“Extreme Measures — Adding Value”

Concerned about decreasing travel and increasing competition from discount chains, Chicago’s luxury hotels are letting their guests get away with more than the towels.

Visitors can take their pick of unique freebies, including CDs. The Hotel Monaco provides a companion goldfish for the lonesome traveler, while the Ritz-Carlton allows guests to take the very beds they sleep on. People who stay two consecutive nights at the Ritz-Carlton’s Lakeside Suite can have their room’s king-size mattress and box spring delivered to their home. More than 100 people have taken advantage of the promotion.

Source: Ananova.com, Oct. 28, 2002