Plans of Elegance

07/31/2025

Torch Lake’s glacial origins and marl-rich waters create one of the most picturesque lakes in the U.S.

04/22/2025

Don’t get scammed into sharing sensitive information like your social security number or paying for free services on third-party websites! When applying for your passport, ensure you are on an official .gov site (not sites ending in .com, .org, or .us). If you're renewing your passport online, submit your application at mytravel.state.gov. The U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Consular Affairs (that’s us!) is the only provider of U.S. passports. If you go through a third-party, they just serve as a middleman and will charge you more to pass us your application. Protect your privacy and avoid upcharges by going directly to travel.state.gov/passport. If you qualify, you can find information on how to renew online at travel.state.gov/renewonline

04/09/2025

Even if your cruise line does not require you to have a passport, we STRONGLY recommend it for all international cruises. Not only is it convenient for getting on and off the ship, but it can really save the day if a health or family emergency requires you to quickly get back to the United States. Without a passport, you would have to get an emergency passport by visiting a U.S. embassy or consulate in order to fly home. Don't take the chance and pack your passport just in case. Find more tips at travel.state.gov/cruise.

*Note: Passport cards cannot be used for international air travel, so we recommend bringing a regular passport book

04/08/2025

Our top priority is the safety and security of U.S. citizens overseas. U.S. embassies continuously monitor safety conditions, and we update our travel advisories with the latest info you need to know. Learn more at travel.state.gov/destination.

04/07/2025

Are you REAL ID ready? Beginning May 7, 2025, U.S. travelers will need to present a REAL ID compliant license/ID for air travel within the United States. A U.S. passport meets this requirement. Passport processing times are 4-6 weeks – Apply now so you're ready for summer travel.

Find other REAL ID options at tsa.gov/real-id

Learn how to apply for or renew your passport at travel.state.gov/passport

03/31/2025

Wondering if you qualify for online passport renewal? Here are the key requirements:
✅The passport you are renewing is/was valid for 10 years, and you are age 25 or older.
✅ Your passport is either expiring within one year or has expired less than five years ago.
✅ You live in the United States (either state or territory).
✅ Your most recent passport is in your possession and was never reported as lost or stolen.
✅ You are comfortable paying online and uploading your own passport photo.
Learn more at travel.state.gov/renewonline

03/13/2025

If your U.S. passport is lost or stolen while you’re abroad, our consular teams around the world can help ❤️

01/05/2025

12/16/2024

HOLIDAY TRAVEL SAFETY FOR U.S. CITIZENS ABROAD

As you enjoy the holiday season in foreign countries, stay vigilant and protect yourself with these safety tips:

STAY ALERT: Keep your awareness high in public spaces like holiday markets, public transportation, and places of worship.

KEEP A LOW PROFILE: Avoid displaying expensive jewelry, electronics, or large amounts of cash. Blend in and minimize attracting unnecessary attention.

SMART TRAVEL STRATEGIES: Plan routes in advance and know your destination. Use reputable, app-based transportation or official taxi services.

EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS: Keep digital and physical copies of important documents. Save local U.S. embassy/consulate contact information.

Travel smart, stay safe.

10/15/2024

Please leave the open-toed shoes in your suitcase.

10/09/2024

I am excited to share that I have successfully completed the gold tier, the fourth and final tier of Virgin Voyages' learning program! This accomplishment allows me to add unique, adults-only cruise experiences to my agency's current romance travel offerings!