NATIONAL PLAN A VACATION DAY: Today is National Plan a Vacation Day. This is celebrated the last Tuesday in January. It is an opportunity for all Americans to plan an escape from work and daily life.

While we still deal with COVID-19 restrictions and safety protocols, now may be the time to consider a vacation later in the year.

AAA East Central advises everyone to make sure they aren’t leaving any vacation days unused this year.

“Many of our tour packages are filling up to the National Parks, the Caribbean, and Hawai’i,” says Bevi Powell, senior vice president, AAA East Central. “Americans are looking ahead and taking advantage of savings available on cruises, domestic trips, and even trips abroad.”

According to the Institute for Applied Positive Research, 97 percent of survey respondents say having a trip planned makes them happier.

Survey data also shows that 84 percent of Americans are excited to plan a vacation in the next six months, indicating an impending surge in travel demand once conditions change.

In order to make your vacation planning a reality, consider the following tips provided by AAA:

— Create a tentative budget and schedule so your trip planning can be accomplished in a realistic manner.

— Research and understand the pros and cons of traveling to a destination during your preferred time frame.

— Consider booking vacations with a travel agent. Travel Agents can help you navigate the Pandemic and its effects on travel, while saving you time and money. AAA offers travel services at local branch offices.

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TODAY: Today is also National Pistachio Day, National Peanut Brittle Day and National Spouses Day. So be sure to celebrate your spouse — and maybe pick up some peanut brittle for the celebration.