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National parks offer majestic getaways at recession prices
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Feeling insecure about that job? Perhaps you are one of the millions already laid off. The recession has a tight grip on Americans, and when jobs are scarce, stress is plentiful. This is why now may be the best time to take your vacation. If you have job related stress, you may be doing more harm than good to yourself and to your career.
Even so, many Americans are hunkered down, saving what money they have to pay mortgages, utilities and car payments, or banking it in case they unexpectedly receive a pink slip. Fair enough. The midst of a deep recession is hardly the time to take long expensive vacations to budget-busting tourist destinations. Vacations should be about relieving stress, not creating more of it. So why not spend a little time in the great outdoors? It may be time for you to pack a few things and unwind in the virtual solitude of nature – far away from the copy machines, delivery trucks and corporate treadmills.
Philosophers, psychologists and physicians all claim that spending time in nature can add tranquility and quality years to life. To commune with Earth experiencing first hand America’s natural splendor can relieve stress, anxiety and the mild depression that may come with the aforementioned economic blues.
Your federal government is spending $783 billion dollars on economic stimulus programs and $3.5 trillion dollars on the annual budget. A small amount of that incredible sum is set aside to maintain America’s national forests and parks. Since it is spring and taxpayers are ultimately charged with paying back this massive debt, isn’t it time to enjoy a low-budget vacation visiting two or three of our enourmous and majestic national parks and forests? They are relatively economical, safe and belong to you – I’ll bet there is a nice one nearby.
The Grand Canyon has a national park in Arizona; Yellowstone National Park lumbers through Wyoming, Montana and Idaho; Florida has the Everglades; Tennessee has the Smoky Mountains, and the list multiplies through each state in the union. If you are lucky enough to be in America, there is no need to spend a small fortune on cruises, upscale amusement parks and fancy resorts. National Parks are created and maintained for the express purpose of offering an affordable retreat. Why on Earth, no pun intended, would one ignore the most beautiful places in the country when they are so inexpensive to visit?
RV spaces are often available with scenic views; there are small stores in most parks; adequate restrooms, hot-water showers and facilities. Basic history, geology and geography are taught through presentations and signage so children learn about their country. Many locations offer affordable train rides, trams and shuttles to allow travelers to fully experience the views and amenities. One might rent a cabin, stay in guest quarters of varied types or tent-camp under the stars.
Whether it be Niagara Falls, Nantahala Campgrounds in North Carolina or Mount Hood in Oregon, you own a piece of America, so why not cash in on a green vacation while experiencing nature up close and personal.
Click on the U.S. Forest National Campground Guide (link) below and select a green vacation that will set your mind at ease and bring those stress levels down to Earth.
http://www.forestcamping.com/index.htm
A YouTube introduction to national parks
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