Travel Deals for Veterans and Active Military
Many hotels offer discounts to those who have served.
Nov. 11, 2013— -- While the Post Office, libraries, Department of Motor Vehicles and various companies are closed today in observance of Veterans Day, most hotels are open as usual. And many offer special discounts for those who have served in the United States military, which apply all year.
"We honor everyone who serves our country, from veterans to active members, first responders and the Department of Defense," said Rebecca Kendig, director of sales and marketing at il Lugano in Fort Lauderdale, Fla. "These people put their lives on the line to protect our country and these special offers are our way of showing gratitude for everything they've done for us. It's an honor to serve those who have served."
Il Lugano offers up to a 50 percent discount for active or retired Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines or U.S. Coast Guard, active members of the National Guard/Reservists, divisions within the Department of Defense (FBI, CIA, Secret Service, NASA), first responder-firefighters, police and paramedic. Rates at the hotel begin at $109 per night.
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Over at Ponte Vedra Beach, the Sawgrass Marriott Golf Resort & Spa has created the "Saluting Our Heroes" rate of $95 per room, per night as a thank you for veterans' service.
"Words cannot sufficiently express the appreciation that we have for our veterans and active military personnel," said Tom Manno, general manager at The Sawgrass Marriott Golf Resort & Spa. "We welcome them and their families to get away with us to enjoy championship golf, world class dining, pristine beaches and activities that are fun for the entire family."
Across the country at Lake Arrowhead Resort & Spa, in Lake Arrowhead, Calif., government rates are $96 per night for a Mountain View King/Double Queen room and a Lakeview Room rate of $188, plus a $20 resort fee based upon availability, hotel representatives told ABC News.
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"As a member of the Marriott Autograph collection, we value Marriot Hotels and Resorts commitment to work with government groups and travelers," said Gregory Roper, director of sales and marketing at the Lake Arrowhead resort. "A great way to give back this holiday season is by donating your Marriott rewards points to wounded warriors."
But if you're looking for excitement over relaxation, veterans can find deals in Sin City, too. The Westin Lake Las Vegas offers 50 percent off the retail rate for guest rooms to military personnel with some rooms discounted to $75 per night.