Like most Iowans, I love to travel. And I love to tell travel stories on the air. Combine a good travel story with a marketing ploy meant to make your business go viral, and I am full of admiration!
One hotel has decided to reward someone for the most outrageous item taken from their storied inn.
The Roosevelt, New Orleans is celebrating 125 years with a unique contest. You enter by giving them back items you stole from them and the most outrageous one wins. The prize is a seven-night stay in the Presidential Suite with private meals cooked by their executive chef, and spa experiences.
So far, plates from when it was The Grunewald (from 1893-1923) have been sent in, a 1959 vinyl recording from the Blue Room, where Louis Armstrong performed, and even a tablecloth have been returned.
The plan is to display all the booty as part of the celebration. No one will get in trouble, as the management says it’s flattering knowing people want a sentimental piece of The Roosevelt.
There’s a site for the contest, which ends July 1st. And yes, you can send in items you buy from auction sites.
Me? I think I've taken the pens (which the hotel doesn't mind). I've had friends take the towels. You can't really get away with the bathrobe - they'll notice and charge you. But pens are the most outrageous act of thievery I've ever committed.