How to Pick a Family Reunion Location

It's time for a family reunion, and you're in charge of it. One of the first big decisions you'll make is where the family reunion will be located. Picking the family reunion location can be a difficult decision; if you pick wrong not only will everyone complain, but family members will be miserable during the reunion. However, there are some things to remember as you pick the location.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Ask your family where they want to go. They may take the decision out of your hands by recommending an inclusive vacation such as a cruise.

2. Decide on the date, costs and try to get a general head-count before you choose a location. This will help you find a good location that's perfect for your family.

3. Choose a location with lodging included or lodging close by. This way people won't be camping out on couches or sleeping in cars.

4. Look at the ages of people who will be attending. A reunion at a spa will not work if there are many small kids. Conversely, a reunion at a theme park will be a disaster if your reunion consists of people from older generations.

5. Be cautious of family members' health. Older family members may not do well at higher elevations, especially if they're not used to it.

6. Plan economically if each family member is paying for the reunion. However, make sure you're getting quality for your price or you'll have unhappy family members. Make sure you include things like food, lodging and airline fees when planning on your location.

7. Try to find a place close to the majority of family members to cut down on the costs and hassles of airline travel. Consider finding a place people can drive to, or have short flights to.

8. Make sure there is plenty for family members to do with each other so they're not stuck sitting in a large room all together with nothing to do.

Resources

• Go to FamilyReunions for more information.
• Your Family Reunion: How to Plan It, Organize It, and Enjoy It - George G Morgan.

[hmvont]

on 2/18/2009 Our family went to Sebasco Harbor Resort (www.sebasco.com) in mid-coast Maine. We have small children and we loved the Camp Merrit they held for the kids. My sister-in-law organized the reunion and she said the resort helped her with all the logistics. We loved the taste of Maine - blueberry pancakes and a lobster bake!

[brettnkass]

on 6/21/2008 Thank you for the tips. Go for a self-contained resort where all the activities are on-site. That is so much easier! We heard Northstar Resort in Lake Tahoe is the BEST, with loads of free activities, shopping and dining in the new village, and awesome lodging discounts for groups. We are looking forward to our 2008 reunion and will post again to let you know how much fun we have!