Issuu

FALL 2017

NEWSLETTER

WELCOME! From the entire Woodloch family, I want to take a moment to thank you for spending some of your valuable time with us! We’re embarking on a new concept in creating the WLPFamily Newsletter to bring a deeper and more personal touch of Woodloch into your home. The newsletter will feature some fun tips, interesting content and a few Woodloch related tidbits, all revolving around the importance of family. I couldn’t be more excited to kick this off. You can look forward to great stories about current family travel trends, Woodloch’s new adventures in 2018, our 60th anniversary, and even a contribution from a new Woodlochian herself, Meaghan Murphy, the Executive Editor of Good Housekeeping Magazine! We want to express the importance of “family time” and help people with their family travel needs… And even their everyday lives to some degree. If you’ve been to Woodloch, you already understand how important “family” is to us and why Woodloch is what it is today. My family and I take the concept of togetherness and family-bonding very seriously. It’s how we manage our business and it’s how we interact with all of our nearly 1,200 dedicated staff members. The “Woodloch Family” represents a lot of people, our staff, our community, and all of our guests! It seems to me that today’s home life is becoming much more taxing on the family unit. There are so many distractions and responsibilities for the whole family. I look at my 13 grandkids and they are all involved, moving from one after school activity and sport to the next. With two overtime-working parents trying to keep up with their work lives, community involvement, battling screen time, fitting in homework, all the while trying to maintain a social life, or even just relax. My goal for this issue and those that follow, is to share real-world stories of how people are keeping up, getting by, are pushing the envelope, when it comes to family travel, and of course, have a lot of fun doing it! As we enter the upcoming holiday season, I hope you’ll take time to slow down, and remember what’s truly most important - your family. On behalf of the Entire Woodloch Family, God Bless, John Kiesendahl

MES

LILLY @ LAWN GA

The POWER of “FAMILY”

and your vacation...

The stories! Check out a resource like StoryCorps for recording and documenting family stories.

Have everyone bring in their old photos to share. Then you can preserve them easily with a bunch of services out there like LegacyBox.

Do some family genealogy research before the event.

Commemorate the occasion with a custom tee-shirt.

There are great family reunion/ vaca planning checklists around!

With a large group, some meeting for the first time, come equipped with some ice breakers.

Traditions and recipes abound and capturing them at a reunion is a way to preserve them.

When you finally do get together, hire a photographer. Seriously.

Just remember to have fun! Planning can be stressful, but the purpose is to get together and share in the moment. Don’t lose sight of that.

Vacation is good for your health. Seems obvious, right? There are many reasons we take getaways, vacations, holidays, etc… We want to see friends, we want to have a new experience, discover a destination we have always been interested in, or to “relax” and “unwind.” These are all valid and good reasons, however without even realizing it, taking this time is very beneficial to your physical and mental health as well as to the interpersonal

for relaxation and breaks from the run-run-run mentality of a getaway, but it’s also important not to miss the cues from your family.

this allows for true interpersonal discovery and it’s completely organic, you just have to make sure you’re looking for it.

There is a correlation between spending *quality* time with your kids and the measurable benefits in your kids behavior as they grow. Parent-family connectedness has proven to help kids avoid risky behavior, according to The National Longitudinal Study on Adolescent Health. Of course, it goes beyond just vacationing; this is something that should happen daily. “Parent-adolescent communication accounts for some of the relationship between family meals and adolescent ! e mental health,” Daniel Miller, an assismil s t a th tant professor of social work at Boston health of your University. In addition to the daily family. The key to un- interactions, vacations tend to bolster locking these benefits is being able to this growth, and the more regularly recognize the opportunity and seize it. you adopt this behavior the greater the benefits.

When your next travel time comes around, make sure you open yourself and your family to the potential for deep connection. Be open, play it loose, and watch your kids’ faces, listen to them when they speak and ask follow up questions. Get that quality time together, put devices away during meal time if you can, recap your days together, involve everyone in the planning process and uncover exactly what interests each person. Talk. Listen. Learn.

We’ve all heard the stories of friends coming back from Disney, or exploring a new city and saying “I need a vacation from my vacation!” Obviously your vacation plan has to allow time

On vacation, you’re taking a break from the normal life routine with your family - no homework, no afternoon rush, no cheer practice, etc... In the absence of our deep daily time-suck,

Sledding!!! 2016

NEW in 2018... 2018 is gearing up to be an incredible year for Woodloch. Not only are we celebrating our “Diamond” Anniversary (that’s 60 wonderful years!) but we’re also adding some thrilling new features and events to an already award winning vacation experience. Here’s what’s on the way:

a new raceway

As a wise man once said, “life moves pretty fast.” In 2014, Woodloch sculpted a brand new sprawling family go cart track for guests to enjoy at the top of our nature trail. We are pleased to announce that for all of 2018, our younger guests will also be able to enjoy a brand new Junior track adjacent to our family track! It’s a perfect addition for the aspiring “Ricky Bobby’s” in your life!

ice capades

Have you ever felt the urge for a pick up game of ice hockey in July? The dream is now a reality with a revolutionary substance known as “EZ-Glide 350.” The next best option to a freshly “Zambonied” rink, guests will be able to skate to their hearts content in our outdoor covered venue- over 9,000 square feet! Figure skating, hockey and even Curling (it will catch on someday) will be waiting for you!

The diamond Jubilee

Woodloch is celebrating a YUGE milestone in 2018 – sharing smiles for over 60 wonderful years! Our 2018 Broadway-style Theme Show will pay tribute to our “greatest hits!” Join us for a journey through time as our cast brings “the best of the best” back to the hot bright lights of our stage!

Another “great escape”

In 2017, Woodloch added our “Room 1313” Escape Room challenge to our amenities- and our guests simply couldn’t get enough of it! We are proud to announce that we are “making a sequel” – groups of 10 or less will test their wits in a race against time to “escape” before being consumed by a zombie horde- fun!

A fresh coat of paint

Scavenger Hunt

Winter Olympics

Lake Games

Double Dare

Summer Olympics

Dessert Wars

Pool Games

Woodloch brings great “big team events” to families year round. In 2018, we have ALL-NEW editions of your favorite games and activities headed your way! All your favorites, and more... completely revamped!

Heritage MILESTONE AFTER MILESTONE

60 YE ARS

This was the year of hula hoops and lasers. The US launched the Explorer 1 Satellite, and the world population estimated at just 2.9 billion. The ﬁrst Pizza Hut opened in Kansas and Barbie made her debut in local toy stores. Last but certainly not least, it was in 1958 that Woodloch opened its doors to strangers... Those strangers became friends. Those friends kept coming back to Woodloch year after year. And now here we are, 60 years later ... 60

years of warm hospitality and excellence.

It was 1944 when Mary Mould married Harry Kiesendahl. Growing up, Mary and her family vacationed off the shores of Lake Teedyuskung, located in Pennyslvania’s Pocono Mountains. Mary loved the area so much that she vowed to return often. Mary was then quickly consumed by the task of raising her children, John, Nancy and Steve. One fine day, fate intervened. Harry saw a sale listing in the New York Times for a small resort on a private lake in Northeastern Pennsylvania. The small unidentified lake in the ad turned out to be Lake Teedyuskung. We know, unbelievable – but trust us, 100% true.

doubled the size of the lakefront resort. By 1983, the resort had

Then in April 1958, Mary, her children and her parents moved to the Poconos resort, which they would now call home.

grown into 150 acres with almost a mile of shoreline and 135

The original 12-acre Poconos resort included a main lodge, annex, two cottages, and a 200 foot lakefront, all

rooms … big time stuﬀ! Woodloch Resort currently sprawls over 1200 acres, with a 3 mile shoreline, 152 rooms, 18 houses, and 4 timeshare lake houses, and can accommodate about 1,200 guests in total.

of which accommodated a whopping 40 guests. Woodloch’s

Since our earliest beginnings, we have remained committed to

popularity grew, and by 1961, the Kiesendahl’s had

a number of traditions, but by far the most important one is the way we treat our guests … “it’s

as if they are company

in our own home” (our original mission). This April we are celebrating 60 years with a “Diamond Anniversary” event as tribute to our longtime guests. An evening party with open bar, classic Woodloch games, and a special champagne toast with a video tribute will take place to reﬂect our rich history and humble beginnings.

...

YE ARS

“The real key to Woodloch Springs, the key to its heart, is the spirit of the residents in this community.” - John Kiesendahl, Owner & CEO, Woodloch Pines, Inc.

We are

celebrating 25 years since the grand opening of Woodloch Springs in 1992. This special place is just two miles down the road from the main resort with its very own culture. “It’s so unique, people genuinely care about each other. The

Woodloch Springs serves as an 18-Championship golf

first 30-40 families that moved into Woodloch Springs—with

course with a par-72. It’s challenging for sure! There are

just dirt roads and all — those were the ones who really laid

over 6,579 yards of fern-carpeted forest, lush wetlands

the foundation of spirit here. They welcomed newcomers and

and broad upland meadows. “Woodloch Springs is

25 years of spirit that has not diminished but has grown.” – John K

unlike any golf facility that I have ever visited or

taught them the culture and spirit ...

“First off, I would like to say ‘Congratulations’ to my dad for his amazing vision and for making this place. Also a ‘Congratulations and Thank You’ to the first pioneers who moved here. Thank you to everyone who bought into this

experienced.

We are truly unique. We aren’t

a competitive, hard nose golf club. We aren’t a social club. We are a good mix in between. I have never seen a community that comes together more in the good times and in the bad.”

– John Pillar, Director of Golf.

community, not only financially, but personally with their

Woodloch Springs is not only a golf course situated on

hearts.

over 600 private acres but an impeccable residential

- Matt Kiesendahl, Director of Services at Woodloch Springs

community. It has over 400 homes of varying sizes that can be purchased or rented by Woodloch Pines’ guests.

“After 25 years we can look back and say our persistence, our beliefs and our excellence have really paid off.” - Nick D’Andrea, Real Estate Consultant and Director of Sales

WH AT K E E P S ME GOING By Randy Barnes

“Hi, my name is Randy Barnes and I have worked at Woodloch since 1969. I have been a member of the Social Staff for almost 40 years, and recently I was ‘cornered’ by a longtime Woodloch guest who really wanted to know how I have been able to do ‘all these games and contests over and over again for so many years.’ In the summer of 1993, I was headed for the dining room through our glass hallway. Two young boys, perhaps 12 and

9 walked past me and I said my usual, ‘Hey guys.’ After they passed me, I heard the older brother say ‘that was Mr. Fun.’ Without question, the greatest compliment I have EVER received in my career. I have tried to live up to that ever since!”

STEP OUT OF THE KITCHEN AND INTO THE

AMERICAN PLAN ONE OF THE MOST IMPORTANT FACTORS THAT WILL MAKE OR BREAK YOUR DESTINATION GATHERING WILL BE THE FOOD. ARE YOU PREPARED TO SHOP, PREP, AND COOK FOR YOUR GROUPS’ INDIVIDUAL NEEDS AND TASTES? WILL YOU GO TO LOCAL RESTAURANTS OR TAKE THE ‘MEAL PLAN’ FOR A SPIN? One of the most difficult challenges while traveling with a large group, especially one whose ages range from infant to grandparent, is feeding them. What restaurant will feel nice enough to take Mom but still offer PB&J for Junior? Worse yet, cooking. Who wants to deal with planning, packing, cooking, and clean up while you’re supposed to be on vacation? I know the answer to this one. No one. No one wants to do this. And on the off chance ‘no one’ is reading this, even you have to admit you don’t want to do it three times each day for a group of 15+ people. What other options are available? You could browse TripAdvisor for nearby restaurants that can serve your large group, you could send each individual family off on their own, or you could book at a venue that offers an American Plan and eat, stay, and play on the same property – together!

Kind of wanted to do your own thing? Many hotels now offer a Modified American Plan where you can book your room with breakfast and choose between lunch or dinner. This gives you the flexibility to try out the local cuisine or take a break from the gathering without entirely giving up the importance of dining together. If you decide to book at a venue that offers meal plans, remember that each member of your group has different tastes and may have specific dietary needs and restrictions. A quick call to the hotel or resort before booking will ensure that there are no hiccups during your dining experience. No matter what you choose to keep full during your destination gathering, make sure to center your decision around the purpose of your trip, spending quality time with family or friends. ▪

THINGS TO CONSIDER

when planning meals for gatherings or reunions. -Are you planning on cooking for your group? -Is your group small enough to book reservations at local restaurants? -Are there people in your group with special diet needs? Vegetarian, gluten free, or allergies. -Will each family be on their own or would you rather the experience of dining together?

“AFTER A GOOD DINNER ONE CAN FORGIVE ANYBODY, EVEN ONE’S OWN RELATIONS.” OSCAR WILDE

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C ranberry Upside-D own S our Cr ea m Ca k e

A Taste of Woodloch Fall in Love with Leftovers

Don’t just toss that old spiral ham into the trash. Let’s make leftovers great again! The featured dishes are prepared during our one and only cooking class. The demonstration takes place during our off seasons with Joey (our social director) and Chef Dave. They prepare several of Woodloch’s famous dishes for you to experience live in-person, followed by a sampling at the end! We are revealing this exclusive menu because we know you want a little taste of Woodloch in your kitchen at home.

Ingredients:

Directions:

1/2 c. butter 2c. White sugar 2 tbsp. water 1 tsp. ground cinnamon 1 1/2 oz. bag of fresh or frozen cranberries 1 1/2 c. cake ﬂour 1/2 tsp baking soda 1/2 tsp. salt 6 tbsp. butter, softened 1/2 c. brown sugar 2 eggs 1 tbsp. vanilla extract 3/4 c. sour cream

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Generously grease a 9 inch spring form pan. Wrap aluminum foil around the outside of the bottom to prevent leaking. 2. Melt the butter in sauce pan over medium heat. Stir in 1 1/2 cups of white sugar, water, and cinnamon. Bring to a boil then add cranberries. Stir to coat with the sauce, then pour into the prepared pan. 3. Sift together the ﬂour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside. In a medium bowl, beat the remaining 6 tbsp. of butter with 1/2 cup of white sugar and brown sugar until light and ﬂuffy. Mix in the eggs one at a time beating well after each addition. Stir in vanilla and sour cream. Mix in the dry ingredients. Pour the batter over the cranberries in the pan. 4. Bake for about 50 minutes or until a knife inserted into the corner comes out clean. Cool on a rack for ten minutes then run a knife around the center edge. Invert onto a serving plate and remove from spring form pan.

Spaghetti Frittata Ingredients:

H am S alad S t u ffe d Mu sh ro o ms Ingredients: 1 lb ham, chopped ﬁne 12oz. Swiss cheese, shredded 1 cup mayonnaise 8oz. Sweet relish 1 tbsp. spicy brown mustard

Directions: 1. Mix all ingredients together until blended. 2. Stuff mushroom with a small crown on top. 3. Bake 15-20 minutes depending on the size of the mushrooms, until golden on top. **Ham salad could also be used cold as a sandwich spread **Replace ham & use corned beef for a Reuben Stuffed Mushroom!

4 c. cooked spaghetti 4 tbsp. EVOO 3 medium onions, chopped 4 large eggs 1/2 c. milk 1/3 c. freshly grated parmesan cheese 2 tbsp. chopped fresh parsley 2 tbsp. chopped fresh basil 1 tsp. salt 1/2 tsp. freshly ground pepper 1 tomato, diced (optional)

Directions: 1. Heat oil in a large ovenproof nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until golden, 10 to 12 minutes. Transfer to a bowl and let cool slightly. Wipe out the pan. 2. Whisk eggs and milk in a large bowl. Stir in the onions, Parmesan, parsley, basil, salt and pepper. Add the spaghetti. 3. Coat the pan well with cooking spray and place over medium heat. Pour in the egg mixture and distribute evenly in the pan. Cook until the underside is golden, turn the pan around on burner occasionally to ensure even cooking, 3 to 5 minutes. 4. Invert a large platter over the pan, grasp he platter and pan with oven mitts and carefully turn over. Lift off the pan and spray it again with cooking spray. Slide the frittata back into the pan and cook until the bottom is golden. Slide the frittata onto the platter. Garnish with tomato, if using.

C ranberry Upside-D own S our Cr ea m Ca k e

A Taste of Woodloch Fall in Love with Leftovers

Ingredients:

Directions:

Spaghetti Frittata Ingredients:

H am S alad S t u ffe d Mu sh ro o ms Ingredients: 1 lb ham, chopped ﬁne 12oz. Swiss cheese, shredded 1 cup mayonnaise 8oz. Sweet relish 1 tbsp. spicy brown mustard

PLANNING | HOW TO...

MAKE THE MOST

OF YOUR

FAMILY REUNION

So you’ve finally decided that a family reunion is in order! You can’t wait to get away with your loved ones for some bonding and relaxation, but there’s one looming question … where do you even begin? We’ve compiled some tips from families who have planned multi-generational vacations at Woodloch Resort. Speak with anyone who’s familiar with planning a family reunion, and they’ll tell you -- first things first -- GET ORGANIZED! It is helpful to designate one or two people who will serve as the group coordinator. Take it from one of our recent guests who shared this very helpful information: “We took a survey by email listing 3 different dates, to find one which worked for most people. We look for a location that can house everyone for 2-3 nights (preferably without driving far) and a location that provides activities for all ages, rain or shine. Typically we

have a small group that helps plan the reunion. For example: A chair to schedule group calls, set the agenda, and

write up the minutes, send out emails to family, make room reservations for everyone, and communicate with the resort about all aspects; someone to decide appetizers, meals, drinks; someone to decide activities and make the itinerary (and perhaps have a t-shirt made for the reunion for all); someone to be in charge of babysitters and needs for little ones.”

In order to make the most out of your family reunion, it is important to ask the question – what makes a

family reunion special?

Most people would agree that the main goal is to learn more about other family members! As one of our recent guests noted:

PLANNING | HOW TO... “It always seems like a lot of effort to travel far for reunions, but in the end, each time I get to know a family member better, I feel rewarded. It is especially touching getting to share memories with the little ones and having them remember you at the next reunion.

For me, it is easier to have meaningful conversation while having a shared experience than it is to just talk to one another. I always walk away from reunions learning more about the people I love and feeling closer.” And what better way to bond with your family than choosing a vacation destination where a ton of really fun activities are yours for the taking, morning noon, and night? All inclusive resorts (such as Woodloch) are the perfect option for this! “The best activities are those that get multi-generations involved. We really like renting the go-carts for the little ones to

“ride with older members. We also like the scavenger hunt, and make teams of all ages and composed of different branches in the family. We created a jeopardy game with questions about family members so everyone can learn more about one another (using i n fo r m a t i o n that I ask each member privately about something interesting that others might not know).”

So, how do you

MAKE THE MOST

OF YOUR

FAMILY REUNION

When it comes down to it, family reunions are all about making special memories that will last a lifetime. A venue, activity schedule, and meals will only help to nurture what already comes naturally to family, the rest will fall into place. One of our guests, Good Housekeeping’s Meaghan Murphy, recently shared the following heartwarming story with us that sums up their Woodloch reunion experience perfectly.

Meaghan Murphy, Executive Editor @meaghanbmurphy

“We have a big, tightknit Irish family — 11 grandchildren in total. For years, 19 of us packed up and headed somewhere warm for a week of sun and fun over the holidays. And then the unthinkable happened: We lost our patriarch, Pop as the grandkids called him, to a 5-month bout with pancreatic cancer. We wanted to be together for our ﬁrst Christmas and New Years without him last year both to celebrate his memory and cry on each others’ shoulders. None of us could bear the thought of revisiting one of the beloved resorts or islands where we had just too many precious memories. We wanted something special and different to create new memories and joy … Woodloch! From snow tubing and bumper cars, to the indoor pool and waterslide, to the kids’ special drinks with a prize at dinner and the owner’s wild pants, to the rocking New Year’s Eve party, Woodloch was

a big, warm hug and the perfect place to ring in a new tradition. So perfect, that Team Murphy came back in the summer for a little dock jumping, paddle boats, mini golf and, of course, horse racing! Thank you, Woodloch! We’ll be back.” ▪

Heritage Nightclub Bumper Cars & Games

North Lodge/Caf

Bocce Ball

e Gigi’s Coffee House

Play Area Arts & Crafts

Grill & Pavillion

Deck

Volleyball Beach, Boats & Swim Area

LOCH THE LODGE AT WOOD PINE BROOK THE MARKET

Shuffleboard

Fire Pit Greenbriar

Bocce Ball

590 590 Main Entrance

Front Lawn

“The Main” Building

Mini Bowling & Game Room Front Desk

Waterslide

o dl

r och D

Woodloch Springs

Snow Tube (seasonal)

1 Miles 0

Timberline

Fishing Dock

Welcome Lake Rd

T E E D Y U S K U N G

Tea House Dock

Jr Go Carts

Batting Cages

Play Area

L A K E

Tallwoods Edition

East Lot

Kranich House (519)

Ski Dock

Springbrook

Outdoor Pool & Bar

Miniature Golf

The Cottage (518)

Climbing Wall

Bike Shop

570-685-8000 (Fro

Safety Services Horseshoes

Indoor Pool & Slide, Lockers

1 Km

590

Escape Room

nt Desk) | 731 Wel

come Lake Road

| Woodloch.com

Shooting Barn Bumper Boats

P Fishing Dock

590

Gateway

Miniature Golf

Go Carts

Mt. Laurel

Archery Range Zipline & Segways Start Here

The Inn, Lakeview DR, Country Store

Maintenance

Welco me L ake R d

Fire Pit

Inn Dock

Z ip

lin

Upper Athletic Field

Lower Athletic Field

Paintball Adventure

Lake House Dock

Archery Tag

Basketball

Extreme Snowtube

(seasonal)

394 Oly mpic Dr

393 Lake Houses 392

Private Courts

Social Shop

Tennis

391 395 Lake Estates

Pickleball

396

Warehouse

e Lake

397

Welco m

398

Common Area

Tower Hiking Trail Entrance (3mi)

Tallwoods 105-111

Accommodation

Cell Tower

Trapshoot

Parking

Water Tower

Restrooms Elevator Laundr y Room

102

Walking Path 104

Main Road

Southwoods

1mi. Jogging Path

100 106 101 Sout

hwoo ds Dr

Timberline

Rm: 311-322

Gateway

Rm: 371-378

Greenbriar

Rm: 401-533

We all know Woodloch has some pretty damn cool activities to choose from. Not to mention all of our shows, delicious meals and beautiful grounds. But if you’re in the midst of planning a family reunion, you just might be thinking, “how can we all situate ourselves so we can all be... civil.” In short... it’s all about the crib. Welcome Lake Rd

105

Springbrook

Mt. Laurel

Rm: 601-675

Rm: 701-744

0.1 Miles

To: Woodloch Springs loch The Lodge at Wood The Market 95 (see inset) Pinebrook 594-5

249

0.1 Km

The good news is that in addition to all of the hotel rooms and accommodations that we already offer, Woodloch is pleased to announce the newest addition to our hotel complex: the Tallwoods units! 251

Spacious bedrooms

“Good fences make good neighbors,” right? Everyone stays happy with their own private space. Not to mention... each room has a bathroom with shower! Sleeps up to 8 guests!

Plenty of

Gathering Space

Itâ€™s a family vacation... letâ€™s be a family for a bit! Unwind with comfortable seating and a built-in fireplace, then sit back for all sorts of embarrassing stories from years gone by!

where the

magic happens

Fully equipped kitchen for your snacking needs... plus outdoor grill!

be one with

Nature Observe the beauty of our wooded landscape... all from the comfort of your screened in porch!

T R AV E L T R E N D S The Rise of Multigenerational Travel Just how popular is multigenerational travel these days? Let’s take a look at some stats: 40% of all active leisure travelers have taken at least one multigenerational trip over the last year. (Source: Leisure Group Travel)

25% of all leisure travelers are grandparents and 37% traveled with their grandchildren. (Source: Leisure Group Travel)

Grandparents travel almost 25% more than the average leisure traveler, taking four or more trips yearly. With the rise of travel websites and the ease of booking trips online, planning group travel is now easier than ever before. These days, who hasn’t a least browsed Priceline, Expedia, or Hotels.com? Temptation to travel is everywhere, and properties are competing heavily — whether it be on price or product — for consumer’s business! With so many options available to today’s travelers, it may come as somewhat of a surprise that multi-generational travel is a top travel trend. It makes sense however. The Baby Boomer generation, comprised of individuals born between the 1940s and the early 1960s, have more free time and money to spend than any other demographic these days. Unsurprisingly, these same individuals tend to be grandparents looking for opportunities to spend time with their children and grandchildren. Add time, money, and an interest in family bonding and POOF! You have the perfect combination for a multi-generational getaway!

(Source: Leisure Group Travel)

33-40% of the $270 billion in leisure travel is multigenerational. (Source: Travel Age West) Multigenerational trips, along with “bucket list” and summer vacations, are among boomers’ three favorite types of trips. (Source: AARP) Grandparents, more so than parents (35% vs. 25%), are more willing to pay for multigenerational trips to “help family members enjoy a vacation they otherwise could not afford.” (Source: Preferred Hotels and Resorts) Need more convincing? A recent survey conducted by Virtuoso, a well-respected network of international travel agencies specializing in luxury and experiential travel, found that the top travel trend for 2016 was multigenerational travel. (Virtuoso: Scientists in the Art of Travel) Multigenerational travel even beat out travel with immediate family!

Something For Everyone There’s no need to read between the lines to figure out that traveling with the extended family gives everyone the opportunity to spend quality time together, enjoy life, and presumably, split the bills. For families seeking anything and everything from downtime to high adventure, key vacation spots range

from beach houses and villa rentals to city excursions and cruises. But since everyone has their own idea of fun — grandma golfs while the teenagers shop — the most popular destinations cater to many tastes and, indeed, budgets. Anyone following the trends knows that today’s travelers are using the online channel, with or without the help of a travel agency. They might book supplier-direct or work through their travel agent’s website or OTA, depending on what they’ve done in the past or what’s been recommended by their family, friends, or via marketing. Yet, according to Travel Research: 2016 Travel Trends from AARP, baby boomers will not use travel booking websites for planning trips to the same degree that their younger counterparts will (50% versus 77% for Millennials and 74% for GenXers). Interestingly, 40% of both grandparents and parents surveyed by Preferred Hotel Group say their children “actively participate in or influence vacation planning,” and 40% have “selected a destination based at least partially on the information, photos, or videos they viewed on social media websites.” And 25% say they have “selected a travel service supplier based on exposure to the same content.” You might enjoy How Travel Companies Are Gearing Up to Accommodate Generation Z.

Get Away From It All It’s no mystery that multigenerational travel has gathered such steam. In today’s fast-paced, technology-centric world, people are looking for a relaxing escape from the everyday hustle bustle. Additionally, families are living farther apart geographically than ever before. Who wouldn’t want a break from their computer and phone screens and long commute times? Vacations with the extended family are the perfect antidote to these modern day woes.

Multigenerational vacations may bring to mind a mild sense of anxiety similar to that of a family reunion. Who will I see? What will I do? Will it be awkward? But there is no need for fear! These days, when it comes to planning your family vacation, a little research goes a long way. Whether you choose to travel abroad for some international adventure or kick back at all-inclusive resort stateside, there is truly a destination for every taste and budget. When we look at the big picture here, the goal is just for everyone to relax, enjoy, and spend quality time together. No complications necessary!

When you’re ready to plan your next multigenerational getaway, you might want to keep Woodloch in mind. Our guest homes provide the comfort of large shared living spaces and the privacy of separate bedrooms and baths. Our traditional American Plan comes complete with three meals daily, but if cooking is your family’s thing, enjoy your guest home’s fully equipped kitchen. A variety of activities, amenities and entertainment guarantee that no one is bored, regardless of age. From go carts and bumper cars to pools and boating to organized games and contests that get the whole gang going, the fun doesn’t stop. If we have yet to convince you to get away with the extended fam, we’ll leave you with a few words in closing. Unfortunately, time never stops, and every minute becomes more and more precious as the days pass. Don’t miss out on valuable bonding time when the opportunity presents itself. Actions speak louder than words . . . traveling with the entire family is the perfect way to say “I love you!”

The stories! Check out a resource like StoryCorps for recording and documenting family stories.

Have everyone bring in their old photos to share. Then you can preserve them easily with a bunch of services out there like LegacyBox.

Do some family genealogy research before the event.

Commemorate the occasion with a custom tee-shirt.

There are great family reunion/ vaca planning checklists around!

With a large group, some meeting for the first time, come equipped with some ice breakers.

Traditions and recipes abound and capturing them at a reunion is a way to preserve them.

When you finally do get together, hire a photographer. Seriously.

Just remember to have fun! Planning can be stressful, but the purpose is to get together and share in the moment. Donâ€™t lose sight of that.

A story about bringing family together.

Why host your reunion at Woodloch? Dedicated staff Experienced coordinators Accommodates any size group Guest homes, hotel rooms, or suites Various dining options Daily activity schedule Builds lasting memories!