Travel Promos Get Stranger, Bolder, and Sexier

09/16/09  Print This Post Print This Post    5 Comments   Popular   Written by Julie Schwietert
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Photo: ClickE

So far this year, we’ve seen the Best Job in the World and the All-You-Can-Jet Pass promotions, both intended to boost tourism. What could possibly be next?

Well, the Westin Resort Aruba has the answer to that question.

In an effort to up its occupancy rate, the Aruba Westin is running a unique promotion: couples who conceive a child during their stay will receive a “Conception Credit” worth $300 USD, which they can use for a return visit in 2010.

I would have paid money to be at the marketing meeting where this promo was dreamed up.

If you want to take advantage of the offer, there is some fine print: You’ve gotta get it on before December 18, 2009. In addition, once you return stateside, you’ll need to get a note from your doctor indicating that “the likely conception date took place around the time of [your] stay at the resort.”

No word on whether child care is provided on your return visit.

Community Connection:

Interested in outlandish tourism promotions? Read about the “Best Job in the World” or check out how one traveler is taking advantage of JetBlue’s All-You-Can-Jet Pass.


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About the Author

Matador ID: collazo

Julie Schwietert is the managing editor of Matador Network. She contributed a chapter to the recently published book, The Voluntary Traveler, and is currently working on five features for Fodor's Puerto Rico, 6th Edition.

5 Comments... join the discussion!

  • Peter replied on September 17, 2009

    Seems a rather sad (and cheap) imitation of the ‘Baby Made Board’ campaign that won a Gold Promo Lion at Cannes this year.

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  • ianmack replied on September 17, 2009

    Wow… that’s kind of creepy…

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  • Michelle replied on September 17, 2009

    WOW.

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  • Hal replied on September 17, 2009

    Whatevs, I think it’s pretty sweet!

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  • Sarah replied on September 19, 2009

    Whoa…what? I think I’d be massively depressed to find out my parents conceived me at the Westin for a 300 dollar travel voucher. Sounds like something from a postmodern short story.

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