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Family Gatherings at Disney World

- "Magical Gatherings"

By Teresa Plowright, About.com

More and more families are traveling together: whether it's a trip with extended family, or friendly families sharing a getaway, or a grand family reunion.

Especially in the case of a big reunion, planning the vacation can be a nightmare of logistics, plus huge pressure deciding where to go. Disney want to de-stress this mess, with online planning tools plus special entertainment options for "Magical Gatherings" and "Grand Gatherings" (--groups of eight or more.)

Choosing Disney World for a Family Gathering
Millions of people of all ages and interests have a great time at Walt Disney World; even a cultural snob can enjoy country-hopping and exotic dining at Epcot. Also, there's no need to agonizingly wonder whether Cousin Billy will like this beach resort in Mexico, or that Colorado ski trip: it's very likely that Cousin Billy has already visited Disney World, and knows exactly whether he likes it or not. Not to mention that Cousin Billy's little kids will be thrilled to see Pooh Bear.

Planning a Family Gathering at Walt Disney World
Disney has developed a bunch of online tools to make your family reunion planning easier; plus, groups can enjoy some special entertainment experiences. Head to the Disney site and search for "Magical Gatherings."

A free downloadable tool helps you plan a group vacation by:

• sending e-mail invitations
• chatting online
• polling your group
• creating group itineraries

You can also order a free Vacation Planning Kit, with video and more.

If you have a group of 8 or more, you're classified as a "Grand Gathering" and more services and even special vacation features -- such as special safaris, or character breakfasts-- are available (for an extra charge). Note that only kids age 3 and up count in your tally of 8 or more. Find out more online, or call (407) WDW-MAGIC.

Read more about Magical Gatherings at the Walt Disney World site. Family cruises are a popular multi-generational vacation too, and Disney cruises are top of the line; read about Disney Cruises and see photos.

See also:

Also check Family Reunions and Genealogy, at About's Geneology site: "A guide to combining genealogy and your next family reunion with planning tips, timetables, projects, checklists, reunion games, icebreakers, and more."

*photo © Teresa Plowright

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