Struth – Check in for an immaculate reception

In his continuing search for the more weird, wacky and wondrous in the world of travel, David Ellis says the Travelodge chain’s 480 hotels in the UK are offering a free night’s accommodation between Christmas Eve and the Twelfth Night (January 5th) for married couples who can prove that their first names are Mary and Joseph, or their surname Jesus.

It says the idea is meant in the spirit of Christmas, and to atone for there being “no room at the inn” on Christmas Eve all those years ago when the original Mary, Joseph and baby Jesus had to spend the night in a stable.

Marys and Josephs who apply will be given a free night in a Family Room the hotel chain says “can cater for a baby and a manger, with a free car-parking space available for the donkey if needed.” And a Double Room will be provided for a night for anyone during the Twelve Days of Christmas who can prove their surname is Jesus…

Applicants for the free rooms have to apply by email, provide proof of marriage and that their first names are Mary and Joseph or surname Jesus, and meet some fourteen other criteria including being UK citizens, agree not try to sell the room for cash or give it to another person… and be prepared to participate in any post-stay publicity that we presume will be meant purely in the spirit of Christmas.