AMELIA ISLAND, Fla. (June 17, 2008) - As airlines begin to make costly changes to checked baggage policies, one Florida destination is offering travelers some welcome relief. Amelia Island, located off the northeastern-most coast of Florida, has created a new "Pack Your Bags for Amelia Island" program that includes a room credit up to $80 for checked baggage fees* charged to guests by the airlines. The "Pack Your Bags" program is being offered at several of the island's hotels, resorts and bed-and-breakfast inns, and is available through September 30, 2008 on stays of three or more nights at the participating hotels.

With this latest hurdle the airlines are putting up, we wanted to give air travelers a much-needed break," said Gil Langley, Managing Director of the Tourist Development Council. "You don't have to pack a lot to enjoy the best of Amelia Island, but some visitors like to have the choice without being penalized."

Recently voted one of the top 10 North American Island's in Conde Nast Traveler's Reader's Choice Awards, Amelia Island is treasured for its irresistible mix of quiet beaches, natural beauty, luxury spas, championship golf, unique history, and charming Victorian-era character. With its world class resorts, charming inns, and value hotels and condominiums, Amelia Island has a wide variety of accommodation choices for truly memorable getaways.

1875 Florida House Inn
Phone: (800) 258-3301
www.FloridaHouseInn.com

The oldest surviving hotel in the state, the Florida House Inn opened in 1857 as a hotel. With 22 rooms, the historic bed and breakfast is located in the heart of downtown Fernandina Beach. Offering scooter rentals and an on-site restaurant, the Florida House Inn provides a relaxing setting for guests to experience the Island.

Addison on Amelia
Phone: (800) 943-1604
www.addisononamelia.com

The 14-room Addison on Amelia offers guests full plated breakfasts each morning, high quality linens and towels, and the finest in toiletries. With private, semi-private and public porches and a soothing fountain courtyard, Addison provides visitors a relaxing oasis of tranquility.

Amelia Hotel at the Beach
Phone: (877) 263-5428
www.ameliahotel.us

The 90-room Amelia Hotel at the Beach is just minutes from the historic downtown Fernandina area and across the street from the island's famous beaches. Guest amenities include complimentary continental breakfast, free wireless internet, microwave, and mini-fridge.

Ash Street Inn
Phone: (800) 277-6660
www.ashstinn.com

The Ash Street Inn is a contemporary, sophisticated bed and breakfast located in the historic district of downtown Fernandina Beach, with fresh-baked cookies and lemonade daily, in-room hot tubs, wireless internet, and in-house massages, plus complimentary bicycles, movies, and much more.

Amelia Island Williams House
Phone: (800) 414-9258
www.Williamshouse.com

With its crystal chandeliers and beautiful antiques, the 10-room Amelia Island Williams House bed and breakfast treats guests to the historical and elegant ambiance of an Old Florida era. Guests can enjoy a Victorian Tea on the second Wednesday of each month.

The Fairbanks House
Phone: (888) 891-9881
www.Fairbankshouse.com

Amelia Island's largest historic home, The Fairbanks House features oversized rooms and cottages, and amenities such as wireless internet access, spa robes, evening cocktail hour and more. Special holiday packages are also available.

Hampton Inn & Suites
Phone: (904) 491-4911
www.hamptoninnandsuites.net

Within walking distance of the Historic downtown Fernandina Beach area, 25 restaurants and 60 specialty shops, the 122-room boutique Hampton Inn & Suites offers guests an upscale experience in beautifully decorated guest rooms and suites. With a second story pool and concierge desk, guests receive dazzling service at a value rate.

Summer Beach Resort
Phone: (800) 862-9297
www.summerbeach.com

Summer Beach Resort offers a variety of private, oceanfront accommodations, including villas, town homes, and luxury condominiums. All accommodations include fully-equipped kitchen, washer, dryer, patio, and other amenities, creating a home away from home.

Northeast Florida's coastal treasure, Amelia Island is a barrier island rich in colorful history and breath-taking natural beauty. Its long, beautiful beaches, abundant wildlife, and pristine waters have made the island a favorite destination for outdoor adventure. Upscale resorts with world-class spas, championship golf and exclusive dining blend effortlessly with a captivating collection of bed and breakfast inns and historic districts. The island is home to Fernandina Beach, once a vibrant Victorian seaport village, and now a charming downtown district of eclectic shops, attractions, and eateries. For visitor information, online planning, and information on the "Pack Your Bags for Amelia Island" program, visit www.ameliaisland.org/freebags.

* Restrictions apply. Requires minimum three-night stay, double occupancy. Upon check-in, guests must present an original receipt showing checked baggage fees from the airline. Room credit will not exceed $80 and applies to checked baggage fees only; charges for oversize or overweight baggage do not apply. Cannot be combined with other promotions or special convention/meeting rates. Program will be valid for new reservations through September 30, 2008. Please contact individual hotels for more information or to book a room.