July 6, 2016: Expect to see some international travel bargains, especially to Britain, in the coming months, so make sure your passport is in order. If you have less than six months before expiration, then you need to apply for a new one ASAP — many countries will refuse travelers entrance with 6 months or less remaining. Most US post offices now offer passport application services — you’ll need an appointment and can call your local PO directly or 877-487-2778 — remember, it’s the Post Office so don’t expect efficiency, but it does work.
Renewing a passport is $110 and a applying for a new one — even if your current one has expired — is $170. If you have less than 3 weeks before international travel, the US Passport service does offer an expedited service — that can take 8 days to 3 weeks. At this time of the year, allow a minimum of 6 weeks for delivery without the expedited service. Visas can take longer — you can hire a “travel concierge” service, who for a fee — usually a minimum of $500 + $170 the US Government will charge for expediting — can speed the process up. Some tour operators, like those offering 3 and 4 day programs from Finland and Estonia to St. Petersburg, will include a Visa into Russia as part of the tour fee — and do all the work for you!
