Holiday Travel a Tangled Trip for Many Even in Good Weather

Whether you are in a plane, on a train or in an automobile, there’s a good chance you are in a crowded place today as the Thanksgiving holiday weekend begins.

Passengers arriving at the Santa Barbara Airport said they were very happy to be on this side of the country instead of in the east where rain and snow is causing delays and stress

“We were very pleased to have a plane originating in Houston and not have a lot of problems. We arrived at the airport an extra hour early and it was fine,” said Marita Fairbanks who was in Santa Barbara visiting family members at the airport.

A UC Santa Barbara student on her way to Chicago was laid back about her trip on the normally very busy day of traveling. “Security here only takes about five minutes, so it should be good,” said Allison Proffitt on her way to the terminal.

Prices for drivers filling up at the pumps are worth a thanks. They are about 14 cents a gallon cheaper than a year ago. One driver, Ben Chesluck said when he filled up, “it seemed reasonable. Anytime there isn’t a four at the start of the number, I feel like I am getting a deal. It was great. We didn’t shop around. We just gassed up and went.”

The afternoon southbound Amtrak train had about 400 passengers waiting as it made a stop at the Santa Barbara station. Many were college students off to see their parents. Some had to stand up in the crowded cars.

One passenger who booked her ticket on line, chose the Business Class seat to get a guaranteed place to sit. “I am in business class by accident but I think i am going to count my blessings, (about getting a seat) ha ha.” said Patricia Sanders. She also said the ticket purchase came with a drink and a snack.

More information, video and pictures will be posted here later today.