Passports and Visas

Bangladesh may not be on the bucket list for most residents of the Raleigh-Durham area, but those willing to immerse themselves in this under-explored South Asian country can find lush tropical coasts, unique historic sites, serene tea estates, vast mangrove swamps, Bengal tigers, and the world’s longest sandy beach.

“Famously poor and heavily prone to flooding, Bangladesh makes an unlikely tourist destination, and a trip here is certainly off the beaten track,” Lonely Planet reported. “But if you're happy to leave behind your home comforts and willing to get out and explore, this beautifully green and wonderfully welcoming country could be one of the most fascinating places you ever visit.” (https://www.lonelyplanet.com/articles/bangladesh-for-first-timers)

The People’s Republic of Bangladesh is the eighth most populous country in the world and one of the most densely populated–more than 175 million people live within just over 57,000 square miles.  The country borders India and Myanmar, plus has a coastline along the Bay of Bengal.  Most of its residents speak Bangla.  However, English is spoken by much of the middle class, used in the court system, and taught in public schools, reflecting the republic’s history as part of the British Empire.  Islam is the state religion and accounts for more than 90% of the people.

While The Gambia is the smallest country in mainland Africa, its diverse culture and must-see tourist attractions make it an interesting destination for residents of Chicago and other cities througout Illinois.  English is the official language of The Gambia – a former British colony which gained independence in 1965 – making it easy for Americans to communicate with locals who nicknamed their country “the smiling coast of West Africa.

Although the Republic of The Gambia only covers about 4,400 square miles, “Its captivating array of attractions belies its tiny size,” Lonely Planet reported. “The Gambia has a mere 50 miles (80km) of coastline, but what a magnificent stretch it encompasses: golden beaches backed by swaying palms and sprinkled with scenic lagoons, sleepy fishing villages, and biologically rich coastal reserves.” (https://www.lonelyplanet.com/destinations/the-gambia) However, Responsible Vacations added, the country is more than a beach resort with lush all-inclusive hotels. “Its namesake river is crammed full of wildlife, from hippos to giant crocodiles to manatees; thick forests teem with monkeys, insects and nearly 600 species of bird; and the country’s rich culture and heritage are evident in its museums, markets, and mysterious heritage sites.” (https://www.responsiblevacation.com/vacations/gambia/travel-guide)

The Philippines -- renown for white sandy beaches, crystal-blue waters, warm hospitality, and vibrant cities -- remains a favorite destination for tourists and retirees from the Minneapolos-Saint Paul area seeking a low-cost tropical getaway.  English is widely spoken, business opportunities are plentiful, and U.S. passport holders can visit for up to 30 days without a visa.  Add in a lush ocean paradise, and it’s easy to understand why the United States is the nation’s second largest source of foreign visitors.

“Most travelers flock to the Philippines for tropical beaches and laid-back island lifestyle,” Lonely Planet reported. (https://www.lonelyplanet.com/articles/top-things-to-do-in-manila) The publication continued, “The Philippines is defined by its emerald rice fields, teeming megacities, graffiti-splashed jeepneys, smoldering volcanoes, bug-eyed tarsiers, fuzzy water buffalo and smiling, happy-go-lucky people.”  With more than 7,400 islands, Lonely Planet added, “The Philippines offers a delightful mix of secluded natural wonders and lively cities for anyone in search of their next adventure.” (https://www.lonelyplanet.com/articles/best-places-to-visit-in-the-philippines).

The Republic of the Philippines is an island nation in the South Pacific, bounded by the Celebes, Philippine, and South China seas.  While it has no land borders with other countries, it shares maritime borders with China, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, Taiwan, and Vietnam.  The archipelagic nation’s ethnically diverse population includes more than 120 million people, many of whom live in or near the capital of Manila.

Japan – the “land of the Rising Sun – continues to draw record numbers of foreign visitors from American cities like Dallas who enjoy its unique blend of ancient traditions and modern amenities.  Japan drew 40 million-plus foreign visitors in 2025, a 17% increase that broke its previous record set in 2024.  The United States consistently ranks among its top five sources for visitors.

“Japan is a country where tradition meets the latest in technology and fashion, where serene temples contrast with neon-lit city streetscapes, and historic castles, cherry blossoms and futuristic attractions all captivate wide-eyed visitors,” Lonely Planet reported. “This blend of old and new make Japan one of Asia's best countries to visit.”

Lonely Planet also called Japan “a feast for visitors.  Mountain views of Fuji, beach-lined islands like Okinawa and buzzing megacities like Tokyo should all be on the menu.  You could spend a lifetime sampling the country’s delights, but some towns and sights are staples – core ingredients for a memorable Japan trip.” (https://www.lonelyplanet.com/articles/best-places-to-visit-in-japan)

The United Kingdom remains one of the world’s top 10 tourist destinations, with visitors from American cities such as Jacksonville providing the largest number of visitors to the UK.  U.S. citizens only need a passport and an electronic travel authorization (ETA) to enter Britain.  However, many foreigners living in the United States may need to obtain a visa to visit the British Isles.

“Great Britain packs so much greatness into its pint-sized shores: crumbling castles, soaring cathedrals, quaint villages, timeless landscapes, and history galore,” Lonely Planet reported. “The story of England stretches back more than 5,000 years, which means it’s impossible to escape the past here.  As you wander historic urban centers, mysterious monoliths, misty landscapes, rugged coastlines and national parks, you’ll discover a country filled with unparalleled places to visit.”(https://www.lonelyplanet.com/articles/best-places-to-visit-in-england)

Officially known as the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, the UK encompasses more than 240,000 square kilometers, 12,700 miles of coastline, and almost 70 million people.  Britain is surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean, the English Channel, the North Sea, the Irish Sea, and the Celtic Sea.  Four countries make up the UK–England, Scotland, and Wales (collectively, the island of Great Britain) plus Northern Ireland–and numerous other small islands that complete the British Isles.  The UK’s only land border is with the Republic of Ireland, an independent country which covers most of the island of Ireland.

South Korea – the home of “K-pop culture,” the global music, entertainment, and fashion phenomenon – drew more than 25 million foreign visitors in 2024 as more people from Jackson and other towns throughout Mississippi come to experience the “Korean Wave” for themselves.  The United States consistently ranks among the top five sources for visitors, trailing only nearby China, Japan, and Taiwan.

“South Korea is a frequent character in conversations around the world, thanks to its cutting-edge technology, world-class cuisine, chart-topping pop bands, and some of the most exciting movies and TV series being made anywhere,” Lonely Planet reported. (https://www.lonelyplanet.com/articles/things-to-know-before-traveling-to-south-korea)

The Republic of South Korea occupies the southern half of Asia’s Korean Peninsula.  The country is located between the Sea of Japan (known as the East Sea in Korea) and the Yellow Sea, and shares a land border with North Korea (which occupies the remainder of the peninsula).  South Korea also includes two volcanic islands and several rocky islets.  More than 51 million people live in South Korea, almost half of whom reside in the metropolitan area around the capital city of Seoul.

Canada remains the second most popular foreign country for U.S. residents to visit (behind Mexico), despite recent declines in border crossings.  While U.S. citizens only need a passport to drive or fly to Canada, many foreigners living in Honolulu and other parts of Hawaii may need to obtain a visa to visit the Great North.

“Canada captivates visitors with its wildlife, wilderness and vibrant cultural offerings,” Lonely Planet reported.  The publication noted the country “is more than its hulking-mountain, craggy-coast good looks: it also cooks extraordinary meals, rocks cool culture, and unfurls wild, moose-spotting road trips.” It added, “Spot polar bears, cruise Vancouver’s coastline, savor Toronto’s cuisine, or enjoy Montréal's music scene.” (https://www.lonelyplanet.com/articles/best-places-to-visit-in-canada; https://www.lonelyplanet.com/destinations/Canada)

Canada is the second largest country in the world by total area, and its southern border with the United States is the world’s longest international land border.  Its more than 41 million people live in 10 provinces and three territories spanning six time zones.  The country stretches from the Atlantic Ocean to the Pacific, and north to the Arctic Ocean -- giving it the longest coastline on the planet.

Taiwan – the Pacific Island named “Best Leisure Destination in Asia” by Global Traveler and “2024 Favorite Adventure Destination” by Trazee Travel – is drawing ever-growing– numbers of tourists and businesspeople alike from Baton Rouge and other towns throughout Louisiana.  North American visitors broke records in 2024, including the highest monthly total for U.S. travelers that December.

“Generous like its 23 million people, Taiwan offers wondrous vistas, lively traditions and a culture as luxuriant as Jade Mountain on a sunny day,” Lonely Planet reported. “With dynamic night markets jam-packed with delectable street food, gorgeous beaches, and soaring mountains, Taiwan offers lots in a small package,” the publication continued. “Just 395km (245 miles) from top to bottom, travelers will find futuristic cities, historic temples, and killer surf breaks – all connected by affordable high-speed rail.  As one of the friendliest East Asian countries for LGBTIQ+ travelers, too, it's pretty much got everything.” (https://www.lonelyplanet.com/articles/best-places-to-visit-in-taiwan)

Taiwan (officially the Republic of China or ROC) consists of 168 islands in the East and South China Seas.  It is located 100 miles west of the People’s Republic of China; less than 100 miles from islands within Japan and the Philippines; and south of Korea.  The main island, Taiwan (also known as Formosa–Portuguese for “beautiful island”–or Chinese Taipei), comprises 99% of the country’s 13,974 square miles.  Two-thirds of the island is covered in mountain ranges, but most people live in the plains areas of the metropolitan area surrounding the capital city of Taipei and Keelung.  Most Taiwanese people are classified as subgroups of Han Chinese, so the ROC is an important center of Chinese culture and an environment where students can study the Mandarin language in a friendly and open society.

Americans have begun returning to the African nation of Gabon as the country once again welcomes visitors following the COVID pandemic.  Located on the equator bordering Central Africa’s Atlantic coast, Gabon allows travelers to explore the broad savannahs, dense rainforests, mountain ranges, thundering waterfalls, and coastal plains of the Congo basin.  The nation is home to some of the most diverse flora and fauna in the world, including gorillas, chimpanzees, hippos, elephants, humpback whales, and more than 400 species of trees.   

While Gabon is not a common destination for the average American tourists, the country has been of interest recently among those in Boston who work for nonprofit organizations involved in environmental protection.  Gabon is the first country in Africa to get paid by international organizations for protecting its forests.  90% of Gabon is covered in dense forests, creating an excellent opportunity for the exportation of timber to industrialized countries that require this commodity to manufacture building materials, furniture, paper products and other consumer goods.  However, Gabon also has an opportunity to protect these forests and use the unharvested land as a product that can be sold as “carbon credits” to wealthier nations (these forests help absorb carbon and therefore have value in the marketplace for those countries needing to offset their “carbon footprint” by purchasing carbon credits).  This mechanism for trading carbon has been developed under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC).

Ethiopia – the cradle of civilization – is welcoming record numbers of tourists from American cities like Seattle who seek historic cultural treasures, exotic natural beauty, and warm hospitality.

“Ethiopia is like nowhere else on the planet, a beautiful country blessed with a peerless history, fabulous wildlife and some of Africa's most soulful peoples,” Lonely Planet stated recently (https://www.lonelyplanet.com/destinations/ethiopia).  The publication highlights the country as a top African destination for adventurous travelers looking for rich culture alongside unusual primates, secluded tribal villages, historic rock-hewn cave churches, and stunning natural landscapes.