When I’m planning getaways for my group of friends or co-workers (yes, I tend to be the go-to person… I love this stuff!), the first thing I do is figure out what is the goal of the getaway.  By defining this, the getaway can be planned to meet the need, rather than the other way around.  When my old college buddies and I get together I know that we need a large house (6 bedrooms minimum), with enough room for kids, and good spaces for the adults to hang out in when the kids go to bed.  We also require a good kitchen, as we all love to get together and make lots of food!

Our ultimate goal is to catch up, have a central place for hanging out, and a location that is close to parks and other outdoor activities.  Knowing this, I’m always able to find an amazing vacation rental that suits all of our needs.  My recommendations for coming up with your own ‘getaway definition’:

1. Know who is coming – is it professional singles, families with kids, a mix of the two… know you audience.
2. Know the food situation – are their vegetarians, do you plan to cook or go out, alcohol or no alcoho?
3. Know the amenities people want – is a hot tub important, is proximity to the beach or a park important, or is the only thing that matters is that there is good wine, food and hang out areas in the house?
4. Know sleeping situations – Will families want one room together, or, will they want some time apart (maybe a kids only room for sleeping), does everyone want their own bedroom, or are some okay sharing with friends?
5. Entertainment – Does the group want to go out at night, stay in, a nice blend of the two?  Do they want to go on a winery tour, kayaking, golfing, or do some want one thing and others want another?
6. Schedules/Timing – What is the best time of year for your group, are their school schedules to think about, busy times at work that make it impossible for some to getaway?  Have everyone send you their best weekends over a set span of time and see if you can get one to line up.

I hope that the tips above help you plan a great group getaway!  It really is a great opportunity to reconnect with friends and/or family in a relaxing place.  Feel free to ask any questions you my have in the comments section.

So, you have a great idea, you know it will be perfect… you’re just missing a team!  Not to fear, there are great resources out there for people just like you.  There is one I’m highlighting today that has produced a few companies within the weekend.  Check out Startup Weekend where you can find an event taking place in your city.  If you participate, the only real requirements are that you be willing to work hard, and be willing to share your idea with the group.  It’s got an Open Source feel… and a hard working vibe.

So… take your idea, and yourself, and get that product out there!  This is a form of an escape that can really bring you a tangible result.