HAMPTON LAUNCHES FIRST-EVER 'WEEKENDS-ONLY' TRAVEL WEB SITE FEATURING 1,000 FUN, UNUSUAL EVENTS NATIONWIDE
Web surfers yearning to get out of the house now have a new bookmark to add to their "Favorites" with today's launch of "Hampton's(R) Year of 1,000 Weekends" Web site. This clearinghouse of information is designed to connect travelers with 1,000 fun and quirky events happening across the U.S. and Canada in 2003. With searching for things to do at a destination dubbed one of the most popular elements of online travel planning (45 percent, according to the Travel Industry Association of America), this new Web site serves as a one-stop shop for vacationers looking to experience something off-the-beaten-path.
Designed as an easy reference guide, www.hamptoninnweekends.com features different event categories, including music, food and more, to guide visitors to goings-on that suit their interests. The site can also be searched by region, state or city for happenings during pre-planned travel dates or to inspire a weekend getaway among the curious. After more than 1,000 hours of research and planning, the Hampton one-of-a-kind online travel calendar is unlike any travel planner the hotel industry has ever produced.
"Today's leisure traveler wants to seek out memorable experiences," said Geoffrey Godbey, professor of leisure studies at Penn State University. "When the decision is made to leave home for a getaway, it is to find people, places and events that will always be remembered."
Whether it's seeking a quick escape for the weekend or an exploration of what different communities have to offer, the site provides families, seniors, couples and solo travelers endless opportunities of things to do and see, such as:
-- The Wizard of Oz Festival" in Chesterton, Ind.
-- "The Great Fruitcake Toss" in Manitou Springs, Co.
-- "Toad Suck Daze" in Conway, Ark.
-- A "Punkin' Chuckin' Contest" in Millsboro, Del.
-- Or the "O. Henry World Championship Pun-Off" in Austin, Texas.
"Consumers today are focusing on experiences and connecting with family and friends," said Judy Christa-Cathey, vice president of brand marketing for Hampton Hotels. "Our goal is to provide a resource of travel experiences that help them connect, and with 1,200 locations we can put them close to just about any kind of experience over any weekend."
During specific periods in 2003, Hampton will provide special weekend rates at many of its properties near these calendar events. As early as February 15, 2003, consumers can begin booking Hampton spring season Hit the Road(TM) rates(a) at participating hotels for travel March 1 through May 17, 2003, for reduced rates for stays on Friday and Saturday night. This promotional rate is available at participating properties using the promotion code "HTR" when booking a room through www.hamptoninnweekends.com, www.hamptoninn.com or by calling 1-800-HAMPTON.
Once a festivity is located, consumers can search and book the closest Hampton Inn hotel on-line through www.hamptoninnweekends.com. This new site is an extension of "Hampton's Year of 1,000 Weekends Calendar," a colorful printed desktop piece introduced last December. The new Web site, however, offers the added benefit of online booking and event information not present in the printed material, such as event admission cost, street location and other details. Visitors also have the ability to submit their favorite events online to be considered for inclusion on the site.
Travelers interested in obtaining a free printed copy of the 2003 "Hampton's Year of a 1,000 Weekends" desktop calendar can write to "Hampton Weekends," P.O. Box 288, Beverly Hills, CA 90213. Beginning Jan. 21, the printed calendar will also be available for request online at www.hamptoninnweekends.com while supplies last.
