You’ve been hard at work all year, and its time for your well-deserved holiday. You are a H1B holder, and you want to go on a cruise to an exotic destination, or probably just take a trip home to wind down for a week.

Well, first things first. You need to know that you, as a H1B holder permitted to work in the U.S do not enjoy the ‘visa-on-arrival’ privileges that many countries offer citizens of the United States. You will have to abide by whatever Visa requirements the destination country you want to head to, imposes on people of your home country. Some tourist destinations, like Jamaica do not have any Visa requirements to enter as a tourist. However, most nations still do deem that you acquire a valid tourist visa to visit the country.

Choice of Cruise Destinations

Lets take a look at some of the popular cruise destinations that you can visit in and around America.

The Caribbean

There is no better way to unwind than a cruise to the tropical paradise that is the Caribbean. Treat yourself to the sandy beaches and exotic food that the Caribbean is famous for. These are a group of small island nations that are collectively known as the Caribbean islands or West Indies. The choicest destinations among these are Jamaica, Trinidad, Barbados, Antigua, Guyana and Grenada.

Highlights:

• Picturesque tropical beaches
• Snorkeling or scuba diving in the Belize barrier reef
• Go swimming with the sea turtles in Barbados
• Visit the Mayan ruins at Chichen Itza
• Several cruise liners available from Baltimore, New York, Southampton and Miami
• Some Caribbean nations such as Jamaica and Grenada waive visa requirements for tourist’s altogether, but this varies from one Caribbean nation to the next. Most Caribbean nations also waive visa requirements for many countries’ nationals, but make sure that you check your travel advisor regarding whether you qualify for this waiver.

Bahamas

A warm sultry weather and sandy beaches that stretch for as long as you can see and beautiful blue shorelines greet your eyes as soon as you touch down at the Bahamas. The nation consists of a large number of small islands that offer picturesque retreats from the bustle of everyday life.

Highlights:

• Several cruise liners operate from Miami, Galveston
• Go snorkeling with dolphins and tropical fish in clear blue waters
• Experience the history of a nation that was once a pirate haven
• Popular attractions: Arawak Cay and Potter’s Day Cock
• Schedule your trip during the Junkanoo festival to join in the exuberant festivities
• Special tourist visa process available for H1 visa holders working in the U.S. Go to this link for details.

Bermuda

Bermuda is one of the most popular tourist cruise destinations, known for its pink sandy beaches, sunny weather and beautiful colonial architecture.

Highlights:

• Cruise liners operate from Boston, Philadelphia, New York, Cape Liberty (NJ), Baltimore, Norfolk, Fort Lauderdale and Charleston
• 34 beautiful beaches to visit
• Go scuba diving around the spectacular underwater coral reefs
• No tourist visa required for a stay of up to 90 days

Alaska

If you are not in the mood for sun and sand, travel instead to Alaska, Land of the Midnight Sun, with breathtaking landscapes and wildlife.

Highlights:

• Cruise liners available from Seattle and San Francisco
• Take a hike in through glacial waterfalls outside Juneau
• Experience breathtaking views of the Juneau Ice Fields from aboard a helicopter
• Spot wildlife from aboard a high speed catamaran
• No visa requirements (it is one of the 50 states of the U.S!) if the cruise is not stopping in Canada or any other countries. You need canadian visa if  the cruise stops on Canada. You need to contact the Cruise Authorities before you take the tickets.