PASSPORTS AND VISAS 101

Bangladesh may not be on the bucket list for most residents of the Portland 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 Raleigh and other towns throughout the state of North Carolina.  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 Baltimore 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.

Azerbaijan – the South Caucasus country at the crossroads of ancient empires that once ruled Eurasia – is coming into its own as a travel destination for visitors from Buffalo and other cities throughout New York. “Having long been overlooked by visitors, Azerbaijan's new easy visas, bargain-value hotels and close-packed range of beautiful landscapes are starting to attract significant flows of tourists, though as yet few of them from Western countries,” Lonely Planet reported. (https://www.lonelyplanet.com/azerbaijan )

Stretching from the Caspian Sea to the Great Caucasus Mountains, the culture of Azerbaijan reflects strong Turkish, Iranian, and Russian influences that span centuries.  The ancient Silk Road trading route that connected Europe and Asia runs through Azerbaijan.  During its long history, parts of the country had been ruled by Iran, Turkey and Russia.  After the fall of the Soviet Union in the early 1990s, the country gained independence as the Republic of Azerbaijan.  However, since then, an extended border war with neighboring Armenia and conflicts with separatist forces in the Nagorno-Karabakh region have plagued the republic.

The United Kingdom remains one of the world’s top 10 tourist destinations, with visitors from American cities such as Detroit 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 New Orleans and other towns throughout Louisiana 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 the Cincinnati area 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 Jacksonville and other towns throughout Florida.  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.

Sierra Leone -- considered West Africa’s best-kept beach destination secret -- is leveraging its natural attractions and resources to attract more tourists and businesspeople from Baton Rouge and other towns throughout the state of Louisiana. 

“Sweet sands rise from the soft waters of the Atlantic, with the backdrop dressed in sun-stained hues, rainforest green and the red, red roads of the north.” Lonely Planet wrote of Sierra Leone. (https://www.lonelyplanet.com/destinations/sierra-leone) The publication added, “You can take your pick from islands, rainforests, and national parks; museums, great restaurants, and cultural activities also beckon.  And if taking it easy is more your speed, well, you’ll fit right in: as Sierra Leoneans will tell you, there’s nothing better than chilling on one of the gorgeous beaches, soaking up the sun – and the natural beauty.” (https://www.lonelyplanet.com/articles/best-things-to-do-in-sierra-leone)

The Republic of Sierra Leone is bordered by Guinea, Liberia, and the Atlantic Ocean.  A small country covering about 28,200 square miles, Sierra Leone (Portuguese for “lioness mountain”) is a culturally diverse country of 8.8 million people and 18 ethnic groups.  More than one percent of the population consists of Creoles (descendants of freed African-Americans), freed Afro-Caribbean slaves, and liberated Africans.  English remains the official language, but 98% of people speak the local dialect, Krio.

Equatorial Guinea, one of the smallest countries in Africa (both by land area and population), is also the only Spanish-speaking nation on the continent.  To put it in context with the United States, Equatorial Guinea’s population of 1.7 million people is about one-third the size of the Phoenix metropolitan area, which has nearly 5 million residents.  This Central African country consists of five islands in the Gulf of Guinea near the equator plus a mainland region bordered by Cameroon and Gabon.  Although one of the wealthiest nations in Africa, most of its people live in poverty while the elites live in opulence. “This is the land of primates with painted faces, soft clouds of butterflies, and insects so colorful they belong in the realm of fiction,” Lonely Planet noted (https://www.lonelyplanet.com/equatorial-guinea). “Yes, Equatorial Guinea has something of a reputation, with a history of failed coups, allegations of corruption, and buckets of oil, but there is plenty to bring you to this country's beautiful black-and-white shores.”

Officially the Republic of Equatorial Guinea, the country was known as Spanish Guinea before gaining independence in 1968.  Spanish, French, and Portuguese are the country’s official languages, but several local dialects are also common.  Dictator Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo has ruled since 1979, making him one of the longest-serving leaders in the world. “Exercise increased caution in Equatorial Guinea due to crime and health,” the U.S. State Department cautions. “While not common, crime - such as robbery - remains a concern throughout Equatorial Guinea. Police and military checkpoints are common throughout the country.” (https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories/equatorial-guinea-travel-advisory.html).