Take Advantage of the "Santa Barbara Car Free" Discounts

While researching logistics for a wine tasting trip to Santa Barbara, I came across the "Santa Barbara Car Free" program which offers discounts on train tickets to SB as well as many other discounts.

The SB Car Free Project's Mission
"To encourage car free, carefree transportation to and around Santa Barbara for cleaner air."

I signed up online and the packet with the promotional code came in the mail. The packet also included a couple maps of SB. So if you don't need a map, but just want to get the discount asap - Merry Christmas!

Use the promotional code H636 and save 20% on Amtrak Pacific Surfliner to and from all Santa Barbara train stations. (Three day advance purchase is required, and the offer is valid through December 13, 2007.) Participating SB hotels, restaurants, and tour companies also offer discounts and incentives (i.e., discounts of 10% to 25%, free dessert).

See official terms and conditions at http://www.santabarbaracarfree.org/

Note: Amtrak's online ticketing system wasn't registering the promotional code - I kept getting an error message - so I called their toll free number - 1-800-USA-RAIL and the friendly agent had no problems finding it their system. I purchased the tickets over the phone and she sent me an e-mail confirmation.

A round trip ticket from LA to Santa Barbara is just $40 (with the discount). It's a great deal. A full tank of gas costs more than that; plus you can enjoy a relaxing 2.5 hour train ride to Santa Barbara with no hassles or traffic, with one less polluting car on the road. Take advantage!