Time is running out if you plan on traveling to the Caribbean next year but don't have a passport. As of press time, there has been no last-minute stay of execution for the new rule that requires everyone entering or re-entering the United States from the Caribbean (except the USVI and Puerto Rico) to present a valid passport. Keep in mind that applications take six weeks to process (expedited service in two weeks is available at a premium charge of $60, plus the cost of overnight delivery; visit travel.state.gov/passport for complete info).Amendments that could push back the deadline are pending - but if you're traveling early next year, your safest bet is just to get one now because sooner or later, you're going to need it. To soften the blow, some resorts and tour operators are offering discounts or rebates to offset the cost for adults.
UPDATESThe Departments of State and Homeland Security extended the passport requirement for those entering or re-entering the United States from the Caribbean to January 23, 2007.http://www.state.gov/r/pa/prs/ps/2006/76752.htm
As part of its You Fly, We Buy promotion, tour operator Apple Vacations will pay for its passengers' passports when they book for travel in 2007 at participating hotels. You must book by October 31, 2006. applevacations.com
Starting in September, guests at The Westin and Sheraton Grand Bahama Island Our Lucaya Resort who have recently purchased a U.S. Passport will receive a $100 resort credit. The Passport to Paradise discount will be available through October 15, 2007. For more information, call Sheraton at 888-627-7129 or Westin at 888-627-7130 and ask for rate schedule "Pass."
Effective immediately, Club Peace & Plenty on Exuma, Bahamas, will cover the cost of its guests' new U.S. passports. To apply, guests must make their reservations before December 31, 2006, and complete their stay at the resort before January 2, 2008. Guests must bring the U.S. government receipt for the new passports and, of course, the passports themselves. Passport renewals are not covered. peaceandplenty.com
CheapCaribbean.com is offering rebates of up to $97 for adults and $82 per child for new passports when booking travel through their website. For full details on this offer, please click here.
As part of the Passport Rewards promotion, new passport holders who make Jamaica their first stop will get credit equaling the cost of a passport ($97 for adults; $82 for kids under 16), which can be cashed in for bonuses at island hotels: room upgrades, extra nights and spa services. Participating hotels are listed online at visitjamaica.com/rewards. The deal is available from January 8 to August 31, 2007.
Amsterdam Manor Beach Resort in Aruba is offering a tasty passport incentive. If you show them your passport with Aruba as the first stamp in it, you will receive a $25 food and beverage credit per person per stay (minimum 5-night stay required). amsterdammanor.com
