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Maryland Vacationers Head To Ocean City Despite Gas Prices

BALTIMORE (WJZ) -- If you're planning a trip to Ocean City, you know it will cost you more this year because of the price of gas. But some resort hotels and condos are trying to make it easier on your wallet.

Ron Matz has more on the deals and discounts on the table.

In Ocean City, the Hotel, Motel and Restaurant Association is keeping a close eye on gas prices and so are would be vacationers here in Baltimore.

"The price of gas is terrible. We've got to do something about it. We can't afford it. Each year we try to go to Ocean City or South Carolina. This year we're going to go, but the budget has been cut back tremendously. It used to be food and other expenses, but now it's just gas," said James Stokes, from West Baltimore and an Ocean City vacationer.

"We're going over to the Eastern Shore this weekend, but we don't know if we're going to go over there quite as often. The price of gas is ridiculous. It's gotten outrageous," said Tony Viglione of Hampden.

Ocean City Mayor Rick Meehan says despite the price of gas, reservations are up over last year.

"Advance reservations are up over last year, especially the condominium rentals. That's a really good sign, a great sign for Ocean City," said Meehan. "I don't think the high price of gas negatively affects us. Most of our market is within 150 miles. We're a "drive to" destination. I think people are going to take that family vacation. I think unfortunately, they've seen this happen a couple of times in the past five years and I just think they are still planning to come."

So far, more than 10 Ocean City hotels and condo complexes are offering gas card giveaways or lowered gas discount room rates.

That's music to the ears of the folks at Maryland's number one resort. Many are hoping that even though pump prices are up, people will still head down to the ocean.

"We're going to go. President Obama caught Osama, now he's got to catch the gas man," said Stokes.

For a complete list of the Ocean City gas discounts, click here.

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