Writers Wanted at New York's Algonquin
A New York literary landmark, the Algonquin Hotel (authors like Dorothy Parker, Robert Benchley, Harold Ross, and Robert Sherwood used to all lunch at the hotel’s Round Table restaurant in the 20s) is offering a Writer’s Block Rate to all writers suffering from the dreaded “block”. Literary novices and published veterans alike need only show proof of their prose to snag 25 percent off the best available rates.

Pay Your Age at Chicago’s Talbott Hotel
Here’s one reason to admit your age. If you’ve stayed at Chicago’s Talbot Hotel in 2008, you can book the night of your actual birthday in 2009 and get the room for your age in dollars. So if you’re turning 40 in 2009, your room rate will cost $40 plus tax. Likewise, stay anytime in 2009 and you’ll be able to take advantage of the Pay Your Age offer in 2010. Call the hotel directly (800/825-2688) to book and request the Birthday Rate.

African-Style Safari in Texas Hill Country
Zebras, giraffes, and wildebeest in Texas Hill Country? Yep, that’s right. The Serengeti Resort (opened in November 2008) is a South African-style safari lodge, complete with wild animals roaming the resort’s 450 acres and two tasting bars specializing in South Africa wines, as well as a selection of vintages from all over the world. Pay only $175/night for verandah rooms.