How to Master Group Travel Planning for a Stress-Free Vacation
Nothing multiplies the fun of a vacation more than adding friends! Planning a group vacation, whether with family, with a group of friends, work colleagues, or special interest group can be exciting – but also overwhelming. Planning a group travel event is a complex undertaking: choosing a provider, selecting an itinerary, organizing excursions & activities, and planning onboard events are all necessary to move forward. Then there is the matter of gathering guest information, keeping track of bookings and deadlines and, of course, collecting and remitting payments. With all that to consider, the idea of organizing a group travel event can seem quite daunting. However, enlisting the services of an experienced group events travel specialist makes group travel planning a seamless, effective, and stress-free experience.
In my book, How to Win Friends, Influence People & Travel the World for Free, I explain in greater detail the many reasons to consider a group travel event. A quick summary of reasons to consider group travel is outlined below.
I find that many people are reluctant to consider leading their own group event, erroneously assuming that you need hundreds of people to qualify. In actuality, with vacation cruise lines, as few as 8 double-occupied rooms qualify as a group – with some providers and many land groups, you may qualify with as few as 5 rooms booked and traveled. Simply put, with as few as 10 people, you can qualify for the various perks and amenities available for group travel events. Those group perks and amenities may include such things as:
Wine & chocolates for each room
Dining at specialty restaurants
In addition to all these extras and special perks, group travel events enhance relationships and create camaraderie as group members enjoy the group events, dine and play together. Finally, group leaders are frequently able to take advantage of “tour conductor” allowance and travel at reduced rates, or even free. Travel specialists can also arrange your package to generate revenue for your business, organization, or charitable cause.
Select an Experienced Group Events Travel Specialist
As previously stated, planning even a friends and family event can be time consuming and, frankly, overwhelming. Partnering with a travel professional with group planning experience can make all the difference.
A group travel specialist will not only help with logistics and booking, but can provide insights and guidance every step of the way. They can identify sailings with adequate group space and favorable fares. In addition, they will handle all booking and payment issues so you can focus on encouraging your followers to book and developing your onboard programming.
Group Travel Planning – Be the Leader
Let’s make it clear: I love living in a democracy. I love working toward a consensus. I love working with group dynamics. Unfortunately, planning a successful group travel event is not a task best handle by committee. Everyone will have an opinion … reaching a consensus will be challenging … and the most insistent voices are generally least likely to attend the event no matter what is decided.
Simply put, a successful travel event is best done with a healthy dose of autocracy. If you are the group leader, this is the time to lead. Do so decisively, while working with the guidance of your professional group travel specialist.
Group Planning Made Simple
By working with a group events travel specialist, you will have professional insights to planning considerations, including:
Event timing: You will want to allow at least a year of lead time to allow for marketing and allowing guests to budget appropriately. You also may benefit from scheduling your event at a time of year when fares are favorable.
Best destinations and providers for group events – not all are created equal and you will want to consider transportation logistics and ease of access for your guests.
Work-play balance – creating an event agenda that balances group event schedule and free time for guests to enjoy unscheduled time to pursue their own interests.
Conclusion - Are you Ready to Plan the Perfect Group Getaway?
Whatever your group travel needs, Dancing Moon Travel is available to help with planning a seamless package. We are highly experienced group travel specialists and ca make your own custom group travel event seamless and unforgettable. Contact us today.
