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BUDGET TRAVELER

Wanna make a baby? Jump on Marriott's fertility deal!


The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Published on: 06/19/08

We've learned a couple of new words this year Mancation - usually the golfing, cigar smoking, scotch drinking getaway for guys - and then there is the new frequently used Staycation. That's the no-cost, no-frills trip to the backyard.

Another newbie word in the travel world is Babymoon, or the trip couples take while the lady is pregnant just before they embark on parenthood.

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Clara Bosonetto Maerz's column is published weekdays on ajc.com.


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So what about a Procreation? That's the vacation that couples take to make a baby.

One such trip package, the "Fertile Turtle," was so successful last year that the Marco Island Marriott Beach Resort is bringing it back for a second year.

The sea turtle is known as the symbol of fertility and this is the right time of year to watch the hatchlings make their way out of beach nests and struggle a few dozen yards to reach the Gulf of Mexico.

The Marriott will give a portion of the package to the Sea Turtle Monitoring & Protection Project of the Conservancy for Southwest Florida, the group that helps to protect this endangered and vulnerable species both on the beach and by bringing regional awareness through education about the delicate process of protecting turtle eggs and hatchlings. For instance, the group encourages beachfront properties to take a number of measures to ensure the hatchlings find the right way to the water. This Marriott has had all exterior bulbs fitted with special yellow covers to reduce the amount of light emitted which can help to prevent the little turtles from heading in the direction of bright lights. Many area hotels ask guests to turn off interior lights after sunset, or at least to use blackout draperies when lights are needed.

Lovebirds can visit this beachfront resort with an overnight stay in a deluxe room with a king-size bed, a private balcony and a Do Not Disturb sign. Also included is a couples massage with Chaste berry and fertility-promoting aromatherapy; red clover and raspberry tea (which have natural pregnancy-enhancing qualities) and an authentic Balinese commemorative photo album to hold the memories of this special vacation. Rates start at $419 per couple on stays now through October 31, or the sea turtle mating season.

A bit pricey indeed, but should a couple conceive a little one during their stay, the Marco Island Marriott Beach Resort will congratulate them with a complimentary three-night stay on a return visit. To qualify for the stay, couples only need to provide a birth certificate (and proof of the upcoming resort stay) within eight to 10 months of baby's arrival. Nice gift, no?

The Marco Island Beach Resort sits on three miles of pristine southwest Florida white sand beaches and interiors are Balinese-inspired to bring harmony, balance and hospitality. The resort's Quinn's Pool is surrounded by lush landscapes and outdoor dining spots. The resort also features the championship Rookery at Marco Golf Course and the Spa at Marco Island Resort for indulgent treatments.

To book the Fertile Turtle package, visit http://marcoislandmarriott.com

For more on the Sea Turtle Monitoring & Protection Project of the Conservancy for Southwest Florida, conservancy.org

AirTran is currently running an airfare sale that prices one-way trips between Atlanta and Fort Myers at $79 on trips finished on or before November 5. Trips cost $89 Mondays-Saturdays and $99 on Sundays. Give at least a ten-day advance notice of travel. www.airtran.com

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