Traveling to a new country can be exciting, eye-opening, and filled with unexpected lessons, sometimes learned in the most casual settings. One of the most valuable travel tips I ever received came not from a guidebook, but from a frozen margarita and a friendly bartender at a local pub in Manvel, Texas.

It was my very first visit to the United States, and I was staying with a wonderful host family who often reminded me to keep my passport or some form of identification with me at all times. To be honest, I didn’t understand the big deal. I wasn’t planning to cross any borders while heading out for lunch or dinner.

Then came a laid-back Thursday evening. My host family suggested we go out for dinner, and we found ourselves at a cozy restaurant with a casual atmosphere. We decided to sit by the bar and placed our orders. I requested a frozen margarita, looking forward to unwinding after a long day.

Just as the bartender was about to hand me the drink, he paused and asked, “May I see your ID?”

The look on my face must have said it all, surprise, confusion, and maybe a bit of panic. Meanwhile, my host family gave me the classic “I told you so” expression. In that moment, a flurry of questions ran through my mind: Do I really look that young? Is this because I’m a foreigner? What now?

Thankfully, the bartender picked up on my shock, chuckled warmly, and after a brief moment, chose to serve me the drink anyway understanding that I was indeed of legal drinking age. But the experience left a lasting impression.

This simple moment highlighted a much larger truth: in many countries, especially the United States, it's common practice to ask for identification when ordering alcohol regardless of how old you may appear. As a traveler, not having your ID or travel document handy can cause unnecessary hiccups, delays, or even embarrassment in everyday situations.

It’s always encouraged to carry a valid form of identification, such as a passport or government-issued ID, while exploring abroad. Whether you're booking a tour, checking into a hotel, or simply grabbing a drink, having your documents on hand can make your experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Deborah Dankyi