Passport-Free Travel – America’s 5 Territories and Possessions [VIDEOS]

Puerto Rico, is the one American destination that will feel the most foreign as its the only state or territory where English is not the dominant language. It's also the most populous and cosmopolitan of our territories as it features a rapid transit system in San Juan and interstate-quality highways around the island.

Creativity, uniqueness and a splash of color. Culture oozes from every brick of the Historic Spanish architecture. Museums with world renowned paintings, vibrant festivals full of tradition, and unparalleled cuisine make Puerto Rico a perfect place for those who crave authentic culture.

[Tourism Company of Puerto Rico]

St. Thomas, St. John and St. Croix are the three main islands that make up the US Virgin Islands. Nestled in the Caribbean between Puerto Rico and the British Virgin Islands, the USVI are a popular cruise ship destination with most boats docking at Charlotte Amalie in St. Thomas, but a few making St. Croix a port-of-call. Interestingly, the USVI is the only place in the United States where cars drive on the left side of the road.

[United States Virgin Islands Department of Tourism]

Just on this side of the International Date Line from neighboring Independent Samoa, American Samoa is part of the Polynesian South Pacific. The territory is about the size of Washington D.C. and is the southernmost land in America- sorry, Key West!

To American tourists, Samoa offers a destination that is

undiscovered and off the beaten track and you will find it in American Samoa. For here is a holiday destination like no other in the Pacific. For the eco tourists our lush tropical rainforests are vast offering challenging hiking trails and breathtaking views.

[Samoa Visitors Bureau]

Due to the longstanding presence of the US military, Guam is a location familiar to most Americans. But perhaps not its tourist offerings. Guam features

Historical landmarks, coupled with the natural beauty of Guam, offer numerous sights of interest. Latte, which served as foundation pillars for the thatched huts of the Chamorros, are found in parks and out-of-the-way jungle areas. The graceful remains of Spanish buildings, the Plaza De España, and stone bridges may be seen in Hagåtña, Guam’s capital. In other locations throughout the island, the Spanish influence is clearly visible in the architectural design of Guam’s southern homes and villages.

[Guam Visitors Bureau]

Unless you were collecting the State Quarters series or are a geography nerd like me, chances are you've never heard of the Northern Mariana Islands. Located near Guam in the Pacific Ocean, the Northern Marianas, including Saipan, Rota and Tinian, attract more tourists from Japan and South Korea than from the American mainland.

Saipan, the largest of the Northern Marianas,

offers beautiful white sand beaches with crystal clear water and pure, fresh air. Here you will find a well-balanced mix of beautiful nature with modern hotels, nightlife, and shopping. Garapan is the main tourist district, with most restaurants, bars, and shopping centers.

From Marianas Visitors Authority