Family Reunions, Near & Far

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Reunion travel has become a necessity rather than an indulgence in these post-pandemic times. It is a refreshing step back in time, as multi-generational families yearn to spend offline time together once again! After a year or more of lockdowns and Zoom calls, families finally have the chance to reconnect, and what better way than to combine it with a much-needed vacation.

Imagine lounging by the pool on the grounds of your own private villa overlooking the white sand beach and sapphire blue sea. Embedded in lush tropical gardens, your villa has lots of beautifully appointed bedrooms for everyone, and an open, airy great room with spacious seating for visiting. A well-equipped, modern galley style kitchen opens to the great room and the views. If you wish, your private chef could be creating a wonderful family meal while everyone relaxes. Deep covered verandahs with outdoor seating and dining spaces extend from the great room.

Not in the budget? You would be surprised! Destinations that provide for large, or small, multi-generational families are available close to home and around the world. Whether it is the local ski resort, dude ranch, a faraway tropical island or a rustic, centuries-old Tuscan villa in the Italian countryside. You can bring your kids, their kids and more for an unforgettable experience and new memories for the same cost as multiple hotel rooms and the time and cost in hosting a gathering.

Guided tours are also becoming more and more popular with families looking to reunite. Perhaps you want to discover more of Eastern Canada’s fall foliage, the northern lights in Yellowknife or the magnificent Rockies; explore your family heritage in Ireland, Scotland or Wales; or cross off that bucket list item like an African safari! Guided tours allow you the time to enjoy being together, while someone else does the driving, deals with the luggage and coordinates accommodations, sightseeing and meals. Guided tours can save you time, money and a lot of stress, giving you the time to create more unforgettable experiences and new memories.

Cruising is returning and offers something for everyone. Family reunion cruises are a terrific option, reducing the amount of planning time, and allowing you to easily round up loved ones for a seamless, value-packed vacation that includes accommodations, meals, entertainment and activities all in one confirmed upfront cost. Cruise vacations can be anything from a rented barge on the St. Lawrence, a larger river cruise on one of the many rivers around the world, to the new hybrid powered cruise ships. Accommodations vary from economical inside staterooms to ocean view verandas and family suites. Each family member can choose the accommodation to fit their budget and enjoy the many onboard amenities with the entire family, enjoy an educational excursion or find a nice quiet spot to unwind and share a conversation. With many itineraries, ships—large and small—there is a wide range of choices. All you need to decide is when to meet for dinner! How great is that?

Coordinating a trip with family near and far requires some advanced planning and lots of coordination, which is resulting in a renewed demand for travel advisors. Professional planners can help travelers navigate any travel restrictions, changes in entry requirements, visas, flights, accommodation, activities and backup plans. If you enjoy the planning process yourself, the most important objective is to just do it! Start the conversation with your family to reconnect and make new memories.

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