JON S. CORZINE
Governor

Nina Mitchell Wells
Secretary of State

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 19, 2008

Contact: Jennifer Stringfellow
609.292.7138

Keep Holiday Spending Down with Tax-Free Shopping and
Quality Lodging at New Jersey Destinations

Bring the Dream of a "Shopcation" to Life

TRENTON, N.J.—If worries about the economic climate are threatening to alter your holiday plans, think about booking a great getaway where the dollar/euro/pound will go a little further this year.

Whether plans include getting together with extended family, exploring a festive new area or hitting the pre-holiday sales on a “shopcation,” traveling has always been one of the most popular ways to spend a holiday.

Savvy visitors determined to stretch their dollar in search of memorable holiday gifts and souvenirs will find both reasonable lodging and tax-free shopping on clothing in New Jersey, which boasts an array of shopping options – from outlets to boutiques and world-class malls to craft studios with one-of-a-kind pieces of art. New Jersey’s convenient public transportation network is available to shuttle out-of-town visitors around the state in search of the perfect treasure.

Home to five outlet malls, including The Walk, a recently expanded 100-store retail outlet mall in Atlantic City and the new 120-store Jersey Shore Premium Outlets in Tinton Falls, there are numerous shop-and-stay packages available. The range of incentives include discounts on deluxe hotel rooms, gift cards, complimentary meals, VIP coupon books and even gift bags with bottled water and energy bars to help keep you on the move.

Visitors to New York City and Philadelphia will find attractive options right across the river, where New Jersey offers lower room rates, great views and easy access into either city. A stay in Jersey City or Weehawken provides unparalleled views of the New York City skyline, and offers visitors the added benefits of world-class dining, easy access to international landmarks such as the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, and boundless arts and entertainment venues.

When lodging in Cherry Hill or Mt. Laurel, New Jersey offers easy access to historic Philadelphia landmarks including the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall. Visitors will find spacious accommodations that provide a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of the city. For a truly unique experience, travelers can bunk on the USS New Jersey – the nation’s most decorated battleship – in the lively Camden Waterfront.

Smart travelers this holiday season are discovering that one thing’s for sure: the idea of a “shopcation” is within reach in New Jersey. Lodging information, as well as complete listings of events, attractions and shopping destinations can be found at the state’s tourism website: www.visitnj.org