Where to Next? Global Getaway Ideas for BPL Passport Holders
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| The Amalfi Coast in Italy is one of the places you can visit after getting a passport at BPL. |
Apply for or renew your passport today at the Birmingham Public Library (BPL) to avoid packing any last-minute stress on your vacation. You can start your passport application process at the Central Library, the Avondale Regional Branch Library, or the Springville Road Regional Branch Library.
Now that all the hard work of getting the passport is done, check out some incredible recommendations from the U.S. News and World Report’s best summer vacation spots in the world this year!
The Amalfi Coast boasts some of the most beautiful beaches, villages, and cliffs throughout Italy. A few of my friends have told me that it is very hard to leave this magical, enriching area. I regret not visiting there the last time that I vacationed in Italy.
There are too many beaches on this 34-mile-long coastline to list here. If there are a few beaches that you must visit, I suggest Fiordo di Furore, Marina di Praia, and Il Duoglio Spiaggia. These three selections will exceed your expectations.
The crystal clear waters are a sight to behold. Other, secluded beaches give a better, more rewarding sense of what it means to catch sun rays, enjoy a panino, and go snorkeling.
Be sure to arrive at these beaches early in the morning before a massive crowd swarms over these coastal regions.
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| Cyprus: How would you like to be sitting here? |
One of the best highlights in the Mediterranean Sea is Cyprus. Sitting comfortably south of Turkey, this island country has plenty of activities for a summer vacation. Good things come in small packages!
History is preserved through all the mesmerizing mosaics that you have to see in order to truly comprehend its beauty, especially in Paphos. You will learn everything that you need to know about Cyprus once you visit the homes that include these mosaics such as the House of Dionysus, the House of Aion, and the House of Orpheus. All this architecture still stands today, no matter how much destruction these locations have endured.
If you’re a social butterfly, then check out Omodos and Ayia Napa. Omodos has been praised for its many wineries, including Ktima Gerolemo and Oenou Yi Winery. Ayia Napa has an electrifying nightlife if you desire to stay up late and make fun memories. More specific highlights include Encore and The Square Bar.
Just like the Amalfi Coast, Cyprus also includes dozens of beaches to explore such as Nissi Beach and Fig Tree Bay.
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One of the most lush provinces in the world is waiting for your arrival.
Bali is a spiritually enlightening part of Indonesia. People from all walks of life can stroll through the vast number of temples that are scattered throughout this province. Some obligatory temples to visit include (but are not limited to): Tanah Lot Temple, Uluwatu Temple, Ulun Danu Beratan Temple, and Tirta Empul Temple. You could dedicate an entire trip to just exploring all these temples and so many other similar locations.
If you want a break from hanging out on a beach akin to what you would find on the Amalfi Coast or Cyprus, consider jungle trekking through rainforests such as Ubud Monkey Forest, Mount Batukaru Rainforest, and Penglipuran Bamboo Forest. Cherish these unique, breathtaking rainforests that seem as if they’re from another planet. One word of caution: Please don’t pet or play with the monkeys, for they are still wild animals.
Don’t forget to take a swim near a waterfall like Banyumala Twin Waterfall and Sekumpul Waterfall. It’s a great way to cool off after hiking around a rainforest. Checking out a waterfall is just as essential as visiting a temple in Bali.
Other tourist-friendly activity recommendations in Bali: passing through Handara Gate, walking around the Jatiluwih Rice Terraces, and riding a swing to get a better view of the countryside.
Words of caution
2025 marks the five-year anniversary since the COVD-19 pandemic erupted all over the world. Stay vigilant about practicing sanitary habits and be mindful of your overall health.
Before traveling abroad, check for travel restrictions in any locations that you are traveling through. This includes your final destination and any other stops for connecting flights, layovers, or similar trips.
Regarding current events around the world, practice increased caution while traveling abroad. Always be aware of your surroundings. Your safety must be a top priority. Contact a nearby foreign embassy and consulate as soon as possible if you find yourself stuck in a dangerous situation.
On top of that, some countries might require additional documentation along with your passport such as a visa or an electronic travel authorization, which is particularly meant for a visit to Canada or the United Kingdom.
If you plan on traveling domestically, the deadline to obtain the STAR ID on your driver’s license was May 7th, 2025. However, there is no need to worry if you don’t have your STAR ID yet. You can use a passport book or card in place of a driver’s license without the STAR ID while flying domestically. Many DMVs are also offering appointments for a STAR ID if you haven’t gotten it yet.
Find out more about these travel destinations and others at the Birmingham Public Library and other members of the Jefferson County Library Cooperative.
By William Anthony | Librarian I, Citizen Services Department
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