Housing for a large group

[drwadadli]

I own a small business and as reward / team builder for my staff, they picked a trip to WDW. That deal was made when we were just starting out and I said sure when reach a goal of 40%. We reached that last year so I am now cashing in on that deal. So that my staff can get the most out of WDW, we are driving down Thursday morning, checking in at the hotel, and heading to MNSSHP. For Friday and Saturday, we are likely doing Animal Kingdom and EPCOT but the whole team hasn't voted yet so it will be either HS or EPCOT; definitely heading to MNSSHP and AK.

I was originally looking at Comfort Suites Maingate mainly because I have Choice Points that I could use. I have never planned a trip for this many people; 15 in total with no kids but a few significant others.

For those that have traveled with such a large group, is a hotel (everyone gets their own room) or renting a house be best? If renting a house is best, where? I prefer not to be more than a 20 minute drive from WDW; so about10 miles out.

Thank you for your help and advice.

 

[White Cat]

There are large homes in Reunion that rent out. I’ve been in several, very nice. Some have themed rooms. Start Wars, Cinderella, Manhattan, Jurassic Park. That sort of thing. Theaters, large pools.

 

[Travel60]

I don't know how close your staff is but staying in one big house could get "familiar". We did this once with neighbors and there were times it was uncomfortable - personal habits and all. Plus, the week after the trip, 15 of the 19 people got COVID. Sharing kitchen, bathrooms, etc. Seems to me a hotel would be the way to go and if you have points to spend that would make it less cash outflow.

 

[White Cat]

I don't know how close your staff is but staying in one big house could get "familiar". We did this once with neighbors and there were times it was uncomfortable - personal habits and all. Plus, the week after the trip, 15 of the 19 people got COVID. Sharing kitchen, bathrooms, etc. Seems to me a hotel would be the way to go and if you have points to spend that would make it less cash outflow.

These large homes have a washroom in each bedroom and several kitchens and laundry rooms.

 

[HopperFan]

Sharing a house with people I work with would not be my first choice, especially if we are hanging out together all day long as well. I would prefer a hotel with my own room, and hopefully daily housekeeping. You know your employees best but I would make sure they are all comfortable with this style of lodging.

If looking at a house be sure to look at all the add on fees to book, it might get expensive quickly. And you will need several cars and there will be parking fees each day for them. If you have points that could really offset cost, and provide private rooms, I would look at that option if (as it sounds) you will be spending most your time at the parks.

 

[NYCgrrl]

I would opt for a hotel for that complete vacation experience. Nothing like cleaning dishes and such to make you feel at home .
Great that you can use saved hotel points for this business expense.
I’m sure you’ll do a price comparison of the two options before making a decision.

Have fun.

 

[drwadadli]

More information....

My wife and I (business administrator and owner respectively) are planning on:

1) Three cars to drive since we are less than 8 hours away
2) Once we get to the parks, people can go their own way or stay in small groups ---- whichever they choose
3) Meet once a day as a group for lunch / dinner ---- since it is a work thing and work would pay for (no alcoholic drinks)
4) We are giving them a per diem per day for lunches and snacks

Thank you for all the information given to consider