Out in super gorgeous Oregon, the city that should call itself "the kinder, gentler Portland" is casting around for visitors to get its tourist industry safely through what promises to be a long, hard winter (economically, that is--Portland remains a consummately moderate place in temperature throughout the year). So they've initiated, again, their "Big Deal" program, featuring discounts at hotels, attractions, restaurants and retail establishments.
What's more, the Amtrak Cascades rail route is offering two to travel for the price of one, and Southwest Airlines has a ticket giveaway related to the "Big Deal."The program runs from October 1, 2002 through May 31, 2003.
The Big Deal brochure, offering 28 pages of value coupons, is available by contacting the Portland Oregon Visitors Association at the locations listed below. Standard among the hotel offers is complimentary breakfast for two and parking. If you book a Big Deal hotel room on the association's Web site, you will be entered into a drawing (held that same month) for a one-night return stay at the same hotel.
Some of the discounts include $1 off admission to Portland-area attractions; savings on pre- or post-show dining with purchase of performance tickets; 20% off meals for two at participating restaurants; free companion fare on the Amtrak Cascades trains; automatic entry to win another roundtrip flight when booking your Portland-bound Southwest Airlines flight online at Southwest.com's SWABIZ section; one free car-class upgrade on any daily, weekly or weekend leisure rental from Hertz in Portland; and shopping vouchers good for up to 15% off your first purchase of $25 or more at participating retailers.
Portland in the fall and winter has a passel of activities, include full-calendar appearances by performing arts groups, excellent exhibits at the Portland Art Museum, and more, including the ever-present outdoor recreation options the area is famous for.
For more information, to reserve and to sign up for the giveaways, go to www.travelportland.com or phone the POVA toll free at 87 PORTLAND (same as 877/678-5263).