Dingle Peninsula

Consistently voted one of the most beautiful places on earth, the Dingle Peninsula wins the hearts of so many with its lush landscape, which includes narrow cliff-side roads, mountain ranges, and sandy beaches. Jutting 30 miles into the Atlantic Ocean from Ireland’s southwest coast, the peninsula offers unmatched sightseeing, surfing, swimming, and walking trails. The small market town and fishing port of Dingle provides a great place to listen to live music, grab a pint, and rest your head for the evening.

Mussenden Temple and Downhill Demesne

Located in Downhill Demesne near Castlerock, the Mussenden Temple is precipitously perched atop a 120-foot cliff edge overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. Originally built in 1785 as a summer library, the temple forms part of the estate of Frederick Augustus Hervey, Bishop of Derry and Earl of Bristol, and its dramatic setting offers unparalleled views of the surrounding area. Visitors are welcome to explore the 18th-century ruins of the mansion, take a cliff-side walk, stroll along the gardens, or learn about 17th-century life in one of Northern Ireland’s oldest surviving buildings, the Hezlett House.

Giant’s Causeway

The only World Heritage Site in Northern Ireland, the Giant’s Causeway is one of the world’s truly must-see destinations. Once said to have been built by giants, the 40,000 or so hexagonal columns were actually formed by volcanic eruptions. The legends that surround this area run deep, however, and visitors may get swept up in the myths of massive men and shipwrecks—Girona of the Spanish Armada foundered here in 1588—by walking among the stones.

The Burren

Located in County Clare, the Burren is an explorers dream, featuring more than 100 square miles of natural limestone and offering ancient stone structures, grassy fields, caves, and jagged countryside. Among the top sites to see while visiting are the Poulnabrone Portal Dolmen, an ancient stone tomb dating between 2,000 and 2,500 B.C.E.; Leamaneh Castle, with its 15th-century residential tower and 17th-century fortified home; and Caherconnell Stone Fort, a nearly perfectly preserved structure dating back between 400 and 1200 C.E.

Glendalough

About an hour south of Dublin, Glendalough, or Valley of the Two Lakes, houses the ruins of what was once one of the leading monastic settlements in Ireland. A hermit monk named Saint Kevin founded the monastery before his death in about 618. The settlement flourished for the next 600 years. Today, visitors can explore stone structures, churches, a cathedral, a round tower, and a cemetery.

Cliffs of Moher

One of the most photographed places in Ireland, the Cliffs of Moher ascend more than 700 feet above the water and cover nearly five miles. The dramatic cliffs are home to several species of sea birds, including the only mainland colony of Atlantic Puffins, Razorbills, and Choughs. Visitors are welcome to climb the stairs leading to O’Brien’s Tower, which provides panoramic views. On a clear day, you may even catch a glimpse of the Aran Islands.

Ring of Kerry

Medieval ruins, sandy beaches, lakes, mountains, a lush forest, and a jagged coastline all call the Ring of Kerry home. Part of the Iveragh Peninsula, it’s 110 miles of pure beauty. The drive takes place in County Kerry in southwestern Ireland, and begins and ends in the town of Killarney, which makes a good base camp for a trip. It’s easy to travel the circuit in one day, but seeing some of the sites off the beaten path, such as Valentia Island and the Gaeltacht area around Portmagee, requires a bit more time.

Aran Islands

Located in Galway Bay, the three Aran Islands provide a perfect glimpse into some enduring Irish traditions—Gaelic is still spoken and most people get around by horse and buggy or bike. The largest of the three islands, Inis Mor, is the most well-known and offers the greatest amount of modern-day conveniences. Inis Meáin, or the middle island, is the least visited and clings proudly to its Irish cultural tradition. On a clear day, Inis Oírr, or the East Island, provides unparalleled views of the Cliffs of Moher.

Skellig Michael

Just eight miles off the coast of Portmagee and towering more than 700 feet above the water, you will find the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Skellig Michael, which houses a well-preserved sixth century monastic settlement. Visitors are welcome to walk in the footsteps of the monks who once inhabited this island by climbing the 670 steps leading to the now abandoned beehive-shaped huts. Puffins make the island their home in the late spring, while gannets consume every ledge on the nearby Little Skellig.

Cobh

Once briefly named “Queenstown” in honor of a visit from Queen Victoria in 1849, Cobh reverted to its original name in 1921. Located on the Great Island in Cork Harbor, the town’s streets climb a hill crowned by a cathedral overlooking the water. As the embarkation point, including the Titanic’s last port of call, to America, Cobh was the last glimpse of Ireland for many people.

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Dragsholm Castle

Built in 1200, the Dragsholm Castle is not only one of the oldest castles in Denmark, it is also the home to many of the longest-staying guests. Though there isn’t an exact number of spirited figures who still roam the grounds—some believe the number to be in the hundreds—there are three who make a particular impression: the Grey Lady, the White Lady, and the Earl of Bothwell.

Visitors may encounter the Grey Lady in their rooms at night, because even in her death, this grateful spirit still keeps a close eye on the castle grounds to make sure things are in order. When the Grey Lady was alive, she was believed to be a worker who suffered from a horrible toothache, which was cured by someone in the castle. She has been repaying the kind deed ever since.

The White Lady’s tale is by far more tragic, and begins with the discovery, during a renovation in the early 20th century, of a young girl’s skeleton in a white dress hidden within a wall. Legend has it that these bones once belonged to the daughter of the castle’s former owner. She fell madly in love with a commonplace worker, and when her father learned of the affair he had her locked within a room in the castle, never to see the light of day again. Her young spirit has been seen roaming the halls at night, perchance searching for her lost love.

The Earl of Bothwell, James Hepburn, a consort to Mary, Queen of Scots, was imprisoned for murder in the Dragsholm Castle cellars, where he eventually went mad and died in 1578. Visitors can see the same pillar where the Earl was once chained, and if they’re lucky, they may even catch a glimpse of the Earl riding into the courtyard with a horse and carriage. Some visitors have even claimed to hear the sound of horses when there’s nothing there.

Today, Dragsholm Castle is a hotel, restaurant, and a museum. Rooms start around $226 USD per night, and include breakfast. The hotel also offers daily guided tours exploring the castle’s 800-year history.

Lizzie Borden Bed and Breakfast

You may have heard of Lizzie Borden from the playground rhyme, “Lizzie Borden took an axe/ And gave her mother 40 whacks/ When she saw what she had done/ She gave her father 41.” However, the mystery surrounding the murders of Andrew and Abby Borden is much more complicated than a simple child’s game.

For instance, Lizzie was never found guilty for the slaying of her father and stepmother, and to this day, the case remains unsolved. Come decide for yourself what actually happened on the morning of August 4, 1892, by staying in the house in Fall River, Massachusetts, where it all took place. Choose from six rooms, including the one where Abby Borden’s body was discovered. Retrace the gruesome events by starting your morning with a breakfast reminiscent of the ones the Bordens ate as their last meal.

You may even encounter the restless spirit of Lizzie herself. Some who have stayed here have heard giggling. Others claim to feel a chill in certain spots of the house. And, those who snap photos seem to always catch an orb or possibly the faint outline of a face.

Rooms are typically in the $250 to $315 range per night, with prices known to spike during high season. However, if you’d like to learn more about the infamous murders without spending the night, you can tour the property during daylight hours for $30.

Fairmont Banff Springs

The Fairmont Banff Springs, “Canada’s Castle in the Rockies,” has seen many prestigious guests since it first opened its doors more than 120 years ago. In fact, some liked the place so well that they never left.

This is the case with Sam the Bellman, who worked at the hotel for many years. Before his death, Sam joked that he would return to the hotel he held so dearly in the afterlife. Many guests will attest that Sam kept his word.

The first sighting was by two elderly ladies who couldn’t get the key to work in their room door. Feeling uneasy because of the late hour and darkened corridor, they called the front desk for assistance and were told to wait for the bellman. However, when the bellman arrived, the ladies were already safely in their room. When asked how they managed that, they stated that the gray-haired bellman had appeared moments after they called and opened the door for them. The young bellman was bewildered since no one matching that description worked at the hotel. Since that time, the elderly bellhop with a Scottish brogue has been assisting guests and keeping a watchful eye on his hotel.

Visitors may also encounter the spirit of a young bride. Close to the time of the hotel’s grand opening in the 1930s, a groom waited in the library at the top of a candlelit, winding, limestone staircase for his true love to ascend. As she made her way up the stairs, her hem of her dress brushed against one of the candle’s flames and caused her to jump back, which sent her tumbling to her death. Guests claim to occasionally see her, still dressed in her white lace gown, dancing her wedding waltz alone, without her love.

Rooms start at roughly $400 per night, but there are plenty of package deals available to keep your heart from racing.

The Stanley Hotel

Built in the early 1900s, the Stanley Hotel in Estes Park, Colorado, has hosted many guests, including the master of horror, Stephen King. While staying in room 217, King was inspired to write The Shining, about a grand hotel in the Rocky Mountains that possesses its guests. Though most of King’s inspiration came from his own twisted imagination, the Stanley is home to a few spirits.

The most notable ghost is the original owner, F.O. Stanley, who has been spotted in the lobby and the billiard room. His wife, Flora, who once entertained guests with her skillful piano playing in the ballroom, still plays to this day. Hotel staff have heard music coming from that room, and have even seen the piano keys moving—though the music stops abruptly once they enter.

The greatest activity, however, is said to take place on the fourth floor, especially in room 418. When the room is empty, strange noises emanate from behind the doors. Guests often report hearing children’s laughter in the hallway at night. The staff has even seen an imprint on the bed, although no one had been sleeping there.

Rooms start at around $290 per night. If you really want to get your supernatural feet wet, book the spirited Night Tour during your stay. For just $30 per person, explore the haunted history of this grand hotel under the cover of darkness.

Gosforth Hall Inn

Built in 1658 by Robert Copley, who was suspected of being a Roman Catholic at a time when that meant death, the Gosforth Hall Inn has long been a sanctuary for lost souls. The inn may not publicly advertise its uninvited guests, but the owners are happy to share their experiences if asked.

And there’s plenty to talk about. Some guests have seen curtains billow in a room with no wind, felt the playful presence of a child, and even met apparitions in their rooms at night.

Room 11 is not only the biggest room at the inn, but it’s also the most popular for otherworldly sightings. The room has what people believe to be a priest’s hole (a hiding place for priests during the Roman Catholic persecution). At night, guests have woken to see a man dressed as a monk or friar, sitting next to the hole. Another guest once encountered a little old lady wearing an off-white dress and hair pulled back into a bun floating above the floor by the window, who vanished the moment the guest spoke.

There’s also the tale that Copley built the upper stories from the timbers of ship wrecks found along the Irish coast. The story goes that the timbers groan in anguish for the men whose final moments were spent clinging to their sturdy wood before the sea claimed their lives. Visitors who listen carefully just might hear a few final pleas for help.

Basic rooms start at £100 (about $106 U.S.; check XE.com for current exchange rates) per night, and include breakfast.

The Marshall House

Savannah has a reputation as one of the most haunted cities in the U.S., so it’s only fitting its first hotel would be a premier gathering place for restless souls. Built in 1851, the Marshall House has accommodated yellow fever victims, and was once used as a Union clinic for wounded soldiers during the Civil War.

In the 1960s, the amputated bones of patients were unearthed while renovating the hotel, and hotel guests have been reporting stories of creepy encounters ever since. For instance, some guests wake to the feeling of someone holding their wrist, much in the same way nurses would take a pulse. Others have felt the presence of a little girl rumored to be searching for her father who died in one of the rooms.

Rooms start around $230 for weekday stays during high season. If you’d rather hear the stories than experience them first-hand, you can always schedule a haunted walking tour for $29. You’ll stop at many of Savannah’s eerie establishments, including the Marshall House.

Villa di Corliano

Recognized as one of the most prestigious Renaissance villas in Tuscany, Villa di Corliano‘s luxury and grandeur is more than enough reason to never leave—even after the body has given up the ghost. Built in the 15th century, the building’s exterior is decorated in graffiti typical of the Florentine Mannerist Art and dating back to the 1500s.

The villa has been home to and welcomed many prestigious guests throughout its time. In fact, it is one such person that is thought to remain on the grounds to this day.

By the light of a full moon, guests have encountered a noblewoman, known as the “White Ghost,” lurking in their rooms. Some local peasants even claimed once to see her in the drive of the park leading a six-horse coach, where she stopped at the Ragnaia, or “Cobweb Corner,” to stare longingly at the villa which they believed was once her home. Known also as a good-natured spirit, she is also responsible for moving tapestries and rearranging ornaments, and a slamming door or mysteriously opened window is considered her handiwork. Occasionally the underground passageways beneath the wine cellar ring with giggling or the sound of footsteps. There is also the account of one night when the hall was filled with the thunderous sound of the crystal chandelier crashing to the floor, but when the chandelier was found, it was right where it should be without one crystal out of place.

So, who is the “White Ghost?” Speculative fingers point to the direction of Maria Teresa Scolastica Ottavia della Seta Gaetani Bocca who was married at the villa in 1755, but there is very little to support that claim. For now, her identity remains as mysterious as her presence in the villa.

Rooms start at €80-$200 (about $85-$212 U.S.; check XE.com for current exchange rates) per night, and include breakfast.

The Admiral Fell Inn

With a history dating back to the 1700s, the Admiral Fell Inn once served as a safe haven for sailors while their ships called at Baltimore. The historic hotel still maintains the same home-away-from-home appeal for all travelers today, whether they have a pulse or not.

One of the more notable supernatural occurrences happened during Hurricane Isabel in 2003, when the hotel was evacuated except for a few managers. During the night, merriment and dancing could be heard above the lobby, but the only breathing people in the hotel were on the ground floor. The next night, the noises became so loud that the floor actually vibrated.

Rooms start at around $110, but if you dare not spend the night, you can embark on a Fells Point Ghost Tour to see what other apparitions are hiding in this seaside town.

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U.S. Virgin Islands Passport Requirements

While U.S. citizens do not need a passport when entering the U.S. Virgin Islands, they may be required to show proof of citizenship when departing the U.S. Virgin Islands, such as a raised-seal birth certificate in combination with a valid government-issued ID card. So, while a passport isn’t required for travel to the U.S. Virgin Islands, you may want to bring one along anyway—that way, you only need to carry one document versus two.

Also, keep in mind that you will be required to have a valid U.S. passport if you choose to visit any of the neighboring British Virgin Islands.

How to Get a Passport Book for Travel to the U.S. Virgin Islands

If you decide you want to visit the U.S. Virgin Islands with a passport, make sure that your passport is up-to-date. If its expired, or if you are a first-time passport applicant, make sure to apply as soon as travel is confirmed. The cost will be greater if you apply for a passport within two weeks of travel time and need an expedited application. You can learn more about the requirements and documents needed to obtain a U.S. passport by visiting the official State Department website.

Other U.S. Virgin Islands Travel Requirements

Visa: No, U.S. citizens do not need a visa to travel to the U.S. Virgin Islands.

Vaccinations: No special vaccinations are required when visiting the U.S. Virgin Islands. See the CDC’s website for a list of recommended vaccines.

So, Do I Need a Passport to Visit the U.S. Virgin Islands?

In summary: While U.S. Virgin Islands passport requirements state that you do not need a passport to go to St. Thomas, St. Croix, or St. John, having a passport will come in handy should you choose to travel to the nearby British Virgin Islands.

More Information When Visiting the U.S. Virgin Islands

U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Tourism is a great resource for things to do and places to stay, as well as everything you need to know before you go when planning a trip to St. Croix, St. John, or St. Thomas.

Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2017. It has been updated to reflect the most current information.

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Hawaii Passport Requirements

Since Hawaii is a state within the United States, citizens do not need a valid passport to travel to Hawaii from the mainland. However, starting on May 7, 2025, everyone will need a REAL ID for air travel, and not all states currently issue driver’s licenses that comply with these requirements. If yours doesn’t, you may need to carry a passport instead. For more information, see Everything Travelers Need to Know About the REAL ID Act.

How to Get a Passport for Travel to Hawaii

If you’re continuing on to a foreign country from Hawaii and need a passport or do not have a REAL ID for air travel, apply for a passport as soon as your travel is confirmed. The cost will be greater if applying for a passport within two weeks of travel time (in which case you will need an expedited application). You can learn more about passport requirements and documents needed to obtain a U.S. passport here.  Please note: processing times for new passports and renewals are currently 10 to 13 weeks. 

Other Hawaii Travel Requirements

Visa: No
Vaccinations: No

So, Do I Need a Passport to Visit Hawaii?

In summary: No, Hawaii passport requirements state that U.S. citizens don’t need a passport when traveling from the mainland to Hawaii since it is considered domestic travel, but starting on May 7, 2025, everyone will need a REAL ID for air travel. In this case, you may opt to use a passport just to be safe.

More Information When Visiting Hawaii

For information on how to apply or renew a passport, visit here.

Hawaii Tourism Authority is a great resource for things to do and places to stay, as well as everything you need to know before you go when planning a trip to Hawaii.

The post Hawaii Passport Requirements: Do I Need a Passport to Go to Hawaii? appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Ostrich Inn, Colnbrook, England

The Ostrich Inn may appear to be nothing more than a quaint coaching inn from bygone days, but its history is more akin to a scene from Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street than to a Charles Dickens’ novel. The previous owners, John Jarman and his wife, had a particular flair for murder, and more than 60 unlucky souls met their demise at their hands during the 17th century. The couple would wine and dine wealthy merchants before taking them to a bedroom that was rigged with a special trap door designed to drop the unsuspecting guests into a vat of boiling liquid. Though the pair were finally caught and hanged, it’s said that their victims still wander the property.

Karosta Prison, Liepaya, Latvia

Operating as a military prison for nearly 100 years, the Naval Port Prison offers daring guests a night behind bars. Originally built in 1900, the building served as a working military prison with a fully-functioning detention and torture center until 1997. Today, you can choose to either simply stay for the night, which includes a meal and a prison bunk, or spend an extreme night, which means you’ll take on the role of an actual prisoner and experience what it really means to be a criminal. The latter includes threats, warning gunfire, and the sounds of despair from other prisoners. Tours are also available for the less daring.

St. James Hotel, Cimarron, New Mexico

The St. James Hotel is living proof of the Wild West’s untamed spirit. Originally built in 1872, the hotel has housed many of the most notorious outlaws and characters from the Old West, including the Wyatt Earp, Billy the Kid, Jesse James, Buffalo Bill Cody, and Annie Oakley, to name a few. With such a raucous bunch of guests, it’s not surprising that at least 26 deaths have taken place in the saloon and hotel. Thomas James Wright was one of the many who met his sad demise here by being shot in the back over a poker dispute and bleeding to death in room 18. Rumor has it that Mr. Wright is at odds with the spirit world and may still be seen within these walls. Though the hotel has been renovated, the tin ceiling in the dining room still features 26 preserved bullet holes from the days when the fastest hand called all the shots.

The Stanley Hotel, Estes Park, Colorado

Built in the early 1900s, the Stanley Hotel has welcomed many famous guests, including his royal highness of horror, Stephen King. It was in fact during a stay in room 217 that King found the inspiration for his book, The Shining, which tells of a grand hotel, much like the Stanley, that possesses its guests. Though King may have created his story, it’s no secret that the Stanley has its quirks. Guests have reported seeing the original owner, F.O. Stanley, in the lobby and billiards room presumably keeping tabs on his property. His wife, Flora, is also suspected of playing the piano just as she did when she was alive. Room 418 is known to have the greatest activity, and is not for the faint of heart.

Dalhousie Castle, Bonnyrigg, Scotland

Dalhousie Castle has a history that dates back to the 13th century, which includes visits by both Sir Walter Scott and Queen Victoria. The castle has even withstood an attack by Henry IV of England in the 15h century, but was besieged by Cromwell in the 17th century. You can still see the remnants of the castle’s medieval days by looking above the main door at the drawbridge raising mechanisms or finding the score marks in the stonework above the keep caused by prisoners being lowered into the bottle dungeon. Many claim to see a “Grey Lady” wandering the grounds, and believe her to be Lady Catherine who was locked within the tower by the lord’s jealous wife and eventually starved to death in the 1500s.

Marshall House, Savannah, Georgia

As the first hotel in one of the world’s most haunted cities, it should come as no surprise that the Marshall House is known to be quite spirited. Originally built in 1851 by Mary Marshall, the hotel has seen its fair share of tragedy, acting as a Civil War hospital and later housing yellow fever victims. As if that wasn’t gruesome enough, during renovations in the 1960’s, bones of amputated limbs were discovered hidden beneath the floorboards. Guests have reported a slew of strange occurrences, including hearing children’s laughter in empty hallways and waking to pressure on their wrist as though someone was taking their pulse.

Hang Nga Guesthouse, Da Lat, Vietnam

Though you may feel like you’ve wandered into a nightmare, filled with equal parts Swiss Family Robinson, Tim Burton’s imagination, and Alice in Wonderland, Hang Nga is more of an architectural feat than a demonic construction. Known as the “Crazy House,” the building resembles the shape of a massive and unruly treehouse, and embodies the feel of a carnival fun ride. In a blaze of peach and blackened concrete, Hang Nga twists, turns, and stretches awkwardly five-stories into the air. Named after the architect who designed the gothic fairy-tale structure, Hang Nga also features theme rooms, walkways similar to tunnels, outdoor balconies, and a sculpture garden.

Lizzie Borden House, Fall River, Massachusetts

You may have heard the gruesome tale, or possibly know the playground rhyme, of Lizzie Borden bludgeoning her father and stepmother with an ax. But now you can relive the murders by staying in the house where it all took place. The Victorian home has been converted into a B&B, which gives you the chance to sleep in the same room where the body of Abby Borden was found or take a nap in the parlor just like Andrew Borden did before his untimely demise on August 4, 1892. You’ll even get to feast on a similar breakfast the victims ate the morning of their murders, including johnnycakes, bananas, and sugar cookies. Lizzie was never actually found guilty of the crimes, and the deaths remain unsolved to this day.

More from SmarterTravel:

• 5 Creepy Holiday Traditions Celebrated Around Europe
• I Spent the Night in a Haunted Hotel
• The World’s 7 Most Fattening and Festive Holiday Foods

The post The 8 Creepiest Hotels in the World appeared first on SmarterTravel.

If you plan on visiting other countries in Europe from England, you might need your passport to be valid for six months beyond your departure date, according to the Schengen Agreement. See the requirements for the other places you may travel to, here.

England Passport Requirements

England passport requirements state that a valid passport with at least one blank page for an entry stamp is required for the duration of your stay in the country. Check your expiration date to ensure it extends beyond your return date home. Do this as soon as you have your ticket in hand to allow for plenty of time to renew, if needed.

If traveling to other countries in continental Europe, your passport may need a six-month validity beyond your departure date for certain destinations in the Schengen area.

How to Get a Passport Book for Travel to England

Apply for a passport as soon as international travel is confirmed. The cost will be greater if applying for a passport within two weeks of travel time, because you will need an expedited application. You can learn more about the requirements and documents needed to obtain a U.S. passport here.

What to Do if You Lose Your Passport in England

Take every precaution to keep your passport secure, such as carrying it in a hidden passport holder, keeping it locked in a safe, and emailing copies to yourself or a loved one before traveling.

If you do lose your passport, report the loss immediately to the U.S. Embassy London.

Other England Travel Requirements

Visa: No for U.S. citizens, up to 90 days

Vaccinations: No

So, Do I Need a Passport to Visit England?

In summary: Yes. England passport requirements state that a passport is required to go to England, and must be valid during the entire length of stay. Other passport requirements may be necessary if you plan on visiting other countries in continental Europe as well.

More Information When Visiting England

The U.S. Department of State provides detailed information, including travel advisories and passport validity requirements, to your destination.

For information on how to apply or renew a passport, visit here.

Visit Britain is a great resource for things to do and places to stay, as well as everything you need to know before you go when planning a trip to England.

Protect Your Passport

We recommend investing in a passport cover or wallet to protect your pages from bends, tears and spills. It’s important to keep your passport in good condition for easy inspection. 

On travel days, only take your passport out during inspection. Otherwise, keep it stowed away in a dedicated section of your bag (if you keep it in the same place every time, you won’t ever scramble to locate it). Once you arrive at your destination, find a way to stow it securely. In-room safes or safe deposit boxes at the hotel front desk are generally good options, but if neither is available, you’ll need to decide how to keep your passport secure. You might consider keeping it in an under-clothing money belt that you wear, or leaving it in the hotel or vacation rental but locking it in your suitcase with a TSA-approved lock.

Passport Wallet

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Passport Cover

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Anti-Theft Bag

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More from SmarterTravel:

• 5 Exotic Places Where You Don’t Need a Passport
• How to Renew a Passport, Global Entry, and TSA PreCheck—The Ultimate Guide
• How to Take Your Own Passport Photo

Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2017. It has been updated to reflect the most current information.

The post England Passport Requirements: Do I Need a Passport to Go to England? appeared first on SmarterTravel.

First things first: St. Lucia passport requirements state that your U.S. passport must be valid for at least six months following your departure date, and that it has at least one blank page for an entry stamp. Also, in lieu of a visa, be prepared to present proof that you’ve booked onward travel tickets, evidence of booked accommodations, and/or financial means for onward travel.

If traveling by a closed-loop Caribbean cruise (one that begins and ends in the United States), you aren’t required to have a passport. However, it’s strongly recommended you carry one to avoid any obstacles that may occur in case of emergency disembarkation on international soil or an unexpected flight from a foreign destination.

St. Lucia Passport Requirements

A U.S. passport—valid within six months following your departure date—with at least one blank page for an entry stamp is required to visit St. Lucia. U.S. citizens are not required to obtain a visa if they can show proof of reserved onward or return travel, booked accommodations, and/or means to cover travel costs.

How to Get a Passport Book for Travel to St. Lucia

Apply for a passport as soon as international travel is confirmed. The cost will be greater if you apply for a passport within two weeks of travel time and need an expedited application. You can learn more about the requirements and documents needed to obtain a U.S. passport by visiting USA.gov.

Other St. Lucia Travel Requirements

Visa: U.S. citizens with proof of an onward or return ticket, booked accommodations, and the evidence of means to cover travel expenses, do not need a visa to travel to St. Lucia.

Vaccinations: No special vaccinations are required when visiting St. Lucia.

HIV/AIDS: Some entry restrictions may exist. Contact the Embassy of Saint Lucia before you travel.

So, Do I Need a Passport to Visit St. Lucia?

In summary: Yes, U.S. travelers need a valid passport to visit St. Lucia. Additionally, the passport must be valid for six months following your departure date and contain at least one blank page for an entry stamp.

Protect Your Passport

We recommend investing in a passport cover or wallet to protect your pages from bends, tears and spills. It’s important to keep your passport in good condition for easy inspection. 

On travel days, only take your passport out during inspection. Otherwise, keep it stowed away in a dedicated section of your bag (if you keep it in the same place every time, you won’t ever scramble to locate it). Once you arrive at your destination, find a way to stow it securely. In-room safes or safe deposit boxes at the hotel front desk are generally good options, but if neither is available, you’ll need to decide how to keep your passport secure. You might consider keeping it in an under-clothing money belt that you wear, or leaving it in the hotel or vacation rental but locking it in your suitcase with a TSA-approved lock.

Passport Wallet

Shop Now

Shop Now

Passport Cover

Shop Now

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Anti-Theft Bag

Shop Now

Shop Now

More from SmarterTravel:

• Cruise Passport Requirements: Do I Need a Passport to Go on a Cruise?
• Passport Book vs. Passport Card: Which Do I Need?
• 5 Exotic Places Where You Don’t Need a Passport

Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2017. It has been updated to reflect the most current information.

The post St. Lucia Passport Requirements: Do I Need a Passport to Go to St. Lucia? appeared first on SmarterTravel.

A passport, however, may not be the only documentation you need when going to Aruba. You will have to provide a completed ED-Card (Embarkation-Disembarkation Card) upon arrival. You may also be required to show proof of a return ticket or an onward ticket out of Aruba, sufficient travel funds to pay for your stay, and the location of your hotel or other accommodations during your stay.

Aruba Passport Requirements for U.S. Citizens

A valid passport at the time of travel with at least one blank page for an entry stamp and a completed ED-Card (Embarkation-Disembarkation Card) are required when entering Aruba. You may also need to show proof of a return or onward ticket departing Aruba, sufficient travel funds for the time you are visiting Aruba, and the location of where you’ll be staying in Aruba.

How to Get a Passport for Travel to Aruba

If you don’t already have a valid U.S. passport, you should apply for a passport as soon as you know you’ll be traveling to Aruba. A routine passport application takes about six weeks to process.

The cost will be greater if you apply for a passport within two to three weeks of your planned travel dates, because you’ll need to pay extra to have your passport application expedited; it usually takes about two weeks to expedite a passport application. You can speed up the passport expediting process to fewer than two weeks if you apply and expedite the application in person at an agency.

You can learn more about the requirements and documents needed to obtain a U.S. passport at USA.gov.

Other Requirements for Travel to Aruba

Visa: Not required for U.S. citizens.

Vaccinations: Yes, you’ll need the Yellow Fever vaccine if traveling from Central American, Latin American, and African countries. More info here.

Maximum length of stay: 30 days.

What to Do If You Lose Your Passport in Aruba

Take every precaution to keep your passport secure, such as carrying it in a hidden passport holder, keeping it locked in a safe, and emailing copies to yourself or a loved one before traveling.

If you do lose your passport, report the loss immediately to the U.S. Consulate General in Curacao.

So, Do I Need a Passport to Go to Aruba?

In summary: Yes, you will need a valid passport with at least one blank page for an entry stamp, as well as a completed ED-Card to go to Aruba. You may also need to show proof of a return or onward ticket departing Aruba, sufficient travel funds for the time you are visiting Aruba, and the location of where you’ll be staying in Aruba.

More Information When Visiting Aruba

The U.S. Department of State provides detailed information, including travel advisories and passport validity requirements, to your destination.

For information on how to apply or renew a passport, visit here.

Aruba Tourism Authority is a great resource for things to do and places to stay, as well as everything you need to know before you go when planning a trip to Aruba. Plus, you can fill out the ED-Card (Embarkation-Disembarkation Card) online before you travel.

Protect Your Passport

We recommend investing in a passport cover or wallet to protect your pages from bends, tears and spills. It’s important to keep your passport in good condition for easy inspection. 

On travel days, only take your passport out during inspection. Otherwise, keep it stowed away in a dedicated section of your bag (if you keep it in the same place every time, you won’t ever scramble to locate it). Once you arrive at your destination, find a way to stow it securely. In-room safes or safe deposit boxes at the hotel front desk are generally good options, but if neither is available, you’ll need to decide how to keep your passport secure. You might consider keeping it in an under-clothing money belt that you wear, or leaving it in the hotel or vacation rental but locking it in your suitcase with a TSA-approved lock.

Passport Wallet

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Passport Cover

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Anti-Theft Bag

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More from SmarterTravel:

• 5 Exotic Places Where You Don’t Need a Passport
• How to Renew a Passport, Global Entry, and TSA PreCheck—The Ultimate Guide
• How to Take Your Own Passport Photo

Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2016. It has been updated to reflect the most current information.

The post Aruba Passport Requirements: Do I Need a Passport to Go to Aruba? appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Alaska Passport Requirements

There is a difference in which documents are needed for Alaska passport requirements based on the type of travel to the state. For instance, when arriving by plane, you generally do not need to have a valid passport. There’s one exception: Starting on October 1, 2020, everyone will need a REAL ID for air travel, and not all states currently issue driver’s licenses that comply with these requirements. If yours doesn’t, you may need to carry a passport instead. For more information, see Everything Travelers Need to Know About the REAL ID Act.

If you are traveling by car, and therefore have to cross into Canada to reach Alaska, you’ll need a valid passport book, a passport card, or an enhanced driver’s license to get through border security.

Do you need a passport for an Alaska cruise? The answer is maybe. If you’re taking a closed-loop cruise that departs from and returns to the same U.S. port (such as Seattle), you do not need a passport, even if your itinerary includes calls in Canada; instead, an enhanced driver’s license or a birth certificate and regular driver’s license will suffice. If your cruise departs from and ends in two different cities, then you’ll need a passport.

Keep in mind that you might want to bring a passport even on a closed-loop Alaska cruise in case an emergency strikes and you need to fly home from a Canadian city; driver’s licenses and birth certificates are not accepted for international air travel.

How to Get a Passport for Travel to Alaska

Apply for a passport as soon as your travel is confirmed. The cost will be greater if applying for a passport within two weeks of travel time (in which case you will need an expedited application). You can learn more about passport requirements and documents needed to obtain a U.S. passport here.

Other Alaska Travel Requirements

Visa: No

Vaccinations: No

So, Do I Need a Passport to Visit Alaska?

In summary: It depends on how you get there. Alaska passport requirements state that you don’t need a passport when traveling from the mainland to Alaska by air since it is considered domestic travel (unless you don’t have a REAL ID driver’s license), but a passport may be required when arriving by car or cruise ship.

Protect Your Passport

We recommend investing in a passport cover or wallet to protect your pages from bends, tears and spills. It’s important to keep your passport in good condition for easy inspection. 

On travel days, only take your passport out during inspection. Otherwise, keep it stowed away in a dedicated section of your bag (if you keep it in the same place every time, you won’t ever scramble to locate it). Once you arrive at your destination, find a way to stow it securely. In-room safes or safe deposit boxes at the hotel front desk are generally good options, but if neither is available, you’ll need to decide how to keep your passport secure. You might consider keeping it in an under-clothing money belt that you wear, or leaving it in the hotel or vacation rental but locking it in your suitcase with a TSA-approved lock.

Passport Wallet

Shop Now

Shop Now

Passport Cover

Shop Now

Shop Now

Anti-Theft Bag

Shop Now

Shop Now

More from SmarterTravel:

• Cruise Passport Requirements: Do I Need a Passport to Go on a Cruise?
• How to Take Your Own Passport Photo
• 5 Exotic Places Where You Don’t Need a Passport

The post Alaska Passport Requirements: Do I Need a Passport to Go to Alaska? appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Bermuda Passport Requirements

A valid passport book is required to enter Bermuda and to re-enter the United States by air. A birth certificate, government-issued photo ID, or passport card will not be enough to gain access into the country if international air travel is involved; leave those at home and obtain a valid passport book for your Bermuda travels instead.

How to Get a Passport to Go to Bermuda

Apply for a passport as soon as you know you’ll be traveling to Bermuda. It’ll cost more if you wait until the last minute to apply for a passport book. For information about the documents needed to obtain a U.S. passport, go to USA.gov.

Additional Bermuda Travel Requirements

Visa: You do not need a visa to go to Bermuda if you are a U.S. citizen.

Vaccinations: No specific vaccinations are required to visit Bermuda.

What to Do If You Lose Your Passport in Bermuda

If you lose your passport in Bermuda, report the loss immediately to the U.S. Consulate General Hamilton.

So, Do I Need a Passport to Visit Bermuda?

In summary: Yes, Bermuda passport requirements state that U.S. citizens must present a valid passport book with at least one blank page for an entry stamp to enter the country by air. A passport card may be used if you arrive on a closed-loop cruise that departs and returns to the same U.S. port, but a passport book will be necessary if an emergency flight is needed.

Proof of a return ticket or travel beyond the island are also required when visiting the island.

More Information When Visiting Bermuda

The U.S. Department of State provides detailed information, including travel advisories and passport validity requirements, to your destination.

For information on how to apply or renew a passport, visit here.

The Bermuda Tourism Authority is a great resource for things to do and places to stay, as well as everything you need to know before you go when planning a trip to Bermuda.

Protect Your Passport

We recommend investing in a passport cover or wallet to protect your pages from bends, tears and spills. It’s important to keep your passport in good condition for easy inspection. 

On travel days, only take your passport out during inspection. Otherwise, keep it stowed away in a dedicated section of your bag (if you keep it in the same place every time, you won’t ever scramble to locate it). Once you arrive at your destination, find a way to stow it securely. In-room safes or safe deposit boxes at the hotel front desk are generally good options, but if neither is available, you’ll need to decide how to keep your passport secure. You might consider keeping it in an under-clothing money belt that you wear, or leaving it in the hotel or vacation rental but locking it in your suitcase with a TSA-approved lock.

Passport Wallet

Shop Now

Shop Now

Passport Cover

Shop Now

Shop Now

Anti-Theft Bag

Shop Now

Shop Now

More from SmarterTravel:

• 5 Exotic Places Where You Don’t Need a Passport
• How to Renew a Passport, Global Entry, and TSA PreCheck—The Ultimate Guide
• How to Take Your Own Passport Photo

Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2016. It has been updated to reflect the most current information.

The post Bermuda Passport Requirements: Do I Need a Passport to Go to Bermuda? appeared first on SmarterTravel.