On April 8, a total solar eclipse will occur, but the travel industry and media are causing confusion and misinformation about where the best viewing locations will be. Many locations near the path of totality are being promoted as prime spots to view the eclipse, despite not actually being in the path where the total darkness can be observed. This misunderstanding is evident in press releases and promotions from cities, tourism agencies, and hotels, which are not verifying their locations on interactive maps or websites designed to show the precise path of totality.
Some hotels and resorts are taking advantage of their proximity to the path of totality by offering eclipse packages that include transportation to the ideal viewing locations. However, many locations outside of the path are promoting events and selling tickets for what they claim to be a “90% totality” experience, which is not a real phenomenon during a total solar eclipse. This misinformation is being perpetuated by journalists who are not fact-checking their information before publishing it, leading to confusion among potential eclipse viewers.
One example of a hotel that is handling the situation correctly is the Inns of Aurora Resort & Spa in Western New York, which is just outside the path of totality. They are transparent about their 99.98% partial eclipse viewing and are offering transportation for guests to the path of totality to experience the full eclipse. This approach is sensible, transparent, and good business, as it ensures that guests have a memorable and accurate eclipse viewing experience.
Some locations, such as the One World Observatory in New York City, are selling tickets for partial eclipse viewing events, despite the fact that New York City will not experience a total solar eclipse on April 8. This kind of misinformation is misleading to the public and takes advantage of the hype surrounding the eclipse. Journalists also need to be more critical and discerning when reporting on eclipse events, as sensationalized or inaccurate information can lead to disappointment for viewers who are expecting a total eclipse experience.
It is essential for eclipse viewers to verify the accuracy of information provided by the travel industry and media before committing to a viewing location for the April 8 total solar eclipse. By checking interactive maps and websites that show the path of totality, individuals can ensure they are in the best position to witness this rare and incredible event. The eclipse is a natural phenomenon that should be enjoyed with clarity and understanding, so it is crucial to avoid locations that are promoting misleading or fictional claims about the eclipse experience.
