Hey World Travelers!!
Have you checked the expiration date on your U.S. Passport lately??
This is your reminder to do so. Even though your passport is valid for 10 years, if you are an occasional international traveler like myself, those 10 years can fly by in a blink of an eye. And speaking of validity, those last 6 to 8 months can be very sketchy in certain other countries.
Plus, the fact you do not want to wait to renew your passport at the last minute because of today’s processing time at the State Department.
A passport is a U.S. citizen’s key to international travel. The U.S. Department of State says due to a surge in passport applications, you should apply several months in advance, especially if you need visas for your foreign destinations. Travelers should make sure their passport is valid at least six months after returning home and has two or more blank pages, or some countries may not let you enter. Note that passports for children under 16 are valid five years and adult passports 10 years, so check expiration dates carefully. It is highly recommended that all cruise ship passengers have their passport with them in case of emergency, even if not required.
Always bring your passport in case of an emergency, such as an unexpected medical air evacuation or the ship docking at an alternate port in an emergency, even if your cruise says you won’t need it. Your cruise company may also require you to have a passport even if U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) does not.
For all of your Travel Resources (emergency information, apply for a passport, renew a passport, etc.) go to State.gov/travelers website for updated and accurate information.
And don’t forget that the U.S. Department of State issued a “World Caution” t ravel advisory on November 9, 2023, due to increased tensions in various locations around the world, the potential for terrorist attacks, demonstrations or violent actions against U.S. citizens and interests. While overseas it is advised that you exercise increased caution. For more information on what to do. CLICK HERE
For other travel advisories and its level of caution specific to your travel destination CLICK HERE
Anybody traveling to Mexico for vacation? If you are a smoker please be advised that on Sunday, January 15, 2023, Mexico's radical new anti-smoking law took full effect country wide. The law, endorsed by the World Health Organization, made it illegal to smoke virtually everywhere with the exception of a private residence.
This includes all public areas such as parks, beaches, squares, hotels, restaurants, resorts, schools, shopping centers, stores, entertainment venues, public streets, sightseeing venues and anywhere else other than a private home. Hotel and resort rooms are considered public property for the purposes of this law.
The law's language also makes it illegal to have tobacco products on your person in public places. The penalty for being caught for smoking is unclear, but there is a cash penalty of anywhere from $300 to $500, and if one fails to comply, they could go to jail for 36 hours. You’ve been warned!!
I guess those high-quality cigars they are known for producing won't get smoked by any of their tourist until they get back home.