travel venues. 2. Low volume can increase prices when venues attempt to recover losses during quiet periods, but prices may also be lowered via promotions and reductions as an incentive for increased volume.
  • Projecting travel delays, crowded venues, and price increases can reduce the enjoyment of a vacation or holiday. Knowing what to expect helps manage these expectations.
  • Knowing stats ahead of travel dates can aid in promoting research as to ways to minimize stress and expectations.
  • Stats awareness can inspire early booking of all travel, including ancillary trips and tours, to avoid disappointment.
  • If necessary, evaluate the importance of refundable venues due to your personal circumstances.

Global tourism in 2024 has seen a resurgence, marking a nearly complete recovery from the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. The industry’s bounce-back has led to international tourist arrivals reaching approximately 1.53 billion, slightly above 2019. This represents a 2% growth, driven by rising global travel demand, increased air connectivity, and the resurgence of critical markets like China and other parts of Asia. The sector’s rapid recovery has underscored the resilience of global tourism and its importance in the broader economic landscape.

Growth and Regional Performance

The recovery has been uneven across regions, though the general trajectory is positive. The Middle East has led the charge, with international arrivals surpassing 2019 levels by an impressive 26%. This growth is partly due to efforts by countries like Saudi Arabia to diversify their economies and promote themselves as tourism hubs. Saudi Arabia alone reported a nearly 100% increase in arrivals from pre-pandemic levels, demonstrating the appeal of its new tourism offerings. Europe, the Americas, and Africa are also experiencing solid recoveries, with arrivals in each region close to pre-pandemic figures. Europe reached 99% of 2019 arrivals, benefiting from high intra-regional travel.

Africa saw a 7% increase over 2019 figures, and the Americas nearly matched pre-pandemic levels with a 97% recovery rate. However, Asia and the Pacific continue to lag slightly behind, with arrivals reaching around 82% of pre-pandemic levels, partially due to travel restrictions in some recently lifted countries.

Economic Impact and Revenue

Tourism’s economic impact in 2024 is substantial, with global tourism revenue expected to reach $9.4 billion by year’s end. This revenue is propelled by increased spending per tourist, with international visitor spending expected to approach or exceed the levels seen in 2019. A key driver of this spending has been the growth of domestic and international tourism, particularly in Asia and the Middle East. For instance, Middle Eastern countries like Qatar and the UAE have reported significant increases in tourism receipts as they attract tourists from nearby and distant regions.​

Also, tourism’s overall contribution to global GDP is projected to hit $11.1 trillion in 2024, representing a full recovery and an all-time high for the industry. This recovery reflects an increase in tourist numbers and the sector’s infrastructure, connectivity, and travel services expansion. With this recovery, the tourism industry is expected to contribute approximately 3% of global GDP, a significant achievement given the challenges of the past few years.

Leading Destinations and Trends

Tourism’s rebound has been especially pronounced in certain countries, with France, Spain, and the United States continuing to dominate as top tourist destinations. France remains the world’s most visited country, with an estimated 100 million international arrivals in 2023, and Spain follows closely behind. In terms of receipts, however, the United States leads due to high per-visitor spending. Destinations in the Middle East and Asia are also increasingly attracting tourists, largely thanks to their strategic investments in tourism infrastructure and hospitality services.​

Travel trends in 2024 reflect changing preferences, with travelers seeking more sustainable, experience-oriented vacations. Many destinations, especially in Europe, are prioritizing eco-friendly tourism options and working to balance visitor influx with conservation efforts. This shift aligns with a growing awareness among tourists about the environmental impact of travel, spurred by the pandemic and global climate concerns.

Future Outlook

The outlook for global tourism in the coming years is promising, with projections suggesting continued growth. The World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) forecasts further increases in international arrivals and tourism GDP contributions, driven by improved air connectivity, enhanced visa policies, and robust travel demand from Asian markets. In particular, destinations in Asia are expected to grow as restrictions continue to ease and major travel hubs like China re-establish connections with the world.

With robust infrastructure improvements and destination management strategies, the global tourism sector is poised for a record-breaking year in revenue and visitor numbers. These advancements will likely enable the industry to adapt to travelers’ dynamic needs while ensuring a balance between growth and sustainability.

In summary, 2024 has been a pivotal year for tourism, marking a near-complete recovery and setting new standards for resilience and adaptability. The industry thrives with regional growth led by the Middle East, Africa, and Europe, and the economic impact surpasses pre-pandemic levels. However, as tourism expands, stakeholders increasingly focus on sustainable practices, ensuring the sector’s growth aligns with global environmental and financial goals.

After 12 years of mostly world travel, we’ve made a point to examine travel trends and statistics to ensure we have a well-rounded and enjoyable experience at each location.

Be well.

Photo from ten years ago today, November 12, 2014:

Although the hills block the sun setting, these beautiful skies in Maui give us a peek at what lurks behind the mountains. For more photos, please click here.

A terrifying thought about a medical emergency and rescue at sea…See our photos…

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We posted this photo on June 10, 2015, while we were cruising on Royal Caribbean Legend of the Seas. A passenger also had to be evacuated, but in the basket, when rough seas prevented the helicopter from landing on the ship’s helipad. The patient was wrapped in an exterior covering the basket, and paramedics held onto the passenger. Scary. See that post here.

The Medevac team prepared to land while we were on a Royal Caribbean Radiance of the Seas cruise in Australia in 2016. Medical personnel were ready to act to save a passenger. See the post here.

Nothing is more frightening for a cruise passenger than becoming so ill that they must be evacuated to the nearest hospital. Often, these hospitals are sub-par and can’t handle the case, requiring additional cstly transport. With good emergency evacuation insurance, a passenger can be taken to a hospital in a larger city that is more well-staffed and equipped to handle such emergencies.

It’s imperative to check with one’s travel insurance to familiarize yourself with the process in case of such an event.

That’s why being in reasonably good health when embarking on a cruise is so important. Still, as seniors and sometimes younger passengers, medical emergencies arise out of the blue, requiring immediate care. Passengers must acknowledge that medical care on ships is marginal at best.

Medical professionals, such as doctors and nurses, may be on board. Still, they are not equipped to perform surgery to treat many medical emergencies such as heart attacks and strokes. In most cases, they can treat flu, colds, and shipborne illnesses, but if a patient develops serious complications, they must be evacuated.

Some ships have helipads, but others do not. Weather conditions play a massive role in determining whether a helicopter can load on a helipad. Emergency personnel are cautious in protecting and handling ill passengers to the best of their ability and based on available equipment.

All of this is better handled when the passenger has emergency evacuation insurance. If not, attempting to secure funds from various sources the passengers may have available becomes a nightmare. The cost can be prohibitive.

From Cruise Industry News at this link, today’s story;

“Medical Emergency Causes Three-Day Delay for Royal Caribbean Ship

November 11, 2024

A medical emergency onboard the Explorer of the Seas is causing a three-day delay in the ship’s arrival at PortMiami.

Currently offering a 12-night trans-Atlantic crossing, the ship was initially scheduled to arrive in Florida on Nov. 14, 2024.

According to a statement sent to guests onboard, the Explorer of the Seas will now dock in Miami on November 17, 2024.

“Our medical staff determined that one of our guests needed urgent medical attention, and as a result, we are making our way to Las Palmas, Gran Canaria,” the company said.

After visiting the Azores on Nov. 7, the ship was scheduled to remain at sea before arriving in Miami next week.

Following the medical emergency, the Explorer changed course, docking at the Spanish port on Saturday.

As part of its new itinerary, the vessel is now expected to cruise for another week before arriving in the United States on November 17.

“This situation is evolving,” Royal Caribbean added in its statement, noting that additional details for the arrival in Miami are still being finalized.

“We’re sorry for any inconvenience caused, and we appreciate your patience and understanding. We know we’d do the same for you or a loved one with a medical emergency,” the company said.

Royal Caribbean offers guests onboard a complimentary voucher for a 60-minute internet package and phone assistance in making necessary arrangements.

“We know you may need to communicate with family, friends, or airlines/hotels to start planning your return home,” the company added.

Passengers who booked flights via Royal Caribbean’s Air2Sea Team will have their return flights automatically adjusted to reflect the new arrival in Miami.

Guests with independent travel arrangements are asked to contact their air carrier directly. The company said it will cover any air change fees of up to $200 for domestic travel and $400 for international travel, per person.

Royal Caribbean also offers guests discounted rates for those who extend beverage and internet packages for the additional three days of the cruise.”

We can only imagine the fear a passenger and family member (s) would feel being airlifted to the nearest medical facility. Understanding the process in advance can significantly reduce anxiety and apprehension.

Be prepared. Be well.

Photo from ten years ago today, November 11, 2014:

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The lava flow on the Big Island in Hawaii in 2014 broke out again, and its first house was taken the day before this photo was taken. For more photos, please click here.