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DEL.ICIO.USDon’t let gas shortage ruin your travel plans
Are you getting away this weekend and where?
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Gas lines. Closed pumps. Not to sound like one of my kids, but I’m so over this gas shortage thing. While the crisis itself isn’t over, the situation at least appears to be looking up - a little. After driving as little as possible over the past 20 days, I have the opportunity to take a kid-free break this weekend - and I’m going. It’s rare that the planets align like this, and I’ll not let a petrol pinch keep me from taking advantage.
In fact, between stressing about the financial uncertainty nationwide and the gas crisis in our own backyard, I think we could all use a bit of a break. Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac’s mess, along with associated stock market fluctuations, will still be there on Monday — and if we’re going to have to wait in line for gas, we might as well do it somewhere fun.
Here are a few ideas for low-stress getaways that won’t break the bank or empty your tank…
First… remember that while we Atlantans may be living at the epicenter of the gas crisis, petrol can be found in other areas of our state. It may not be up to 100 percent, but you probably won’t have to play “follow that tanker” or sit for hours in a gas line either. You can always call ahead to your destination to ask about availability if you’re worried.
Check out places like Lake Oconee in Greene and Putnam counties, with its Cuscowilla and Reynolds Plantation resorts. About 80 miles east of Atlanta, the lake, golf and amenities will relax you while the trip won’t use up all of your gas. (Even if it does, gas was available there mid-week.)
A short drive up to Blue Ridge, Ga. will allow you to walk around the antiques shops or take in fall foliage via the Blue Ridge Scenic Railroad. Don’t forget to stop by the local apple orchard, Mercier’s, to pick up fresh fruit, fried pies and a boxed lunch for the train trip. Blue Ridge is about 90 minutes north of Atlanta, and at mid-week, getting gas was not a problem.
Catch MARTA to the airport and leave this gas-forsaken city behind. Right now, Charleston, SC (where I hear gas is a-flowing), is hosting its 32nd annual Fall Tours of Homes and Gardens. The walking tours through the city’s famous gardens and architectural gems won’t waste a drop of gas anyway. For more information, call 843.722.4630.
Rediscover your hometown. Again, use MARTA and act like a tourist in your own city.
Has the gas crunch and financial crisis fueled your need to get away from it all? Are you taking a mini-break this weekend? Where do you plan to go, and is the petrol pinch affecting your destination? Share other low-cost, low-gas getaways with your fellow Atlanta travelers.
I’m still undecided on my weekend destination, but I’ll report back on it next week. Feel free to check with us next Wednesday and share your weekend travel stories too.
Share and read about other money saving tips at Your Money.
Permalink | Comments (4) | Post your comment | Categories: Southeast travel
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By been there, done that
October 1, 2008 9:00 AM | Link to this
This weekend for a close enjoyable relaxing time, I’m visiting Allatoona Pass where there will be a Living History demostration.
To see how soldiers and those following their battle worn loved ones lived in their tents, and a show of how the infantry handled their guns is so very interesting!!
Then a tour of the home shows how life was for those settled in our area.
It’s close and it’s fun!
By Keith
October 1, 2008 9:34 AM | Link to this
I love Allatoona Pass — it’s a great hike for the little kids. But I haven’t seen the Living History demo — sounds interesting!
By Wayne
October 1, 2008 11:00 AM | Link to this
Don’t forget the GA State Parks. Cloudland Canyon is a great place to kick around.
By Vladimira Jurcova
October 1, 2008 5:12 PM | Link to this
Art lovers, check out the Charleston Fine Art Annual weekend on November 7-8. Gas is relatively cheap in Charleston, SC and there is plenty of it. Also the art weekend is free. Kicks off with an art walk on Friday and on Saturday morning, many national and international artists paint in Washington Park downtown. There is an art auction in the evening on Saturday as well, need tickets for this one. Charleston is absolutely beautiful in Fall.