There are a few problems with "pre-booked" packages.
Firstly, you are chucking the admin at APAT who, basically, aren"t set up for it.
Secondly, what might suit one person might not suit another. E.G. Should the hotel be within driving or walking distance?
In my opinion, introducing an "Expenses" element leaves the whole thing open to abuse in that players might play with a view to "playing for a profit" by which I mean play the satellite with no intention of playing the actual event.
In the past, I"ve seen more than a few examples of players who have consistently won satellite seats that turn up on the exchange in short order....or perhaps I"m just a cynical paranoic.
Good post Paulie with some good points, especially the playing for profit bit.
The previous packages were seat and expenses only, so no need for APAT admin to be tied up.
I love APAT weekends but due to location a weekend away is very very costly and I know there are many others in the same position.
Package sats have the ability to allow others like me to potentially be able to attend more events throughout the year.
As stated previously, the problem was having them supported. I genuinely feel that APAT community has never been stronger and that there is the possibilty that these would be supported better this time round.
Geo