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Too costly to vacation? Instead, try 'stay-cation'

BY BECCY TANNER

The Wichita Eagle

WHAT DO YOU THINK?


Think of it as the new buzzword:

"Stay-cation."

With gas prices rising, Wichita tourism officials are hoping Wichitans will rethink their vacation travel plans and instead have a "stay-cation."

They announced a marketing plan this week to highlight National Tourism Week, May 10-18, and are encouraging Wichitans to wear red shirts today to show support for local tourism.

"We want people to recognize there are some wonderful things in our city and south-central Kansas area," said Olivia Simmons, vice president of the Greater Wichita Convention and Visitors Bureau.

The leisure and hospitality industry in the Wichita area employs more than 27,000 people and generates more than $323 million annually, Simmons said.

Instead of planning a weekend getaway in Oklahoma or Colorado, Simmons suggests, stay put. Go ahead and plan family outings and get-aways, but stay in local hotels, see local attractions and dine in Wichita's restaurants, she said.

By doing that, the average family of four could save at least $200 on a three-day "stay-cation," Simmons said.

"People always think they have to go somewhere to have a great vacation," said John Rolfe, visitors bureau president and chief executive. "The idea behind a stay-cation is to get people to book a hotel room so that they get out of the house -- and in the right frame of mind to see Wichita through the eyes of a tourist, instead of a resident."

To help families plan their stay-cations, the convention and visitors bureau is working with local businesses to put together "stay-cation" packages, Simmons said. Such packages will be posted at www.VisitWichita.com, or you can call 316-265-2800.

Reach Beccy Tanner at 316-268-6336 or btanner@wichitaeagle.com.