Planning a big family trip...I mean, REALLY big...?

[Greg K.]

My sister-in-law wants to take multiple generations to Disney for a once-in-a-lifetime family trip. She'll be retiring in two years, and will have the time (and, bless her, the resources) to pull this off. So she's turned to me for any advice. Ha.

What would be the best way to go about this?

She's thinking: 15-20 people, for a week or so. Probably during the spring or summer months. Kids as young as five and as old as 60.

She's thinking staying off site, maybe in a condo, would be best. But there's obviously a lot to be said for staying on property, too. But how can you do that in a way that's affordable (or at least, not outrageously expensive)? Has anyone planned or executed something like this? Any ideas or guidance? We're starting from scratch here, so all feedback is welcome!

TIA—and happy new year!

 

[hiroMYhero]

My sister-in-law wants to take multiple generations to Disney for a once-in-a-lifetime family trip. She'll be retiring in two years, and will have the time (and, bless her, the resources) to pull this off. So she's turned to me for any advice. Ha.

What would be the best way to go about this?

She's thinking: 15-20 people, for a week or so. Probably during the spring or summer months. Kids as young as five and as old as 60.

She's thinking staying off site, maybe in a condo, would be best. But there's obviously a lot to be said for staying on property, too. But how can you do that in a way that's affordable (or at least, not outrageously expensive)? Has anyone planned or executed something like this? Any ideas or guidance? We're starting from scratch here, so all feedback is welcome!

TIA—and happy new year!

The Orlando Area board regarding offsite accommodations has a current thread:
https://www.disboards.com/threads/1...re-would-you-stay-on-or-off-property.3651080/

Will move you to that forum for assistance.

 

[HopperFan]

Things to think about, that would also help you get better answers ....

- How many family units are there and breakdown of ages?
- How many condos would they need if some willingly share?
- Will they have resort time where the amenities will make a difference?

- Are they all driving in or will they need to rent 3, 4 or 5 cars?
- Always add in the parking fees, which with that many cars will add up.
- Will some be taking breaks in the day from parks?
- Transportation alone can alter on/off site costs tremendously for this many.

- Is Aunt paying for their tickets?
- Will everyone be there the same length, same number of park days?
- I think she should have each family unit set up their own MDE then make them all Friends & Family.

- Will Aunt pay for all dining or will her guests be responsible for paying for that?
- Do they want to do cooking? Will they share that responsibility?
- What are her expectations of meals with everyone there?

Good to remember this isn't a family reunion where everyone is say at the beach; relaxing, beaching, swimming and eating. This is a destination where folks like to be on the go and at many different paces with different interests. It can be nearly impossible to keep everyone together at all times and them all remain happy. It is good to say make it one meal a day together, meet up times (like all watching fireworks together) or dinners together so that there is flexibility for energy levels, interests among a wide age range, dining differences, early or late risers .....