Apr 23, 2008 9:01 pm US/Eastern
N.H. Vacation Spots Offer Incentives To Travelers
MEREDITH, N.H. (WBZ) ―
As families make summer plans, many are more aware of getting the most value out of their vacation. "You have to be really careful," said Kimberly Martin of York, Maine. "A lot of planning... We don't just hop in the car and go anywhere anymore. The prices are too high… Gas prices are pretty outrageous."
That's why Rusty McLear is offering this promotion: $20 in gas for an overnight in April at the Inns and Spa at Mills Falls. "People are saying 'I can get there on $20 worth of gas so you're getting me there free (and discounted shopping) and I'm staying over night at a great spot,' it's a pretty good deal."
Business owners in the Lakes Region are banking on this. With gas prices so high, they expect people will vacation closer to home, and this is just a two hour drive from Boston.
And there are more houses for rent in the area this year, according to the owner of Preferred Vacation Rentals, Mark Borrin. "We see a 5 percent increase in inventory because of people's homes on the market aren't selling, but it's great. The people coming up here are having the best selection they've ever had."
Everyone agrees the economy and gas prices will effect people's decisions. In New Hampshire, they're hoping creative marketing will continue to make the Lakes Region a driving destination.
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