Gaydos: Is the economy really this bad?

So, how would you feel if I told you you could spend just $19 and enjoy staying in a luxury resort with three pools, two restaurants, a spa and a golf course? You would jump at the chance! Who wouldn't! Oh, but there is a catch. YOU HAVE TO SLEEP ON THE FLOOR. The room comes without pillows, sheets and a bed! The economy is bad, but it's not this bad!

A resort in San Diego is offering huge discounts to customers willing to sleep on the floor. It's called the "Survivor Package" and guests can lower the standard $219 room rate with each amenity they give up. No breakfast or AC means you save $80. If you bring your own sheets you'll save an additional $20. No lights drops the price $20 more. The lowest price is $19, which buys a room that's had the headboard unscrewed from the wall and the mattress carted away by hotel staff, though they will leave behind a small tent.

Why would I pay someone to allow me to sleep on the floor? They should pay me! I could sleep on the floor in my house for free! How am I going to enjoy a stay in a hotel when the room is empty?? No lights and no TV... if I take a shower, they won't even supply me with a towel! Really? I have to bring my own TP? What good is a $19 stay in a resort when I can't steal any of their soap, shampoo or very comfortable bathrobes?

I know what you are thinking. You're saying "Gaydos, just rough it. It's like camping." I hate camping! I did it once in 7th grade; my idiot friend in charge of packing the tent, forgot to actually pack the tent. We're NOT Facebook friends... I ended up severely sick. You're probably also saying that even without the bed, the hotel may still make money if guests eat at the restaurants, book spa services or pay for a round of golf. That is true, but it's not worth it if I have to sleep on the floor. The last time I slept on the floor was on a college road trip to cover The Big East Basketball Tournament in '95 at Madison Square Garden. After the game, I slept on the floor of the hotel because four of us where sharing a room and I was the low man on the totem pole. I once again, I got so sick. Remember folks, I'm a pretty tough guy on most occasions but when I don't have a bed to sleep in, I turn into a delicate flower.

Here's the bottom line. When you go on vacation, you always try to get the best deal. I'm all for saving money, but when I want to relax and forget about work, I'm all for spending money so I can enjoy my trip. Give me a room with a bed. That's money well spent. I'll leave my room to get a Happy Meal at McDonald's to save a few bucks. That's money well saved.

That's How I Roll!

Gaydos