All-inclusive properties are ideal for stress-free family reunions. Use these tips to help select the best resort to fit your group’s ages, interests, preferences and budget
Family reunions are fantastic ways to reconnect, strengthen bonds and create cherished memories together. That’s one of the many reasons why multigenerational travel and group gatherings of family and friends are some of this year’s top travel trends. Choosing an all-inclusive property for your family makes the entire experience easier and hassle-free.
Identifying the right all-inclusive property is key, as it sets the stage for fostering family unity and making meaningful connections at your reunion. The ideal spot will have activities and amenities to make every generation happy. Here are 10 tips for selecting an outstanding all-inclusive property for your family reunion.
1. Think About the Types of All-Inclusive Vacation Experiences
When thinking of all-inclusive resort vacations, visions of tropical beaches often come to mind. While there are many fabulous all-inclusive beach properties, palm-studded strands are only part of the picture. There are all-inclusive resorts for all kinds of multigenerational family vacations, from lakefront properties and Western ranches to mountain resorts and safari lodges. Some family-friendly cruise lines offer floating all-inclusive options for reunions as well.
A wide variety of all-inclusive family group vacation options are available, including Western dude ranches. Photo credit: Flathead Lake Lodge
Whether you’d prefer to relax along sandy shores or spend your time enjoying mountain adventures, there are all-inclusive resorts perfect for your family reunion. Talk with everyone in your group to determine their preferences.
2. Start Planning the Family Reunion Early and Consider Time of Year
It’s important to start well in advance when planning your all-inclusive family group vacation. Travel advisors and other experts recommend beginning the process at least 10 months to a year ahead to find a time that works for everyone and secure the best rates and availability. An early start also makes it easier to obtain rooms close together or possibly arrange a complete buy-out of an all-inclusive lodge or dude ranch.
Determine when your family can travel and consider off-season periods to cut costs. If your group has an ideal destination or type of experience in mind for your reunion, keep those in mind when setting your date. Weather and seasonality are key factors for some locations and activities, and you’ll want to avoid local holidays and other vacation issues.
3. Establish A Budget for Your All-Inclusive Accommodations
One of the most challenging parts of planning a family reunion can be understanding the costs involved. Accommodations, food, drinks, onsite activities and entertainment are some of the largest expenses in any family reunion budget. Holding a family reunion at an all-inclusive resort makes planning and budgeting easier, since these components are generally included in the property’s per-person rates. There’s no need to worry about how much things cost and constantly splitting checks.
Determine each family member’s accommodations budget range early in the process and find a limit that’s acceptable to everyone. It’s also important to consider additional expenses, such as transportation, photos and other non-included charges.
4. Use A Top-Notch Travel Advisor for Your Family Reunion
Planning a family reunion at an all-inclusive property can be challenging and time-consuming, particularly with multiple generations involved. There is a wide variety of transportation issues, preferences and accommodation requirements to consider. That’s why an experienced travel advisor or group travel planner can make all the difference in identifying the best location and all-inclusive property for your family group. Their in-depth knowledge and expertise can be invaluable in choosing the right resort and crafting a memorable, stress-free reunion experience. Travel advisors can negotiate attractive group rates and benefits and assist with problems if they arise.
There are many outstanding travel advisors who can help plan your multigenerational family reunion. Seek out recommendations from friends and family members. If you’re looking for additional suggestions, the Family Travel Association website provides lists of certified family travel specialists and travel advisor members with extensive family travel expertise. Leading travel agency networks such as Virtuoso offer referrals as well.
5. Identify Your Family’s Needs and Interests
Choosing the best all-inclusive resort for your multigenerational family reunion depends on your group’s ages, what your crew wants to do, desired location, budget range and other unique requirements. Defining preferences is essential, since not every all-inclusive property is a perfect match for your family.
Velas Resorts’ all-inclusive Mexico properties feature activity-packed Kids’ Clubs and Teens’ Clubs. Photo credit: Velas Resorts
Talk with your group to determine their needs and desired activities and make a list to use in the resort selection process. Find out about special accommodations and what your group would like to avoid as well. Keep your family’s age ranges in mind if specific resort amenities are important to your crew, such as kids’ programs and water parks. It’s essential to seek out all-inclusive properties with a wide array of appealing attractions and activities that will keep every generation happy and entertained.
6. Choose Your Ideal All-Inclusive Destination
Ease of travel, convenience and transportation costs are key factors in selecting a reunion location. Activities and amenities are also important. Some multigenerational groups prefer to select central reunion locations within easy reach of all family members. Others like to go farther away and visit an exciting new destination every year.
There are outstanding all-inclusive properties in the United States, some within convenient driving distance of major cities and major attractions. Families can also choose from a wealth of all-inclusive resorts in international destinations, including Mexico and the Caribbean. Talk with all family members to evaluate possible locations, review your group’s interests, and decide what works best for your needs and budget. A good travel advisor can help with this process.
7. Review Family Reunion Accommodations Options
All-inclusive properties vary widely in terms of the types of lodging available. Some all-inclusive resorts feature spacious onsite guest houses and villas, while others offer family-friendly rooms and multi-bedroom suites. Check to see which rooms are available within your budget range and where they’re located on the property. Connecting rooms and accessible accommodations may be essential to consider. Some all-inclusive resorts may offer attractive group rates and specials as well.
A wide variety of family-friendly accommodations are available at Beaches Resorts’ Caribbean properties, such as the new Beaches Negril Firesky Reserve Villas. Photo credit: Beaches Resorts
Successful family reunions involve catering to all generations. It’s key to choose an all-inclusive resort where everyone can be comfortable and entertained. Keep your family’s age ranges in mind, as some all-inclusive properties may have a minimum age requirement for guests. You’ll also want to consider the resorts’ settings and overall vibe to find the best fit for your group.
8. Determine What’s Included in Your All-Inclusive Vacation
While resorts may be labeled “all-inclusive,” they can differ on what is included. Rates typically include meals at many on-property dining venues, most drinks, a variety of onsite activities, kids’ and teens’ club access and non-motorized water sports. Sometimes gratuities, baby equipment, minibar drinks, airport transfers and other items may also be covered. Spa treatments, meals at certain specialty restaurants, and off-property excursions are often available for an additional fee. Review each property’s inclusions for complete details.
It’s important to remember that nightly all-inclusive rates are based on the number of kids and adults in each room. Some all-inclusive properties offer “kids stay, play and eat free” deals and reduced rates for children under a certain age. Check each resort’s packages and promotions for your family’s reunion dates. Group programs may also be available, providing rate reductions and additional benefits for your crew.
9. Research Dining Options, Activities and Amenities
Bonding and making treasured memories are top family reunion goals, so choosing the right all-inclusive setting for your multigenerational group is crucial. You’ll want to choose a property with loads of programming for all ages and interests and a wide variety of restaurant options. It’s important to find activities and attractions the whole family can enjoy, both together and apart. If family members have food allergies or special needs, make sure the resort can accommodate them.
Families bond during meals and activities designed for all generations at Woodloch Resort. Photo credit: Woodloch Resort
Review the list of your group’s preferences and requirements and match them against the properties’ offerings. Identify the amenities resorts offer for your family’s age groups and any age restrictions for resort programs and attractions, such as horseback riding, water parks and kids’ clubs. Some all-inclusive properties are ideal playgrounds for families with babies and toddlers, while others are particularly well-suited for groups with tweens and teens. Great activities, entertainment, and venues for parents and grandparents are also key.
10. Take the All-Inclusive Resort’s Size into Account
Bigger can be better when it comes to all-inclusive resorts for family reunions, but smaller properties could be best for some groups. It all depends on your family’s requirements, interests, and preferences for activities and attractions. Special needs and mobility issues may also be factors to consider.
Located just 90 miles from New York City, Mohonk Mountain House is a year-round favorite for family reunions and multigenerational trips. Photo credit: Mohonk Mountain House
Larger all-inclusive resorts often feature a wide array of dining choices, pools, entertainment options and fun-filled things to do. Smaller properties can offer a more intimate setting for families to gather, with just the right amount of programming and amenities to please the entire group. Choose the ideal venue for your family to reconnect, make memories and spend quality time together. It’s all about strengthening family ties.
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By Nancy Schretter, Contributing Editor
Header photo credit Beaches Resorts
