Should You Travel In A Group?
It cannot be denied that traveling is fun, fun, fun… but it
is much fun if you go out on a group trip. A whole lot of excitement, bonding
and adventure awaits you. A group may mean your family, circle of friends,
old-high school classmates, co-workers or relatives. Whatever it is, no matter
what size- it is sure to be a memorable experience to spend time somewhere new
with these people.
Planning might be easy for one but organizing it is sometimes
a tough task and it entails a lot of flaws along the way. On the other hand,
there is an immeasurable feeling of reward in the end if the cruise turns out to
be one smooth thing.
How could one make the best cruise as an organizer?
Choosing and seeking the help of a reliable travel agent is a
determinant if the trip would be hassle free or the other way around. Make sure
that you will choose according to the credibility the agency owns due to its
experience in handling group trips or travel.
After a research on the possible ships, buses, cruises or
other forms of transportation that could provide the amenities and accommodation
that would meet majority of the needs of your group, you must have enough
time comparing the prices.
Be sure to seek a copy of the
contract you have with the agent you have
chosen. Have everything in paper, like the
summary of your itinerary and reservations as
well as all the necessary information.
When there are shore tours,
have a copy of the list of buses, timetable of
the tour and assign somebody to be responsible
for the seating arrangements and if ever the
honorarium for the drivers are included in the
fee.
Assure that the cruise
activities are exclusively for all the members
only. Outsiders must not be allowed to join or
meddle on the affairs of the group and the ship
or line must provide the security the group
deserves to have on the entire trip.
If the group comes in a
bigger number, ask for the help of those
responsible and choose a part of the ship where
you all could sit down and talk. If there are
concerns or problems, this would serve as the
venue for that too.
A list of all the important
contacts in case of any problem and the list of
room assignments must be secured too.
Activities, if pre-arranged must be in
coordination with the Guest Relation Officer.
For meals, the group must be
in contact with the restaurant manager. Group
leaders may be assigned for larger groups.
With all these, points to
ponder- make the best out of your GROUP TRIP!
