1.4 Million Michiganians Have Easter Travel Plans - AAA Michigan Reports

20 April 2000
1.4 Million Michiganians Have Easter Travel Plans - AAA Michigan Reports
    DEARBORN, Mich., April 20 More than 1.4 million
Michiganians will travel during the upcoming Easter holiday period, AAA
Michigan reports.  The Auto Club's survey of 500 state residents found 15
percent plan a holiday pleasure trip, the same as last year.  The average trip
length will be seven days, but the distance may be shorter.  Eighty-nine
percent of the trips planned in 2000 will be more than 100 miles, versus 96
percent in 1999.
    The shorter distance may be related to record high gas prices.  Nearly
one-quarter (23 percent) of those who answered the survey said gas prices will
influence travel plans.  For the sixth straight week state gas prices have
dropped to a current $1.42 per gallon, but are 28 cents higher than last year.
    Among the travelers surveyed who are planning a trip outside of Michigan,
Florida remains the most popular destination, followed by Virginia, Colorado,
Arizona, and California.
    Michigan travelers' Top 5 destinations this spring (based on 2000 AAA
Travel Agency vacation bookings) are: Orlando (Florida); Las Vegas (Nevada);
Cancun (Mexico); Phoenix (Arizona) and Hawaii.
    AAA Michigan advises air travelers to plan on increased airport traffic
between today (April 20) and Monday (April 24).
    To avoid delays, travelers may want to arrange for someone to drop them
off at the airport.  Arriving at the airport two hours before a scheduled
flight should ensure time to find parking and check baggage
    Although airports will be busy, about 60 percent of Michigan travelers
will go by vehicle, the survey found.  Heaviest volumes will be on major
arteries heading south, including I-75 and I-69.  For the latest construction
information, call 800-AAA MICH anytime, or visit http://www.aaamich.com on the
Web.
    To ensure highway safety, AAA Michigan advises motorists and passengers to
buckle up.  Beginning March 10 with the enactment of standard enforcement,
police have the authority to ticket those who drive unbelted.  Avoid alcohol,
take frequent breaks and stay alert at the wheel.