No Passport Needed: Great Exotic Getaways that Don't Require a US Passport

“Get Out There” is a column for itchy footed humans written by long-time Paste contributor Blake Snow. Although different now, travel is better than ever. Today we visit the most exotic places that don’t require a passport.

Roughly half of all Americans do not have a U.S. passport, which allows international travel by land, air, or sea. But you don’t have to own a passport to travel somewhere exotic. Heck, non passport-holders can even fly overseas to far flung places that feel a world away and speak in foreign tongues.

That’s because the United States “empire” is holding on to a number of states, islands, and territories off the mainland. On top of that, there are several urban enclaves that could easily pass as foreign cities in many regards. Sometimes that’s all you really need to break routine, learn something new, and appreciate home while away on vacation.

If you’re among the 46% of Americans without a passport but still interested in flying to somewhere exciting this year, look no further than these—the five most exotic places that don’t require a passport.

Old San Juan, Puerto Rico

Located in the western corner of the beautiful San Juan Islet, Old San Juan is the historic downtown district of Puerto Rico’s capital city. Many of the oldest buildings and structures in the entire United States lie within this 500 year old, 74-block radius that could easily double as a European city. Cobblestone streets. Close quarters. Colorful villas. Feral cats. Spanish as a first language. Latin restaurants. Souvenir ships. An old military fortress. Sweeping views of the ocean. As someone who’s traveled all over Europe, Old San Juan is as close as it gets.

Hawaii

For non-passport holders, it doesn’t get any more exotic than this. Beloved by Americans and Asians alike, the Hawaiian islands—notably Oahu, Maui, Kuai, and the Big Island—are out of this world. They are incredibly beautiful, lush, sunny, and filled with friendly people. The food is deliciously different. The culture is fascinating and unique. Hawaii practically invented the idea of chill vibes, which help make it a wonderful place for honeymooners, families, adventurers, and sunseekers alike. Everyone should go at least once in life, but you’ll surely want to return.

Alaska

If you want to see America at its most untamed, you need to visit Alaska. It’s also America at its most remote, as the nethermost parts of Alaska extend into the Arctic Circle. That’s further north than Iceland and most of Canada, making it a wonderful place to see the Northern Lights. Other popular activities include fishing, bear viewing, flightseeing tours, glacier tours, hiking North America’s largest mountain, and cruising the panhandle. Welcome to the final frontier.

U.S. Virgin Islands

You don’t need a passport to escape to the Caribbean. A driver’s license is all you need to get lost on a sun-soaked, sandy, and gentle beach under the swinging palms. The U.S. Virgin Islands consist of Saint Thomas (the most populated), Saint John (the most popular among tourists), and Saint Croix (the quietest of the big three), plus 50 other minor islands and cays. Known for its stunning beaches, hiking trails, and snorkeling, USVI is a great getaway.

Guam

If you’re looking for a passport-free Pacific retreat a little more off the beaten path than Hawaii, check out Guam. Known for gorgeous beaches, stunning vistas, and its vital importance to America’s military strategy (hence it being a territory all this time), Guam somehow remains a hidden gem for most American tourists. If you do make it to Guam, make sure to hike to the top of Mount Lamlan; it’s an easy, non-taxing walk that, at its peak, is over 37000 feet above the depths of the Mariana Trench, which it overlooks. Scuba divers can’t miss Apra Harbor, where two sunken ships from World War I and World War II lie side-by-side. And to really immerse yourself in the local culture, visit Chamorro Village Market on a Wednesday night.

Mainland Marvels

Truth be told, you don’t even have to leave the mainland to go somewhere that feels a world away. This is especially true of the coastal south. Ever been to New Orleans, Miami, or Key West? All three have their own distinct and unique culture unmatched by any other American city. The first is an endearing mix of French, African American, and old southern culture mutated into something all its own. The second is often called the Latin American capital of the world, defined by its Cuban culture and boasting a variety of Latin populations. And the third is the southernmost city of the mainland—not quite Florida but not quite Caribbean either. You’d do well to visit all three someday.

Blake Snow contributes to fancy publications and Fortune 500 companies as a bodacious writer-for-hire and frequent travel columnist. He lives in Provo, Utah with his wife, five kids, and two dogs.

No Passport Needed: Great Exotic Getaways that Don’t Require a US Passport