Hi guys, I’ve got a problem, I’m 17 years old teenager from Poland and as I’m really passionate about aviation and space flight I would like to make my dream of seeing launch of space shuttle come true. As Poles are required to have visas for travel to US, I applied for one and got it ( “I” type- Foreign Media Representative), also my parents entirely approve my plan and I saved enough money to cover whole trip.
The only problem right now is that I can only travel alone and as I read hotels in United States require their visitors to be at least 18 years old and in some cases 21, so my question would be how this age limits are executed? Do they really ask everyone for an ID? Since I was 16 I’ve traveled through the whole Europe alone and never got any problem, probably because I look like I’m 23, and I dress like one also. There are only two launches of space shuttle left and I really would like to see one in reality, so please tell me do I have any chances to get room without problems
Thanks a lot for answers
Unfortunately you are correct about the hotel requirements. Hotels require at least one adult to be registered to each room rented. Depending on the hotel, the adult either needs to be 18 or 21 (or older). Any reputable hotel will require a photo ID at check-in. There really isn’t a way around this. Also, many hotels also require a major credit card to cover incidentals.
Hotels are not going to allow a minor to check in. Even at 18 you would need a credit card in your name- not your parents.
They will check your ID
AK-
brings up a good point. you are traveling all this way and the chances of the launch being delayed by days/weeks or completely canceled are high.
he is not correct in a small cheap hotel will not check your ID. don’t count on it
I would contact a local travel agent in your native Poland and ask them what you can do. You never know, they might be able to work something out for you. Good Luck!!
Sorry. In the US, most hotels require that you be at least 18 or 21 to book. And dressing up to look older will only get you so far, since they’ll ask for IDs.
I can’t remember the exact name, but there’s a website where you can look up families or people who are willing to let you sleep on their couch for a night’s stay. Hopefully there’s no age limit for that.
YES, YOU CAN!!!
There are several options.
Option #1:
Most campgrounds, that allow tenters, do not strictly enforce an age-minimum on tent sites. If you want a very good public location to a view a Shuttle launch (for free), then Jetty Park, Cape Canaveral can’t be matched. I’ve seen plenty of launches (not just the Shuttle) from this park. It has a concession stand, countdown clock, live-feed NASA PBX, it’s own beach, etc. To view the launch, all you need to do is WALK from your campsite. This is also the spot to see all the big cruise ships, manatees, dolphins, etc. BTW, you’ll have to decide if you’re gonna bring your own gear, or buy it here (a tent, sleeping bag, & lantern will cost you about $50 USD).
http://www.jettypark.org/
Option #2:
Youth hostel. Typically, their age policies allow 17-yr olds with valid/current visas/passports. They rationalize their policy by reasonable deduction—b/c you went through a screening process to obtain your travel papers, then you shouldn’t be of any greater risk/liability than a legal adult.
Here’s a place that’s in the Kissimmee/192 resort area (adjacent to Disney). Unfortunately, I know of no hostels closer to Cocoa/Cape Canaveral/KSC. You’ll be just over an hour to Cocoa Beach. Don’t forget that it’s a hostel, thus nothing to brag about. I’ve known many minors that have stayed there.
http://www.orlandohostels.com/
Option #3:
Many small motels will not scrutinize your age if all of the following conditions are met…
1) You use your passport as your ID.
2) You have a credit card.
3) You appear mature enough.
These motels need not be flea bags nor in crack town. Typically, they’re more like your Ma & Pa establishments. Concentrate your search around Cocoa, or Cocoa Beach, b/c you want to be close to the launch.
Some side-notes:
1) Once you’ve decided where you’ll be staying at, post a question about transportation. Make sure you specify what airport you’ll be arriving at, and where (via ground) you want to finally end up at.
2) BEWARE…Shuttle launches are notorious for being delayed or scrubbed. Plan on alternatives so your visit isn’t completely wasted.
3) The closest public viewing area is at the NASA Causeway. It’s pretty pricey, but it also includes admission to KSC Visitors Complex. You have to register & reserve this special tour. Unfortunately, STS-133 Discovery is booked solid for Feb. 24th.
http://www.kennedyspacecenter.com/space-shuttle-launch-viewing-tickets.aspx