Why are so many of your rooms smoking rooms? Including all of your
handicapped rooms? Do that many people smoke any more? Iowa doesn't
seem to have any more smokers than California does these days. Nor
does aviation, at least the parts I'm familiar with.

We've gone round and round on this, and I have come to a sad conclusion:
The statistics we all read about smoking are complete fabrications.

After 16 months of observing the general public, and their lodging
preferences, I can only conclude that there are a whole bunch of "closet"
smokers out there who simply lie to the telephone pollsters when asked if
they smoke. This would explain why statistically 33% of adults claim to
smoke, but around half of our guests ask for smoking suites.

This in a university town, where (supposedly) the higher educational levels
should translate into LOWER smoking rates.

Also, a HUGE majority -- like over 75% -- of our handicapped and hospital
stays require smoking-permitted suites. (Coincidence? I think not.)

Smokers (and pet owners) have done more damage to our hotel than you can
imagine, from cigarette burns in couches, to yellowed drapes, to burn marks
in counter tops, to indelible cat pee on carpeting. Mary and I would make
the inn non-smoking (and no pets, while we're at it) in a heartbeat, if it
were economically viable.

However, to do so would be economic suicide, as we'd be turning away 50% of
our guests.

As we finish each theme suite, however, they go no-smoking and no pets.
Eventually, we'll get there -- but it's going to take a few more years.
--
Jay Honeck
Iowa City, IA
Pathfinder N56993
www.AlexisParkInn.com
"Your Aviation Destination"