Pooling one's resources takes on a new meaning in some swanky hotels.

The Miami Herald reports "thanks to a sluggish economy, locals can pretend they're staying at swanky places this summer because half the pools out there are open to non-guests on certain days to make the places look occupied".

The paper notes that the "stunning swimming hole" at the Four Seasons in Brickell, Miami will starting this Saturday "be open to non-guests on weekends, featuring stellar views of downtown, cool towels, Evian spritzes and cocktails that are never far away.

It's not completely free, however, with day passes going for $25 per person and cabana packages at $150". Other hotels cited in the article for opening their facilities heretofore reserved solely for hotel guests include the Ritz-Carlton, South Beach whose pool "may not be open to nonguests on weekends, but every Tuesday and Thursday between noon and 5 p.m".

Some other  major cities such as New York's hotels have always allowed non-guests for a fee. These include the Le Parker Meridien where non-guests may purchase a $50 all-day pass, good for access to its state-of-the-art workout facility and classes and the Brooklyn Marriott in Brooklyn, NY.

Vijay is Chief Operating Officer and part-founder of Apple Core Hotels- a chain of 5 midtown Manhattan hotels offering value and comfort in the heart of the city.Member of the board of Directors - Hotel Association of New York.

www.vijaydandapani.com