Islands in the sun

03-03-2002

Topophilia means love of a place.

Although the term is derived from the ancient Greeks, it was actually coined in 1974 by geographer Yi-Fu Tuan in his groundbreaking book "A Study of Environmental Perception, Attitudes and Values."

Tuan examined the critical elements that go into creating a "home." He defined topophilia as "the relations, perceptions, attitudes, values and world view that effectively bond people to place." In his view, virtually all human culture and activity are evasive mechanisms, ways to avoid or alter the harsh realities of nature, a state he defined "as what remains or can be recuperated over time when all humans and their works are removed."

Tuan speculated that even as we are motivated to create comfortable homes, many of us are simultaneously moved to return to more natural settings. Unfortunately, people's image of nature is often based on wishful thinking, not from direct experience. Therefore, the image always lacks the full complexity of reality.

That must be something like the wide divide between reality and a virtual experience. Visiting some place in imagination, whether via books, movies or electronically, is nothing like actually being there.

In any case, different landscapes and locations resonate for different individuals. Tuan was interested mostly in the places people call home, but elements of topophilia must also be applicable for the places we feel comfortable visiting.

People's fantasies about escaping to nature can involve tropical jungles, broad prairies or desert wastelands. My wife, for example, craves the ocean, while my travel daydreams wander to inland elevations. Who knows why?

As illustrated by the articles on Georgia's Golden Sea Islands in today's Travel section, the dreams of many people involve escaping to a beautiful island. So many, in fact, that several glossy magazines, newsletters and Web sites are dedicated to the subject. Scientists have even developed a range of theories about the subliminal attraction of islands.

Aspects of this research have focused on how the sound of waves or the complex aromas of the ocean may affect our subconscious. Other scientists speculate that the intensity of the sun's rays bouncing off sand and water can affect our pineal gland and the hormones it produces, generating a natural euphoria. Some scientists have postulated on the mood-altering effects that electrical energy in sea air may have on the brain's chemistry.

The sight of an endless ocean horizon certainly has a tranquilizing effect. It physically and emotionally separates us from the rest of the world. Thus, psychologists wonder whether islands have a tenacious hold on our imaginations because they represent the most complete escape most of us can manage from the press of daily life. Yes, Dr. Freud, that might be one of our underlying fascinations with books such as "Robinson Crusoe" and "The Swiss Family Robinson" and the movie "Cast Away."

Most likely, though, the reasons behind this love of islands differ from person to person and stem from the combined effect of environmental and cultural cues.

Fortunately, there's no shortage of possible island escapes, since four-fifths of this planet is covered with water.

Hey, who's yer hub, Bub?

Partially to promote its new regional Concourse E, US Airways last week unveiled its special "Go Fares" to Charlotte, N.C.

It's part of a cooperative agreement with the city of Charlotte and its Convention and Visitor Bureau. Passengers from almost 80 cities who can depart any Thursday, Friday or Saturday through May 11 and return Sunday, Monday or Tuesday can fly round trip to Charlotte for roughly half the regular discount fare, with an extra price break if they make their reservation on usairways.com.

According to Stephen M. Usery, US Airways vice president of marketing, "US Airways and Charlotte share a common bond -- to heighten interest in visiting this wonderful city so rich in history, charm and hospitality. Together, we intend to give tourism a tremendous boost."

Now we certainly support this civic-minded promotion on the part of US Airways and hope it inspires lots of people to visit Charlotte. At a round-trip fare of $131 from Pittsburgh that's valid for the next 10 weekends, it's hard to say no.

But we wonder whether US Airways is planning any similar promotions to support its hubs in Pittsburgh or Philadelphia (perhaps during a season when the weather is likely to be more hospitable). Or do they realize the extent of the impending traffic chaos that will overwhelm Pittsburgh when the dreaded bridge and tunnel project moves into full gear next month?

Otherwise, we'll have to sympathize with the citizens of Charlotte who will have to pay $277 to fly to Pittsburgh.

That hardly seems to be a fair fare.

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