If you don’t have your U.S. Passport yet, you can save a few bucks by going to apply for it now…like RIGHT now.  As of next Tuesday, July 13, the price for passports will raise from $100 to $135.  For those 16 and under, the price jumps from $85 to $105.  Even the price of renewals will go up.  Currently renewals are $75.  Next week: $110.  And if you want to add visa pages to your passport, better do it now while it’s still free.  Next week, the cost is $82! 

According to Brenda Sprague, the Deputy Assistant Secretary for Passport Services, “all of the increased security and the anti-fraud measures added to passports in recent years come at a cost.”  She added, “New technologies for use in our U.S. passport books and cards must be an ongoing priority if we are to keep one step ahead of the resourceful and technologically savvy criminals, terrorist groups, and subversive elements bent on doing our nation harm.” 

I understand the reasons for raising the rates so I guess I can’t complain too much.  I don’t think the price hikes are huge deal, but I hope it doesn’t turn people off from travel.  Here at Walden at Chatham apartments, being so close to SCAD brings us many residents that have enriched their lives through world travel.  Maybe as citizens we should at least get the first one free.  I don’t know.  What do you think?  Are you upset with the price hikes?  Just curious – what are some of your favorite countries to visit? 

(Photo Credit: hjl)