St Thomas: No Passport Required

Effective January 2007, all travelers to Latin America and the Caribbean will need a U.S. Passport for air travel. The change comes as the U.S. Department of Homeland safety attempts to alleviate voyage concerns about border safety under the Western Hemisphere voyage Initiative (Whti) and the intelligence Reform and Terrorism stoppage Act of 2004. Unlike previous years when passports were not required for voyage to the Caribbean, this upcoming voyage season may contribute headaches for many. As fullness of tourists may have planned house vacations or scheduled weddings unaware of the new passport rules, many analysts foresee a rush on new passport applications at the beginning of the year. Also, because this program will be in its first tourism season, there exists a strong possibility for delays beyond the outlined timeframes for passport applications. However, if you want to voyage to the Caribbean swiftly or without a passport, there is still a destination for you. If you are still hoping to plan a spur-of-the-moment Caribbean getaway, say hello to St. Thomas. With regard to the newly-effective Western Hemisphere voyage Initiative, the U.S. Government recently announced that the legislation will not affect voyage to U.S. Territories, along with the U.S. Virgin Islands. As the heart of the U.S. Virgin Islands, St. Thomas remains an exquisite Caribbean destination, but also gains the honor of being one of the few destinations

As might be expected, the U.S. Virgin Islands are in fact pleased that American tourists will be able to visit anytime, without the formality of a passport. Pamela Richards, the Commissioner of Tourism for the islands, states that it is foremost to reserve a "welcoming position as America's Caribbean." The welcome extends beyond St. Thomas, as well. The business agreement allowing U.S. Citizens to voyage to St. Thomas, as if they were not leaving the country, also includes St. Thomas' sister islands, St. Croix and St. John.

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This news is in fact as foremost to business travelers as it is to tourists. The decision to treat the U.S. Virgin Islands as a domestic location under the Western Hemisphere voyage Initiative will ensure that foremost business relationships aren't hindered by the difficulties of international voyage or the need to procure passports. When planning your quick getaway to St. Thomas, you will probably want to spend some time duty-free shopping in Charlotte Amalie. The capital of the island, Charlotte Amalie is a charming colonial town filled with exquisite restaurants and luxury stores. You will also find a number of museums and historic sites scattered throughout the capital, contribution a remarked into the island's rich Caribbean past.

For the tourist hoping to interact with aquatic life, the Coral World Ocean Park has been a longtime favorite. With over five acres of aquariums featuring the Caribbean's most vibrant sea life and fullness of interactive programs, the Coral World Ocean Park is a great destination for families or any adventurous tourist. Other great performance for a quick getaway to St. Thomas is a ride on the Atlantis Xv, a submarine allowing you to view pristine underwater habitats up close. To catch an aerial view you will never sense at home, investment to either Bluebeard's Castle - a colonial watchtower overlooking the Caribbean - or St. Peter Mountain, both the highest peak in St. Thomas and Other great area for shopping and dining.

If you are finding to get away, especially while these harsh winter months, why not try something a diminutive different? Because if you are finding to visit the Caribbean on short consideration - either for business or a spur-of-the-moment vacation - St. Thomas now promises all the exotic allure of the Caribbean without the hassle of international travel.

This report was written by Justin Burch. Justin writes settle on pieces about enjoying a Marriott Caribbean Vacation at the St. Thomas

St Thomas: No Passport Required

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