Westworld Alberta
Issue link: http://westworldmagazine.ama.ab.ca/i/156165
caribbean • elements Escaping en Masse Tips for group getaways by Jeff Bateman Group travel has evolved into a science over the last decade as travel agents arrange all manner of collective getaways: family reunions, destination weddings, girlfriend getaways, team outings to sports tournaments and more. "It's reached the point where we've got specially trained group experts in every one of our offices in the province," says 34-year travel veteran Mary Male-Bowers of AMA Travel in Calgary. Here are a few things to keep in mind when planning group trips: 1. Use an agent We Said Yes to a Jamaica Wedding Member Jennifer Temple, Calgary: "Instead of stressing out over a traditional wedding back home, we invited our friends and families [36 people] to paradise, to not only celebrate our March 6 marriage but also to kick back and enjoy a vacation in the sun. The best part was seeing all the travel arrangements unfold, uniting friends and family from Calgary to Winnipeg." Organizing a pack of individuals with varied needs and preferences, some living in far-flung parts of the country, is a daunting task. Pros can handle the tricky paperwork and legwork. They call suppliers and secure quotes, send out customized invitations, field questions, collect payments, book airport transfers, ensure pre-travel documentation and insurance are in order and serve as a point person back home in case anything goes amiss. 2. Book early The early bird catches the choicest deals and destinations. Think a year or even 18 months ahead when looking at popular resorts and primetime travel (Christmas and spring break). 3. Choose a point person The immediate family calls the shots for weddings, naturally. In other scenarios, coordinators are advised to seek consensus with their prospective 26 W e s t w o r l d a l b e r t a | f a l l 2 0 13 p16-27_Caribbean.indd 26 travel companions. Does the majority long for a poolside holiday in Ixtapa, a shopping spree in Manhattan or a Caribbean cruise? And what matters more: price point or quality of experience? 4. Don't over-extend Plan one group activity and one group meal – at a spot where the menu can accommodate a variety of tastes and dietary restrictions – per day. If you have a choice, travel with the like-minded and likebudgeted. If not, be flexible. Be willing to try activities and visit spots you might not normally choose, and others will allow you the same courtesy. 5. Take turns babysitting It takes a village, right? If children are part of your group, corral them and have each adult couple commit to one night of babysitting so that others can socialize. Or, see if the hotel or resort offers child-minding services. W getty images 13-08-12 9:48 AM