Matt Lauer staying home because of the economy
By Associated Press
Mar 13, 2009 12:50 PM CDT
In this Jan. 17, 2008 file photo, co-host Matt Lauer, of the NBC "Today" television program, is shown in New York's Rockefeller Center. (AP Photo/Richard Drew, file)   (Associated Press)

Where in the world is Matt Lauer? Staying home in the USA this year.

In a nod to the economy, the "Today" show is putting off its annual mystery trip where Lauer is sent to exotic spots such as the Taj Mahal or the Pyramids. Instead, NBC's morning show team will be spending a week in May exploring affordable vacation spots in the United States.

"Today" Executive Producer Jim Bell said he had solicited suggestions from viewers for this year's "Where in the World Is Matt Lauer" trip. Instead, many told him that in bad economic times, the extravagant trip sent the wrong message.