People who spend just 120 minutes outdoors a week experience better health and well-being than those who don't, according to research published in Nature. Whether you enjoy swimming, hiking, camping, fishing, biking or another fun outdoor activity, the best way to reap the mental and physical benefits is to do it safely.

Planning your activities properly

Lace up your hiking boots, check the brakes on your bike and follow the below tips to make sure you are following the best practices to keep you and the environment around you safe while enjoying your favorite recreational activities:

1. Make a plan

Know before you go. Map out your travel plans to and from the location you are traveling to, set a determined amount of time that you expect to be there, do research about the area you are going and make a list of everything you need to pack.

Even if you are just headed out to the lake for a casual swim, it's important to do a quick search about where you plan on swimming to determine if the conditions are safe and of any necessary precautions you need to take before heading out. In order to be safe, even the simplest recreational activities require a little bit of planning. It's better to be over-prepared than to end up in a dangerous situation with no backup plan.

2. Maintain communication

Tell a trusted friend or family member where you are going and how long you plan to be there. If you become unresponsive or your family notices you're not home when you said you would be, they can notify the necessary people to get you to safety.

Maintaining proper communication with the people you are adventuring with is an important factor to being responsible and staying safe during your chosen activity. If you happen to get separated from your hiking buddy, have a plan in place to get in contact with them – utilize tools such as walkie-talkies since phone service might be sketchy in some remote areas. Someone should know where you are at all times, so they can send help your way if needed.

3. Prepare for unexpected events

Twisting an ankle on a nature walk, batteries dying in a flashlight, slicing open your hand on a can opener – you never know what to expect when out in nature, but you can always be prepared. Consider taking strategic steps to ensure you are safe even if something misfortunate occurs such as getting lost in the forest or stung by a bee.

Do research about your planned activity and the area you will be traveling. Try and determine the most common necessities people need for these activities – a first-aid kit when mountain biking, a handheld compass while trekking through the woods, extra water in case you are gone longer than anticipated. Research common plants and animals in the area you are adventuring so that you are environmentally aware. We've all heard the phrase, "Red touches yellow, kill a fellow. Red touches black, friend to Jack." While this may be a fun rhyme about snakes, it could potentially save your life.

4. Monitor the weather

While weather can be one of the most unpredictable factors for recreational activities, it doesn't hurt to try and plan around it. Check the weather from the week before your planned activity all the way up to the start to ensure you can grab any additional supplies you might need.

While rain can add a bit of fun to some activities, it can make others, like rock climbing, extremely dangerous. It's important to do research about your activity and make a plan of action in case bad weather gets in the way. Know what to do when unexpected weather arrives. If you plan on boating, it's important to be able to determine slight changes in the weather and have an escape plan prepared. Know who to call in emergency situations and how to get a hold of them.

5. Be mindful of the environment

The world is a beautiful place and we are lucky enough to get to experience its wonders. It's imperative that we leave the environment as we found it. Knowing what to do with your trash, contacting the right people if you notice something off like smoke in the forest and learning what to do if approached by different animals are just a few ways to be mindful of the environment.

The National Park Service recommends following the seven "Leave No Trace" principles:

1. Plan ahead and prepare
2. Travel and camp on durable surfaces
3. Dispose of waste properly
4. Leave what you find
5. Minimize campfire impacts
6. Respect wildlife
7. Be considerate of other visitors

Be adventurous, but adventure safely

Whether it's hiking, fly fishing or any other kind of family fun, embarking on an outdoor adventure offers thrilling experiences, but it's essential to be mindful of the inherent risks. By adhering to the safety guidelines provided, you can ensure that your outdoor activities are not only successful but also safe and enjoyable.

We all value our health, and the business world understands that. From fitness trackers to technologically advanced exercise equipment to smart watches that monitor everything from heart rhythm to sleep patterns, the industry has flourished with ways to keep us healthy – or healthier.

Climate Change and Green Spaces

But climate change is taking its toll on our green spaces, which in turn can help us stem the tide of damage. Take a look at what weather changes are doing to North America's national parks, including Yosemite National Park last year.

"It was really striking to see that every single tree seems to be getting hit by either climatic changes; it could be dying from drought, or it could be insect attack or fungus, but they're certainly weakened," Garrett Dickman, a forest ecologist with the National Park Service, told CNN.

Other national parks, and local parks, also are suffering the effects, whether from droughts, flooding, wildfires or other non-natural alterations to ecosystems. It leads one to wonder what hope we can hold when facilities teeming with trails, trees and open land are reeling. But there are positive answers.

How Does Urban Planning Help Parks and Green Spaces?

Urban planning is vital, taking into account the need for open spaces, green growth and parks and trails mixed among the United States' bursting cities and suburbs. Many municipalities in North America now require housing developments to include park spaces in neighborhoods, or provide funding for the city to purchase land to create parks and trails.

Growth planning can refer to nature as well. Providing a variety of trees can ensure that sustainable growth and carbon absorption lasts long-term. Trees not only offer shade, they can help stem erosion brought on by flooding or drought and fight air pollution. It's important that the trees can withstand those effects, though.

"You need a tree that's going to survive the weather of today and the climate of the future," Pete Smith, urban forestry program manager with the Arbor Day Foundation, told Fast Company. From a human health standpoint, parks, trails and green spaces are as important as ever, with exercise levels worldwide still lagging behind pre-pandemic figures.

Researchers from the University of California San Francisco used step count data from a fitness app to determine that step counts recovered slightly, especially in North America and Europe, but still trailed overall numbers before the pandemic. That study took place from January 2019, a year before COVID-19 overtook the world, to February 2022, after vaccines and treatments were available.

The Benefits of Parks and Green Spaces

As if we need more encouragement to get outside, researchers in Denmark determined that childhood exposure to green space in neighborhoods led to a lower risk of psychiatric disorders as the children grow. Not to mention that parks can be an excellent location for learning opportunities.

Doctors have taken notice of nature's benefits as well. Some are prescribing outdoor exposure in the battle against sedentary behavior and chronic conditions.

Getting away from the desk can help your organization's bottom line as well. Now that work-from-home and hybrid work are routine elements of the business world, connection and creativity are still crucial. One way to facilitate those attributes is to take your teams outside. Those trips can be a release from stress triggered by the day-to-day workplace grind, encourage connections among disparate groups or individuals whose paths don't cross regularly, and provide a new perspective on duties.

Go Out and Get Active

In the United States, the Trust for Public Land (TPL) has determined that everyone in the United States should live within a 10-minute walk of a quality park. According to the organization's statistics, 1 in 3 U.S. residents do not meet that goal.

The TPL's annual rankings show how close we're getting. This year, Washington, D.C., tops the list of the U.S.'s 100 largest cities, with 99 percent living close to a park. The organization provides guidance, recommendations and encouragement to the nation's mayors and civic leaders for park growth.

In a busy environment, it's easy to overlook the availability and benefits of green space. To take advantage of that is as simple as a walk in the park.

However on May 9, 2023, Airbnb Inc. shares posted their biggest-ever decline after the vacation home-rental company gave a cautious outlook for revenue, suggesting that rising prices and a shaky economy are beginning to impact consumer's appetites for trips.

Airbnb Bust?

Hosts are also complaining of low bookings as Airbnb occupancy rates fell in 31 of the top 50 largest U.S. short-term rental markets from July through September of 2022, according to AirDNA. In August of 2022, AirDNA reported that markets where supply had grown by more than 50% had an average occupancy decline of over 10% and saw revenues drop by 8%.

Customers still consider rentals while traveling, but not without complaints. Rising cleaning and service fees, along with growing lists of "chores" for guests to complete before they leave the property, are causing individuals to reconsider if a rental is really worth it, or if they should go back to staying in hotels.

In a viral tweet garnering over 50,000 likes, Amy Dixon claimed that the "Airbnbust is upon us," with users echoing her claim by detailing a significant increase in prices.

Include Fees in Your Travel Budget

It's common for a listing to appear like the cheaper option while searching for a stay, but most properties won't mention the $200 cleaning fee, $250 service fee and $200 taxes and fees on top of the $300-a-night stay until the customer gets to the checkout page.

On top of the extra fees, guests are typically asked to take out the trash, strip the linens on their bed and wipe down kitchen counters before they leave—something they don't have to worry about while staying in a hotel. Guests have also mentioned being paranoid that hosts are watching them from cameras posted outside the property and have to deal with the looming possibility that the host will cancel on them leading up to their stay.

In October of 2022, Buzzfeed News, asked its community members to share all the reasons why they've stepped away from booking Airbnbs. Commenters flooded the replies with gripes and concerns about the rental service. "Airbnb hosts have gotten so ridiculous with their pricing and expectations, we may as well stay home," commented @morganleslay. "The last one we went to wanted an additional $5 per person for hot tub use and they had cameras in the back."

Some Hope For Vacationers

It appears Airbnb has gotten wind of these growing complaints, as they released over 50 new features to their site at the beginning of May, including the "Airbnb Rooms" feature, discounts on stays longer than three months and the option to opt-in to a payment plan, paying interest-free installments over the course of six weeks.

"With Airbnb Rooms, we're getting back to the idea that started it all – back to our founding ethos of sharing," said Brian Chesky, Airbnb co-founder and CEO in a press release. "Airbnb Rooms are often more affordable than hotels and they're the most authentic way to experience a city. This is the soul of Airbnb."

With the busy summer travel season approaching, only time will tell if this revamp helps sway travelers to book a rental property, or if hotels will continue to make up ground against them.

Airbnb Rental or Hotel?

A lot goes into a traveler's choice of lodging. Beyond location and price, the duration of a stay will help determine whether they opt for a short-term rental or a long-term commitment. While contemplating your next vacation, here are some pros and cons to consider for your next accommodations:

1. Digital Nomadism

With the COVID-19 pandemic came a rapid rise in remote work. The growing trend known as the “digital nomad” allows workers to live a nomadic lifestyle, wandering between locations, using technology and communication tools to stay connected digitally and work remotely. Some digital nomads stay put for weeks or months, exploring their new city or country, while others travel more frequently. Hostels, such as Selina, tap into this new wave of work, with places to stay, travel and work in 23 different countries. Accommodations that include coworking spaces can redefine work habits and provide a new level of creative, productive energy.

2. Experience-based Tourism

Ralph Waldo Emerson says, “It’s not the destination; it’s the journey.” Travelers are eager to emotionally connect with a place, the people and the culture. Experiences – as fleeting as they may be – deliver more-lasting happiness than things, according to Forbes. They are what make up our identity. The chance to make epic memories far outweigh the tangible possessions. Take it from Envision, a music festival in Costa Rica that offers surf lessons, sky diving, sustainable garden tours and much more. Today’s globetrotters are curious and brave, seeking sensations that they will cherish forever.

3. Wellness

Relax, unplug, unwind – repeat. Travel to Wellness suggests there are two types of travelers: those actively seeking destinations, accommodations and experiences that maintain a routine of fitness, healthy eating and other pursuits associated with wellness living; and those wanting to use travel as a break from the regular routine of daily life for the proactive betterment of their health and well-being. Wellness travel is not limited to resorts and spas (although, who doesn’t love being pampered?). A helicopter tour, yoga class or guided trek are just some examples of activities that provide travelers the opportunity to broaden their horizons, overcome fears and, ultimately, expand their personal growth.

4. Foodie Culture

There’s no better way to immerse oneself into a new culture than diving into the local cuisine. Based on a survey conducted by American Express, 81% of respondents agree that trying local foods and cuisines is what they look forward to most while traveling. More and more travelers’ itineraries include gastronomic experiences that they cannot get at home. What’s the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Italy? Probably pasta. Highly accredited restaurants, local favorites and cooking classes are top of mind for many foodies on the go. Desirable destinations can also be delicious.

5. Unique Stays

Move over, hotels! Quirky, rare and memorable stays are rising in popularity for those interested in an extraordinary travel experience. From treehouses to caves, igloos and castles, a unique stay could transform your entire trip. Unusual spaces offer a sense of personal touch by the host, giving guests a fun and local experience. Unique stays around the world inspire travelers to ditch the norm of hotels and dive deep into exceptional accommodation that they would not get to experience otherwise.

Times have changed, and 2023 is the year of wanderlust. Travelers are seeking unforgettable adventures that transform their work-life and mental health, getting back out there to explore after a world-wide hiatus. In today’s world, trends are continuously evolving – almost by the minute – and the travel industry is no exception. Adapting to these trends and keeping an open mind on your next adventure could leave a lasting impression on your travels to come. What will you prioritize on your next vacation?

Setting goals – especially in line with the turn of the calendar – is a noble pursuit. Keep in mind that unless you're highly disciplined, or realistic with your expectations, there can be pitfalls.

According to consumer data company Statista, only 22 percent of Americans stuck to their resolutions one month into 2022. Another 63 percent never made any resolutions, the company's research showed.

Things aren't much better overseas. A recent study from the United Kingdom revealed that nearly two-thirds of respondents abandon their resolutions within a month.

The goal of resolutions is to improve – yourself, your career, your health, your family. Goal-setting is good for the mind, and research shows that having a specific goal not only inspires action toward that end, but increases the chances of completing that goal, because neurons in the brain are rewired to that purpose.

Speaking of the brain, Americans apparently can use some help on that front. A recent Gallup poll shows that only 31 percent of Americans consider their mental health to be "excellent," the lowest rate recorded in polling in more than two decades. Perhaps making plans for the new year can improve that aspect.

If health – mental or otherwise – is at the top of your list for 2023, researchers at Northwestern University recommend starting with sleep.

"Sleep is closely tied to weight, blood pressure, blood sugar and even what we choose to eat," said Dr. Donald Lloyd-Jones, chair of the department of preventive medicine at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine.

Fitness and exercise are some resolutions that are easy to take up and to stick with, in part because of the wide variety of outlets. Fitness can include a simple stretching routine at regular intervals, suited to whatever your schedule and determination decide. Exercise can extend to high-intensity workouts or training for a long-distance run.

Just as there's no ceiling for how far you're able to push your body for fitness, there's no floor as well. Every step you take is a move forward from the stationary position where you started. And exercise improves overall mental health, combatting anxiety, stress and depression, according to scores of studies.

If stepping up your game in the workplace is on your list for 2023, you're far from alone. A recent poll commissioned by CSU Global and undertaken by OnePoll shows 56 percent of Americans want to make gains in their professional career in 2023.

How can you accomplish that? Essentially the same way you'd approach any resolution: making a plan, researching the steps and adapting your behavior. Goals, professional development and reaching out to others are the steps most people take to gain a foothold at work.

Here are some pros and cons about New Year's resolutions:

Pro: You're motivated to do better

Resolutions provide motivation to accomplish something, and a roadmap to improvement or betterment. Few people decide to increase behavior that's harmful; for instance, far more people commit to quit or reduce smoking than decide to take up or increase smoking.

Con: Outside forces can limit your goals

If a resolution relies on cooperation or contribution from outside forces, it could end unsuccessfully. Vowing to increase your pay depends on outside forces in the workplace (unless you're self-employed or manage your own salary). Saying that you'll eat healthy in the new year might not take into account all of those business trips that lead to airport dining or lunch meetings with little time left to work off the calories.

Pro: Successful resolutions open the door for further growth

Having a reasonable target not only requires you to give serious thought to your plan, but also factors in points where you might stumble on your way. Resolving to lose weight might lead to better meal planning, shopping habits and improved culinary skills.

Con: High expectations can harm your success rate

Setting goals that are too ambitious might lead to an early exit, or disappointment in failure to reach the overreaching goal. Cut yourself some slack and build in break times so the resolution doesn't wear you down mentally. That could lead to reluctance to set goals in the future.

As with any effort, it all starts with determination and a roadmap. That can give you one resolution to accomplish almost immediately: Make a plan.

At first, it was all fun in games. That was until reality set in, and I began to feel I was getting too comfortable in my routine. It started with an unhealthy sleeping schedule and feeling disengaged from my peers. Soon, the lines blurred between my work life and home life as I found myself unable to disconnect from work even though my responsibilities hadn't changed. The simple fact that my home was my workplace made it difficult to set boundaries.

Eventually, I had to accept that my social life and work performance would continue to suffer if I didn't create a routine to balance both parts of my life. I began to reflect on my current habits and what boundaries I needed in my life to help regain that balance. Here are seven things I learned throughout my journey to reset my work-life balance and set my own routine while working remotely.

Learn your work style

Learning what's best for your work performance is critical. Each employee has their own combination of systems, skills and tools that work best for them. Some stay organized with handwritten notes and check off their tasks as they complete them. Others have adapted technology into their workflows and work best with a digital planner.

At home, you also now have the ability to listen to music out loud. Whether it's your Spotify On Repeat playlist or an eight-hour-long YouTube Binaural beat video, listen to something that will keep you focused and motivated. As you reflect on your work style, take your time learning what helps you thrive. And don't forget to share it with your peers and listen to their recommendations — you might benefit from something in each other's individual work styles.


Socialize with your peers

Participate in staff outings and take the time to get to know your peers. These are people who are there to help and support you in your professional growth journey. Even if you decide to take your career elsewhere, put effort into making a connection. Don't be afraid to check on your coworkers. Getting off topic before a team meeting isn't a crime. Sharing adorable photos of your dog as a puppy or the latest trending meme can help your team bond.

You might ask, "What if our company employees are scattered throughout the globe?" Well, it's 2022, and there are plenty of virtual activities out there for remote teams that will help you socialize and support your teammates.

Use your paid time off

Don't guilt-trip yourself when using those well-deserved vacation days. Working from home is rewarding, and you have more time to yourself, but weekends and holidays shouldn't be the only time you take off work. When working from home, you might find that you need a break from your daily environment, too.

44% of Americans regret not traveling or taking trips more often. Taking advantage of your PTO by going somewhere new is a great way to distance yourself from a daily work-from-home routine. The excitement of new places and experiences might just be what you need to relax and step away from the daily grind. Your travels or time off might even motivate you to be more productive during working hours so you can take your next vacation faster.


Be mindful of your meals

Almost every healthcare professional will tell you that taking care of your body is essential. There are many different approaches to physical health, but eating food that benefits you is a great step in the right direction. With the kitchen only steps away, it's easy to take multiple trips to your fridge or pantry throughout the work day – especially if you're procrastinating on that email to your team lead. Keeping healthy snacks on hand is a great way to give your body the nutrients it needs, so try adding some veggies and hummus to your pizza rolls for your mid-morning snack.

A heavy workload can also make it more difficult for you to eat well. If you don't have the time or energy to get groceries or cook meals during the week, your workload will have you ordering take-out for lunch and dinner. Planning out your meals, ordering curbside pickup for groceries, and picking one day of the week to meal prep can help you save that precious weeknight downtime and take care of your body.


Prioritize your mental health

Mental health awareness is on the rise as younger generations continue to address the less-accepted side of personal health. Today, we're constantly reminded of mental health's importance by references on social media, videos and more. Remote work can have a positive impact on your mental health, but it can also do the opposite.

Neglecting your mental health can have many long-term impacts on your life and your performance at work. Don't be a stranger to the signs of an unhealthy mentality in yourself. Even if nothing "major" is affecting your life, the practice of positivity and gratitude goes a long way. There's always room for healthy self-improvement. Keep in mind that mental health is a part of everyone's overall health, so reaching out to another person might make your day better.


Shut off your screens

Between computers, cell phones, TVs, thermostats and more, we often get tired of looking at screens throughout the day. Pulling out your phone during breaks and personal time won't give your brain the breather it needs from processing information on a screen.

Focus on clearing your mind: Try going for a walk outdoors and take some time to appreciate the nature around you. Reading a book or picking up a hobby can benefit you in many ways. Don't forget to let yourself mentally clock out as well: Avoid things that remind you of work outside of business hours to keep yourself from late-night logins.

Celebrate your own wins

Even when you're working your hardest, you might not always receive a raise or a pat on the back from others. Don't be so hard on yourself that you forget to celebrate your own achievements. We are our own worst enemies when the little voice in our head keeps saying, "You could've done better. This could have been different." Take the time to reward yourself for your accomplishments and celebrate your wins, big and small.

Since setting my own routine, I've learned that there's no perfect balance on the work-life scale. Sometimes your personal life requires more attention, or you begin to put more energy into your career because you want to advance. One side of the scale will almost always be higher than the other, but the weight distribution doesn't need to be the same each day. Things change, and so should your work-life balance. Take a few minutes from time to time to reflect on how your current balance fits into your priorities and adjust the scales and you might find the work-life balance that's right for you along the way.

As the Chickasaw dancers demonstrated their stomp dance, a Cherokee storyteller related a creation tale, a Kaw Nation contingent shared its tribe's history and visitors followed teachers' directions for weaving baskets and making cornhusk dolls.

Established to promote the history, cultures, contributions and resilience of the First American Nations in Oklahoma, the museum has finally become a reality after more than three decades of planning, funding problems and construction delays.

Welcoming visitors to the gala ceremony, James Pepper Henry, executive director of the museum and vice-chairman of the Kaw Nation, noted, "We have accomplished something that has never been done on this scale, to take full authority over the content, development and interpretation of our First American histories and cultural materials."

Complicating the planning, says Henry, "was how to devise a way to show the collective histories of 39 tribes and the common circumstances that brought those tribes here to Oklahoma."

Making things even more challenging is the fact that only a few tribal nations were indigenous to the region. Most came as a result of the Indian Removal Act of 1830, when more than 100,000 Native Americans were forced from their ancestral homelands to Indian Territory – or what is now Oklahoma. The state's name comes from two Choctaw words – "Okla" and "Homma," meaning "Red People."

During this migration, called the Trail of Tears, more than 15,000 men, women and children perished of disease, starvation and exposure to the elements. By the time Oklahoma entered the union in 1907, it was home to a patchwork of native peoples from across the country.

"Oklahoma, or Indian Territory, was originally meant to be a giant internment camp," said Henry. "It's a brutal history and we haven't shied away from telling those stories. But it also is a story of perseverance – a story of survival. We've overcome a lot of those challenges, and now we're reclaiming our cultural life ways. We are not relics of the past. We are still here and we're moving forward into the future. This museum celebrates that."

The museum opens with two inaugural exhibits. OKLA HOMMA (those Choctaw words that later became the state's name) is an original, mixed media interactive exhibition that highlights the stories of tribal peoples who lived in the area now known as Oklahoma. The second exhibit, WINIKO: Life of an Object – a captivating collection of objects on a 10-year loan from the Smithsonian's National Museum of the American Indian in Washington DC – showcases 144 everyday cultural objects collected in the late19th century from tribes in Oklahoma.

"There are a total of 29 short films between both exhibitions, and there are lots of interactive exhibits too," says Shoshana Wasserman, deputy director of the museum, and a member of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation, "It's not just walking through and seeing a bunch of cultural material in cases."

The two buildings making up the museum campus – the 4,000-square-foot FAM Center that serves as an educational resource center, and the 175,000-square-foot museum – are nearly as much a part of the story as what's inside them.

Viewed from above, the buildings are organized around a theme of concentric circles: the buildings appear as arcs, all parts making up the whole. A circular courtyard occupies the center and there's a 90-foot-tall arched glass half-circle (or dome) known as the Hall of the People that takes its inspiration from grass houses typical of the Caddo and Wichita peoples. Beyond a massive plaza sits a man-made mound that pays homage to the pre-Columbian Mound Builder cultures common to the Lower Mississippi Valley.

The First Americans Museum is prominently situated on a 40-acre tract along the southern bank of the Oklahoma River near the intersection of Interstates 40 and 35.

Visitor amenities include a full-service restaurant and a café/coffee shop that offer menu items inspired by authentic Native recipes and tribe-specific dishes. And, of course, there's a Museum Store, offering handmade jewelry, basketry, ceramics, weavings, clothing and artworks created by Oklahoma Native artists.

Museum hours are from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday. The museum is closed on Tuesday. Adult admission is $15; $10 for tribal members, seniors (62 and older), military members and students (13 and older) and $5 for youngsters (4-12). Children 3 and younger are admitted free.

Notably, the hospitality and tourism industry is unlikely to recover any time soon. On the one hand, there is no real sense of recovery until people are traveling for business again. Yet, more companies have postponed the return-to-office plan and let employees continue working from home. On the other hand, the industry is facing an extreme labor shortage that slows down its recovery.

A restaurant shut down after the entire staff quit

Last week, a burrito chain restaurant in Georgia was forced to shut down because its entire staff quit. The staff put a sign in the front of the restaurant, saying that they had worked seven days a week for a month. They barely had any time off. Eventually, they quit due to being underpaid and a lack of appreciation.

Most likely, the restaurant was short-staffed and overworked the associates. When workers felt burnout at work but received no recognition or appreciation, they fired the employer. Having the staff work overtime is not the solution to the labor shortage issue.

How big is the labor-shortage gap?

In July, the U.S. recorded 10.9 million openings, but there were only 8.7 million unemployed workers in the market. In other words, the market will still have 2.1 million unfillable vacancies even after all 8.7 million unemployed workers have taken a job offer. Moreover, every industry reported more job openings in July 2021 than at the pre-pandemic level in February 2020.

A labor shortage does not seem to be a short-term threat to the hospitality and tourism industry

Jobs in the hospitality and tourism industry are demanding and typically known for irregular and long working hours. Still, workers in this sector usually earn minimum wages. Moreover, the frontline employees are expected to provide exceptional customer service even when they find themselves exposed to an abusive situation by “uncivilized” consumers. It is not surprising to see that some hospitality workers who were laid off or furloughed during the pandemic would have moved to other sectors. Plus, people might have formed different perspectives of family, life, and work after the pandemic.

Now that almost every industry is facing a challenge to fill the vacancies, businesses across the board have increased wages and offer sign-on bonuses to lure workers. A local bus company in Connecticut, for example, is now offering a $7,000 signing bonus for school bus drivers. Because the customer service skills built up in hotels or restaurants are highly transferable, why wouldn’t the hospitality workers consider the ample attractive opportunities in the market?

Hospitality workers are leaving the industry

A recent survey with about 13,000 job seekers by Joblist, an employment-search engine, reveals a few alarming challenges facing the hospitality and tourism industry. For example:

• Over 50% of U.S. hospitality workers would not go back to their old jobs.
• Above 1/3 would not even consider returning to the industry.

When they were asked the reasons why they were switching to other industries, they cited the following:

• Different work setting (52%)
• Higher pay (45%)
• Better benefits (29%)
• More schedule flexibility (19%)
• Remote work opportunities (16%)

What can be done in the hospitality and tourism industry to address the labor shortage?

First and foremost, companies should listen to the workers and see what they want and dislike about their jobs. Referring to the above Joblist survey results as an example, it is good that many hospitality companies have already increased wages and benefits for their employees.

Then, it is unrealistic to expect hospitality companies to let all frontline employees provide customer service remotely while staying at home. Yet, companies may consider redesigning the existing job functions by creating a “fun” work environment and offering flexible schedules.

Lastly, it is essential to restructure the service process with as much automatic service as possible. The time has come when automatic self-service is more acceptable among consumers. Plus, machines might just be an excellent solution to the labor shortage and soaring labor costs.

Are people in luck if they are looking for a career opportunity in the hospitality and tourism industry?

Probably. The work-from-home and flexible work schedule have made it easier for workers to arrange a job interview. Job candidates might also be in a better position now when negotiating the terms with a prospective employer.

Meanwhile, it is crucial to acquire the skills needed in the future work environment. People are expected to work side-by-side with machines to deliver exceptional outputs at work.

In the end, I recommend that people who want to quit their jobs right now consider if they have already secured a better or equivalent offer from another employer. It is wise to have a job while looking for a job, in my opinion.

Do you believe labor shortage is a short-term issue or a long-term threat to the hospitality and tourism industry? Why? What suggestions will you make for businesses to cope with such a challenge?

Lake Tahoe, California

Statistics speak for themselves in describing one of the world’s most impressive lakes: Situated on the California-Nevada border at 6225 ft., Lake Tahoe is the largest alpine lake in North America – and the largest in volume after the five Great Lakes. Lake Tahoe also is the nation’s second deepest lake at 1,645 ft., just behind Oregon’s Crater Lake, at 1,949 ft. Notable too is the quality of Tahoe’s water, rated among the world’s purest lake waters at 99.994% pure -- nearly that of distilled water.

A day-long drive around the lake makes for a scenic summer adventure and there are numerous beaches and marinas (Timber Cove and Tahoe Keys Marinas are the largest) from which to enjoy a host of watersports and to rent pontoon boats, paddleboards, kayaks, jet skies, sail boats and power craft of all sizes. Boat tours of the lake are available by the dozen, and leading the flotilla is the massive sternwheeler M.S. Dixie II. The Nevada side of the lake features an array of resorts and casinos, and there’s an efficient fleet of shuttle busses operating between the lake and Reno-Tahoe International Airport.

Lake Chelan, Washington

A favored getaway spot for Seattleites, Lake Chelan is a sinewy 55-mile long lake, hemmed in on both sides by Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest mountain range. Glacial runoff from the mountains feeds into the Chelan River that broadens to form the 33,340-acre lake.

While there are plenty of lakeside activities in the town of Chelan – where there’s a popular farmer's market – and the smaller village of Manson, Lake Chelan is a definite draw for nature lovers and active outdoor types. Hiking, biking and boating lead the list of things to do – and anglers find the fishing is good for such species as rainbow and lake trout, sockeye salmon and smallmouth bass. Manson is a gateway to the region's more than 30 wineries and fruit orchards, so wine-tasting is another popular option for visitors.

A highlight of a trip to Chelan is the Lady of the Lake boat trip that visits Rainbow Falls, a stunning 321-foot cataract fed by dozens of glaciers.

Lake Powell, Arizona/Utah

Even though stricken by drought-driven declining water levels, Lake Powell remains one of the world's most amazingly beautiful bodies of water. Its colorfully striated cliff walls and canyons are simply mesmerizing. One writer described it as looking like a flooded Grand Canyon. Powell is a man-made reservoir on the Colorado River, straddling the border between Arizona and Utah. It was created by the flooding of Glen Canyon from Glen Canyon Dam, completed in 1966.

Lake Powell is 186 miles long and has nearly 2,000 miles of shoreline – longer than the entire west coast of the United States. It features 96 major side canyons, some of which are 15-20 miles in length. Although there are some good views of the lake from Hwy 89 near Page, AZ, Powell is boater’s lake. You can bring your own or rent every kind of watercraft imaginable at one of the marinas. Available for rent are houseboats (ranging from 45 to 75 feet), powerboats, jet skis, water skis, wakeboards, paddleboards, tubes and kayaks. Powell is the most popular lake in America for houseboating by a wide margin.

Low water levels have forced the closure of some launch ramps for the summer of 2021. Those currently available include Wahweap Main Launch Ramp, Bullfrog North Launch Ramp and Halls Crossing Launch Ramp. For an up-to-the-minute report on boating conditions, call 888-896-3829.

Flathead Lake, Montana

Aptly named, this lake does appear to be strikingly flat, stretching across nearly 200 square miles of northwestern Montana. One of the nation's largest natural freshwater lakes, it was once described by 19^th century British-Canadian explorer David Thompson as a "fine sheet of water."

This region of Big Sky Country is perfect for nature lovers and wildlife watchers. The lake is home to several islands that shelter an incredible variety of birds and animals. Boat out to Bird Island and you’re virtually guaranteed to see herons, eagles, geese and osprey. On Wild Horse Island you can hike forested trails and open meadows with a good chance of spotting deer, bears, coyotes, bighorn sheep and sometimes even a namesake wild horse. The island is a two-mile paddle by kayak from Dayton Yacht Harbor.

Flathead is great for fishing as well with nice catches recorded for brown, rainbow and brook trout, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass and yellow perch. The lake also boasts plenty of motels, cabins and campsites, especially around the town of Bigfork, a bustling resort town with a growing art scene and shops and eateries galore. Summer visitors should be sure to visit one of the region’s many roadside fruit stands to sample the sweet, tasty and justifiably famous Flathead cherries.

Lake Travis, Texas

It almost goes without saying – that everything is oversized in Texas. That certainly applies to Lake Travis, near Austin. It's an enormous body of water – 63.75 miles long with more than 271 miles of shoreline and covering 18,829 acres. As the "Crown Jewel" of the central Texas highland lakes, Lake Travis is the most visited freshwater recreational destination in the state.

Oddly enough, the lake's bottom may be its most unique feature. Travis' bottom is solid limestone (no mud!), resulting in crystal clear blue waters that make it a freshwater haven for watersports enthusiasts of all kinds.

There are numerous access points around the lake hosting a variety of lodging options, RV parks, campgrounds, marinas and restaurants. By far the most popular restaurant is the multi-level Oasis, idyllically situated atop a 450-foot bluff overlooking the lake. A number of lakeside parks provide facilities for picnicking, grilling, hiking, swimming and boat ramp access. There also are more than 20 marinas, offering an abundance of watercraft rental options, including houseboats, party barges, pontoon boats, jet skis, wave runners, sailboats, kayaks and paddleboards.

Lake Ouachita, Arkansas

Arkansas's largest lake, Lake Ouachita (pronounced "Wash-ah-taw"), offers more than 40,000 acres of crystal clear water surrounded by 1.8 million acres of verdant Ouachita National Forest. Man-made, Ouachita was formed by completion of the Blakely Mountain Dam by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in 1954 for purposes of flood control, hydropower, fish and wildlife management and recreational use.

Although situated just minutes away from the popular tourist town of Hot Springs, Ouachita has a remote feel to it – enhanced by the fact that no private homes are allowed along its rustic 600-mile shoreline. There's a lot to do here, however, with an abundance of water activities, including kayaking, canoeing, snorkeling, scuba diving and fishing. Hiking and mountain biking are the leading land-based recreational pursuits.

Fishing is particularly good and anglers come from all across the country to cast for Ouachita's lunker catfish, striped bass, crappie, bream, walleye and largemouth bass. With a total of nearly 100 campsites positioned along the shore and throughout the national forest, there are plenty of tent and RV sites, plus fully equipped cabins for those who don’t choose to rough it.

Lake Lanier, Georgia

Another Corps of Engineers creation, Lake Sydney Lanier – better known as simply Lake Lanier – stretches over 38,000 acres with 692 miles of shoreline along the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains in northeast Georgia. It was formed in the 1950s by constructing Buford Dam and impounding the Chattahoochee River. The lake began filling in 1956 and reached its normal elevation of 1071 feet in 1959.

Lake Sydney Lanier is named after the renowned Georgia poet who died in 1881. Strategically located less than an hour northeast of Atlanta, the lake serves as a prime residential location and vacation destination. The Corps operates 46 park areas, 70 boat launch ramps, 20 swimming and snorkeling areas, eight campgrounds and hundreds of picnic sites around the lake. There also are numerous private marinas with boat launch ramps, houseboat, powerboat and water toy rentals, fuel, pump-out facilities, restaurants and supplies.

More than 100 islands dot the surface of Lake Lanier, ranging from tiny islets to 148-acre Three Sisters Island, and they provide popular boating destinations for hiking, wildlife viewing, swimming, picnicking and geocaching. Anglers flock to the lake for its excellent bass fishing. Species found here include black, spotted and largemouth bass – plus hard-fighting striped bass that are stocked annually.

But I grew up in the sixties and seventies when muscle cars roamed my neighborhood like rolling thunder. On my block alone, there was enough hardware to keep my imagination active through high school graduation. Most of them belonged to the older kids – the guys I looked up to and envied. They were the brothers (and sister in one case) of the friends with whom I hung out.

The inventory was vast and vivid. Assuming you're interested, it included a midnight blue 1970 Chevelle SS, a 1970 Firebird Trans AM in a similar color, a hugger orange 1969 Camaro SS, a black 1968 Mustang, an orange 1973 Barracuda and another Camaro – a yellow 1973 Z28 with black racing stripes. And that was just the machinery I could see (and hear) from the family driveway.

My first investment was a broken-down 1965 Mustang. I was schooled on this car – got it running and applied literally pounds of Bondo on the body panels. I paid my buddy's brother fifty bucks to paint it. The finished product wasn't perfect, but my father let me drive it to high school my senior year. And that meant as much to me as graduation.

That Mustang, a 1970 Torino GT and a 1974 Camaro were the only vehicles I owned that I could ever claim as muscle cars, and they all pushed the definition for one reason or another. But the oil embargo of the early seventies jacked the cost of vehicle ownership, and the trickle-down effect became apparent as sports cars infiltrated the neighborhood.

My friends and I were not as fortunate as our older siblings in that we hadn't established ourselves in the world. But we were a resourceful bunch nonetheless. This collection featured a '70 MGB, a '73 Fiat X19, a '66 Austin Healey Sprite and a '69 Fiat Spider. All were in sorry condition when they were purchased, but every one of them became roadworthy – at least for a while.

As my friends and I departed for college and moved on into the world, we carried our automotive palates with us. Almost overnight, the sports cars disappeared as Japanese manufacturers presented more affordable alternatives. Toyota, Honda and Datsun (Nissan) arrived by the hundreds of thousands – and their presence never declined.

Domestic car manufacturers struggled to provide efficient and reliable alternatives, so compact foreign imports dominated. And they outperformed their American counterparts in nearly all categories – most notably, quality. No one I knew then or now considered the Ford Pinto, Chevy Vega or AMC Gremlin as worthwhile contenders.

This persisted into the nineties, and Detroit stopped competing with their rivals. Instead they developed partnerships and mergers, marketing their cars with domestic emblems. For better or worse, this became the framework of a new industry blueprint – vehicles cooperatively built and distributed in various configurations all around the world.

As we entered the third millennium, I briefly returned to the American market with the somewhat reluctant purchase of a minivan – something the U.S. manufacturers actually produced quite well. But by this time, I'd also paid off my college debt and had started a new job. The change of circumstances permitted the addition of a serious sports sedan: a 2003 BMW 325xi.

This was a game-changer for me. The design was classically striking; the drivetrain remarkably strong and durable. It was also our first dip into the all-wheel-drive pool. The doors closed with a CHUNK and the overall quality was faultless. I flogged it around a parking lot with a terrified salesman onboard and realized in that moment this was what driving was meant to be.

The 325xi was acquired on a lease, so three years and 30,000 miles later we walked away from the financial commitment. I was now driving upwards of 20,000 miles a year, so this type of financing no longer made sense for us. Two Hyundai Sonata sedans followed – actually very comfortable and affordable cars, but I felt like I was captaining my grandfather's Buick.

They also bored me out of my mind. I couldn't detect an intrinsic connection to the road. The Sonata floated like a snorkeler in a Caribbean lagoon. There was no discernable difference between driving and watching TV on my sofa. Not saying that I held a grudge against Hyundai. The Sonata had been designed and built to compete with other highway cruisers.

Thankfully, this didn't last very long. When real estate and the economy tanked in 2008, car manufacturers dropped prices and raised incentives for their products. And the brand that sparked my interest in exceptional cars in the first place, finally found its way into my garage. I flipped the second Sonata on my first Porsche – a 2009 Cayman – and started taking the train to work.

The Cayman was the first car that kept me from looking for my next one. I made some minor modifications, but it was basically stock and it remained that way. Well past the warranty, I felt like I was gambling with the inevitable. So, with 75,000 miles on the odometer, I traded it on a Porsche Macan. And then back to another Cayman two years later.

The pandemic triggered a realization I'd known was coming anyway. I am now inching toward retirement and as much fun as these cars have been, I wanted a certain amount of sensibility without losing the essence of driving altogether. Porsche doesn't produce an affordable sports sedan, so with some trepidation I dealt my 718 (and our Honda HRV) on a 2021 BMW M440i.

The M440i is the younger cousin of the M4, but is certainly no slouch. Technically a coupe, it is genuinely fun – 382hp and ridiculously powerful. It's as comfortable cruising on the interstate as it is slicing up a country road. My wife loved it so much she ordered a BMW 330e. It's a plugin hybrid that subsidizes the planet, and provides her a sporty sedan simultaneously.

These two recent purchases are numbers 30 and 31 in my lifelong inventory of automotive ownership. So, you can see my taste in vehicles has been all over the proverbial map. I liked muscle cars for their brutish authority, and sports cars for the amazing grip and power to weight ratio. Porsche expertly combined these features, and BMW refined them in their sedans and SUVs.

Funny thing is, I've enjoyed driving every one of them – even the minivan. They all bring something to the table, whatever their area of proficiency. Some were admittedly utilitarian, and a few were well beyond that. But all were acquired to satisfy the needs of my family at a point in time. And those requirements continuously changed.

But although my contentment, perspective and interests have fluctuated over these many years, there has always been a common thread – a bond that tied together all of my 31 acquisitions. It was the fundamental thrill of getting behind the wheel and pointing it down the road for the next adventure. That aspect won't change no matter what resides in my garage.