Thursday, May 21, 2015

Crowds and Memorial Day


Memorial Day weekend is fast approaching. Are you prepared to tackle the crowds? It is being predicted that a record number of Americans will be traveling during this holiday weekend. This is being attributed to the fact that it is cheaper to travel this year compared to last.

Everyone is excited for a long weekend, but if you plan to travel you have to be patient. As there will be so many people out and about, travel times are going to be slow. This is the case whether you travel by car or plane, so be prepared.

If you are driving, there are several steps you can take. If it is possible, for instance, try not to leave during peak travel time. This would be Friday night and Monday night. Can you get off early and leave Friday morning? Leave early on Memorial Day? This will go a long way. You should also be sure to fill up your gas tank before leaving. If you can avoid stopping for gas, you can avoid busy gas stations. It’s also a good idea to check on your car. Check your car’s fluids. Make sure your tires aren't low. You’d hate your trip to be ruined because of a setback like that.

Flying? Be sure to get to the airport early, as lines are likely to be long. Make it interesting by planning on activities to do at the airport if you have extra time. Get a meal. Go shopping. It’s better than being late, as with the crowds getting a new flight will be difficult. You can save extra time by checking in for your flight at home and printing your boarding pass. Another good idea is to set up your phone to get alerts if your flight is delayed. That way as soon as you know you can begin making backup arrangements.  

Once you are at your destination, it is up to you. If you’re going to a specific vacation spot such as the beach, get there early. If you are visiting friends or family, you won’t have as many issues.


So pack up and get ready for the long weekend!

Friday, May 1, 2015

May Day Facts

What do you know about May Day? Did you know that it is often used as a day of protest, prompting the use of crowd control?

May Day is celebrated on the first day of May. It is not as widely celebrated in the United States, as the Puritans looked down on it. As such, much of the tradition was dropped. However there are still multiple people out there who celebrate it and use it as a day of protest. So today we want to offer a bit of advice for when you are out and about today.

May Day, also known as International Workers Day, often sees many protests across the world. These protests often center around worker’s rights. While you are not particularly likely to run into trouble, it is good to exercise caution.

This year is particularly different, as individuals are using the occasion to also bring attention to police brutality. Some rallies will focus on labor issues, some on immigration issues, and some on police brutality issues. Some of these rallies will actually focus on all of them at once.


Be prepared for the possibility of traffic delays, public transportation delays, and more. This is particularly likely if you live in a big city. Check your local news to see if rallies are planned so you may adjust your route as necessary.