TWO-THIRDS OF U.S. travelers think that family and friend reunions bring the most joyful summer vacations, according to a survey from G6 Hospitality’s Motel 6. The survey, conducted by SWNS Media Group, revealed that 57 percent of the respondents plan to attend a family or friend reunion this summer.
The poll conducted May 20 to 26, also found 2,000 adults traveling this summer said that an average respondent has not gathered with extended family in four years. U.S. travelers will journey nearly 80 miles to reunite with their favorite people and places, while about 32 percent will venture more than 100 miles.
More than half of those surveyed believe that reunions will look and feel different this year. The reunion invitee lists include friends (42 percent), significant others (39 percent), neighbors (34 percent) and pets (36 percent).
According to the survey, 55 percent of those attending a family reunion this year look forward to celebrating both old traditions while creating new ones, and 64 percent are interested in becoming more connected to their family traditions.
"There's nothing quite like a big family or friend gathering and the opportunity to connect with the people and places you love," said Rob Palleschi, CEO of Motel 6. "Whether Motel 6 is part of your journey or the destination, you can count on us to provide a clean, comfortable and affordable place to rest your head at night."
In the wake of the survey, Motel 6 has launched a new creative campaign which features a real-life family's reunion in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. The Payne family honors their traditions while preparing family meal favorites ahead of a beach picnic that reconnected 15 family members across three generations, a statement said.
"Cooking together is our family's way to embody the traditional culture of our roots. We celebrate these roots running deep for generations to come, together," said Stephanie Payne, a participant of the family reunion.
In June, Motel 6 celebrated 60 years in business.
