Try considering the following five options when planning your next group travel event.
From corporate retreats to destination weddings, group travel to faraway locales can create memories that will last a lifetime. Yet, at the same time, these can be difficult and nerve-wracking to plan. So, how can you relax more and still pull it all together? Try considering the following five options when planning your next group travel event.
1. Make flight arrangements with ease
Planning transportation for the entire group can quickly descend into a logistical nightmare. Take a deep breath and compile what options you have available. For instance, if the dates of the group travel are flexible, identify the best time to fly for the best rates. Also, look for group travel discounts.
Another option is to consider private jet charter flights to airports around the world. By booking a chartered flight or chartered voyage, it can save you the hassle of dealing with seat availability and time restrictions of the big airlines.
2. Hire a vacation consultant to handle the details
Traveling always requires attention to details, and with group travel even more so. Identify someone who can serve as the lead trip planner for your group, or better yet, consider a vacation consultant. These professionals will take care of the logistics, advise you of any issues or challenges concerning your travel destination, and compile your itinerary.
3. Reserve luxurious accommodations
Several accommodation options are available for group travel, so be sure to research each one. Think about how your group interacts and what will work best for all. Renting a house at your destination can not only provide accommodation, but also a place to gather and be immersed in the surrounding culture. This could be a villa in Tuscany or a luxury hacienda in Mexico, complete with private chef and housekeeper if you choose.
Another option is a luxurious resort where you can rent an entire floor or several connecting rooms. Many resorts are designed to offer every amenity possible to provide guests with the ease and convenience to make a perfect vacation. This can be anything from spa services, access to top-rated golf courses, or dining at award-winning restaurants.
4. Pre-plan activities
Before traveling, identify any historical or cultural sites you wish to explore as a group. Once these are identified, book a date and time at each one, taking advantage of any group discount offered. That way, once you arrive, you don't have to scramble to find tickets or squeeze into whatever timeslot is available to visit these locations. You want to be as free of stress as possible once everyone arrives so you can enjoy your time together.
5. Hire a tour guide
While you may want to plan a few activities for the group ahead of time, another convenient way to go about it is to hire a tour guide. Group tour guides take care of the shuttles, tickets, meal options, and any other necessary detail. For example, if your group wishes to see Machu Picchu, the tour guide can arrange tickets on the train from Cusco to Machu Picchu, as well as all other details surrounding the tour.
While taking on group planning is an ambitious task, it often can lead to stress and potential disappointment down the road. Finding ways to ease planning and focus on fun is a better way to go. Use these five group travel tips to help make your next trip the best it can be.
