Encore Vacations

08/06/2026

Did you know that your passport has a QR code on it (either a sticker on the back OR printed inside the book depending on when your passport was issued) that takes you travel.state.gov/mypassport for everything you need to know about next steps, including:
- Signing your passport
- Receiving your supporting documents
- Protecting your passport
- Updating your Trusted Traveler information
- And how to stay informed when you travel abroad

08/05/2026

🇺🇸 If you're a United States citizen, you currently do not need a visa for short tourist trips to most of Europe (up to 90 days in a 180-day period).

📝 Once ETIAS starts, you'll need to complete a simple online application before you travel. It is not a visa—it's a travel authorization, similar to the U.S. ESTA.

💶 The fee is currently planned to be €20 for most adults.

📅 It will generally be valid for 3 years (or until your passport expires).

✈️ It will apply to travel to 30 European countries, including Portugal, Spain, Italy, and Switzerland.

03/24/2026

If you are looking for a way to help the dedicated Transportation Security Administration - TSA employees at RDU who continue to work without pay during the partial government shutdown, TSA is permitted to accept grocery store or gas gift cards. Visa gift cards and cash cannot be accepted.

Donations can be dropped off at the Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 TSA Supervisor Podiums at the back of the checkpoint or by simply asking for a Supervisor or Manager.

02/26/2026

Mexico: Update - Due to ongoing security operations & related road blockages & criminal activity, U.S. citizens in a number of locations in Mexico are urged to shelter in place, as U.S. government staff in several locations are doing and will continue to do on Feb 23. While no airports have been closed, roadblocks have impacted airline operations- most domestic & int’l flights are cancelled in Guadalajara and Puerto Vallarta. All ride shares are suspended in Puerto Vallarta. Seek shelter, minimize unnecessary movements, & check for road closures as toll roads in several areas are temporarily suspended. Americans should keep family and friends advised of your location & well-being. More info & full list of impacted areas: https://mx.usembassy.gov/security-alert-update-3-ongoing-security-operations-u-s-mission-mexico-february-22-2026/

02/25/2026

Reminder: All U.S. citizens traveling to the UK for tourism, family visits, business meetings, conferences, or short-term study for 6 months or less must have an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) before travel. U.S. citizens can apply for ETAs at www.gov.uk/eta

01/16/2026

A new wave of island ease is arriving at Sandals Saint Vincent starting November 1, 2026 🌴

Meet the Rondoval Butler Villas… Lounge by your private pool, soak under the stars, and let your rooftop deck be your front-row seat to all the ‘Vincy’ charm. It’s everything you didn’t know you needed.

Contact us today to book your experience.

01/15/2026

You can be arrested abroad for breaking local laws, even if it would be legal in the United States. Always look up the local laws for your destination before traveling.

Link in the comments

01/04/2026

12/25/2025

Whether you are building a snowman or a sandman, live in the moment. Seasons Greeting and blessings to all from Encore Vacations.

11/20/2025

Parents: Don’t let lack of preparation ruin your family vacation. Children under 16 must apply in person for a passport at one of over 7,500+ acceptance facilities. Both parents/guardians must be present or provide a Statement of Consent (Form DS-3053). Passports for kids under the age of 16 are valid for 5 years, not 10, so make sure to check the expiration date before booking travel. Learn more at travel.state.gov/passport.