We've all read the doom and gloom surveys: Americans are less likely to travel this summer because of the high price of gas, the state of the economy, or maybe because Venus is in retrograde (can't be too careful with your horoscope). It seems hotels have read these surveys, too, and have devised ways to entice you to stay by footing part of your gas bill or even doling out cold hard cash.
Perhaps the most generous offer comes from InterContinental Hotel Group (IHG), which will give you a $75 prepaid MasterCard for every stay of two consecutive weekend nights (Friday-Sunday) through September 3. You will have to wait 6-8 weeks to receive the gift card, but the deal applies to all IHG brands, from InterContinental to Holiday Inn.
Several Wyndham hotels across the country will hand out gas cards of varying amounts just for bedding down. Get $50 at checkout from Wyndham Tampa West Shore (2-night minimum stay), $29 at checkout from Wyndham Riverfront New Orleans (2-night minimum stay, Sunday-Thursday), or $20 at check-in plus free parking at Wyndham Milwaukee Airport & Convention Center. Check individual hotel websites for other participating properties.
If you’re planning a trip to D.C., Affinia Liaison Capitol Hill’s Pump, Park & Stretch package includes a $25 gas card per night plus free valet parking and free daily rooftop yoga classes. Rates start at a reasonable $209/night.
Spending your summer vacation north of the border? Super 8 motels in Canada are offering a Reserve and Refuel package for gas cards worth 10 cents off per liter of gas for up to 100 liters (about 26 gallons). Take advantage of the offer at select locations in Alberta, British Columbia, New Brunswick, Newfoundland, Nova Scotia, Northwest Territories, and Ontario. Average gas prices in Canada this May are 132 cents per liter (about US$5.08/gal)
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