Indy hotels roll out the
holiday deals

INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) - December is always a slow month for the hotel industry. Add to that the current economic climate and it?s obvious why downtown hotels are working a little harder this year to drum up business.

Whether it's the Westin, Marriott, Hilton or Omni, nearly every downtown hotel is offering discounted holiday packages. Some are throwing in gift cards, champagne, even hot chocolate delivered to your room if you're willing to spend a night or two.

The deals are similar to those offered last year, but they come at a time when hotels are bracing for a difficult new year.

Omni General Manager Phil Ray said customers are spending less on room service and in the hotel restaurants. And fewer holiday parties have been booked.

"We're going into next year very cautious as we watch the business develop and just seeing how it is," said Ray.

Despite the cutbacks, Ray said there's no need for a bah humbug attitude this December. One of the reasons the downtown hotels expect to do okay this holiday season is Lucas Oil Stadium.

The Colts have three home games this month. That means extra revenue for downtown hotels. And while the economic forecast is grim for the first half of 2009, convention business in Indianapolis is expected to keep downtown hotels busy. But experts admit business will be extremely competitive.

"Everybody is watching their pennies right now and we're seeing some people trade down in terms of price point. Maybe not go to this brand, go to that brand. There's going to be some of that going on as well," said Ray.

Hotel deals are out there but you need to do your homework and call around. The special rates cover specific dates.