I never heard that myth specifically, but I've heard something similar which we found was true -- at least it was many years ago. When we traveled a lot (when I was a kid) we rarely "ate out" on the road. When we did, though, we were told to look for little mom-and-pop diners that had a couple of trucks parked in their lots because these folks knew where the eatin' was good and the prices were reasonable... and we were rarely disappointed.

Maybe in time the "little mom-and-pop diners" somehow evolved into truck stops? Still, I can't see getting my family dressed up and taking them to a truck stop for Sunday dinner. That simply amazes me.

__________________

Ducks,

It also amazes me.

Generally speaking, the main reason truckers stop anywhere is the size of the parking lot. The next priority is friendly, good looking waitresses. The last priority is quality of food, quantity being the more important.

With all the new drivers on the road, it appears they have no real priorities. If they do, I have yet to figure them out.

Watch where local drivers and freight haulers (Yellow, Roadway, etc.) park, other than motels, and that's who will have the best food and waitresses. And, you rarely, if ever, see a freight hauler parked at a Pilot (except on the fuel island to take a bathroom break and get coffee) or any of the major chains.

At any rate, I have no problem with civilians frequenting truck stops so long as they keep their priorities straight as to why that t/s is there in the first place: which is to take care of people who are on the job and working. We aren't in that t/s on our way to the movies, the lake, or bar, etc.; we are there to take care of business and be on our way.

BTW, I was just being sarcastic about not bathing, etc. I keep jugs of water in my truck for the specific purpose of taking a semi-daily bath when no other alternative is available. Back in the "good old days," showers were not commonly available unless a driver rented a motel room.

It's been ages since I've been to a chain truckstop, but now my interest is piqued. I'm heading to Michigan next week, and you can bet your booties I'll stop at one. BUT -- I'll try to be quick, definitely won't eat there, and will stay outta your way, okay? Oh -- and I won't gawk. Promise. I will, however, take pictures if I see anything neat. I love lookin' at the stuff you folks haul.

__________________

No problem, Ducks, anyone who gets in my way, I just run over them . . .

(JUST KIDDING!!!) (or, maybe not. . .)

Which is exactly why I plan to keep my distance. You truckers can be downright ornery, ya' know...

__________________

The truck stop I absolutely HATE going to is the TA just east of the twin cities in Hudson, WI. Nine out of ten times there's one of those mega-buses parked out front and you have to wait half an hour to get through the door, plus they're filled with the rude pricks from Chicago. Trying to get to the restroom, I said "Excuse me" to some punk who laughed at me and said "You're excused." I took it as him needing "help" moving, so I helped out.

Today Pilots , Loves , TA's , Petros , and Flying J's are TRAVEL CENTERS . That is why if one is bought out that has a decent restaurant it is relaced with fast food . Don't sit down , walk down the line , then get out to make room for the next customer . The management has no problem with anybody that has money to fork over . Good luck finding a real truck stop .

No ! Actually, they bring their fat ##### with 4 whinning kids to a truck stop on sunday to complain about the "truckstop" not banning smoking altogether inside their business.

While ignoring the "non-smoking area" sign located at the other end of the dinning area. I guess it was too far for them to walk to the buffet, from there.

__________________
.
I'm gonna kill the next SOB who tells me I look stressed out.

--Unknown

Crap, danc.... First, I can't complain about the filthy truckers. Then I shouldn't be dining there at peak hours. You guys piss and moan when I park my little Subaru in the truck parking area. I gawk and you're not happy.

And now I'm not allowed to complain about yer smokin'???

If your not careful, I just won't stop at those t/s's anymore. That'll teach ya' to fuss with us four-wheelers.

__________________

Did you know that "studies" have indicated that people who drive Subaru's are generally ...."Liberals"

True story

Last time I checked, I thought "liberal" meant; lacking moral restraint.

Certianly someone who lacks moral restraint, wouldn't be offended by my smoking....even if I was smokin dope in a restuarant

__________________
.
I'm gonna kill the next SOB who tells me I look stressed out.

--Unknown