By the Daily Press Staff
As part of a citywide promotion to bolster the local economy and fill hotel rooms, the Santa Monica Convention and Visitors Bureau is shelling out deals for the holidays.
The “There’s No Place Like Home” program features discounts, package deals and “gift with purchases” at merchant and retail outlets in districts throughout the city. Key to the campaign’s success is the call for local residents to invite friends and family to shop and stay in Santa Monica. To promote the program, the bureau has added special “local’s only” deals. By logging onto to its Web site, santamonica.com, locals can see the program’s special promotions, community open house events and hotel discounts.
To boost occupancy during the off-season, the bureau has launched an additional program with 17 Santa Monica hotel properties. “I Wish I had An Extra Bedroom” offers residents of Santa Monica discounts and package upgrades for themselves or visiting friends and family. Residents simply flash a valid California identification or drivers license showing proof of Santa Monica residency upon check-in. The special “local’s rate” is available Nov. 1, 2001 through Feb. 19, 2002, including rates like $89 at the Hotel Carmel; $250 at Hotel Oceana and $150 at the Fairmont Miramar Hotel. Some of those prices are significantly less than the normal rates.
Originally published in the Santa Monica Daily Press print edition on November 17, 2001. Read the original PDF.