Travel Tidbits

Here’s the latest news for travelers…

IF YOU’RE DRIVING:

Gas prices will hover around $3.57 (national average) from May – September. This will be the peak price for 2014, according to AAA and Energy Information Administration. California continues to pay the highest prices with averages of $4.26 and Missouri has the lowest prices, $3.43 a gallon.

IF YOU’RE FLYING:

More airlines are charging surcharges. Some airlines are now charging for CARRY-ON BAGS. Most airlines were charging for checked bags on domestic bags but were not charging for carry on bags. Some are now charging $20 – $50 for a carry-on bag! Frequent fliers will receive a discounted rate of $20 while most will pay $25 if they check in online or $35 if they check in at the airport or $50 for those who don’t pay before reaching the gate. Be sure to check with the airline regarding their policies and fees before booking a ticket.

IF YOU’RE HEADED TO A THEME PARK:

Disney World has a new ride! Visitors to Magic Kingdom will discover the Seven Dwarfs Mine Train. Throughout the ride, imagineers tell the story of Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs from the dwarfs’ perspective. This family roller coaster is the first built since 2006. See how many of the 450 props used you notice as you zoom through the mine. You’ll know the ride is nearly over when Snow White makes her appearance.

Note: I’ll be doing a separate post about Dollywood theme park (coming soon).

WHERE TO GO:

If you’re looking to take a learning vacation this summer, take the kids to one of these cities, which are the most historic cities in America:

1. Montgomery, AL

2. Annapolis, MD

3. Williamsburg, VA

4. Savannah, GA

5. Charleston, SC

6. St. Augustine, FL

7. Boston, MS

8. Santa Fe, NM

9. Philadelphia, PA

10. New Orleans, LA

IF YOU’RE GOING TO VISIT A NATIONAL PARK:

Did you know that last year 64 million people visited our national parks? Here is a list of the top five busiest parks. If you’re planning to go, be sure to book your campsite or lodge or train ride as soon as possible.

1. Great Smoky Mountains (Tennessee)

2. Grand Canyon (Arizona)

3. Yosemite (California)

4. Yellowstone (Wyoming & Montana & Idaho)

5. Olympic (Washington)

***Stay tuned for more travel news in the coming months as we hit peak vacation months.