Ranch Rider To Launch "Save The Dude Ranch" Campaign

Online, August 27, 2009 (Newswire.com) - The usual flurry of American city slickers heading from East to West has declined dramatically according to the Wyoming based Dude Ranchers Association. The organisation, which represents and markets homesteads across North America, recently reported that dude ranches in Colorado, Montana, Wyoming and Arizona are operating at 60-70% capacity this summer. It seems as though the "staycation" has had a greater appeal amongst recession weary Americans, holidaymakers from the UK still flocking to far flung locations after the MET office blunder; and with under capacity forcing many ranches to offer substantial discounts, shorter stays, free amenities and transfers, Ranch Rider believes that now is the ideal time to book. In a bid to preserve the cultural heritage associated with the ranching experience, the tour operator will also be launching a "Save The Dude Ranch" campaign on 31 August.

Tony Daly, Managing Director of Ranch Rider, comments: "Sadly, some ranches may not make it through another tough year and while there will always be plenty of ritzy hotels and sun, sea and sand holidays - dude ranching is often a life changing experience for guests. It's a chance to delve into rural America's native past and go green, many ranches spearheading eco-initiatives. Some of the properties we work with are fifth and sixth generation homesteads, and the history and tradition associated with these types of holidays is something we are hoping to preserve through our campaign. The "Save The Dude Ranch" promotion, will include daily deals for families, couples and solo travellers to be publicised across Facebook, Twitter and HorseTweet. There will also be featured ranch stays highlighting sustainable initiatives, culture and the historic background of the properties in our portfolio."

The tour operator is expecting a flurry of late bookers over the course of the 7-day promotion with savings of up to £554pp on offer from Ranch Rider.

The Lonesome Spur in Montana is offering a 28% discount plus one free night - a saving of £554pp on the brochure price. The offer is open to departures from now through October. 7-nights only £895pp no single supplement including gratuities and transfers. Return flight from £499pp. (Full ranch stay price before discount £1,449pp).

The new "Romance On The Ranch" package at the Triple Creek Resort in Montana includes 5-nights in a luxury cabin, champagne and chocolates on arrival and discounted couples massages (save 20%). Only £1,550pp based on two sharing (save £241pp) including gratuities. Departures year round. Additional nights at £292pp per night - save £27pp per night (Full price per night £319pp). Return flight from £499pp. (Full ranch stay price before discount £1,791pp). Transfers £100pp from Missoula.

Guests can ranch and spa for less at the Tanque Verde, the oldest ranch in Arizona: 15% off from now until 15 December. 7-nights only £923pp based on two sharing (save £126pp) including transfers and gratuities. Return flight from 489pp.

The all-inclusive Elk Mountain Ranch in Colorado is offering free transfers and a £70 Trading Post gift voucher worth £275. From horse riding to white water rafting and trap shooting there will be something for all the family. 7-nights £1,083pp (based on two sharing), £824pp (children 8-12 years), £758pp (children 3-7 years). Departures from now until 13 September. Includes (free) transfers, gratuities. Return flight from £405pp. (Full transfer price £195pp + £70 "Trading Post" gift voucher).

Tony Daly comments: "Travellers should also bear in mind that the majority of stays are all-inclusive. Other types of holidays might look cheaper on the surface, but add on costs in the destination can see those initial prices sky-rocket. However, ranches are not simply an attractive option when it comes to price. A dude ranch might normally have capacity for 30-40 guests, but one of our partners recently reported that numbers were down by two-thirds over the summer season. With many US city slickers opting to holiday closer to home, dudes and duddettes can expect a more intimate stay, and with less guests to cater for more personal one-to-one attention."

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All ranch stay prices (subject to availability) are full board and include all ranch based riding and activities. Ranch Rider offers flights from the following departure airports, Heathrow, Gatwick, Manchester, Edinburgh and Glasgow. Additional departure airports including Aberdeen, Bristol, Cardiff, Leeds/Bradford, Humberside, Teeside, Newcastle and Norwich are available at a £50-£60pp supplement. Telephone Ranch Rider on 01509 618811, email info@ranchrider.com or visit Ranch Rider at www.ranchrider.com for further information. ATOL PROTECTED No 4660 ABTA 96395/V9150

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