Couple toasts with Martini glasses while sitting with family at Traditions restaurant.

The Bear’s Den Resort Orlando Blog Post COVID-19: How to Safely Plan a Vacation with Your Extended Family

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Summer is the season of family reunions, vacations, and 4th of July celebrations. It’s a chance for grandparents, grandkids, kids, and extended family to bond, relax, and create new memories. 

However, there can be challenges with multi-generational trips such as planning kid-friendly activities that are inclusive of adults without over-stressing grandparents.

Families are also concerned about staying safe while traveling during the COVID-19 pandemic as families require more space for social distancing.

There’s a need for bigger and connected rooms and entertainment that keeps not just the kids happy, but grandma and grandpa too. 

A family adventure tour might seem like a great idea, but if you’re traveling with family members who have limited mobility or hate the idea of sticking to a strict schedule, then this might not be the right choice.

Similarly, camping at national parks might be out of the question too as it might not be the most comfortable for grandparents.

Choosing The Right Accommodation for Multi-Generational Trips

A large suite in a hotel won’t cut it for a multi-generational family. Instead, stay in a luxury resort home at The Bear’s Den Resort Orlando.

These resort homes are more comfortable than a hotel suite as they foster togetherness while providing spacious accommodations. It can even be less expensive than individual hotel rooms. 

At The Bear’s Den, we provide your family with personal space while staying connected in a luxury home-like setting. This makes social distancing easier and more relaxing, as opposed to a big city, which can be overwhelming for families with young kids. Getting around can also be a challenge in larger groups.

Popular tourist destinations like Orlando are more fun, less hassle, and a better option for many multi-generational families.

Top Vacation Ideas for Large Families 

1. Theme Parks 

Orlando provides an expansive list of theme park options such as Disney’s Magic Kingdom and Epcot Theme ParkUniversal Studios, SeaWorld Orlando, and many more. The theme park options are endless in Orlando. Disney’s parks have a reopening date of July 11, and Universal and SeaWorld are open with some restrictions. It’s important to frequently check schedules and opening dates as the COVID-19 pandemic may bring unexpected changes. 

2. City Explorations

Exploring a city center provides a great mix of history, art, and outdoor attractions. Cities like downtown Orlando provide the opportunity to watch a Major League Soccer game or shop at boutique stores and enjoy eateries in trendy neighborhoods such as Winter Park.

3. Villas, Houses, Condos

Consider vacationing in a space where you can make memories. Condos, houses, and villas provide families with more space than multiple hotel rooms along with home-like living areas and kitchens.

4. National Parks and Nearby Towns 

To eliminate the hassle of planning, driving, and possibly arguing over what to do next, consider booking family packages. Some of the most scenic national parks in central Florida include Wekiwa Springs State Park and Alafia River State Park. 

5. Bicycling Trips

Book a guided bicycle trip with extended family on Orlando’s many bike trails. 

On guided family trips, the mileage is kid-paced and has one-wheeled bikes that connect to yours.

6. Resort Stays

With multi-generational trips, it can be more relaxing to choose a place where you can stay on site the entire time but have options for every family member and every age.

At The Bear’s Den, we offer an assortment of activities such as golf, spas, a waterpark, fitness, dining, and other safe activities like bike riding, walking, board games, and movie night. Many families prefer to stay at the resort homes of The Bear’s Den while experiencing the amenities and activities of nearby attractions.

Take a Break 

It’s important to know what to expect when going on a multi-generational trip. It’s a good idea to schedule free time to reset and have some space to yourself. Whether that’s playing a round of golf with the guys and sending the girls to the spa. 

Regrouping at the end of the day and sharing stories is a great way to keep all parties happy.

Don’t Overtax the Grandparents

It’s great to have grandma and grandpa around to babysit the grandchildren so mom and dad enjoy a night out.

Even if grandparents insist on babysitting, it’s important to schedule time for them to enjoy their vacation. Whether that means they go out for a meal alone or to catch a movie. 

Practice Social Distancing at all Times

At The Bear’s Den, the health and comfort of our guests is of utmost importance and we are taking necessary precautions to keep everyone safe.

All employees in public areas are required to wear masks and to follow social distancing guidelines.

Adjustments to our Operations

  • Golf Courses & Footgolf: Our team is performing complete wipe downs of golf carts after every use and have disinfectant wipes available on the driving range. One person per golf cart unless from the same household. Players are also responsible for carrying their own bags; staff will not transport guest bags.
  • The Water Park: Lounge chairs will be spaced in accordance with social distancing guidelines and capacity will be limited.
  • Community Pools: Towels are not provided at community pools, only the water park. Hot tubs are currently closed due to CDC guidelines.
  • Fitness Centers: Traditions Fitness Center will remain closed at this time. Sanitizing Wipes are provided to wipe down the equipment before and after guest use.
  • Fitness Classes have been suspended until further notice.
  • The Spa and Salon will remain closed until further notice.
  • The Tennis Centre and Pickleball remain open for play daily.

With more space and entertainment for all ages, The Bear’s Den Resort Orlando remains a great option for larger multi-generational families. Book your next multi-generational trip at Bear’s Den here.

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