So what are you thinking about this Bank Holiday weekend? Spending extra time with the family? Having a lie in? Enjoying the outdoors and the traditionally good weather?
Maybe, but more than likely your mind will be on the typical bank holiday traffic jams, spending money on a family pass to a theme park or trying to stay dry on the beach when the rain starts to fall. Whatever your plans there are just a couple of things to consider before revving up the engine:
The RAC has warned of "worst ever May Day Bank Holiday congestion" with traffic jams expected to peak on Friday afternoon. They singled out the M25, the M1 through Nottinghamshire and South Yorkshire and the M6 around Birmingham as "congestion hotspots", as well as roads to the coast. They are urging motorists to allow an extra 45 minutes for their journeys and to check travel updates online. It said Alton Towers theme park in Staffordshire and Longleat in Somerset were likely to be the leading tourist attractions over the weekend.
There are also ugly rumours emerging that the weather promises to be 'unsettled' at best. So be flexible with your plans. (An indoor barbecue works just as well as an outdoor one).
If you plan on hitting the road be sure to take plenty of fluids, stock up on water and interesting snacks. Books on tape/CD are always useful, especially for younger members of the family but do consider the tastes of all family members. Striking a compromise between a ten year old and a fifteen year old is no easy feat believe me - I know, but all I can say is 'thank God for the ipod!"
Most of all be safe, have fun, choose your battles and RELAX!
Did you know I wrote a children's Book?
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