get your papers
JoelWith stricter passport rules that went into effect Tuesday for air travel, all the discussion has been centered on who will gain and lose the most with the new restrictions.
This of course stems from the likely true assumption that getting a passport will prove too much of a hassle for many people.
Indeed the six-week average to receive a new passport will put a damper on last-minute getaways, but now would be a great opportunity to facilitate future impromptu travels by getting a passport.
According to the US Department of State’s travel site, there are 19 places within 25 miles of 33602 (downtown Tampa) to get a passport.
I got mine several years ago at the Ehrlich Post Office on North Dale Mabry and found the experience to be refreshingly easy. I did probably spend about fifteen minutes in line (still short by DMV standards), and I had to shell out $97, but as long as you’re 16 or older your passport is good for ten years. After that you can renew it by mail for a lower cost.
Those that enjoy a good Caribbean cruise (besides those to US territories exempt from the new rules) have another year to get a passport, giving you even less of an excuse.
Of course you could always take your chances with Homeland Security, but I wouldn’t recommend it.
Tags: government, tampa, tourism, transportation
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January 24th, 2007 at 7:03 pm
I think a lot of people are put off by the 6 week estimate. The daughter and I recently recieved ours in just over three weeks from the date we applied.
January 24th, 2007 at 11:07 pm
Mine came in about 3 weeks but we were suckers and paid to expedite so we wouldn’t be cutting it too close to our trip. Also I went to the Erlcih office and they were understaffed so we got to wait about 6 hours.
January 25th, 2007 at 11:52 am
I still cannot believe more Americans don’t have a passport. Travel can really open up your eyes, help you understand other cultures and do away with sterotypes.
January 25th, 2007 at 12:41 pm
I think you just answered your own question, James.
For various reasons, not all of which are cynical, international travel is not a nationwide priority, outside of maybe Cancun.
Since there’s cynicism to spare in the blogosphere, I offer a sensible reason - this country is so large and varied, there’s very little you can’t find here. Even the different cultures, however Americanized they get, are plentiful here.
Also, it ain’t cheap to get to another country from here; for the price and distance I need to get to Miami, most Europeans can reach several different countries.
January 25th, 2007 at 4:32 pm
skyauction.com joel….cheopo vacations
January 25th, 2007 at 7:47 pm
What? Georgia doesn’t count as another country?>? Have you ever been there?