subject: Family Reunions Made Easy [print this page] They don't happen very often- so when you do organise a family reunion- you want to go off without a problem. Secure a location that encourages family togetherness and one that will appeal across the generations.
Whether it is a milestone birthday or anniversary, a weekend away, combined family holiday or a long planned for reunion it is a good idea to choose somewhere that everybody has to travel to. It means that not any one family is dumped with all the responsibility of the occasion and it highlights your get together as the event everyone is there for.
Set your reunion in an area of natural beauty - that way you automatically have a beautiful backdrop with a tons of activities to cater for visitors. When considering accommodation, activities and catering, budget is a factor. Groups may pool a kitty so incidental expenses are dealt with. Ideally it is a good idea for each family unit to be responsible for paying their own expenses to make it easier for some organisers.
If you can, choose a central location- somewhere that relatives can meet half way. With accommodation, ideally search for somewhere that gives each family or couple their own space to retreat to with lots of common areas that all ages can interact. Check that there are ground floor units available in case someone has mobility issues, and highchairs and cots available for little ones. It is good to have a range of accommodation to suit couples through to family groups.
Covered BBQ areas preferably overlooking playgrounds, pools or gardens make your days much easier and relaxed. Determine well beforehand how meals will be catered for. Plan nights for a meal out or fish and chips on the beach, perhaps with a girls' night out and boys' visit to the pub. Self contained accommodation is ideal as it gives more flexibility with budgets and meal options. At our last reunion, each family took turns catering for a different meal: we even had a system for the group catering for the kids snack times. The grandparents were also supplied with an in house "meals on wheels"- so it meant they rarely catered for themselves.
Of the families, not everyone will want to be involved in group outings all the time. Schedule your time so everyone can do their own thing. Ensure the location has easier meal options so the group can go their separate ways- preferably to an assortment of restaurants, cafes and takeaway options. It is best if they are in walking distance. If you want some group meals out- book as soon as possible in case the venue is busy on the day.
Certainly, organised day tours are an option for large groups of people - the fact that they provide meals is a bonus too. Plan well as your group needs a range of activities to choose from. It is good to balance these with some free activities e.g. fishing, beach swimming, bushwalking, picnics and National Parks. Make sure there are options to include some physical activity in your holiday - game of soccer, badminton or touch football is a great way to mix with relatives you haven't seen in a while. Extreme adventures may appeal to some - see what is on offer. Family activities will appeal to the majority so leave time for a boat trip, playground visit or to see some native animals.
Although one or two family members takes the lead on organisation, it is good to poll the whole family to determine dates, locations, venues, activities and catering. Go with the majority - but be sure to make it easy for the organisers to pull it all together.
by: Rainbow Getaway.
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