Hosting the ultimate holiday family reunion
The holiday season is right around the corner and for families across the country that also means gathering for holiday reunions.
Whether the get-together is a large group gathering in a vacation destination or the whole extended family is headed your way, here are some stress-relieving tips to keep this family holiday one to remember.
• Get the word out early. Choosing the location of the family reunion in advance can be a true money saver!
Booking early also removes the hassle of finding a room at the last minute. Look for hotel advance purchase rates online for great deals.
• Find friendly accommodations. Finding space around the house for all those aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews can be a chore.
Why ruin the holiday reunion with cramped quarters?
Instead of making room and pulling the cots out of the closet, hosts can help their guests find an upscale extended stay hotel, like Homewood Suites by Hilton(R), that provide more than just a bed.
Roomy suites including two-bedroom options, complimentary daily full hot breakfast and dinner with drinks Monday through Thursday and free internet are just some of the added perks at staying at a brand like Homewood, which was voted the top extended stay hotel in the 2010 J.D. Power & Associates North America Hotel Guest Satisfaction Index.
“The holidays can be such an expensive time, with gift-giving and holiday travel,” says family travel expert Lisa McElroy.
“If you can save money but still stay in comfort, your family holiday trip will be one to remember.”
• Keep up with holiday traditions. Just because you are away from home doesn’t mean traditions cannot be continued.
For instance, many extended stay hotels have in-suite kitchens. Homewood Suites even goes as far as to providing a free grocery shopping.
This means you can save money and time, and also prepare the famous family holiday recipe that everyone looks forward to each year.
“If everyone is traveling to a destination it can be a great comfort to have mom or grandma make her signature holiday dish one night. That way no one feels they ‘missed’ the holiday traditions of home,” says travel expert, mom and chef Teresa Shaw.
“If you have a full kitchen in the suite, there is plenty of room for even the most elaborate meals. All the cooking can also be fun! Allow the kids to get involved by helping to decorate cupcakes or cookies for dessert.”
• Stay in! Plan ahead. Get movie suggestions from family members for a fun night at home or in your hotel suite, complete with popcorn, snacks and candy for the kids.
Movies at home or in your suite are not only a good opportunity to spend some stress-free time with the family, but it’s also a way to save money, something everyone can appreciate come the holiday season.
Once the movie is over, consider playing a family board game. Games such as Charades are a great way to involve the whole family, even the young ones.
Give the games a holiday theme and everyone will be sure to have a great time.
• Soak up the season’s sights and sounds. Many cities and towns boast very unique holiday events, from lavish lighting displays to family-friendly ice skating rinks. Holiday hosts can show families a taste of their town’s traditions with a trip or two to soak in some holiday spirit.
Check with your hotel before you go. Many properties offer free shuttles to major tourist destinations; a great way to enjoy your excursions without having to deal with any holiday traffic.
