The weak economy has put the brakes on summer spending for many families. Less money means fewer trips away from home. What does this all mean for one of Alabama's favorite get-a-way locations?
Nearly deserted beaches…the one thing that the Gulf Coast wants to avoid this summer. Fortunately, late May is the last down period between spring break and summer vacation. But there are still a few folks down here even now.
"This is just an opportunity to continue to grow together as a family; to get a way from and to enjoy the beach," said Tracie Pollard.
Herb Malone, Director of the Convention and Visitor's Bureau says they're expecting a good summer, but it will be different.
"People are going to continue to travel. They're traveling to escape the stresses of everyday life like they normally do. They're going to make shorter trips looking for value."
Most businesses aren't expecting a hole in one this summer, but most, like Adventure Island, are expecting to at least make par.
Frank Hughes has owned Adventure Island, the main arcade and mini-golf on East Beach Boulevard, for 15 years. He's seen pretty much everything from recession to hurricanes. He believes they'll be alright.
"We do think the economy has had some negative effect on us early in the year. We don't expect it to hurt us any in the summer," said Hughes.
Not everywhere is participating in the recession. Lulu's is one of the biggest restaurants, if not the biggest, in the Gulf Shores area. General Manager Johnny Fisher says they just refuse to let the weak economy change how they do things.
"At the end of the day we still have to come in and do a good job and allow people to forget about their jobs, at least for little while. And that's what we do here," said Fisher.
While most businesses are looking at an average year, there is one group that say their business is down double digits.
Ricky McDuffey has captained charter boats out of Gulf Shores and Orange Beach for about 30 years. Right now he says business is not good.
"It's a luxury thing people do when times are good. And when times are bad they save their money."
As for value, it's to be had on the beach right now. According to the convention and visitors bureau there are deals on just about everything, including food, fun, and a place to stay.
