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.

Part 1, no passport?…Why do some Americans (or citizens of other countries) refuse to get a passport?..

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United States of America passport book on a table

The reluctance of some travelers to get a passport often boils down to a combination of practicality, misconceptions, and personal preferences. Here are a few common reasons:

1. Contentment with Domestic Travel

Many people live in countries like the US, which offer diverse landscapes, cultures, and experiences within their borders. From tropical beaches to snowy mountains, domestic travel can fulfill many people’s wanderlust without international exploration.

For example, Someone living in the US might see no reason to get a passport when they can visit the Grand Canyon, New York City, and Hawaii without leaving the country.

2. Perceived Complexity or Cost

Getting a passport involves fees, paperwork, and time. The process may seem daunting or unnecessary for some if they don’t immediately need international travel.

Reflection: “Why spend money on a passport I may never use?” is a sentiment some hold, particularly if international travel feels like a distant dream.

3. Fear of the Unknown

International travel often involves navigating foreign languages, currencies, and customs. For some, this can feel overwhelming or intimidating.

Example: Someone might avoid getting a passport because they worry about culture shock or feeling out of place abroad.

4. Attachment to Routine and Comfort

Some people value the familiarity of their home environment and are hesitant to venture too far from what they know.

Reflection: “Why leave the comforts of home when everything I need is right here?” is a thought that may discourage passport applications.

5. Lack of Motivation or Time

If international travel isn’t a priority, getting a passport often falls to the bottom of the to-do list.

Example: A busy schedule or a lack of interest in far-flung destinations can make obtaining a passport feel unnecessary.

6. Misconceptions About Travel

Some might believe that international travel is only for the wealthy or adventurous, which can create a psychological barrier to obtaining a passport.

Reflection: Shifting this mindset often starts with education and exposure to stories of travelers from all walks of life.

7. Unrealized Opportunities

For those who have never experienced international travel, the value of a passport might not be immediately evident. However, once people travel abroad, they often realize how enriching it can be and wish they had started sooner.

While these reasons might make sense to those holding them, the beauty of having a passport is that it represents freedom and possibility—even if you don’t use it immediately. For those already in love with travel, encouraging someone to get a passport often starts with sharing the transformative experiences it can unlock.

Suppose you don’t have a passport and hesitate to apply for one, apprehensive of the process. In that case, you can get assistance from a passport processing company (added fees), local governmental offices, and FedEx and UPS stores (added fees).

Tomorrow, in Part 2, we will share some destinations outside the US that don’t require passports for entry. Please check back.

Be well.

Photo from ten years ago today, January 22, 2015:

The mountains in Kauai exhibit a hazy cast even on sunny days, most likely due to low-lying clouds and humidity from vegetation. For more photos, please click here.

Finally back!…

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The pool at the Makai Country Club in Kauai, which we joined as social members ten years ago.

While in an Uber, leaving Richard’s home after dinner and football on January 5, about five minutes into the drive, the driver announced she was sick but working anyway. She bemoaned her passengers who didn’t wear a mask when they were sick, and yet there she was, sick and not wearing a mask. We didn’t leave her a tip.

When we returned to the condo, I looked up the most current flu and virus incubation periods. Most were up to 14 days from exposure. Nine days later, last Monday, I awoke with a “tickle in my throat.” I hoped it was just a by-product of the dry air, typical in Las Vegas this time of year. But no such luck.

By the end of the day, I was coughing, sneezing, and feeling extreme body pain, worse than when we had COVID-19 in April 2023 while on a cruise, which upended months of travel plans. There was no need to get a test or go to a doctor. I decided to let it run its course. We had nowhere to go, and I could rest and get better.

I won’t go into all the gory details, but it’s been challenging, and there was no way I had the wherewithal to prepare a post. I had a fever for six days. Today, day 9, I felt well enough to write a short post after countless thoughtful inquiries and well wishes, for which we thank our kind readers.

I wish I had the oomph to write an interesting and informative post about travel, but it’s taking all I can muster to write this. Thank God Tom hasn’t got it, and he’s done a great job taking care of me. He should be home-free if he can make it through the next five days or so. Oh yeah…he’s already home free. Duh!

Until this is over, we will do short posts and crank up the creativity as I improve. Thanks for your kindness and consideration.

Be well.

Photo from ten years ago today, January 21, 2015:

We joined the Makai Golf Club, a social membership only, so I could use the small fitness center, which had everything I needed, the pool, and we could dine at the club restaurant. For more photos, please click here.

Part 2…Nervous about flying?…What are the most turbulent flights worldwide, outside the US?…

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Kauai is truly the “garden island” with its lush greenery.

Factors like weather patterns, jet streams, and geographic features such as mountains or large bodies of water typically cause turbulence on flights. While turbulence can happen anywhere, some regions outside the U.S. are particularly known for it due to their unique atmospheric and geographic conditions. Here’s a list of some of the most turbulent areas globally:

1. Himalayan Region (Asia)

  • Why it’s turbulent: The towering peaks of the Himalayas create intense wind patterns and strong updrafts. The jet stream often passes over this area, adding to the instability.
  • Notable routes: Flights over or near Nepal, Bhutan, or northern India often encounter significant turbulence.

2. Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ)

  • Why it’s turbulent: This area, located near the equator, is where trade winds from both hemispheres meet, creating significant convective activity and thunderstorms.
  • Notable routes: Flights over Central Africa, the Indian Ocean, and parts of Southeast Asia.

3. Andes Mountain Range (South America)

  • Why it’s turbulent: The Andes create wind patterns that can lead to mountain waves and severe turbulence.
  • Notable routes: Flights over Peru, Chile, and Argentina.

4. North Atlantic Ocean

  • Why it’s turbulent: This region is notorious for strong jet streams and rapidly changing weather patterns, especially during winter.
  • Notable routes: Transatlantic flights between North America and Europe.

5. South China Sea

  • Why it’s turbulent: The combination of tropical storms, typhoons, and shifting weather patterns can create rough conditions.
  • Notable routes: Flights over Southeast Asia, particularly routes between China, the Philippines, and Malaysia.

6. Tasman Sea (Between Australia and New Zealand)

  • Why it’s turbulent: This area is subject to strong westerly winds and frequent weather disturbances.
  • Notable routes: Flights between Australia and New Zealand.

7. Alps (Europe)

  • Why it’s turbulent: Similar to other mountainous regions, the Alps create turbulent air currents due to their high altitude and proximity to jet streams.
  • Notable routes: Flights over Central Europe, especially near Switzerland, Austria, and Italy.

8. Caribbean

  • Why it’s turbulent: This region is prone to tropical storms, hurricanes, and trade wind-driven turbulence.
  • Notable routes: Flights between islands or from the Caribbean to Central and South America.

Tips for Flying in Turbulent Regions:

  • Choose morning flights: Turbulence is often milder earlier in the day.
  • Sit over the wings: This is the most stable part of the plane.
  • Follow instructions: Always fasten your seatbelt when advised.

These regions may have rough patches, but commercial aircraft and pilots are trained to handle turbulence, ensuring passenger safety.

Over the years of international travel, we’ve experienced countless instances of wild turbulence. We stayed buckled into our seats and were fine in each case.

Be well.
Photo from ten years ago today, January 15, 2015:

View of the beautiful grounds at the hotel where we stayed in Hilo on our way to Kauai. For more photos, please click here.

Part 1…Nervous about flying?…Most turbulent flights in the US…

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The scenery on the Big Island, Hawaii, never ceased to amaze us.

As the California wildfires continue, my sister Julie, who lives in Brentwood, waits for another evacuation notice. The first notice took her and her roommate to a friend’s home, and they were able to return days later. However, they could be evacuating again with more high winds predicted for today and tomorrow.

The stress and horror about this unimaginable situation for all the residents who’ve lost loved ones, their homes, and all of their belongings is hard to fathom. We send love and prayers to everyone impacted by this devastation.

It seems insignificant to discuss anything other than the devastation of these times, but life goes on for the rest of us, albeit with an added awareness of how fragile our lives are. Anything can happen at any time. Although we continue with our usual posts about our lives and travel, that doesn’t mean we are not continually thinking and praying for everyone involved, including the brave and relentless firefighters and first responders who sacrifice so much to help.

Today’s and tomorrow’s stories focus on air turbulence during fights, which appears more frequently in the news and videos than ever before. Is turbulence getting worse? I don’t assume so. However, with more people making videos during flights, posting comments online, and receiving increased exposure from the media, it seems so.

Below is a list of air turbulence that is most prevalent when flying over certain areas in the US, and tomorrow’s post will include details of air turbulence in flights outside the US. Please check back,

Turbulence on flights in the US can vary depending on weather patterns, geography, and the time of year. However, some regions and routes are notoriously more turbulent due to jet streams, mountain ranges, and seasonal weather systems. Here are the most turbulent areas and flights in the US:

1. Flights Over the Rocky Mountains

  • Why Turbulent: The Rockies cause significant atmospheric disturbances, particularly mountain wave turbulence. Winds flow over the mountains, creating air currents that can result in turbulence.
  • Notable Routes: Flights between Denver (DEN) and cities like Salt Lake City (SLC), Seattle (SEA), or San Francisco (SFO) often experience turbulence.

2. Northeastern Corridor

  • Why Turbulent: This area frequently encounters strong jet streams, especially during the winter. Nor’easters and storms can add to the instability.
  • Notable Routes: Flights between New York (JFK/LGA) and Boston (BOS), Washington D.C. (DCA/IAD), or Philadelphia (PHL).

3. Flights Over the Midwest

  • Why Turbulent: Thunderstorms are common in the Midwest during spring and summer, leading to convective turbulence. Tornado-prone areas can also experience atmospheric instability.
  • Notable Routes: Chicago (ORD/MDW) to Kansas City (MCI) or Minneapolis (MSP).

4. Southern US Flights

  • Why Turbulent: Warm, moist air over the Gulf of Mexico combines with seasonal storms, leading to turbulence. Hurricanes during the summer and fall add to this risk.
  • Notable Routes: Flights along the Gulf Coast, including Houston (IAH) to Miami (MIA).

5. West Coast Flights

  • Why Turbulent: Winds coming off the Pacific Ocean combined with the Sierra Nevada and coastal mountains create turbulence, especially in the Bay Area and Southern California.
  • Notable Routes: San Francisco (SFO) or Los Angeles (LAX) to Seattle (SEA) or Las Vegas (LAS).

6. Hawaiian Flights

  • Why Turbulent: Flights to and from Hawaii cross the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ), where trade winds and storms can cause turbulence.
  • Notable Routes: Flights from the mainland US (LAX, SFO) to Honolulu (HNL).

7. Alaskan Routes

  • Why Turbulent: Mountainous terrain, strong winds, and storms in this region make flights to Alaska particularly bumpy.
  • Notable Routes: Anchorage (ANC) to Seattle (SEA) or Fairbanks (FAI).

Tips for Managing Turbulence

  • Seat Selection: Sitting over the wings (near the plane’s center of gravity) can reduce the sensation of turbulence.
  • Flight Timing: Morning flights typically experience less turbulence due to more stable air.
  • Preparation: Buckle up and stay informed about weather patterns before your flight.

Hopefully, your next flight will be turbulence-free. Most often, flying over the Atlantic Ocean, like we will in 46 days on March 1, results in a fair amount of turbulence. Oh dear.

Be well.

Photo from ten years ago today, January 14, 2015:

Sunrise reflections are taken from what Tom called the “birdhouse” on the Big Island, where we had the family get-together. Click on the link to see our final expenses for that event here.

We’re back after a wonderful weekend…Big changes I’ve made…

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The Speakeasy in the Village in Lake Las Vegas has a hidden room, which can be accessed by moving a section of this bookcase, typical of speakeasies in the 1920s.
Ah, it’s a good Monday for several reasons. We have secured the house in Penguin, Tasmania, for next March and April; our laundry is washed and dried; tonight’s dinner is prepped except for the salad I’ll make soon; and this morning, when I weighed myself, I realized I had lost 5 pounds in the past month.

Since I took all those heart rhythm drugs, I gained weight when my body slowed down so much that I was barely able to move. Once we arrived here almost a month ago, I went on a rampage to get fit and lose the 20 pounds I’d gained in the past 18 months from sheer inactivity and perhaps overeating (still low carb) to soothe my weary state of mind and body.

We sat at this bar while we enjoyed our drinks and later moved to the quaint dining room for dinner, shown below,

On several occasions in the past 18 months, I mentioned trying to lose weight, but I failed miserably when the weight just wouldn’t come off. I knew I had to make adjustments in my workout routine, which wasn’t vigorous enough, and reduce the “amounts” of foods I was eating, not so much related to “what” I was eating since my diet already consisted of eating salads and healthy non-starchy vegetables, fish chicken and beef and Greek unsweetened yogurt.

A grand piano was to the far right in this quaint dining room where we enjoyed our dinner.

I knew I had to adjust the above to lose weight. Here’s what I did that finally resulted in losing 5 pounds, most of which was in the past two weeks:

FOOD

  1. I reduced the amount of yogurt I ate. I’d often have some for breakfast and more as a snack after dinner. Too much dairy prevented me from losing weight.
  2. Stop eating anything once I was done with dinner. We usually eat around 5:00 pm, and once I take the last bite, I don’t eat another morsel until breakfast the next day, usually around 10:00 am. That provides me with at least a 16-hour fasting window each day.
  3. If I feel like having a glass of wine, I have it at 3:00 pm and sip it until dinner. After dinner, I only drink water or unsweetened iced tea. At first, I felt hungry a few hours after dinner, but I fought off the temptation to have something, and soon the hunger dissipated.
  4. I reduced the amount of salad I ate with dinner each night. I ate too much salad to get full when I was not eating any starchy side dishes, which made my digestion uncomfortable. Now, after dinner, I don’t feel uncomfortably full.
  5. Tom’s bacon cheeseburger and shoestring fries as we dined in the dining room.

    My Caesar salad was topped with a good-sized blackened salmon fillet. It was delicious after I picked off the croutons I’d asked to be excluded but didn’t make a fuss when they weren’t removed.

EXERCISE:

  1. I changed my exercise routine, knowing I wouldn’t have any exercise equipment when we arrived in South Africa. Five days a week, I do a routine of walking indoors while stopping every two minutes to do various heart-pounding exercises, continuing for 12 minutes. It’s the most conducive way to get my heart rate up sufficiently to do my heart some good. Walking alone isn’t enough. My 76-year-old knees don’t invite running or walking at a fast pace.
  2. Two days a week, I use the exercise bike in the fitness center, biking as fast as I can in intervals of the highest resistance, such as in HIIT (high-intensity interval training) for 15 minutes. On February 1st, I will wean myself off the bike and increase the indoor routine, ramping it up to 20 minutes daily.
  3. I’ve become more conscientious of getting up and moving around every 30 minutes during the day when I may be sitting by saving particular household tasks for those intervals. I set the alarm for every 30 minutes up until 5:00 pm when we have dinner and relax for the evening.
    The long staircase to the upper-level cigar smoking lounge.

    The bar in the smoking lounge.

SLEEP

  1. I’ve always been a poor sleeper. In the past month, I have focused on staying off my phone when and if I am awake during the night. Now, I can get at least 8 hours of sleep each night, making me feel much better during the day.
    The humidor with cigars for sale.

    The upstairs cigar lounge.

All of the above takes a lot of motivation and commitment every day. But, as they say, I tackle it “one day at a time.” In the past week, after almost a month of this new routine, I’ve noticed about a 25% improvement in my walking ability. This is my biggest motivator, and I must continue at this pace to ensure it improves further.

A cozy sitting area in the cigar lounge.

No, it’s not easy. But if we want to continue traveling, I must work harder on my health than ever before. I am now reminded of all the years I worked out this hard and how good it was for me.

Today’s photos are from our delightful Friday night dinner at The Speakeasy, where we dined for the first time. It was such fun, and we look forward to returning shortly. On Saturday night, we dined at The Pub. In both instances, we chatted with locals, which only added to the experience.

Be well.

Photo from ten years ago today, January 13, 2015:

This photo of the snorkeler was somewhat confusing. Could they have been conducting some research? For more photos, please click here.

An exciting new booking…What a hassle sending money internationally these days!…

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Large open Lounge with ocean views
This is the living room at Sunrise at Penguin in Penguin, Tasmania, which we’re renting next year, returning after a nine-year absence. This location is Tom’s favorite in the world, and it’s about time we return.

We knew as time marched on that, we needed to begin booking some of the gaps in our most recent itinerary, first posted on Christmas Day here.

After  nine years and the number of times we’ve been asked, “What are your favorite places in the world?’ to which I always answer, “Marloth Park, South Africa,”  Tom always answers, “Penguin, Tasmania.”

And yet, after nine years, we are finally returning to Penguin from March 1 to April 13, 2026. We would stay longer, but we are boarding a cruise in Brisbane, Australia, on April 14, 2026, and it just worked out this way. Besides, we will have been in Australia on cruises, and their strict visa requirements make it essential that we leave the continent around that time.

Thus, yesterday, we contacted the owner, Terry, who was happy to hear from us and excited for us to book his lovely house in Penguin, across the street from the ocean, the Bass Strait. It”s comforting to know we’re returning to a home we found to meet our criteria easily.

Since we contacted Terry directly, we didn’t have to go through any booking company, incurring added fees for each of us. But the tricky part was getting the funds to Terry for the deposit and eventually the balance on our 43-night stay.

We decided we wouldn’t do bank transfers to foreign countries when we first began traveling. We’d encountered many stories about lost funds, errors, and the inability to receive funds if something went wrong. Over these past 12+ years, we’ve used vacation homes/holiday homes booking services or PayPal to transfer funds. It’s been easy in the past

But, nowadays, with so much fraud, it’s not so easy to send funds internationally without using a bank transfer, which many use freely, without giving it a thought.

However, in this case, booking directly through Terry, who doesn’t use credit card services for his bookings, prompted me to explain PayPal to him and send the deposit to him, which, after processing, he’d received in an email that would prompt him to enter his banking information securely and efficiently.

Using PayPal for this type of international transaction isn’t as easy as a few years ago. After researching details, we discovered it would take 21 days for the recipient, Terry, in this case, to receive the funds. That isn’t acceptable when he may have been able to book it with other people during those 21 days. We understood and respected that asking him to wait three weeks wasn’t appropriate. We didn’t ask. Instead, we looked for other options.

Many of us use various apps, such as Venmo, PayPal, Cashapp, etc., when we purchase products and services that may not directly accept a credit card or prefer to be paid via these apps. When researching these other options, the fees and restrictions made it costly and inconvenient to process the payments for the deposit and future payments.

Plus, using any of these apps using a credit card as opposed to cash, which we didn’t want to do (we get lots of points using credit cards), results in a credit card payment referred to as a “cash advance” with many fees incurred by the credit card company. I called a few of our cards to determine the best route, and it proved that using Western Union and a credit card was our least costly and easiest route.

Terry will have the funds in his bank in 2 to 4 business days. No problem with that. We all saved hundreds of dollars, and it worked out fine. I sent him the confirmation I received today that the transaction was completed. Who knew that old-fashioned Western Union would be a good option?

If we’d booked through an agency, none of this would have been relevant since apps like VRBO and AirBnB have their own payment processing services. But, there can be hefty fees to use these services, and if we can avoid them, all the better. We were able to use PayPal to pay our rent here in Lake Las Vegas since the transaction occurred in the US. When it’s an international transaction, it gets tricky.

That’s our news from today. Tomorrow, we’ll share photos from our delightful dinner at the Speakeasy. We’ve decided to go to The Pub again tonight instead of the long walk to the hotel.

Be well.

Photo from ten years ago today, January 11, 2015:

Beautiful pods growing on a palm tree in Kauai, Hawaii. 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.

How are the horrific fires in Southern California impacting travel?…

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When we were in Kauai ten years ago, we couldn’t believe how many feral chickens we saw everywhere. Kauai is known for its significant population of feral chickens, which are supposed to number in the tens of thousands. These chickens roam freely throughout the island, from beaches and parks to residential areas and parking lots.

The ongoing wildfires in California, particularly in Los Angeles, significantly affect travel and transportation. Here’s what you need to know:

Air Travel:

  • Flight Disruptions: While Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) remains operational, some flights have been delayed or canceled due to the fires and weather conditions. Flights to Hollywood Burbank Airport have been diverted to LAX because of the Palisades Fire.
  • Air Quality Concerns: Smoke from the fires has led to poor air quality, which may impact flight schedules and passenger comfort. Travelers should check with airlines for the latest updates and consider potential health implications.

Road Travel:

  • Road Closures: Several roads, including parts of the Pacific Coast Highway, have been closed due to the fires. These closures can lead to significant detours and increased traffic in unaffected areas.
  • Evacuations and Traffic: Mandatory evacuations have been ordered in various parts of Los Angeles, leading to heavy traffic and congestion. Some residents have abandoned vehicles to evacuate on foot, further complicating road travel.

Public Transportation:

  • Service Interruptions: The Los Angeles Metro has suspended fares due to power outages affecting fare card systems. Additionally, wind and wildfire damage have closed or detoured some bus lines.

Tourist Attractions:

  • Closures: Major attractions, including Universal Studios Hollywood and Universal CityWalk, have been closed due to the fires. Events like the Critics’ Choice Awards have been postponed, and several entertainment productions have been halted.

Health and Safety:

  • Air Quality: Air quality in Los Angeles ranges from moderate to very unhealthy due to smoke from the fires. Individuals with respiratory conditions should exercise caution and consider limiting outdoor activities.

Recommendations for Travelers:

  • Stay Informed: Regularly check updates from local authorities, airlines, and transportation services.
  • Plan Ahead: Anticipate delays and consider alternative routes or modes of transportation.
  • Health Precautions: Be aware of air quality levels and take necessary health precautions, especially if you have underlying health conditions.

Given the dynamic nature of the situation, it’s crucial to stay informed and exercise caution when traveling in or to the affected areas.

My sister Julie lives in Los Angeles, and we are in close touch regarding her specific situation, which is worrisome, to say the least. We pray for her safety and the citizens of California; their loss of life, injuries, loss of their homes, and all of their treasured belongings. It’s heartbreaking.

Be well.

Photo from ten years ago today, January 9, 2015:

Tom’s steady hand captured this bright ray of sunlight this morning.  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.