Hotels love to create package deals with cutesy names. “Staycations” have been all the rage in the downturned economy—they’re basically weekend getaways in resorts that are close to where you live. That marketing nomenclature came on the heels of catchphrases like “Mancations,” (testosterone-fueled guys’ getaways) and “Babymooning (for couples expecting a visit from the stork).
Now comes “Kidcations” from the Rancho Bernardo Inn. Now through September (with a partial June hiatus), the hotel wants your business, with rugrats in tow. They’ll show “dive-in” movies at the pool, offer Guitar Hero at the Wii Lounge and serve up breakfast at a toppings-rich waffle station and dinner desserts at a S’mores bar.
One hotel is now going after the senior high demographic. Starting tomorrow, The Keating’s new restaurant The MerK is offering a $25 prix fixe menu for pre-prom diners. The deal includes a bottomless glass of soda, salad, pizza or chicken entrée and a gelato-and-cookie dessert. The deal is valid Fridays and Saturdays from 5-7 p.m., until the last dance at the last local prom of the season.
For every change of life or bit of social zeitgeist, there will eventually be a hotel package deal. It’s likely these ideas are already being discussed in marketing meetings: Puberty Getaways; Gaycations; Hysterectomania; Graycations; Pamper Puppy & Me; Naturalizationcations; and, if the copyright isn’t tied up, Californications.
Ron Donoho, formerly executive editor of "San Diego Magazine," is a regular contributor to NBCSandiego.com who covers local news, sports, culture and happy hours.
