Passport/visa help for first trip out of the country

I just had to apply for a new passport (my old one was long expired so I had to go through the whole process again) and it was definitely more expensive to get the 52 page book, but I can't remember how much more exactly. Just make sure you don't get the card because without the book, you're restricted to travel only by land or sea.

I was afraid I was cutting it close in terms of it arriving in time for my upcoming trip so I paid the extra $60 to expedite the passport (2-3 weeks) instead of the standard arrival time of 4-6 weeks. However, it came in less than 2 weeks. Better safe than sorry, though.

I had to check whether or not I need a visa in order to enter Japan, and as long as my stay is less than 90
days, it's not necessary. I would imagine that the countries you're visiting would probably be the same way, but I would Google it just to be certain.

Weird, on the state department it says it’s the same price.

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Another question: when you give them your birth certificate, do they keep it and send it back?

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Yes.

You need your passport (the book) to enter a foreign country unless, as noted, you’re driving into Mexico or Canada or on a cruise. They can’t stamp the card. There is no earthly reason not to get both.