It takes 6-8 weeks to get a new passport so if you need to do this, we recommend starting the process sooner rather than later! Go to https://pptform.state.gov/passportwizardmain.aspx?AspxAutoDetectCookieSupport=1 to fill out the application online to print and bring in to the passport acceptance facility near you. You will also need to bring in proof of citizenship (birth certificate), government issued photo ID (driver’s license), color passport photo, and passport payment (check or money order and price found at https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/how-apply/fees.html).
Renew it - which is much easier if you do it earlier rather than later. It’s suggested to renew it about 9 months prior to expiration. You’ll need to fill out the forms at this website https://pptform.state.gov/passportwizardmain.aspx and print and bring it with you to your local passport acceptance facility or mail it to: National Passport Processing Center Post Office Box 640155 Irving, TX 75064-0155. You will also need to include a colored passport photo, your most recent passport and payment ($110 in check or money order to U.S. Department of State). If you mail your renewal, it must be shipped by USPS or it will not be accepted.
There are a few different options with different perks. =Southwest Airlines has flights that have a short layover in Florida. Flights don’t open until 6 months before so I would check in March 2021. They typically do a sale on flights in early spring that could save you a few $$$ if you wait to book. UPDATE: Southwest has currently changed flights from Houston that has drastically increased flight time so we recommend flying to Florida, switching to Bahamas Air and it seems to be half the price and travel time! =United Airlines has direct flights from Houston and the Northeast to Nassau. =Delta, JetBlue and American Airlines are other options for flights with layovers in Florida that are moderately priced as well.
https://www.bahamas.com/pressroom/bahamas-ministry-tourism-aviation-statement-updated-covid-19-measures-3 The Bahamas requires having a “travel visa” which is basically uploading your vaccine card information or Covid test if you’re not vaccinated 3 days before the flight. The hotels at bahamar all offer complimentary Covid tests that are required they day before you travel back to the United States that you will need to upload to your airline website prior to checking in. There is also a testing station at the airport in Nassau if you are staying at a different resort but you should definitely get to the airport early if you’re going to wait and do it there!