IT's All Relative

It's been a while since IT has shared a press release with our readers. And while this one is a bit silly, we applaud the idea—sorry Mom!—of ditching the family. We've opted to forgo commentary, as this pitch pretty much speaks for itself:

Have you ever been tempted to skip stressful, family holiday get-togethers but haven't had a good enough excuse? Wanted to escape the clutches of a controlling mother-in-law, and dreamed of a calm and peaceful getaway? You can control your own fate this holiday season with the 'Run From the Relatives' Package available at any of the four Omni Hotels in the West including San Diego, Los Angeles, Tucson, and Denver/Boulder.

To help travelers remain undercover, guests can stay under an alias (like celebrities do) and the package is complete with a menu of excuses to use with family members when you return. The value-added 'Run From the Relatives' package includes: one night's accommodation for two, room service breakfast for two, a whimsical pre-printed menu of excuses to use with family members, and a $50 American Express gift card to send to family members to apologize for not seeing them for the holiday."

The $199-per-night package is available from November 18, 2006 through January 7, 2007. Only want the room? The four Omni hotels are running a special for $129 per night, a price your skint bloggers condone.