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Aug. 14, 2009 4:06 PM PT _This article was originally on a blog post platform and may be missing photos, graphics or links. See About archive blog posts._ The funky-modern Hotel Erwin in

Venice Beach is putting its unique spin on the traditional “Play and Stay” deals that offer hotel guests discounts to theme parks and zoos. Until Dec. 30, guests can book the “Ink and Stay”

package that gives special discounts and handouts to guests brave enough to go under the needle with the hotel’s in-house tattoo artist. The package that starts at $399 per night includes a

$100 voucher toward a tattoo from the tattoo and graffiti artist simply known as “Norm.” Also included are moisturizing lotion and ice-pack for healing and a bottle of tequila to numb the

pain. If you are brave enough to be permanently marked with the phrase “I (heart) Hotel Erwin,” you get $500 to use as you see fit. (Maybe for tattoo removal services.) If marking your flesh

sounds too extreme, the hotel also offers a “Surf and Stay” package that includes a two-hour surf lesson and surfing gear. -- Hugo Martin