VIVA VENTURA!

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Media Contact: Ann Flower
November 1, 2005
Ann Flower Communications
(310) 305-7169
AnnFlowerCom@aol.com

VIVA VENTURA!

TEMPERATE COASTAL TOWN OFFERS WIDE VARIETY OF OFF-SEASON PACKAGES FOR ‘COOL’ WINTER ESCAPISM

(Ventura, CA) – With an average high temperature of 69 degrees from November to March, the term "winter" hardly describes the beautiful weather found in Ventura. Given its temperate climate, the end of the year is the perfect time to explore Ventura’s wide breadth of cultural and epicurean delights, adventurous outings and endless shopping options. And now, Ventura hotels are making it simple to get away and visit this coastal town by offering special weekend packages that encourage visitors to explore all that Ventura has to offer.

Shop ‘Til Ya Drop!
Enjoy shopping excursions via shuttle to shops ranging from seaside boutiques and vintage stores to premium outlets, and return to the luxurious Four Points Sheraton every evening to relax and recharge. A mid-day lunch at The Greek overlooking the harbor provides a break from the shopping crowds, while a gourmet dinner at 71 Palm serves as the perfect end to a day of retail heaven. Meanwhile, a massage or spa treatment at one of VenturaÂ’s premier spas will further soothe shopping stress. The package includes a three night stay at the Sheraton, with breakfast, lunch, dinner and a spa treatment, and is priced at $450.

Wine, Dine & Shine
Indulge in VenturaÂ’s gourmet dining scene with the Wine, Dine & Shine package, which allows visitors to experience the seaside city as a foodie Mecca. The package highlights are a ChefÂ’s Tour of the Farmers Market followed by a cooking class and lunch with Chef Tim of the popular Sidecar Restaurant, and gourmet dinner with Chef Jason of the upscale JonathanÂ’s restaurant. Visitors will also brunch at the world-famous Ranch House, take a tour of the Ojai Olive Ranch and visit the downtown Ventura wine bars. At night, the gastronomic enjoyment will continue as guests retire to their luxurious Ventura Beach Marriott rooms, where they will be greeted by a gourmet gift basket filled with rejuvenating, food-inspired spa products. The package offer includes a two-night stay at the Marriott, all meals and tours and breakfast each morning, and is priced at $395.

Ventura Adventure
Ready for an adventure? Ventura is chock-full of outdoor activities, many available in the Ventura Adventure package. Begin your fresh-air weekend with a half-day whale watching boat excursion and lunch at MilanoÂ’s in the Ventura Harbor, followed by an afternoon bike ride along the coast. A backcountry Jeep tour through nearby hills and ranches will allow visitors to visit the outskirts of Ventura, while dinner downtown at Anacapa Brewing Company will relax you after a day of fun and sun. The package includes all adventure outings, a two night stay, with breakfast, at the Crowne Plaza Ventura Beach and a souvenir adventure pack filled with gifts. Total package price is $375.

Culture Class
Ventura, recently dubbed California’s "New Art City," hosts a plethora of cultural activities every month. The "Culture Class" package invites visitors to experience Ventura’s wealth of art, theatre and museums – all in one weekend! Visitors will enjoy a pre-theatre dinner at the artsy Café Nouveau followed by a show at the Rubicon Theatre, a downtown walking tour of museums, historic buildings and the San Buenaventura Mission, a behind the scenes tour of Ventura artist studios, followed by brunch at The Sidecar, and lunch at Tutti’s off Main. The package also includes a two night stay, including breakfast, at the Crowne Plaza Ventura Beach, and is priced at $395.

Special rates are available on selective weekends from October 28, 2005 to April 1, 2006. For reservations and availability, please call (800) 333-2989 and ask about the Simply Ventura packages, or learn more at www.simplyventura.com. All package prices are based on double occupancy, with tax and gratuities included. Single supplement and extra person charge are available upon request, as are custom packages for groups.

The Ventura Visitors Center, located at 89 S. California Street in downtown Ventura, is open Monday through Friday 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., Saturday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. A non-profit organization, the Ventura Visitors & Convention Bureau enhances tourism and the economy by positioning the City of Ventura as a visitor and conference destination.

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