Marriott Opens Doors in Goleta

Goleta celebrated the opening of the new Marriott Hotel on Storke Road as it rolls out the welcome mat for more tourism. The city, in its tenth year is also already calculating the overnight bed taxes it will receive along with an expected boost in sales taxes.Marriott employees strolled through the crowd of dignitaries and Chamber of Commerce representatives with champagne, to go with fruit, cheese, crackers and cookies offered to those taking a close up look at the property.There are 106 rooms, along with meeting areas, a pool, a putting green, and fitness equipment.The hotel does not have a full restaurant, but the staff is encouraging guests to go up the street into the Camino Real Marketplace for their meals.Many of those using the new hotel are expected to be, not just tourists, but also business travelers who are working with Goleta companies. UC Santa Barbara is also just a few blocks away.