The Auto Channel
The Largest Independent Automotive Research Resource
The Largest Independent Automotive Research Resource
Official Website of the New Car Buyer

Fourth of July Travel

27 June 2000

Fourth of July Travel Ignites in California, says AAA; Longer Independence Day Weekend Means More Travel This Year

    SAN FRANCISCO--June 27, 2000--The rocketing economy is encouraging more Californians to travel over this Fourth of July weekend than last year, AAA reported today.
    An estimated 4.7 million Californians will travel at least 100 miles from home this weekend -- a 3 percent jump from last year, according to a AAA survey.
    "A four-day weekend and strong consumer confidence is creating the busiest Independence Day weekend for travel in 14 years," said AAA of Northern California spokesman Paul Moreno. "With schools out, families are eager to enjoy their favorite summer destinations."
    AAA travel agents and touring counselors say this holiday's most popular spots for Northern California travelers are Lake Tahoe, Monterey, Yosemite, the North Coast, theme parks in the Bay Area and Southern California, and Las Vegas.
    Higher gas prices are not dampening enthusiasm for summer travel. Northern California gas prices average $1.71 -- 25 cents higher than last Fourth of July.
    Most travelers -- about 85 percent -- will be traveling by car, recreational vehicle or motorcycle. The balance will travel by airplane, train, bus or ship, according to AAA's survey.
    With the Fourth of July falling on a Tuesday, this year's holiday weekend covers a four-day period versus a three-day period last year.
    Nationally, 37.5 million Americans will travel at least 100 miles from home, making this the second busiest Fourth of July weekend for travel. In 1986, 38 million Americans traveled over the Independence Day holiday.

Tips for Traveling Families


--  For a more comfortable trip, take a short break for every two
    hours of driving. Walking around and stretching for a few minutes
    at stops will help keep you alert and refreshed.

--  Bring bottled water, juices and snacks appropriate for auto
    travel.

--  Dress children comfortably. Bring a sweater in case the air
    conditioning in the airplane cabin or car is too cool for
    youngsters.

--  Involve children in trip planning as much as possible, such as
    selecting a restaurant along the way.

--  Follow proper installation instructions for child safety seats and
    booster seats.

--  Purchase a few inexpensive items -- such as small soft toys, books
    or snacks -- that can be wrapped in brightly colored paper and
    given out as treats along the way.

--  Do a pre-trip checkup of the car. Make sure your fluid levels for
    oil, coolant and battery are at their proper levels. Check the
    tires for tread depth and proper pressure. Follow your owner's
    manual for maintenance and specifications.

    Established 100 years ago, AAA offers a wide array of automotive, travel, insurance and financial services. The California State Automobile Association serves 4 million members and is the second largest regional affiliate of the national AAA organization.

    NOTE TO TV EDITORS: This week AAA will issue a satellite-fed VNR and news release on driving safety tips for truckers and motorists sharing the road.

Thursday, June 29, 2000

2:30 - 3 p.m. EST -- C-Band -- Telstar 6 -- Transponder 9 -- Downlink
    3880 MHz -- Audio 6.2 & 6.8 Friday, June 30, 2000

10:30 -- 11: 00 a.m. EST -- C-band -- Telestar 5 -- Transponder 5 --
    Downlink 3800 MHz -- Audio 6.2 & 6.8