If you plan on having a gathering of a family from different parts of the world, you need help in getting it arranged. It can create some of the best memories of your life, and it can also cause chaos if it is not planned in a way to fit your needs and you need an expert to assist you.
The first part of the discussion is the budget, and where to go. A convenient flight to the destination is critical, and this could put several Caribbean islands, Mexico or Hawaii on your list. Another option, a cruise where you all depart from the same port, such as Seattle, Los Angeles, New York or Miami. River cruising in Europe is also more family friendly than ever, and you can add the custom safari in South Africa.
It is also important to consider what kind of accommodation will fit your family's needs. When there are several generations traveling together we love finding out of the box arrangements, like over an entire beach villa, or a lodge on a nature reserve.
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I think a wonderful option is a cruise. The larger ships have excellent children's programs, and classes and lectures for adults, child care available, and the family can get together for cocktails and dinner and share the day's experiences. We book the grandparents a suite, so everyone can meet up at the end of the day. With a destination such as Alaska, there are some great day trips for all ages to enjoy. This is worth looking into. It can also be a great bargain.
A very popular destination in recent years was the Galapagos Islands.
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No matter where you choose to go, you should start planning now. A group booking should be made a year in advance and with the travel industry in a turmoil, people are now booking years ahead to make sure they can get space.
This makes a wonderful Christmas present for the grandparents to offer the family. Gives everyone something to look forward to, and ask them for their suggestions on where they would like to go, or a destination is chosen and the dates are already set.
Maureen Jones
All Horizons Travel/Frosch