Sure there are other countries that celebrate their independence days on other days in the year, but today is the Independence Day for the United States of America.
This year, as many of you have already experienced, the observed federal holiday began yesterday, July 3rd, due to the fact that the 4th of July occurs on a weekend.
Nevertheless, today is the formal day of observance.
Have the Times Changed?
If you recall last year’s meandering about this day, the vacation involved a lot of people managing their free time as “staycations”. The U.S. economy has not improved significantly enough for most people to “get out of Dodge”, as it were, so staycations remain high on the list of places to go… However, the food spread may be more extravagant where you are.
And for the folks who have managed to get out of town, the discounting that has been going on in the travel industry over the past few months is starting to bear fruit for those savvy entrepreneurs who have brought their lodging and entertainment charges to consumers down to reasonable, affordable levels– in stark contrast to their exorbitant rates from a mere two years ago. Likewise, while the air fare wars are not as dramatic as seen in previous years, there was some appreciable discounting between certain airline brands, while the discount airlines continue to do well in pricing and availability.
Relaxation
So, take it easy, folks! Enjoy this extended weekend. 
