More Floridians are expected to travel this Independence Day holiday (July 1-5), than one year ago, despite the uncertainty surrounding the Deepwater Horizon Oil disaster in the Gulf of Mexico, AAA said in a statement. Travel originating from Florida is projected to increase 6.2 percent, representing 1.58 million persons who will travel by car, air and other modes of transportation.
Independence Day weekend remains predominately an auto travel holiday and Florida is expected to see increases in auto travelers by 6.7 percent and in air travel by 2.1 percent.
AAA has reported inquiries regarding travel to the Gulf Coast, but has not experienced widespread cancellations. Travel in the Gulf Coast region is expected to increase slightly since many travelers visit Florida for reasons other than the beaches such as golfing, theme parks, state parks, shopping, nightlife and to visit family and friends.
AAA Auto Club South conducted an oil spill survey to capture traveler sentiment as it relates to Florida and the effects of the oil spill from May 24-28. The initial survey found most travelers still planned to travel to the state despite news of the Gulf oil disaster.
Nationwide, the number of projected travelers is expected to increase 17.1 percent from 2009 with an estimated 34.9 million travelers taking a trip at least 50 miles or more away from home. Last year, 29.8 million Americans traveled during the Independence Day weekend.
Overall, travel sentiment for Independence Day weekend is very high compared to last year, when the U.S. economy was in a very different place and Americans felt the strain of the recession,” said Jessica Brady, manager AAA Public Relations. “Optimism is high this year for Independence Day travel, as more Americans report they plan to travel this year since they stayed home last year, mainly for financial reasons.”
