Already a major focus of life, leisure should become an even higher priority in the near future, said Larry Allen, professor of parks, recreation and tourism management at Clemson University. Because we continue to take on more responsibilities and pursue more opportunities in our lives, our leisure time is becoming more scare. Advanced technology won't necessarily allow the worker more spare time because the innovation of technology in the work world depends upon the worker's willingness to use it. So, Allen foresees shorter, more frequent vacations becoming the norm, unlike the week or two-week standard of the past. Longer work weeks won't be the only factor limiting leisure time.
Environmental problems pose additional threats.
Land and water availablilty continue to be limited and, in turn, restrict various recreational activities, said Allen. And while homebound activities increase, as they did with the introduction of the video cassette recorder, they will not replace vacations away from the home, he says. Vacationers will still desire a complete change of scenery and their own private getaway. The professor advises people to realize the need for a rest and not to make this need secondary. He recommends that people look at a variety of experiences and choose the ones that suit their lifestyles when making that most important decision of how to spend a vacation.