In the path of totality. That’s where you’ll want to be on April 8, 2024, to take advantage of the last opportunity in decades to see a total solar eclipse over the United States.
The path, where the total solar eclipse can be seen, will be about 115 miles (185 kilometers) wide, passing through northern Mexico, crossing 13 U.S. states, and eastern Canada.
Just under seven years after the American eclipse in August 2017, next year’s total solar eclipse will be the last easy access to this event for most U.S. residents until August 23, 2044.
The celestial event is already attracting curious onlookers from across the country. So, if you’re one of them, even though there are still 10 months until the event, it’s definitely time to make plans.
“Rooms (in hotels) are still available along the path where the total eclipse can be seen, but they are running out quickly. The longer people wait, the harder it will be to find accommodations along the eclipse path, and the higher the rates will be as hotels and property owners realize what’s happening,” said Dave Clark, owner of the website NationalEclipse.com to CNN Travel.
In some places in the so-called “path of totality” (where the total solar eclipse can be seen), hotels are already taking reservations, and the rates for the rooms that are still available are high.
In Russellville, Arkansas, for example, a search on Booking.com this week showed that 87% of accommodations were unavailable between April 7 and 9, 2024, in the city of about 30,000 residents. Two hotels that had available rooms, Motel 6 and American Inn & Suites, had rates for that period of $500 and $699 per night, respectively.
Vacation rentals are another option. A look at Airbnb prices in various locations along the eclipse path suggests that while some owners are well aware ($1,000 or more per night) of the significance of April 8, 2024, others have not yet raised their rates for the coveted dates.
And the flights?
While it’s wise to secure your lodging early, that’s not the case for airfare. As the path of totality stretches across 13 states, plus parts of Mexico and Canada, there are many places to fly to. Additionally, driving will also be an option for many people.
Want to know more about next year’s total eclipse? Visit the website NationalEclipse.com.
Source: CNN