AAA: Fewer traveling for the Fourth
Financial jitters are leaving many people at home this Fourth of July holiday.
In its latest national survey, AAA found that 32.6 million people will travel more than 50 miles by car this holiday period, compared to 33.4 million last year. And that’s with lower gas prices - $2.67 a gallon this year vs. $4.07 in 2008.
Mike Right of AAA Missouri said St. Louis gas prices are slightly cheaper at $2.52 a gallon now (compared to $3.96 last year).
“The most recent run up in gas prices, while not a killer, hasn’t motivated people” to plan trips, Right said.
While car trips are down 2.6 percent, AAA expects a slight uptick in air travel - 4.9 percent - during the holiday. That’s because air fares have “moderated” somewhat, he said. That would be welcome news to the airline industry.
Earlier this week, the Air Transport Association reported a 9.5 percent drop in passengers on U.S. airlines in May, compared to the same month last year. Prices are down significantly compared to last year, the ATA reported.
In the current economy a “stay-cation” close to home is part of many people’s plans. And that’s why the theme of the 132nd Annual Veiled Prophet Parade is EVERYBODY NEEDS A VACATION. Come join us for the the nation’s most spectacular Independence Day Parade in downtown St. Louis. In addition, the VP Parade is also the opening event on July 4th for Fair St. Louis. Following July 4th, the riverfront concert series – Live on the Levee – along with the Parade and Fair St. Louis are sponsored by the Veiled Prophet organization. For more information, visit http://www.vpparade.org.