By Lookout Staff

November 17, 2022 -- Santa Monica residents can experience their town like a tourist this holiday season or help put up a guest with the return of the "I Wish I had an Extra Bedroom" program.

The program offers residents and their visiting friends and family discounts at 23 participating Santa Monica hotels now through January 30.

“I Wish I had an Extra Bedroom is not only one of our most popular programs each year, but it provides residents with a unique opportunity to experience their community from a visitors point-of-view," said Misti Kerns, President and CEO of Santa Monica Travel & Tourism (SMTT).

Santa Monica residents must show valid proof of ID to receive the special discounted rates –- some up to $300 –- being offered by the hotels listed at www.santamonica.com/extra-bedroom. Rates are subject to availability and blackout dates may apply.

The program offers local residents and their guests "the exciting opportunity of exploring their city from a visitor’s standpoint," tourism officials said.

They can swim and relax along Santa Monica’s 3.5 miles of scenic coastline, explore the city's eight distinct neighborhoods and dine at some of the city's more than 400 restaurants.

They can also participate in open-air wellness events and activities, visit museums and art exhibits and enjoy some of Santa Monica's 27 parks.

By staying local, residents and their guests help boost Santa Monica's economy, tourism officials said. For every $10 spent at a local business, as much as $7 stays in the community through taxes, payroll and other expenditures.

"Spending locally ensures that your sales taxes are reinvested right here in Santa Monica," officials said.