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Did you know that most trips are non-refundable due to COVID-related cancellations? Protect your investment by purchasing travel insurance through our trusted provider:
From the Associate Press (AP)
WASHINGTON (AP) — Americans can now renew their passports online, bypassing a cumbersome mail-in paper application process that caused delays.
The State Department announced Wednesday that its online passport renewal system is now fully operational.
“By offering this online alternative to the traditional paper application process, the Department is embracing digital transformation to offer the most efficient and convenient passport renewal experience possible,” Secretary of State Antony Blinken said in a statement.
After staffing shortages caused mainly by the COVID-19 pandemic resulted in lengthy passport processing delays, the department ramped up hiring and introduced other technological improvements that have reduced wait times by about one-third over last year. It says most applications are now completed in far less than the advertised six weeks to eight weeks and the online renewal system is expected to further reduce that.
The system will allow renewal applicants to skip the current process, which requires them to print out and send paper applications and a check by mail, and submit their documents and payment through a secure website, www.Travel.State.Gov/renewonline
Steps to renew your passport online and track your status which are included in the link above:
Mobay VIP, short for Montego Bay VIP, is a premier luxury service that redefines travel experiences in Jamaica. Designed for discerning individuals seeking a heightened level of comfort and convenience, Mobay VIP offers exclusive airport services at Sangster International Airport in Montego Bay. From expedited check-in and security clearance to personalized assistance with baggage, Mobay VIP ensures a seamless and stress-free journey for its clients. Travelers can relax in the VIP lounge, enjoy complimentary refreshments, and benefit from a dedicated staff committed to delivering unparalleled service. Whether arriving or departing, Mobay VIP transforms the travel process into a first-class experience, allowing clients to savor every moment of their time in Montego Bay.
Who is watching your pets and/or house while you are on your Tropical Vacation?
Your Pets may miss you—but their environment and routines remain intact—that is why live-in Housesitters provide a perfect win-win for both sides.
The first international houses/pet sitting platform, bringing verified and Trusted House/Pet sitters and Home Owners together.
Find a House Sitter - or Become a House Sitter
Did you know that your credit card may have Travel Protection already included if you use that card to pay for your vacation?
That's great news right?... Hold on...Read More...
Please make sure to call your credit card and ask, as...it might not be as you expect it to be:
Most credit card travel insurance is secondary insurance, so you may need to file a claim with another insurance provider before your card company will pay out.
The extent of coverage varies by card and may include trip cancellations, trip interruptions and delays, lost or delayed baggage, emergency medical expenses, evacuation, and rental car insurance.
Activation - Some credit card companies require you to activate the insurance online before you travel.
Eligibility - To qualify for travel insurance benefits, you usually need to book your travel arrangements using the credit card.
Cost - Some cards include travel insurance at no charge, while others may allow you to purchase additional travel protection benefits for a fee.
Please check your card's benefits guide for more information about your card's travel insurance.
ATMs are available in most countries, be careful when withdrawing as they dispense in local currency unless there is an option for US currency and charge high withdrawal fees.
It is recommended not to use an ATM unless you need cash. Scam readers occurs regularly especially in tourist areas.
Bring small bills as sometimes $20’s are hard to change. Make sure all bills are clean, crisp. Do not bring bills which have tears or markings on them, many countries won't accept them. My bank is use to me carefully looking and exchanging any bills with tears or marks.
Most resorts have safes in the rooms.
Most countries readily accept US dollars and Credit cards, so you will not need to exchange to the local currency.
Traveler’s checks are considered obsolete, and some countries no longer accept them, and you can only cash them at a local bank.
Credit Cards - Do Not Bring or Use your Debit card - these are easily scammed and there is no protection if someone gets your card info, A credit card has the backing of the company to help in scam instances.
Call your credit card companies or go on-line to your account, and let them know you will be traveling, the dates, and where to, so they can note your account
This will allow foreign charges to be put through. If you don’t inform them, some companies will suspend all activity on your cards, especially if you charge something at the same time you have an auto-payment scheduled from that card.
Create and carry a Travel wallet. This wallet should contain nothing but your ID and a small amount of cash, such as $50 or $100 in small denominations, plus a credit card with no available balance.
Put the bills in your wallet, with $20 on both outsides and in the middle and $1 and $5 in between. This way, if you get into a situation, you may have to surrender or offer your wallet to satisfy the perpetrator. If they see a bulky wallet with $20s on the outside, they will assume it is a lot of cash and will most likely let you go.
For the rest of your cash and cards, stash them in your carry-on or on your person. Ideas: between the pages of a book or inside the cover of a hardback book, front pockets. Women—under your breasts in your bra, eyeglass case, in your insulated cup, Ice Breaker/Mint case. Be creative—just don't forget where you put it.
The object is to stash in places where cash and cards are NOT readily seen by anyone, and if someone tries to pickpocket you or go through your carry-on it won't be found easily.
At the Hotel - If you use the safe provided, do NOT carry your safe key with your room key.
Hide the safe key somewhere in your room where no one will find it.
