This news from the feisty Historic Inns of Rockland was just too fun not to share.  Check out this group of innkeeper's answers to health care reform. When it comes the public vs. private debate over health care reform, the conversation at the four Historic Inns of Rockland, ME revolves around whether to have the massage ensuite or in the spa.  Along with their senator, Olympia Snowe, this feisty group of four historically preserved inns is not afraid to cross party lines and has their own idea for a prescription drug plan simplified into two tiers – red or white. Wellness coverage here includes complimentary anti-oxidant chocolates and blueberry juice, pie or pancakes.

Best of all, affordability is assured; a cost-cutting measure is included with 10 percent off all rooms (built into the package) along with spa treatments at RHeal Wellness Center and Day Spa. Stress-relief toys even come free.  It’s all tongue in cheek, but it measures up to one great relaxing weekend geared toward wellness, stress relief and a form of health care reform that promises to be passed by all those participating. The promise: no one will be denied; all pre-existing conditions will be accepted, and affordability is guaranteed; with four inns, you’re sure to find one that fits your budget and all wellness criteria.

The expanded prescription coverage for the Historic Inns of Rockland’s Health Care Reform package includes not only cardio-training but stress relief and couples therapy all in one. 

• Wellness coverage includes two nights accommodations in luxury rooms, many with fireplaces multi-jet showers, whirlpool or soaking tubs.
• A multi-course cardio-healthy and hearty breakfast for two offers antioxidants, vitamins, fiber and protein to start the day.
• Physical and mental therapy comes in the form of a couples massage enjoyed ensuite or at a local day spa plus 10% off at RHeal Wellness Center and Day Spa.
• Stress relief is offered with a complimentary stress ball allowing you to squeeze the ball not the taxpayer, and relaxing music CD featuring local Rockland artists.
• Weight control measures include a welcome basket with locally made cheeses and chocolates, proven to provide antioxidant nutrition.
• The prescription drug plan offers a gift certificate to the Wine Seller, Rockland’s premier wine store for a choice red or white wine or non-alcoholic beverage.

Cost-cutting measures have been employed.  Participants will receive 10% off additional spa services and room rates for this package (only) offered from November 1, 2009 – May 15, 2010 for $510-750 per couple, excluding tax.

The Historic Inns of Rockland have decided not to allow health care reform to cripple their economy.  For more information on how four inns are working together to insure health care reform for Maine and travelers beyond , visit www.HistoricInnsofRockland.com or the LimeRock Inn, Captain Lindsey House, Granite Inn and Berry Manor Inn.  For reservations, call 877-ROC-INNS (877-762-4667).

Always believing the glass is half full not half empty, we at BedandBreakfast.com were delighted to find from a recent survey that at least 75% of those surveyed said they'd take as many if not more trips this summer, and eight out of ten said they'd plan to stay at a B&B.  As we've known for a long time, B&Bs make very popular destinations for those planning summer getaways. Read on for more information about the survey and how to save on vacations through BedandBreakfast.com's "Tanks for Traveling" promotion.

While news of a shrinking economy and travel cutbacks are heard daily, BedandBreakfast.com reports that inngoers continue to enjoy their stress-busting escapes.  The largest online B&B directory and reservation network worldwide, BedandBreakfast.com distributed a survey in March 2009 to 37,000 travelers (BedandBreakfast.com site subscribers), and received more than 2400 responses (6.5% return rate). More than 96 percent stated they stayed in a hotel while 85.5 percent noted they stayed at a B&B during the last two years, qualifying respondents as travelers. When asked how many trips they’re planning through September 30, 75 percent of respondents said they expect to take between two and four getaways.  Over half the respondents are planning to take as many trips as last year, while 25 percent expect to travel more. Additionally, 84 percent of respondents maintained they would stay at a B&B during upcoming trips between now and September 30, while only 10% said they’d stay at a two-star hotel and 46 percent said they’d stay at a three-star hotel (respondents could make multiple choices). Less than 44 percent expected to stay with friends and family on upcoming trips.  About 73 percent planned trips of less than 150 miles, with 62% planning to travel further afield.  Due to the economy, many respondents noted a preference for shorter trips, closer to home. 

BedandBreakfast.com survey respondents embrace the value represented by B&Bs.  When asked what they like best about B&Bs, 85 percent of respondents enjoy the complimentary breakfasts, a benefit that saves travelers about $10 per person per day.  Additionally, the unique décor and friendly hospitality continue to attract travelers to B&B getaways, demonstrated by 84 percent of respondents saying the hospitality of innkeepers is the reason they choose B&Bs, while 55 percent also appreciate the distinctive furnishings. In addition, 74 percent of survey respondents explained that their “individuality” and “a new experience each time” is an appealing characteristic of B&Bs (respondents could select multiple choices for this question).  

“A significant number of respondents mentioned the relaxing appeal of B&Bs in their survey comments,” mentioned Eric Goldreyer, Founder and CEO of BedandBreakfast.com. “We know people are flying less, driving more, and are often cutting back on the length of their vacations. Yet this survey demonstrates that as economic pressures mount, vacations continue to be a necessity to relieve stress, so travelers aren’t giving up on their B&B getaways,” finished Goldreyer. 

Results of the survey demonstrate the trend toward closer-to-home travel and travelers’ desire to seek value-rich accommodations. For example, in a recent article entitled Some Destinations Actually Faring Well in Economic Slump, posted on PeterGreenberg.com, the author explained: “The economic slump is hardly news, but it is having some surprising effects on travel and tourism. While some major cities like Las Vegas, Hawaii and Orlando are experiencing dizzying drops in the number of visiting tourists, many ‘second-tier’ markets are actually experiencing an uptick in business”. The story went on to illustrate what the Hampton Terrace B&B in Lenox, MA, and many other B&Bs are experiencing – up to 30 percent increases in reservations over last year for January – February 2009, due to travelers choosing drive-to rather than fly-to destinations. Advance bookings for B&Bs in drive-to destinations are up for the summer, too. According to PJ Walter of the Limerock Inn in Rockland, ME, advance bookings for July 2009 are well ahead of last year. 

Travelers looking to save on their summer getaways will find nearly 100 offers for free gas and added value in BedandBreakfast.com’s “Tanks for Traveling” promotion. Simply visit www.BedandBreakfast.com and click on the “Tanks for Traveling” link to find everything from  free gas cards to massages at B&Bs in the U.S., Canada, and Europe. Additionally, book a four- night European getaway through March, and receive a $100 discount on your BedandBreakfast.com online reservation. In April, book a three-night Canadian getaway, and enjoy a $50 discount. Simply type in your destination and travel dates, then look for the green “Book It” button. Use promo code EUROPE100 or CANADA50 to receive the applicable credit on your reservation. With the “Tanks for Traveling” promotion and online booking discounts, BedandBreakfast.com offers ample opportunities to save on B&B vacations.