ANI Sri Lanka - Guest Privileges - Cooking Class - 16-7

How to plan a stress-free multigenerational vacation:

expert tips for a memorable getaway

From organizing an unforgettable family reunion in the Caribbean to celebrating Grandma’s 70th birthday, toasting vow renewals with loved ones on an idyllic sandy beach overlooking Phang Nga Bay near Phuket, or embarking on a last-minute family excursion to the wild and awe-inspiring south coast of Sri Lanka, we can help you plan the perfect multigenerational getaway.

What started as a conversation around the dinner table at the last family gathering can end up dramatically increasing cortisol levels. But it doesn’t have to be this way. Swerve stress by paying attention to these handy tips, guaranteed to make every step of your family holiday seamless, from planning your adventure to the day of departure. We guarantee you a blissful vacation with ÀNI.

1. Choosing a destination

First things first: decide upon your destination. Each of our resorts offers an untouched piece of paradise, equipped with an expert local team. Suitable for all ages, our exclusive-use resorts are the perfect setting for multigenerational vacations in Thailand, Sri Lanka, Anguilla and the Dominican Republic. Our luxury rentals cater beautifully to large family groups or adults-only getaways, but each resort has its own character and charm. Consider travel times and journeys, the logistics involved, and your group’s interests. Would your party prefer surfing and relaxing with Ayurvedic wellness on Sri Lanka’s south coast, exploring a tiny Thai island in Phang Nga Bay, beach-hopping and hiking in Anguilla, or discovering the Dominican Republic’s culture and cuisine?
ANI Dominican Republic - Private Villa Resort - Villa Amber - Pool - Guests Enjoying Pool 9 - 16-7
ÀNI Sri Lanka - Temple visit
ANI Anguilla - Guest Privileges - Little Bay 2 - 16-9

2. Planning AHEAD

Ideally, we recommend planning your multigenerational vacation at least a year ahead, and no fewer than six months in advance. The more time you have, the more relaxed the entire decision-making process will feel. If you’re the one taking charge, set deadlines and boundaries firmly from the start.

However, should the opportunity for a last-minute family vacation arise, our team will be here to assist more than ever. Hand over the organization to us. We can build sample itineraries quickly and refine them with everybody’s preferences over time. Last-minute and spontaneous adventures often result in the best memories shared with loved ones. We can help from the very beginning, assisting you with initial queries and logistical details.
ANI Anguilla - Guest Privileges - Beach BBQ - Relaxation 5

3. Booking flights & ARRANGING trAVEL

Thanks to our Luxury Inclusions, getting to our resorts is blissfully easy. Private transfers to and from our resorts’ national airports are included. Fly into Clayton J. Lloyd International Airport in Anguilla (AXA); Phuket International Airport (HKT) or Krabi International Airport (KBV) in Thailand​; or Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) in Colombo, Sri Lanka. In the Dominican Republic, pick from a choice of airports, including Punta Cana International Airport (PUJ) and Samaná El Catey International Airport (AZS). We will whisk you to our resorts by private boat or luxury vehicle.

For even quicker journeys, we can arrange a private jet from Bangkok to Phuket, followed by a helicopter transfer to ÀNI Thailand, a private seaplane transfer from Colombo straight to ÀNI Sri Lanka, or a private jet from NYC followed by a helicopter ride, flights or a speedboat transfer to ÀNI Dominican Republic and ÀNI Anguilla. Should you wish to arrive in style, we can also arrange luxury yacht charters.

ÀNI guests can use and organize their own private transportation, but we can also assist in arranging every step of the journey, from home pick-ups to the resort and vice versa, thanks to our expert teams and hand-picked partners. We can organize private jet, helicopter and yacht charters. We will also advise on all visa and travel requirements.
ANI Thailand - Round Trip Transfers and VIP Arrival
ANI Sri Lanka - Guest Privileges - Yachting
ANI Sri Lanka - Private Luxury Villa Resort - Seaplane Transfer Flight 16-9

4. Organizing INSPIRING activities

Keeping everyone entertained (without overdoing it) is one of the stumbling blocks for many group holidays, especially family vacations. They don’t want to get bored, they don’t want to be dragged, they don’t want to be pushed, they don’t want to do this “again”… ÀNI caters for all tastes and expectations, and adds a signature touch of “je ne sais quoi” to each experience to make it memorable, inspiring and, above all, meaningful.

Our resorts’ brilliant Activities Coordinators will curate a personalized itinerary for your trip, with an array of activities for all ages, from toddlers, children and teens to parents and grandparents, too. This year, to inspire the perfect summer vacation, we are including a host of inspiring, instructive and complimentary local activities at each resort, from playing dominoes with the locals in Anguilla to learning Spanish in the Dominican Republic, taking jet-skiing lessons in Thailand and surfing lessons in Sri Lanka.

Our Luxury Inclusions at each resort encompass everything from daily spa treatments to watersports, cookery classes, tennis lessons, cultural experiences related to each destination, local adventures and more. Complimentary babysitting and childcare can also be arranged so that adults can take a break, perhaps enjoying poolside cocktails or an ÀNI massage.
ANI Thailand - Krabi Elephant Shelter
Cycling tours around the island - Team Building Retreats
ANI Sri Lanka - Private Luxury Villa Resort - Galle Fort
Private Charter Snorkelling and Longtail trips

5. Balancing group time and individual time

When holidaying with a three-generation family or a big group of friends, choice is key. Combine quality family time with the option to break away and be independent, too. Our resorts are large enough to offer plenty of space for everyone, from relaxed alfresco dining and living areas to private stretches of sand, elegant villas, spectacular pools and informal lounging spaces. There’s room for everyone to do whatever they want, whether that’s lounging at the beach, learning to kite surf with a local instructor, hiking, hitting the spa, or exploring nearby hotspots such as Phuket in Thailand, Galle in Sri Lanka, St. Barths and St. Martin near Anguilla, or Puerto Plata in the Dominican Republic.

With our spirit of “togetherness” in mind, we ensure that our activities and experiences are adapted to suit all levels and ages, so everyone is included. Our expert instructors, including former sports celebrities, bring the latest techniques and best coaching methods directly to our guests. Everyone can enjoy an unforgettable, authentic and inspiring experience, both individually and as part of a group.
ANI Sri Lanka - Private Luxury Villa Resort - Private Pool - 16-9
ANI Dominican Republic - Guest Privileges - Sunset Cruise 6 - 16-9
ANI Anguilla - Guest Privileges - Wellness - Massage 3

6. FAMILY-STYLE dining FOR ALL TASTES

One of the brilliant things about a multigenerational vacation with ÀNI is the wealth of gourmet dining options included within our rates. All meals and drinks are covered, with an array of global cuisines offered by our expert private chefs, alongside varied children’s menus.

Enjoy a beach barbecue with local dishes one night, followed by Mexican cuisine for lunch, Thai or Japanese food for dinner, French pastries and gelato as sweet treats, and the option to enjoy curry nights, tapas, burgers and whatever else you crave.

We offer vegan and vegetarian menus and can accommodate any dietary requirements, including celiac and other allergies. Healthy options include Ayurvedic menus in Sri Lanka. We excel at Kosher cuisine (including Passover, Sukkot or Hanukkah) and halal menus for Eid celebrations. We prepare our kitchens rigorously and work with certified Mashgichot and halal experts.

If you’re bringing furry friends, they will appreciate our vet-approved pet menus, customized to suit the age, size, breed and health requirements of your beloved pooch.
ANI Sri Lanka - Ayurvedic Lunch
ANI Dominican Republic - Guest Privileges - Beach BBQ Lunch Table - Guests Arriving 3
ANI Private Luxury Villa Resorts - Private Chef - Freshly Caught Red Snapper
ANI Anguilla - Dining - Event Pavilion Dinner 4 2

7. Planning special celebrations and milestone events

Certain milestones – from significant birthdays and graduations to engagements, and anniversaries – deserve celebration. Drawing on the power of ‘togetherness’, ÀNI’s entire philosophy and reason for being centers around providing the space and time for marking these meaningful moments with family and friends.
 
During your stay, let us tailor multiple events – from special meals to bespoke excursions – to honor your personal milestone, ensuring that everything from décor and menus to entertainment is fine-tuned to perfection. Our experienced planners and concierge team will handle every detail – be it lanterns, fireworks, cakes, and live music for a multigenerational Golden Anniversary jubilee, or sunset yacht cruises, cycling tours, and cultural experiences on an adults-only hen or bachelor getaway – for a unique and unforgettable series of celebrations. Our resorts are the perfect settings for elopements, weddings and vow renewals.
ANI Dominican Republic - Guest Privileges - Sunset Drinks 2
ANI Anguilla - Private Luxury Villa Resort - Weddings & Elopements - 16-9
ANI Anguilla - Guest Privileges - Evening Drinks Turtle Deck 2 - 16-9

8. Capturing special moments

We can arrange an on-resort photographer to capture some of your favorite moments with ÀNI, from impromptu holiday fun to posed group shots. Commemorate a special birthday, family celebration or milestone anniversary with a professional photo shoot, the perfect gift for a loved one or a special memento for everyone to treasure from the trip. Another idea for special souvenirs or gifts is an artwork from our local ÀNI Art Academies. Find out more about commissioning an artwork from our students and graduates.
ANI Dominican Republic - Guest Privileges - Laguna Gri Gri Cruise with guests & camera

9. Create time for downtime

This is especially important if you are the group organizer. Book in an extra massage or beauty treatment to unwind, or spend added time in nature, perhaps strolling along one of our beaches or taking a nature walk alone or with a guide. You could even book an extra day at our private luxury villas all to yourself, at the beginning or the end of the trip, so as to enjoy some well-deserved downtime.
ANI Dominican Republic - Private Luxury Villa Resort - Wellness Relaxation

10. If in doubt, call upon ÀNI…

Our team is here to help. We are expert group vacation planners and will happily arrange every detail of your trip. Please get in touch if you have any questions or wish to book.
Contact Us
ANI Sri Lanka - Private Luxury Villa Resort - Beach Walk

YOUR QUESTIONS ABOUT BIG FAMILy STAYS & CHILDREN AT ÀNI Private Resorts (FAQ)

We have gathered below a few answers to the main questions we receive. However, should you prefer to ask our team of Destination Specialists, they will be delighted get back to you directly and at your convenience.

How to avoid hidden costs when organizing a large group trip with family and friends?

ÀNI ThailandÀNI Sri LankaÀNI Dominican Republic and ÀNI Anguilla all operate on a luxury all-inclusive basis, so you can practically leave your wallet at home if you wish. Gourmet meals, drinks, snacks and bespoke adventures, including watersports, are included. In every ÀNI destination, a full complement of staff (between 20 and 30 per resort) tailors every detail – from dining and spa treatments to kids’ activities and exploration of the region – to ensure a bespoke experience that defies expectations.

Are ANI’s luxury villa rentals suitable for all members of the family?

Absolutely, and our teams will craft an itinerary featuring activities suitable for all age groups at each of our luxury villa rentals. Complimentary childcare is included for little ones, and we arrange an array of bespoke experiences to entertain kids and teens, as well as multigenerational adventures, so that grandparents can spend precious time with their children and grandchildren. Our private-villa resorts have been designed with accessibility front of mind, including step-free access and bedrooms and communal areas that are accessible for wheelchair-users.