SURVEY FINDS COUPLES CITE RECESSION FOR BOOST IN ROMANCE

— AreYouRomantic.com poll illustrates importance of romance in tough times —

LAKEVILLE, PA – While the bank accounts of Americans may be running on empty, their hearts are full, according to the new Romance in a Recession Poll from FAreYouRomantic.com, a romance website sponsored by Caesars Pocono Resorts.

AreYouRomantic’s Romance in a Recession poll reveals that romance remains strong in relationships, and in many cases, has even increased as couples face economic concerns.  More than two-thirds of the people polled report their romance has been humming right along over the last year despite economic concerns. Perhaps more surprising, one in three people actually credit the recession with improving their romance, and one in five respondents say their sex life has improved.

The poll underscores a potential upside to the economic downturn, comments Tracy Getz, Romance Concierge at Caesars Pocono Resorts. “As couples are spending less money, they’re spending more time together. Conventional wisdom dictates that finances are often a point of contention for couples; however, the poll has proven that, despite tough economic times, relationships are thriving.”

Other key findings:

More woes = More wooing
While romance is a priority, budgeting seems to be a necessity. Partners are teaming up to work out important issues…together.

• 60 percent of people agree that financial limitations have not led to increased conflict

“We’ve confronted a lot of hard problems over the last year and that made us closer to each other.” 

• 34 percent of respondents claim that over the past year, they haven’t argued with their partner about finance

When my husband and I lost our jobs, we had to learn to really communicate with each other to figure out what to do next.”

 Worth Every Penny
When it’s tough to find funds to surprise a partner, couples will make it a point to spoil each other on holidays. Though now more than ever, it’s the thought that counts.

• 58 percent plan to spend the same amount or more on Valentine’s Day gifts this year

• 77 percent feel that when it comes to gifts, the thought behind it is more important than the price tag

“Now is an ideal time for partners to invest in their relationships,” said Getz. “Tough times are not as tough when you have the loving support of a partner to back you up.
In an effort to help couples ride out the highs and lows of the changing market, the romance experts at Caesars Pocono Resorts have put together a list of top ten simple ways to stay rich in romance.

1. Talk is Cheap (Literally!)
You and your partner are you and your partner for a reason—you enjoy each other’s company! Take some time to chat about silly stuff—bad reality TV or a forwarded email joke—no business. Or, reminisce about experiences you’ve shared when things may have been a little more carefree. Remembering the roots of your relationship will help you weather any storm.

2. For Just Pennies a Day…
Just because bank accounts are a little on the light side these days doesn’t mean your piggy bank has to be. Try collecting change to save up for a big purchase both you and your partner will enjoy. A quarter here and a nickel there can add up to a romantic getaway over time. Post a picture of your ideal destination over your coin container for added incentive.
           
3. Dig for Buried Treasure
A.K.A—the mix CD your partner gave you for your first holiday together or the big goofy stuffed dog they won at the local fair. Spend a day with your partner sorting through all that you two have accumulated over the years. It’s a great way to organize your space and relive the special moments that you first shared as a couple.

            For additional tips, visit www.AreYouRomantic.com. 
             AreYouRomantic.com provides romantic tips and ideas, user-submitted stories, last-minute gifts, and a blog written by Caesars Pocono Resorts’ Romance Concierges, Francis Cruz and Tracy Getz. The website also features a Romance Quotient (RQ) Quiz where you can enter the “Romantic Resolutions” sweepstakes for the chance to win a romantic two-night getaway to Caesars Pocono Resorts. Just by entering, you’re automatically qualified for special resort discounts and offers.
The Romance in a Recession poll was administered to 191 men and 209 women, (95 +/– 5%) from January 7-10, 2009. The poll was sponsored by Caesars Pocono Resorts (www.CPResorts.com) and conducted by Zoomerang.

(Editor’s Note: For a copy of the Romance in a Recession poll or to schedule an interview with Tracy Getz, Romance Concierge at Caesars Pocono Resorts, please contact Megan Lauria at 315-413-4267 or mlauria@mower.com).

# # #

About Caesars Pocono Resorts

Caesars Pocono Resorts, a hospitality/entertainment company comprised of three couples-only resorts—Cove Haven Resort (Lakeville, PA), Paradise Stream Resort (Mount Pocono, PA) and Pocono Palace Resort (Marshalls Creek, PA)— are the Poconos’ leading resorts, featuring unique accommodations and popular all-inclusive packages. The world-famous, all-inclusive resorts are home of the 7-foot tall Champagne Glass Whirlpool Bath-for-Two. Caesars Pocono Resorts are the only resorts in the Poconos to earn both the AAA Three-Diamond Award and the Pocono Mountain Vacation Bureau’s Quality Assurance Award. All three resorts, which feature over 600 luxurious suites, are part of Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide Inc.’s hospitality brands -- Sheraton, Westin, W, Four Points, Le Meridien, St. Regis and The Luxury Collection. For reservations or more information, call 1-800-233-4141 or visit www.CPResorts.com.

MEDIA CONTACT:
Mark Saari
Phone: 570-839-5264
Mark.Saari@starwoodhotels.com