How many Americans have a passport?
There is an urban myth that only 1 in 10 Americans has a US passport. It may have been true at one time but now it is closer to 40%. The desire to travel and experience other cultures is a growing trend in the States.
As an American, do you know how much it costs for foreigners to purchase a VISA and visit the U.S? Of course, it depends on which country you are from. If you are from the Dominican Republic, as an example, the fees start from $160 and go up to $265.
It is not surprising then as a traveling American you are expected to pay high VISA prices in other countries. Not only that but many visas can be time-consuming and complicated to obtain.
If you have no VISA but have a US passport where are you going to go? Here are 5 suggestions that will tempt you.
1. Hawaii of China
Have you ever been to Hawaii? Maybe. Have you ever been to China? Unlikely.
How about going somewhere that is affectionately called the Hawaii of China? Where is that? Welcome to Hainan.
What is Hainan like? This will give you an idea. It is a tropical island nestled between Vietnam to the west and the Philippines to the East. That already makes it a little paradise.
If you are thinking of tropical places then maybe Bali is your first thought. However, depending on what type of cultural experience you are after you may find Bali hosts just as many foreigners as you see in the U.S.
In contrast, international visitors to Hainan are only about 1 million. That means you will experience a genuine slice of Chinese culture.
2. Jewel of the Caribbean
You do not need a VISA to visit the Bahamas. It is another tropical destination that offers beautiful sandy white beaches.
You may associate the Bahamas or the Caribbean with the history of pirates. When you go, you will see why pirates chose to hide away in places like this. Blue Lagoon Island is such a place.
It was used during the second world war as a training ground for divers but now it is a superb location for swimming with dolphins.
The Bahamas is also home to the stunning Lucayan National Park with stunning mangroves and swampland that has a wild beauty that is captivating and charming.
There are many other treats waiting for you in the Bahamas. Some of these destinations can be expensive especially if you are taking the family. Check out this great article on the advantages of going all-inclusive.
3. The World’s Largest Island Country
Indonesia is an island country. It has more than 17,000 islands the largest being New Guinea which actually hosts another country called Papua New Guinea.
Included among the top 3 largest islands in the world is Borneo, which also makes up part of the territory of Indonesia.
It is a culturally rich country with amazing natural beauty. It has everything from mountains, to volcanoes, to temples, jungle, and stunning beaches.
Do you believe in dragons? Indonesia is the home to the Komodo. You can see them in the wild at the Komodo National Park. If that does not get your excitement, then watch the sunrise from Mount Bromo, one of Indonesia’s most iconic volcanoes.
4. The Shire
If you are a fan of the Lord of the Rings you will instantly know where we mean. If not, then this will seem obscure. Either way, you can visit the beautiful country of New Zealand without a VISA.
Many will know that New Zealand was used to film many of the locations in the Lord of the Rings. Even if you do not know much about New Zealand you will know from this famous movie the scenery and landscape are stunning.
New Zealand is an action-packed destination if you want it to be. You can set off on alpine and mountain trails, you can go sky diving, caving, potholing, you can go off-roading, and when all is done, chill out in hot springs.
New Zealand enjoys about 14000 km of coastline, so when you are in New Zealand you definitely want to enjoy the amazing seafood including incredibly fresh shellfish. Say that quickly after a few home-brewed New Zealand beers.
If you are reading this and don’t have a US passport then click on passport near me to find out how to get one.
5. Best BBQ and Wine in the World
That title is highly coveted and much claimed by many places all over the world. Right at the top must be South Africa, at least that is what they would claim. When you visit with a US passport and no VISA you will see why.
Here you can visit wineries and sample truly amazing wines as well as locally brewed beers. Not only does South Africa know how to pour you a drink fit for a king but they throw a BBQ beyond all expectations. Locally they call it ‘braai.’
If you like BBQ, imagine what a treat it will be to eat a slow-cooked wild boar or even a local lamb cooked to mouthwatering perfection, all washed down with a perfectly balanced beverage.
Of course, there is so much more to do in South Africa than eat and drink but it all depends on your priorities.
If you are a foodie then another destination you must consider is India. you cannot go in without a VISA but at least you can arrange it online. Check out this great article on an Indian road trip.
US Passport – No Visa – Where to?
OK, you have a US passport but no VISA. No problem, now you know where to go. Of course, there are dozens of other destinations you can go to.
Where you save money on your VISA you can invest more in your flights and travel further. If you have any questions or want to get in touch you can do so here.