al·low əˈlou/ | friend·ly 'frendlē/ | wel·come 'welkəm/ |
Still constantly smiling from the memories of our wonderful road trip to Astoria in February and deep in the throes of planning our spring road trip to Phoenix, I have been pondering the travel term "pet friendly." This popular travel industry phrase has an extremely broad ranging definition. "Pet friendly" can mean that pets are simply allowed yet there are multiple limitations and restrictions like where pets can be on the property, number of pets permitted, weight limits and exorbitant fees. Pets are also truly welcome under the "pet friendly" definition; no limitations, no fees, few rules. Pets are embraced and invited to enjoy the vacation. Our lodging in Astoria, the Crest Motel, was an honestly pets welcome motel.
Travelers have a diverse idea of what "pet friendly" means as well. Some think that a "pet friendly" establishment should be a pet utopia, where pets roam free or can be left alone while humans enjoy the vacation. Others who travel with their pets understand the need for limitations, fees, certain liability restrictions, etc. Personally, I am a fan of pet friendly establishments that have few limitations and fees. To me, this is more welcoming, especially traveling with three to four pets. But I don't think pets should have the run of a place. No one should leave their pets alone when traveling. Especially not when there are so many other options that are better for the pet as well as kinder to the motel, hotel or campground. The Crest Motel in Astoria asks only that you not leave your pet alone in the room and you clean up after your pet. |