Katie Blaney, Marden-Kane Account Supervisor, contributed this blog post about one-of-a-kind, budget-minded trips to award as prizes.
Americans love vacations but more than half of them who do not plan on taking a trip this year say it is due to a lack of funds. So why not give them a chance to win it? Trips as prizes allow winners to explore sights, food, and cultures they would typically never experience on their own. For a small investment on your part, a unique travel package can garner huge interest in your brand’s promotion.
When coming up with destinations you may think of popular spots like the Caribbean, the Broadway lights of New York City, or the majestic Golden Gate Bridge but I am here to tell you about some lesser known locales right here in the U.S. that are sure to get your consumers day dreaming about.
Beautiful Beaches – Lake Michigan’s Gold Coast
300 miles of pristine beach that has been compared to Cape Cod and Hawaii! After you have soaked up the sun and surf, there are wineries, antiquing, U-pick orchards and berry farms to explore. It is also only 30 miles away from Grand Rapids which was voted Best Beer City in the US in 2013 due to its 25+ craft breweries.
For the Nature Lovers – Cumberland Island, Georgia
Campers can set up their tents among the 50 miles of trails and hike with the feral horses and wild turkeys that run the island. Pristine beaches with no urban development will make you feel like you have discovered uncharted territories. There is only one restaurant on the island at the old Greyfield Inn so be sure to pack supplies!
Desert Luxury – Canyon Point, Utah
It is all about the “outdoor living space” at Amangiri, the luxury hotel and spa whose name means ‘peaceful mountain.’ It is located in southern Utah near the Arizona border where day trips to the Grand Staircase in Escalante National Monument are a must. The resort is tucked into a protected valley and has been designed to blend into the landscape. Take in the jaw-dropping beauty of the main swimming pool that has been built around a huge rock wall while lounging on a king-sized daybed or indulge in a spa service in one of the outdoor treatment rooms.
City Sights – Kansas City, Missouri
Known for its barbeque joints (there are over 100!), art, and jazz, this walkable city has loads to do. It is home to over 200 fountains (that is on par with Rome!) and the WWI museum which is celebrating its centennial this year. Travelers have specifically flown into neighboring Kansas City, KS just to get a taste of BBQ favorite, burnt ends.
Historical Walls – Charleston, South Carolina
Want to lay your head where parts of the Constitution were drafted and where George Washington once had breakfast? The John Rutledge House Inn was originally built by Mr. Rutledge in 1763 for his bride and remains a gift today. Located in the heart of Charleston’s historic district guests experience the best parts of the town – the history, hospitality, and architecture – without even stepping outside. But that shouldn’t stop them from checking out sites like Fort Sumter National Monument (the location of the official start to the Civil War) Drayton House (America’s oldest plantation house) and the Old Exchange Building & Provost Dungeon.
If you need help planning your sweepstakes or contest contact us.
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