2009 National Meet Housing Cost Poll

[Al N.]

Folks, I got back some initial costs for a Branson area facility that we are considering for the 2009 meet.

 

The resort is nicer than either Tapoco or Fontana (from the 7-7-7 meet), and the per night charges are also higher (though the low end is within the Tapoco/Fontana range). There is less difference in the meal costs, though the Branson facility is also higher on a per person basis.

 

BTW, USA7s will source camping, RV, and motel locations within convenient driving distance from the host resort.

 

I am of the opinion that it's good to have a nice location for the main meet — even if some of the attendees don't stay there. Please chime in.

[Boxologist]

depends, a large suite spread out over several individuals is usually cheaper than a single room.

[Al N.]

Jon-

 

You are certainly correct...and I assume that some pods of friends and acquaintances will pool resources and book larger cabins/suites to share.

 

But I also keep in mind that some folks prefer to have their own rooms and also that (hopefully) we'll have some new faces at the 2009 meet and perhaps they won't know anyone yet well enough to share living quarters.

 

-Al

[Al N.]

Also note that when I wrote "USA7s will source camping and/or nearby motel options"...I meant that we will research ones for quality/location but we will not be blocking out rooms at the off-site housing sites. People will be on their own for that.

 

-A

[powderbrake]

The acceptable cost range may be affected by the length of the stay. How many nights at the hotel do you estimate, based on arriving the evening before, and leaving the morning after the last event?

[Al N.]

Jerry-

 

I think 4 nights is what people were suggesting, given the length of travel time to/from required for this first centrally located National Meet.

 

-A

[MHKflyer52]

Hi Al,

 

Has a date been set as of yet or is it still up in the air.

[Al N.]

Still up in the air, though the weeks of July 6, 13, and 20 all sound good....less hot (than August, at least), some folks can use 4th holiday to get a jump on travel to, etc.

 

FWIW, we're leaning toward a mid week event — fewer tourists, lower housing costs, allows people to use weekends for travel time.

 

-A

[DeanG]

I can't promise we will be there. Our attendance depends on many factors not the least of which is the LOG schedule.

 

I hear there are good deals at Branson at the moment. This may give you some leverage with the resorts.

 

[Al N.]

Dean-We're not asking for commitments just yet...just trying to get a feel for price tolerance.-Al

[locost7018]

What? Am I the only camper going????? Russ

[Al N.]

I'm sure you won't be, Russ. But I also know that after that many miles on the road (even if I'll be trailering), I'm going to need a real bed and A/C. -Al