I know I haven't been passing along a lot of information to the group lately, but wanted to let you know that although it's been quiet, there is work being done behind-the-scenes. Fortunately, we are making progress and starting to put some things in place so I wanted to give you a little update on what's happening.
I have been working with the Chicago Marriott O'Hare since October and am happy to say they have given us a pretty good rate of $89 per night. For those who live or have stayed in Chicago, you know that parking can be pretty expensive as well. For a matter-of-fact, I know of no hotel in the Chicago area that doesn't charge parking fees which can really add up. The Marriott is no different, however, they have agreed to reduce their self-park fees from $24 per night to $12 per night for our group. Again, a pretty good rate.
Also, the Marriott will be offering this rate to TAFRU families for up to 3 days prior and 3 day after TAFRU for any family who would like to extend their stay in Chicago.
Another nice feature of this hotel is location.
For those flying into O'Hare to attend TAFRU, the hotel offers complimentary shuttle service from and back to the airport.
For larger families who plan to attend TAFRU but need more room, there is a Chicago Marriott Suites O'Hare about 2 miles down the road. Complimentary shuttle service is offered between to the two hotels. Unfortunately, the Marriott Suites has a requirement that we were unable to fulfill at this time. However, if there are families that would like to book a room at the Marriott Suites, please let me know as soon as possible by leaving a comment here or contacting me via Facebook. If there are enough families who want/need the additional space provided at Marriott Suites, I will go back to the sales team and try to get it set up.
Chicago offers a great public transportation system, however, hotels out by the airport don't always have easy access to the system. The Marriott is an exception as one of the El stations is about a 3 minute walk across the parking lot. It is a wheelchair accessible station, which also means those who have children in strollers can easily access the El. Score!
A sales agreement is being sent to me and once the Marriott receives the signed agreement their events team will get our group finalized and we can begin making reservations. I will post the details here once received. In the meantime, if you want to check out information on the hotel, you can click on the photo in the right had column of the blog page.
Also, if you are a member of the Toukoul Adoptive Families Facebook page, please go to the events page and take a minute to let us know if you will be attending, may be attending or won't be attending TAFRU. This information is so very helpful to the planning committee as we make decisions regarding TAFRU.
If you are not a member of the Toukoul Adoptive Families Facebook page, please feel free to leave a comment here.
As always, please stay tuned for more information. Thanks.
