As we approach the beginning of the summer vacation season, it’s a good time to consider the oil prices that are still on the rise and the impact on travel this year. Now, more than ever, saving a buck or two has become the deciding factor on where, when and even if we are venturing out on family vacations. Let’s start by looking at the plight of the airline industry.
Each day it seems another airline is declaring bankruptcy and ceasing operations for good. Already this year, ATA, Skybus, Aloha, and many others have been forced to close their doors due to skyrocketing fuel prices. With oil prices over $130 a barrel, many other airlines are looking for ways to keep costs down. American Airlines began charging for a first checked bag, and now United and US Airways are following suit. Ticket prices are so high that many Americans are finding it’s nearly impossible to travel to the Caribbean or across the country to visit family this season. If you’re thinking it might be cheaper to just travel by car to Grandma’s house in Florida, think again.
As oil prices rise, so are gas prices. In most parts of the country, regular gas costs more than $4.00 a gallon. That trip to Grandma’s could cost you almost $200 roundtrip, and that’s not counting getting back and forth to the beach, shuttling over to Busch Gardens, or taking a trip to Applebee’s while you are there. If you happen to drive an SUV, you might as well empty your bank account for this fun filled excursion
So, what’s a person to do in order to have some summer fun in the sun without going broke? Stay home! But that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy a vacation. There are a number of activities, events and places that you and your family can experience in your own hometown that won’t break your bank account this summer.
Do you happen to live in the Philadelphia region? Try visiting Independence Hall, the birthplace of the Declaration of Independence. Take a trip to the Liberty Bell and Constitution Center and relive a very important time in our Nation’s history. Looking for something that involves suntan lotion? Jump in the car and take a short ride to the Jersey Shore or to Rehoboth Beach in Delaware. You may still have to use some gas, but you can take as much luggage as you can fit into your car! Don’t want to use the car? Ride into Center City on SEPTA and check out the Franklin Institute where the kids, young and old, can spend hours learning about science and experiments. How about lacing up your sneakers and making a run for it up the steps of the Philadelphia Art Museum like Rocky? Not into exercise? Then just walk up the steps and into the museum, where you can see many beautiful works of art without breaking a sweat. Hungry? Grab a cheese steak at Pat’s King of Steaks, and make sure it’s a “wiz wit”. There are also a number of restaurants offering a variety of different food styles located all over Philadelphia and its surrounding suburbs. You’re sure to find something for that finicky eater in the family.
What if you don’t live in Philadelphia, but want to take advantage of a ‘Vacation At Home’? Call up your city’s visitor’s bureau or contact a travel agent to help you plan a great escape without the expense. You will be surprised at how many fun and adventurous activities are available in your own backyard!
Francine Vasquez is a travel consultant and owner of Fantastic Voyage Travel, an independent associate of Dugan’s Travels. Visit her at www.fanvoytravel.com or contact her at fanvoyt@yahoo.com .
1 comment:
That was a great write up of things to do without great expence. Thanks for the information!!
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