My co-worker Charles Slat had this story for Sunday’s edition of The  Monroe Evening News (page 1D of print and e-editions): Closer to home – Monroe County becoming a ’staycation’ desination.

A snippet:

Though gasoline prices are spiking and the economy tanking, Monroe County’s Convention & Tourism Bureau sees indications that 2008 could be a banner year.

“Folks are staying closer to home, including our own citizens, but at the same time I think that’s always been a benefit to Monroe County,” said John Patterson, CTB president. “We have always benefited from anything that would prevent folks from jumping on an airplane and going to exotic destinations.” …

“People taking ‘staycations’ are not necessarily entertaining themselves at home,” said Roger Dow, Travel Industry Association president and chief executive officer. “On the contrary, many are participating in travel-related activities that generate significant revenues for restaurants, attractions, theme parks, as well as hotels and resorts.”

Mike at The Erie Hiker also has linked to the story.