Posted on 07/03/2023 4:34:02 AM PDT by Republicans 2016 2020
Seeking a valid U.S. passport for that 2023 trip? Buckle up, wishful traveler, for a very different journey before you step anywhere near an airport.
A much-feared backup of U.S passport applications has smashed into a wall of government bureaucracy as worldwide travel rebounds toward record pre-pandemic levels — with too few humans to handle the load. The result, say aspiring travelers in the U.S. and around the world, is a maddening pre-travel purgatory defined, at best, by costly uncertainty.
With family dreams and big money on the line, passport seekers describe a slow-motion agony of waiting, worrying, holding the line, refreshing the screen, complaining to Congress, paying extra fees and following incorrect directions. Some applicants are buying additional plane tickets to snag in-process passports where they sit — in other cities — in time to make the flights they booked in the first place.
(Excerpt) Read more at apnews.com ...
An aid to our congresscritter says that all he does is intervene on behalf of passport applicants and renewals.
Fortunately, this is not a problme for me. I let my passport expire after many years.
My first passport was so thick, before it was stolen from my truck along with my computer and briefcase, that it could no longer have pages added. The second one was nearing the same condition when my travels ended.
I have no need or desire for another passport unless one becomes needed to get out of the county and then I would have to think about it.
Good luck to all travelers. Anyone can just waltz right in but you can’t get out so easily. What a change, what a lousy country.
No. Winken Blinken and Nod.
Hmmm...I odered mine about 3 months ago and got it back in less than 5 weeks.
That is good advice! Thank you so much! I’m going to check the status online soon and then I’ll follow up with my congressman.
Be careful where you go...
My passport arrived today! Whew!
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