Birthdays, anniversaries, graduations, bachelorette parties, retirement and now even divorce healings are reasons to gather friends and family and head off on a group adventure. Celebration travel means having fun and sharing time with the important people in your life. Before you head out with your loved ones though, there are some major hurdles to overcome if you still want to be talking by the time you come home.
Tip#1 – Use an Experienced Travel Agent
Use an agent to coordinate all the details. Two people travelling together is one thing but five or more and you may just end up being the “bad guy”. Why not let your agent have all the headaches of “herding the cats” as we like to say!
Tip # 2 – Set a Reasonable Budget
What is the budget? Is there flexibility or is it a set amount? You may not get commitments as quickly as you want, which could affect rates and availability. Work this out early in the process and stick to it.
Tip #3 – Prepare the Paperwork
Documentation, passports, visas, vaccinations, health insurance all need to be addressed early to avoid last minute panic and disappointment. Even children who are travelling without one parent may need official approval from the other parent to take the child out of the country.
Tip #4 – Plan Your Together Time
How much “closeness” and independence is accounted for in the trip? Individuals travelling in groups need time apart – some more than others. Keep it simple and don’t be offended if not everyone wants 24/7 togetherness. Suggestion – plan to get together for 1 meal a day.
Tip #5 – Add Some Variety in Ever Day
Have an assortment of activities for all ages. Grandma may want to do things, which little Joey has no interest in; Aunt Sarah may want to go bungee jumping while cool Ben wants to sit by the pool. Select a destination or cruise with options for every age group and interest. A bored guest is an unhappy guest.
Don’t forget to add some WOW factors, amenities and surprises for your group to make memories to last a lifetime!