Over the last 10 years, myself and a group of friends have made it our annual mission to get away for at least a week for some fun, relaxation and some good times. I never quite planned it this way but after thy first couple of years it became apparent that I was the one who everyone looked to when it came to organizing our annual getaway.
Because of this responsibility, I have spent a great deal of time researching things for the group trips, making mistakes along the way and after many years of difficulties, I am now something of a master when it comes to organizing them. If you are putting together a group trip, here is how to do it.
Accommodation
The accommodation needs to be just right for the size of the group which you have, you don’t want too much separation but equally you do not want to be too close to one another. For this reason I always like to get big farmhouses or similar sized houses for us to stay in as this provides the best of both worlds. Make sure that you are aware of the group’s capabilities as well, we have one person in our group who relies on a wheelchair so I always have to make sure that I am viewing handicap accessible apartments and accommodation before I book anything.
Money Up Front
As someone who has made this error before, I cannot stress enough how important it is that you take everyone’s money for the trip up front. some years ago I paid for a full trip for 12 people on my credit card and then 2 flaked out last minute, we replaced one spot but I was forced to pay the other for my mistake. Don’t make the same mistake as me, try to get all of the money or at least a substantial deposit from everyone before you book up.
Wish List
Everyone will want to do different things on their vacations and you should try to hold a meeting with everyone to get an idea for what they are looking for in a break. Once you have this information, finding somewhere that ticks everyone’s boxes will be a great deal easier and will minimize the complaints that you receive, of which I can guarantee, there will always be some.
Promotions
Most companies love a group booking and many will offer healthy discounts if you plan on using their services as part of a group. Make sure that you are on the front foot when it comes to booking trips, excursions or even accommodation and make sure that you ask for a discount for a group booking. Almost every year I get at least a coupe of discounts for this reason but I always need to ask first, nobody is going to simply throw a discount in your direction so be sure to ask the question when booking.
Follow these core tips and you will be sure to have a great group vacation.
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