Help! Son's graduating from school in Santa Cruz, CA!
 

We're excited about the great event, but need a hotel in the area that will not break the bank of all the family members that plan to come. Anything in the $100 / night rate in June that is'nt a dump? If we have to go up the coast abit that will be fine- but we would like to be within 30 minutes of UCSC. Also need a restaurant for dinner that can handle about 20 that is casual but good.<BR><BR>Debby<BR><BR>Tahnks Debby

Hi Debby<BR><BR>I hate to bring bad news, but around Santa Cruz even in the off season $100.00 for a room will not get you much. You are talking graduation week-end where even getting a room might be a challenge. Better start looking now and be ready to pay for it or you will be staying in San Jose or Salinas. I know in Arcata (the college town in California where I work) Students have already made reservations for graduation weekend in May.<BR><BR>Have Fun <BR>GP

For a family wedding in Santa Cruz (wedding reception was at the ballroom on the boardwalk) we all stayed at the Best Western Seacliff Inn in Aptos. I was really impressed with the grounds and the rooms. It was much nicer than I thought it would be. Family prefers cheap accomodations, so for these family events they usually pick motel 6 so I was a bit suspicious. You can get this place for $100.

Also check out the Best Western in nearby Scotts Valley. Wherever you stay, be sure to book well in advance.<BR>(My son also graduated UC Santa Cruz so I know accomodations really fill up in June.)

I stayed at the Best Western in Scotts Valley this past June for a wedding. Nothing special, but it was clean and easy access to the highway. We were able to get a good rate of only $49 per night.

Check www.biddingfortravel.com for rates in and near Santa Cruz and then bid on Priceline. You may also want to check hotel websites such as Sheraton and Radisson. I just got $59 webrates for both hotel chains for Arizona.<BR><BR>Congratulations to your son UCSC is a great school and a beautiful campus!

Thanks for all of your suggestions. I plan to make my arrangements now.<BR><BR>Any suggestions on a place to eat for the crowd?<BR><BR>Debby