Fly My Group

Connecting your group to the world.

We book and manage domestic and international group airfare with access to private fare contracts:

Student Fares

Humanitarian

Human- itarian

Consolidator Fares

Consolidator

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Why Partner with Fly My Group?

Are you tired of missing out on insider deals and spending countless hours working with the airline’s general group desks? Fly My Group is the solution! Partner with us and experience the difference today.

Lowest prices for group flights

Not only does Fly My Group search multiple airline carriers for the best itinerary for your group our team seeks out the lowest possible price. Fly My Group search process uses team member expertise along with negotiated private fare contracts and in-house software tools to search the market for the lowest group fare with the right group itinerary.

Never miss out on the deal

With access to all the products on the market when you book your group air contracts with Fly My Group you will never miss out on the best option for your group. Fly My Group has over 40 carriers around the world under contract. This gives our clients access to the lowest prices globally. Do you have a group on a cruise? We can check our Cruise Fares. Do you have an international group traveling to Europe or South Africa? Let us check private contracted fares to get your group the best rate and right itinerary. No more missing out.

Buying power and top account status

Every day Fly My Group is buying airline seats for groups to destinations around the globe. Flying groups is our business and we do a lot of it; therefore we have buying power when searching fares and itineraries for your group. When we talk to the major airlines group departments, we speak with the Platinum Desks (top account status), giving us the ability to get what you need fast.

More options

More options means more options. Fly My Group has access to all the best airline products on the market today. Some of these products include; Consolidator Fares, Private Fares, Student Fares, Cruise Fares, Humanitarian & Missionary Fares.

Best group specialists

Fly My Group teams with the best Airline Group Agents in the world. Agents at Fly My Group partner with each client they serve and many of them have over 25 years experience booking airline seats for groups and individuals.

Whether you are a tour operator or an individual planning a group trip Fly My Group will save you time. When you call Fly My Group you get access to all the major airline carriers and all the products on the market, with one call.

Simple is good, right? Fly My Group is built on this motto. 1 phone call or 1 email is all that's needed.

Experience the Fly My Group difference!

Frequently asked questions, how many travelers do i need to be a group, i have less than 10 travelers in my group, can fly my group still book my airfare, how do i get a group airfare price quote.

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Does Fly My Group have access to private fare contracts?

Does fly my group re-check our group airfare contract for better fares and itineraries after booking, what are private contract fares, what are student fares, what are cruise fares, what are humanitarian or missionary fares, can i deviate from my groups flight itinerary, can i accrue frequent flyer miles on a group contract, does fly my group charge a ticketing fee, request an account.

Student & Youth Travel Association

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Welcome to Flight Centre Travel Group

Our Purpose: To open up the world for those who want to see

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We're one of the world’s largest travel retailers and corporate travel managers

The Flight Centre Travel Group (FCTG) is headquartered in Brisbane (Australia) and has company-owned leisure and corporate travel business in 24 countries, spanning Australia, New Zealand, the Americas, Europe, the United Kingdom, South Africa, the United Arab Emirates and Asia.

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FCTG operates under multiple names in Australia, New Zealand, United States, Canada, United Kingdom, South Africa, India, Asia, United Arab Emirates, and Mexico, and licenses its name in a further 90 countries. In addition to the iconic Flight Centre Brand, it also operates businesses including Aunt Betty, Corporate Traveller, FCM, Stage & Screen and Travel Associates.

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Career Potential

Working for FCTG is the ultimate journey to success. We offer a supportive, fun and diverse family-like atmosphere with genuine opportunities for growth and development. Our strong connections with the world make it easy to embrace new experiences, seize all opportunities and ultimately work towards finding your Brightness of Future.

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Corporate Directory

The Board of Directors and Corporate Leadership team are responsible for setting and implementing the strategic direction for the company. Meet our Board of Directors and the FCTG Global Executive Leadership team known as Taskforce.

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Stay up to date with our ASX announcements, annual reports, governance policies, dividends and more through our Investor Centre.

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FCTG consists of more than 30 brands globally with businesses spanning leisure and corporate travel management, technology, education, events and more.

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FCTG contracts thousands of suppliers across all sectors of travel including air, land, cruise and niche wholesale markets globally. If you’re interested in partnering with us, reach out to the team at [email protected]

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Sustainability at FCTG

Preserving and enriching a world worth seeing. Our purpose is to open up the world for those who want to see and as one of the world’s largest travel retailers and corporate travel managers, we recognise our responsibility to preserve the places we love while enriching our people, destinations and communities.

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Reconciliation

Flight Centre Travel Group is an Australian-born company dedicated to diversity and inclusion. Our Global HQ is on Yuggera Country. Our role, is to ensure we do our part to respect the sacred nature of these lands, educate our people and customers, and continue to walk alongside the Traditional Custodians of the Lands. Artwork by Tarryn Anno.

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Flight Centre Foundation

The Flight Centre Foundation exists to build brighter futures for the communities where we work, live and travel. Powered entirely by the giving nature of our people we support charities whose philosophies align with ours.

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Global Locations

When we say we’re global, we mean it. Whether your travel needs originate in Australia or you’re looking for retail or corporate travel services across the world, we have you covered. With representation in most major travel hubs and an extensive network covering more than 90 countries, we’re there when you need us.

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Our timeline charts pivotal moments in our company’s history. Moments that have defined both us and the travel industry. We are not an overnight success story. Our success happened over many years of persistence and hard work by a lot of people. We are privileged to have had each and every one of them choose to walk through our doors.

Stay up to date with our latest news

Flight centre travel group unveils new global independent brand envoyage.

Flight Centre Travel Group's Independent division is entering an exciting new era as it prepares to introduce a prestigious principal brand, Envoyage, to the market. The brand will provide a true heart and home for independent travel agents and agencies with a polished new visual identity that reflects the Group's experienced global community, industry leading technology and comprehensive product marketplace.

FCTG Launches big move to make big waves

Flight Centre Travel Group (FCTG) today announced strategic plans to grow market share in the cruise sector by bringing back its cruise brand, Cruiseabout, and reestablishing a dedicated wholesale cruise division.

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MyTravel agrees merger with Thomas Cook

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By Sarah Spikes and Roger Blitz

Roula Khalaf, Editor of the FT, selects her favourite stories in this weekly newsletter.

MyTravel, the £1.1bn UK holiday company, and Thomas Cook, its privately-owned Germany-based rival, on Monday agreed a merger of equals that would create a global powerhouse of tour operators.

The recommended merger will see the parent of the new group called Thomas Cook whicch will have its headquarters in the UK and listed in London.

Confirmation of the merger, which will result in Thomas Cook owning 52 per cent of the capital and MyTravel with the remainder, with shares in the UK-listed group up more than 30 per cent at the open of trade in London to 310p.

The merger promises to hasten consolidation in the highly competitive tour operating industry. It will also have a huge impact on the auction of the holiday business of First Choice, a UK competitor that has been in talks with both MyTravel and Thomas Cook.

First Choice is selling its package holiday unit because of a shift into specialist and adventure holidays, as margins for traditional providers have suffered under increasing competition, in part from no-frills airlines.

MyTravel, formerly known as Airtours, has been interested in a purchase or merger for some time. It had approached First Choice at least once before the current talks about First Choice’s package holiday business.

There was speculation that the combined MyTravel and Thomas Cook would have the potential to reap such large cost savings that it would be able to make a knock-out offer for the First Choice package holiday unit.

MyTravel confirmed in November that it was in talks with First Choice about the package holiday business and “certain related operations”. MyTravel said at the time that any offer for First Choice’s package holiday unit would be financed through a mixture of new debt and equity.

MyTravel’s shares closed up 1p at 238p on Friday, for a market capitalisation of £1.1bn. MyTravel was advised by Credit Suisse and UBS, while Thomas Cook was advised by Citigroup.

Last December, MyTravel reported its first annual profit since 2001 but warned that conditions for the industry remained challenging and added that cost cuts were largely behind the move into the black. The company made pre-tax profit of £43.8m in the year ended in October 31, compared with a £17.4m loss in 2005.

At the time of the results, Peter McHugh, chief executive, also made it clear that MyTravel might seek other strategic acquisitions in 2007. “The possible acquisition of First Choice’s Mainstream business and certain related operations is one of a number of opportunities we are evaluating,” he said.

Thomas Cook, founded in 1841 and now employing 20,000 people, this month recorded pre-tax profits of €205m (£137m), on a turnover of €7.8bn for 2005-06. The number of passengers its carried grew 3 per cent last year to 13.6m. Gross credit loans stand at €753m.

KarstadtQuelle, the German retailer, took full control of Thomas Cook in December.

Karstadt paid Lufthansa, the German airline, $1bn for its half-share in Europe’s second-largest travel group and charter airline Condor.

The long-flagged move was vital for the department store and mail-order group, which has struggled to get back on its feet after almost going bankrupt two years ago.

At the time, Thomas Middelhoff, Karstadt chief executive, said the move would allow Thomas Cook to take part in the “consolidation of the European travel market”, while developing the internet for distribution.

Credit Suisse and UBS advised MyTravel, while Citigroup an Goldman Sachs advised Thomas Cook.

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  • Senior Travel

14 Best Senior-friendly Travel Groups

These senior-friendly travel companies offer tours and travel experiences as diverse as their clients.

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The benefits of travel, whether it's a refreshing weekend getaway or a month-long trip to a new destination, are undeniable. And for retirees and seniors who have time and a travel budget, the opportunities are nearly endless — their own city, state, country, and even the whole world are all waiting to be explored.

It should be recognized that seniors are as diverse as any other generation, perhaps even more so as their years of experience have taken them in many directions. While their interests, abilities, values, and habits may vary, it can safely be said that for many, travel is in their plans.

Seniors travel to visit family, learn about the countries of their ancestors , or explore new destinations. Many seek immersive experiences, educational opportunities, or adventure. And travel companies are responding to their needs and wishes by offering tour options ranging from independent to fully guided, budget to luxury, and group to individual. The 14 organizations listed below are either aimed specifically at mature clients or feature experiences that are flexible enough to accommodate a variety of travelers.

Walking the World

Operating out of Grand Junction, Colorado, Walking the World offers walking and hiking tours mainly for travelers over the age of 50 who want to be immersed in the destinations they choose. Experienced hikers will enjoy its Rocky Mountain National Park tour , for example, with treks of up to 10 miles on some days during the eight-day itinerary. Meanwhile, the Ireland trip covers 11 days of exploring fishing villages, rolling green hills, the stunning Cliffs of Moher, the Dingle Peninsula, and Killarney National Park. Daily walks range from four to eight miles and are described as gentle to moderate.

Road Scholar

Originally launched as Elderhostel in 1975, the company rebranded in 2010 as Road Scholar , recognizing the values and interests of lifelong learners who have participated in their lectures, tours, field trips, and educational experiences over the years. Participants are typically over the age of 50 and ready to learn from travel or focus on a specific interest. Trip themes such as grandparent adventures (special types of trips you can take with your grandchild), cruises, urban exploration, art and history, historical sites, and academic topics can be browsed by destination, activity level, and interest to help clients select their ideal tour experience.

Adventures Abroad

While Adventures Abroad largely caters to travelers over 50, tours are open to adults of all ages, and operate on every continent except for Antarctica. The company's "soft adventure" trips, which concentrate on the culture and history of a destination, don't include strenuous activities, though a reasonable degree of fitness and the ability to walk are required. Trips are rated from one to three based on physical activity, with the first level featuring only leisurely walks and level two meaning more time on your feet each day. Level-three trips might include walks or hikes on uneven ground for three to seven hours, though at a leisurely pace. Specific trips are suggested for each activity level for easy planning.

An adventure travel company designed for people ages 50 and over, ElderTreks offers small-group adventures — think wildlife safaris, hiking trips, cultural journeys, and other unique expeditions — in more than 100 countries. The tours are rated by activity level, ranging from one to five. At level one, travelers should be able to walk for one to two hours, whereas at level five, they'll need to be capable of hiking for eight to 10 hours.

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Senior Cycling

Specializing in bicycle tours for active adults ages 50 and up, Senior Cycling limits groups to a maximum of 13 participants. And they are always accompanied by the "sag wagon" in case someone needs a break from riding. Trips are rated at two levels: intermediate (for the occasional rider who prefers bike paths and flat terrain for 20–40 miles per day) and advanced (for those who are at ease with up to 50 miles per day, hills, and traffic). Custom tours can also be arranged for families or groups of friends.

Firebird Tours

With a focus on clients ages 50 and over, Firebird Tours offers small group trips to destinations in Europe, Asia, and the Middle East that deliver value, comfort, and quality. Themes for guided tours include gastronomy, history, architecture, and the Northern Lights , as well as theater and opera. Private family tours are also available, with destinations and activities suitable for a wider age range depending on the group.

Seniors interested in active vacations should check out Backroads , based out of Berkeley, California. While tours are open to all ages, the majority of participants tend to be over 50. Guided biking, walking, and hiking tours to a variety of destinations are geared toward adults, but also include options for families traveling with "teens and kids," "older teens and 20s," and those in their "20s and beyond." The company's Dolce Tempo tours offer a more relaxed pace, and include trips such as the Easygoing E-bike Tour in California wine country and the Easygoing Multi-adventure Tour in New Zealand.

Overseas Adventure Travel

With a variety of trips available to destinations on every continent, Overseas Adventure Travel makes a great choice if you're interested in seeing the world via small-ship cruises. In addition to guided land tours for groups of eight to 16, OAT offers sailings through the Norwegian Fjords, along West Africa's coast, and throughout the Mediterranean and Adriatic Seas. Mature travelers are often attracted to the flexibility of the trips and the ability to personalize activities. Recognizing that many of their customers travel alone — including a whopping 85 percent of their female clients — the company has created its getaways with solo travelers in mind, whether they're first-timers or experienced adventurers.

EF Go Ahead Tours

Operating out of Cambridge, Massachusetts, EF Go Ahead Tours offers a selection of small group tours for 10 to 22 guests. The senior-friendly trips focus on interests such as food and wine, adventure, and safaris, as well as specific destinations and seasonal events (think Oktoberfest in Germany, annual holiday markets in Europe, or St. Patrick's Day in Ireland). Traveling alone? The company's solo tours provide private rooms and personalized experiences especially geared toward those traveling by themselves. Clients can also gather their own group and take advantage of the services of EF's professional coordinators.

Kensington Tours

If you're looking to create a fully customized, privately guided trip based on your group's specific needs and travel preferences, look no further than Kensington Tours . Their expertise in more than 100 destinations worldwide makes planning easy, whether the goal is a culturally immersive experience, enjoying fine wine and dining, discovering the history of a place, or relaxation. While these arrangements are ideal for mature travelers who appreciate ease and luxury, the company also provides experiences for multigenerational travel in countries like Thailand, Japan, Iceland, and South Africa, featuring kid-friendly trips that come with private vehicles, local guides, and dining options fit for the whole family.

Intrepid Travel

A leading adventure tour operator known for its efforts to make travel accessible to all, Intrepid Travel offers a good mix of bespoke and ready-made itinerary options that can be adapted to suit your group's comfort level. Intrepid's Accessible Tours are especially inclusive, with trips that are designed for every type of traveler. Whichever trip you decide to book, you'll have access to local destination specialists to help you choose the perfect places to stay as well as organize transportation, activities, and guided tours, depending on your needs. The company's Walking & Trekking trips, suitable for a range of fitness levels, are especially popular with seniors, though adults of all ages are free to join in.

YMT Vacations

In business since 1967, YMT Vacations designs all-inclusive trips with mature travelers in mind. Prices cover hotel accommodations, guided sightseeing tours, baggage handling, and the expertise of tour directors and driver guides. Destinations include Hawaii, Alaska, Europe, North America, Central and South America, Africa, Asia, Australia, and New Zealand, among others, and the company arranges travel for popular events such as the Rose Parade in California. A number of river cruise and transatlantic sailing options are also available.

Grand European Travel

Grand European Travel is an AARP-preferred travel provider (check the website for members-only discounts) that promotes itself as a one-stop shop to help clients plan their desired travel experiences. The company represents a collection of 30 travel brands — including the likes of Trafalgar and Insight Tours — which, altogether, cover seven continents. Offerings range from budget to luxury getaways, and everything from cruises to land tours. Thinking of taking a multigenerational trip? Browse the company's family experiences section, stocked with tours fit for all ages, whether you're into all-inclusive European river cruises or exploring U.S. national parks.

Country Walkers

Country Walkers aims to introduce travelers to new landscapes and cultures around the world by traveling on foot. Established in 1979, the Vermont-based operator offers walking tours in Europe, Asia, Africa, North America, and South America. Tour types include guided (in a small group of up to 18) and self-guided (in a private group of up to 12), providing a great option for independent exploration. Travelers can choose from five levels, starting at "easy walking," which includes a daily distance of two to six miles for up to four hours per day. "Moderate walking," the mid-range option, suggests four to 10 miles and up to six hours of walking per day. Trips at the "challenging walking" level might go up to seven hours a day on foot, covering anywhere from six to 14 miles. Guests of all ages should be able to find a destination and tour that's best suited for their interests and fitness level.

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Frequently Asked Questions About the Family Reunification Parole Processes

Q1. How will USCIS decide who is invited to participate in the family reunification parole processes? We will base our decision on multiple discretionary factors, including the number of requests we can process efficiently and how long a beneficiary may need to wait before an immigrant visa becomes available to them. Invitations will be sent to petitioners on a rolling basis.

Q2. Who is eligible for consideration for parole under the family reunification parole processes? To be eligible for the family reunification parole process:

  • You must be a principal beneficiary of an approved Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative;
  • You must be a national of Colombia, Cuba, Ecuador, El Salvador, Guatemala, Haiti, or Honduras or the immediate family member of a national of one of these countries; and
  • Your Form I-130 petitioner must have received an invitation  to participate in these processes.

Invitations will identify the principal beneficiary and their immediate family members (derivative beneficiaries). This process allows U.S. citizen and lawful permanent resident petitioners to initiate a process for their eligible beneficiaries to be considered for parole into the United States while they wait for their family-based immigrant visas to become available. For more information, see the Eligibility section of the  Family Reunification Parole Processes  webpage.

Q3. How long is the period of parole under the family reunification parole processes? Noncitizens granted parole under these processes will generally be paroled into the United States for a period of up to 3 years, if they meet medical and vetting requirements.

Q4. What will happen to Cuban Family Reunification Parole (CFRP) cases that were filed using Form I-131 before Aug. 11, 2023, and are now pending processing and interview at the U.S. Embassy in Cuba? USCIS has mailed a notice to petitioners who have a CFRP case pending a beneficiary’s interview in Havana, under a previously submitted  Form I-131, Application for Travel Document . The notice that was mailed to petitioners explains how the CFRP case may proceed and provides important information about updating addresses with USCIS.

If you are a petitioner who previously filed Form I-131 for a beneficiary under CFRP, refer to information on the  Cuban Family Reunification Parole  page for more information.

Q5. How are invitations being issued? The Department of State’s National Visa Center (NVC) will email invitations to petitioners at their email address of record for the approved Form I-130. If there is no email address of record, the NVC will mail the invitation to the petitioner’s mailing address of record. If you are a petitioner, please make sure the NVC has your current contact information and mailing address. To update your contact information or address, contact the NVC through their Public Inquiry Form .

Invitations will be issued on a rolling basis, based on U.S. government operational capacity, the expected period of time until the principal beneficiary’s immigrant visa becomes available, and in a manner calibrated to best achieve the policy aims of this process. You can use our Invitation Search  tool to check whether an invitation was sent to you.

Q6. How can attorneys fill out Form I-134A for their clients who would like to request to be a supporter and initiate the family reunification parole process on behalf of a beneficiary? There is no option at this time for an attorney or accredited representative to use an online representative account to file a Form I-134A on behalf of a petitioner or submit travel authorization information on behalf of a beneficiary.

Q7. I am an attorney assisting a supporter with Form I-134A. If the petitioner fills out the preparer declaration on the form, can I get information about the petitioner or beneficiary? No. The preparer declaration simply reflects that you helped an individual complete the form. If you are an attorney or accredited representative, you must submit Form G-28, Notice of Entry of Appearance as Attorney or Accredited Representative, to USCIS if you wish to receive information about your client’s (the petitioner’s) Form I-134A. We do not currently allow representatives to complete Form I-134A online on behalf of a petitioner using a representative account. However, a representative who has submitted a valid Form G-28 to USCIS separately through a representative account may inquire about their client’s case by contacting the  USCIS Contact Center.

Q8. Can I file Form I-134A by mail? No. You can only file Form I-134A online using a myUSCIS online account .

Q9. Can I submit Form I-134A on behalf of my family member if I live outside the United States? No. The family reunification parole processes are available  by invitation only  to petitioners of approved Form I-130 who have an address that is inside the United States. At this time, invitations will not be sent to petitioners with addresses outside the United States.

Q10. Is there a cost to file Form I-134A? No. There is no fee to file Form I-134A. Neither the petitioner nor the beneficiary needs to pay a fee to file the Form I-134A, obtain a travel authorization, or be considered for parole. After a Form I-134A is confirmed, beneficiaries will need to pay any fees required by their panel physician to complete the required medical examination. Beware of any scams or potential exploitation by anyone who asks for money associated with participation in these family reunification parole processes.

Q11. I want to submit Form I-134A on behalf of a family of 4. Can I file 1 Form I-134A for the entire family? No. You must file a separate Form I-134A for each beneficiary, including minor children. For example, in the case of a family of 4, you must file 4 separate Forms I-134A.

Q12. Can I use a co-supporter if I cannot establish that I can financially support the beneficiary? Yes. If you cannot establish that you can financially support the beneficiary, you may use co-supporters, who do not need to be a family member. If you are filing Form I-134A with a co-supporter, any co-supporter is subject to the same financial evidentiary requirements as the primary Form I-134A filer. You should submit their financial evidence, such as bank statements, a letter from an employer, and income tax returns. A co-supporter will not file their own Form I-134A, but they do have to demonstrate their ability to support the beneficiary for the duration of the parole period through the evidence that you upload on their behalf. In this case, the petitioner will file a Form I-134A and include supplementary evidence demonstrating the identity of, and resources to be provided by, the co-supporter. You should also attach a statement explaining the intent to share responsibility to support the beneficiary.

If you have 1 or more co-supporters you (and not the co-supporter) must:

  • File and electronically sign Form I-134A (a Form I-134A that is electronically signed by someone other than the Form I-130 petitioner will not be confirmed)
  • Include supplementary evidence demonstrating the identity of, and resources to be provided by, any co-supporters; and
  • Attach a statement explaining that you and any co-supporters intend to share responsibility to support the beneficiary. We will assess the collective ability to support a beneficiary based on the information and evidence you provide.

Q13. Can I agree to support more than 1 beneficiary? Yes. If you received an invitation, you may submit a Form I-134A for the principal beneficiary and a separate Form I-134A for each derivative beneficiary. There is no limit on how many beneficiaries you may agree to support by filing Form I-134A, but we will determine whether you have the financial ability to support all beneficiaries you have agreed to support for the duration of their parole period, which is up to 3 years. Each Form I-134A must be submitted using the petitioner’s same myUSCIS online account. You may also have co-supporters join you to support some or all the beneficiaries.

Q14. What if a derivative beneficiary was not included on the approved Form I-130? Can I submit a Form I-134A on their behalf as a derivative beneficiary? If a principal beneficiary married or had a child after we approved the Form I-130 filed on their behalf, you may also file Form I-134A to request to be a supporter and initiate the family reunification parole process for the principal beneficiary’s spouse or child under age 21 (often referred to as add-on derivatives). Certain circumstances may affect eligibility. Please see the “Eligibility” section of the  Family Reunification Parole Processes  webpage for more information.

The invitation you receive instructing that you may file Form I-134A will not list the add-on derivatives because they were not listed on the Form I-130 that you filed on behalf of the principal beneficiary and we approved. However, you may still file Form I-134A requesting to be a supporter and initiate the family reunification parole process for the add-on derivatives of the principal beneficiary. As with a derivative beneficiary who was listed on the Form I-130, you must submit evidence, such as a birth certificate or marriage certificate, as part of the Form I-134A to verify the family relationship  between the principal beneficiary and the add-on derivative beneficiary  you are requesting to support. Without evidence of the family relationship between the principal beneficiary and their derivative beneficiaries, the derivative beneficiaries will not be able to proceed through this process. The Form I-134A explains how to upload this evidence. The evidence for both derivative and add-on derivative beneficiaries is uploaded the same way. You must include a full English translation and translator’s certification with any evidence submitted in a language other than English.

Q15. Is there a specific income requirement for Form I-134A under the family reunification parole processes? No. Each potential supporter’s circumstances are unique, and we review financial information provided on Form I-134A about all assets and resources. We use the  Federal Poverty Guidelines , as outlined by the Department of Health and Human Services, as a general guide in determining the ability of the petitioner (and co-supporters, if applicable) to support the beneficiary for the duration of the beneficiary’s anticipated period of parole. When we use the Federal Poverty Guidelines, we consider a petitioner’s and co-supporter’s household size to include the beneficiary listed on the Form I-134A, even if the beneficiary does not intend to live with the petitioner or co-supporter.

Q16. What type of financial proof must I provide? Do I need to provide my tax filings, proof of employment, and bank statement, or can I submit only 1 of these documents? Petitioners should determine what financial information they have about their assets that will help us determine their financial suitability. Some examples of financial evidence may include your federal income tax filing; bank statements; Form W-2, Wage and Tax Statement, from your employer; pay stubs or pay statements from the past few months; and any proof of income coming into your household.

Q17. Will the named beneficiary on my Form I-134A be able to see my financial information, including the evidence that I provide? No. Beneficiaries do not have access to the financial information you submitted to USCIS as proof of your income and assets or any co-supporter’s income and assets.

Q18. Does USCIS consider the beneficiary’s income and financial resources in determining whether their Form I-134A is sufficient? No. When we are determining whether a Form I-134A is sufficient, we do not consider information about the beneficiary’s income or financial resources.

Q19. If I am already in the United States, can I be a beneficiary under these processes? No. To be eligible under a family reunification parole process, a beneficiary must be outside the United States.

Q20. Can I be a beneficiary under these processes if I am residing outside my country of citizenship (Colombia, Cuba, Ecuador, El Salvador, Guatemala, Haiti, or Honduras)? Yes. A beneficiary is not eligible for this process if they are in the United States, but they do not have to be residing in their country of citizenship to be considered for parole under family reunification parole. Immediate family members (derivative beneficiaries and add-on derivative beneficiaries) of the principal beneficiary may be considered for parole under these processes even if they are not a national of Colombia, Cuba, Ecuador, El Salvador, Guatemala, Haiti, or Honduras, as long as the principal beneficiary is a national of 1 of those countries.

Q21. Can I be a beneficiary under these processes if I am dual national of a country that DHS does not have a family reunification parole process for? Yes. A principal beneficiary who is a dual national (of countries other than the United States) may be considered for parole under these processes if 1 country they are a national of is Colombia, Cuba, Ecuador, El Salvador, Guatemala, Haiti, or Honduras.

Q22. Does each family member need their own individual myUSCIS online account, including children under the age of 18? No. A separate myUSCIS online account is not necessary for a beneficiary to receive authorization to travel to the United States under the parole processes. Principal beneficiaries can add travel group members to their myUSCIS online account, including their spouses and children under the age of 18, as long as each beneficiary has a confirmed Form I-134A.

For example, after we confirm a Form I-134A for a child and a separate Form I-134A for that child’s parent, the parent, as the principal beneficiary, can add the child to their own travel group through their myUSCIS online account. The principal beneficiary will review and confirm biographic information and complete attestations for travel group members, including the principal beneficiary’s spouse and children. However, once the principal beneficiary completes and submits the attestations for all travel group members including themselves, the principal beneficiary cannot add any other travel group members unless the travel group members are under the age of 18 years old.

Q23. My passport is expired. Do I need to request an extension, or will my expired passport be accepted? All beneficiaries intending to travel to the United States under a family reunification parole process must have a valid, unexpired passport, or a certified extension of the passport validity. If the beneficiary’s government has extended the validity of their passport, the passport expiration date should be the expiration date of the extension. CBP will not authorize travel if a passport or certified extension has expired.

Q24. Can children travel under the passport of their parents? No. Minor children traveling with their parent must have their own passport and may not be included on a parent’s passport.

Q25. Can children under the age of 18 years be paroled into the United States without their parent or legal guardian under these processes? No. Children who are under the age of 18 will only be considered for parole under this process if they are traveling to the United States with and in the care and custody of their parent or legal guardian.

Parents or legal guardians traveling with a child under the age of 18 should be prepared to provide documentation of their relationship to the child to CBP when they arrive in the United States. Evidence of a parental relationship may include a birth certificate for the child that lists the parent’s name and identity documents for the parent or legal guardian. If this documentation is not available, for the protection and welfare of the child, U.S. law may require that the child be placed in the custody of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS).

Generally, evidence of legal guardianship requires that a legal or administrative process involving the courts or other recognized government entity take place. A power of attorney, written statement, or notarized statement is not a formally recognized arrangement and will not be considered sufficient proof of legal guardianship.

Q26. If I am a beneficiary, do I have to live with my petitioner after I am paroled into the United States? No. Beneficiaries are not required to live with the petitioner who submitted the Form I-134A. However, the petitioner is responsible for providing support beneficiaries may need in addition to financial support for the duration of their parole period, including safe and appropriate housing, health care, transportation, obtaining initial basic necessities, assistance with submitting forms such as the employment authorization application, learning English, securing employment, and enrolling children in school.

Q27. How long will it take between the time a petitioner submits Form I-134A and when a beneficiary is granted travel authorization? Processing times will vary. USCIS and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) are committed to reviewing and processing cases as thoroughly and expeditiously as possible.

During the process, several steps must be completed and will depend on action taken by petitioners and beneficiaries. In the initial part of the process, we will review and provide responses to the petitioner’s Form I-134A as quickly as possible. After we confirm the Form I-134A, we will email the beneficiary with instructions to create a myUSCIS online account and complete the attestation process and required medical examination by a panel physician. In the online account, beneficiaries review their biographic information and complete the necessary attestations for themselves and their children under the age of 18, including the medical attestation which must be completed after each beneficiary completes a required medical exam.

After attestations are complete and the medical exam results are verified, the beneficiary will then receive instructions to download the CBP One mobile app, where they will submit biographic information and a live photo to CBP. After they submit their photo, CBP will vet them to determine whether to issue them an advance travel authorization to the United States to be considered for parole. CBP may then send the advance travel authorization determination to USCIS to be posted to the beneficiary’s USCIS online account. If CBP issues advance authorization to travel, the beneficiary is responsible for arranging and funding their own travel to the United States. If issued, advance travel authorization is generally valid for 90 days, and will post to the beneficiary’s myUSCIS online account.

The status of an advance travel authorization may change at any time as a result of the vetting process. Individuals should monitor their myUSCIS online account frequently for messages and notices from USCIS, and for the most current travel authorization status.

Q28. If processing my Form I-134A is taking longer than expected, what can I do? You can monitor the status of your Form I-134A in your  myUSCIS online account  or check your most recent status in  Case Status Online . Please note that the USCIS Contact Center cannot provide any additional information on the status of your case.

NOTE: Petitioners cannot submit a duplicate Form I-134A for the same beneficiary. We will not accept a duplicate Form I-134A when a Form I-134A filed by the petitioner on behalf of the same beneficiary is already pending.

Q29. Where will my biometrics be collected? Beneficiaries must submit certain biographic and biometric information to DHS for screening and vetting purposes. If a beneficiary receives advance authorization to travel to the United States, upon arrival to a U.S. port of entry, CBP will inspect the beneficiary and ask for additional information, including fingerprints, for further biometric vetting, and then consider them for a discretionary grant of parole.

Q30. What are the medical requirements for beneficiaries under these processes? Each beneficiary must undergo a medical exam and be medically cleared for travel by a panel physician in their country of residence. Beneficiaries must attest to completing the medical exam and having no Class A medical conditions, as determined by the panel physician, before CBP will consider whether to issue advance travel authorization. The beneficiary should not attest to completing the medical exam and having no Class A medical conditions until after they have completed the exam with a panel physician, including any necessary medical treatment, and received the required vaccinations.  Please see the “Medical Exam” section on the Family Reunification Parole Processes webpage for more information and instructions about scheduling a medical exam.

Q31. How long is a travel authorization valid? If approved, the advance travel authorization is valid for 90 days. Beneficiaries are responsible for securing their own travel via commercial air to the United States.

Q32. Do principal and derivative beneficiaries with advance travel authorization need to travel to the United States together? No. However, principal beneficiaries must travel to the United States with or before any derivative beneficiary. Derivative beneficiaries may not be paroled into the United States unless their principal beneficiary has already been paroled into the United States.

NOTE:  Children must travel with their parent or a legal guardian. A legal guardian is an individual who has full custodial rights and obligations with respect to the child, under a formal legal arrangement issued by a government authority, such as a court order. Children who are determined to be unaccompanied by a parent or legal guardian at the port of entry are not eligible for parole under this process. Children who are not traveling with a parent or legal guardian but are coming to the United States to meet a parent or legal guardian who is already present in the United States may instead seek parole through the standard Form I-131 parole process.

Q33. My travel authorization will expire soon, and I have been unable to arrange travel to the United States. Can I request an extension? If, for reasons beyond your control, you (the beneficiary) cannot travel within the 90-day advance travel authorization validity period, your petitioner may submit a one-time request for a 90-day travel authorization extension to USCIS. Only the petitioner who filed the Form I-134A may request a one-time extension of a previously approved advance travel authorization. A beneficiary may not request an extension of their advance travel authorization on their own behalf.

Petitioners must submit the extension request no more than 30 days before, and no more than 30 days after, the expiration date of the original approved advance travel authorization period. Petitioners must request a separate extension for each beneficiary by following the steps below.

To submit the request, a petitioner must:

  • Log into their myUSCIS online account;
  • From the top of the webpage, select the “My Account” drop-down menu and select “Inbox";
  • Click on the “New Message” button;
  • For the subject, select “A case already filed online” from the drop-down menu, and for the case receipt number, select the receipt number for Form I-134A; and
  • In the message field, state that the petitioner will continue to commit to supporting the named beneficiary who has not yet traveled to the United States and is requesting an extension of the beneficiary’s travel authorization, then click “Send.”

We will review the petitioner’s request for an advance travel authorization extension and submit the request, along with the beneficiary’s information, to CBP to conduct additional vetting. If CBP approves the request, the petitioner will receive an email notification when the extended advance travel authorization notice has been posted to your myUSCIS online account. Please note that for privacy reasons, only you (the beneficiary) will be able to view the extended advance travel authorization notice in your myUSCIS online account. You should notify your petitioner when you receive your extended travel authorization notice.

If your original approved advance travel authorization expires more than 30 days before your petitioner is able to request an extension, your petitioner must submit a new Form I-134A for you to obtain a new advance travel authorization instead. If 30 days pass after expiration while the request is pending, or if you cannot travel to the United States during the one-time 90-day extension, your petitioner must also submit a new Form I-134A.

Q34. Can CBP tell me why they denied advance travel authorization? Due to the secure nature of the vetting and screening process, CBP cannot offer additional information about the process or provide details about the status or result of an advance travel authorization review. If a beneficiary’s advance travel authorization request is denied, CBP cannot explain why. However, you might be denied if you attested to completing your medical requirements before you completed your medical exam with a panel physician or before you were cleared of Class A medical conditions. If your advance travel authorization is still pending, CBP asks you to remain patient while the review continues.

Q35. If I am paroled into the United States under these processes, will I be able to apply for an Advance Parole Document if I need to travel outside the United States? Yes. If a beneficiary is paroled into the United States and wants to apply for an Advance Parole Document before they travel, they should file a Form I-131, Application for Travel Document.  An Advance Parole Document will allow you to seek parole into the United States at a port of entry when you return from a trip outside the United States. For more information about advance parole documents, including fees and fee waivers, visit the  Form I-131  webpage.

Please note that obtaining an Advance Parole Document does not guarantee you will be paroled back into the United States. CBP will make a separate discretionary decision on your request for parole when you arrive back at a U.S. port of entry.

Q36. If I am paroled into the United States under a family reunification parole process, will I be automatically authorized to work? No. Parolees under family reunification parole processes do not automatically receive employment authorization. You must file a  Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization , which can be completed online.

Recognizing that some applicants cannot pay the filing fees, USCIS established a fee waiver process for certain forms and benefit types. We will approve a fee waiver only if you clearly demonstrate that you are unable to pay the filing fees. Visit the  Additional Information on Filing a Fee Waiver  page to learn more.

Q37. If I am approved to travel to the United States as a beneficiary under a family reunification parole process, when can I apply for employment authorization? After you are paroled into the United States, you are eligible to apply for discretionary employment authorization from USCIS. To apply for an Employment Authorization Document, you must submit  Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization , using the (c)(11) category code with the required fee or apply for a fee waiver. You may submit Form I-765 through your  myUSCIS online account  with the required fee. However, to request a fee waiver, you must file your paper Form I-765 by mail, along with  Form I-912, Request for a Fee Waiver . You cannot file Form I-912 online through your myUSCIS online account.

Q38. How long will it take to approve my employment authorization application? While processing times will vary depending on the complexities of each case, we encourage online filing because it prevents delays associated with mailing, provides an immediate receipt, and allows you to track the progress of your case online. Paper-filed employment authorizations can also be added to an individual’s online account.

Q39. If I have a question about my case, how can I contact USCIS? The best way to contact us depends on the type of question.

  • Technical Assistance with myUSCIS Online Account Access or a Password Reset  – If you have an issue with account access or need a password reset, use our  online need help form .
  • Case Status Inquiries – You can monitor the status of your Form I-134A in your  myUSCIS online account  or check your most recent status in  Case Status Online . Please note that the USCIS Contact Center cannot provide any additional information on the status of your case.

USCIS will only accept a case status inquiry if the Form I-134A filed has been pending more than 6 months. This includes inquiries submitted through the secure mailbox in your myUSCIS online account. Please note this is a default time frame for inquiring, and you should not necessarily expect a decision on your Form I-134A in that time frame.

Q40. How can I withdraw a pending Form I-134A if I no longer wish to pursue family reunification parole for my family member? If the Form I-134A is still pending, the petitioner should log in to their myUSCIS online account, go to the Notices tab, and use the Unsolicited Evidence feature to upload a letter they have signed by hand (not an electronically signed letter). The letter must clearly explain that the petitioner would like to withdraw the Form I-134A. The petitioner must keep the original signed letter in case we ask for it later. We will not send a response to the letter. However, we will review the withdrawal request when we select the Form I-134A for review.

If the Form I-134A has already been confirmed, the petitioner cannot withdraw it.

Q41. USCIS has confirmed my Form I-134A but has not yet emailed the beneficiary. What should I do? If a beneficiary has not received emailed notices from USCIS, the petitioner should review the Form I-134A and check whether it provided the correct email address for the beneficiary. If the email address is correct, the beneficiary should check their spam and junk mail folders. If a beneficiary still cannot find the notice, they should call the  USCIS Contact Center . The number for those outside the United States is +1-212-620-3418. Alternatively, the petitioner can send USCIS a secure message through their myUSCIS online account and, after we complete the verification process, we can email the Account Notice to the beneficiary’s email that we have on file.

If the beneficiary’s email address provided on the Form I-134A is incorrect, the petitioner should log in to their myUSCIS online account, go to the Notices tab, and use the Unsolicited Evidence feature to upload a letter the petitioner has signed by hand (not an electronically signed letter). The letter should:

  • Explain that the email address for the beneficiary you entered on Form I-134A was incorrect; and
  • Request that USCIS update the beneficiary’s email address and send the USCIS Account Notice to the beneficiary’s correct email address.

The letter should list both the original, incorrect email address provided on the Form I-134A and the updated, correct email address for the beneficiary. The petitioner must also keep the original signed letter in case we ask for it later.

Q42. How can I correct information on a Form I-134A that was submitted but is still pending? If the Form I-134A is still pending, you (the petitioner) should log in to your myUSCIS online account, go to the Notices tab, and use the Unsolicited Evidence feature to upload a letter you have signed by hand (not an electronically signed letter). The letter should:

  • Explain what information is incorrect;
  • List both the incorrect information provided on the Form I-134A and the correct information; and
  • Ask USCIS to update the incorrect information.

You also must keep the original signed letter in case we ask for it later. We will not send a response to your letter. However, we will review the correction request and letter when we review your Form I-134A to determine whether it is sufficient and can be confirmed. The record will not reflect the correction until the case is confirmed. Q43. How can I correct information on a Form I-134A that has been confirmed?

Q44. What if I (the beneficiary) received an error code in the CBP One mobile app that says, “Record cannot be found: Check your date of birth, passport and A-Number in your myUSCIS account to ensure they are correct.” What do I do? To address the error and check that your attestations have been properly submitted, you must:

  • Log in to your myUSCIS online account and check that your attestations were submitted to CBP. You should see an alert that says: “Your information and attestations were successfully submitted to U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP).”
  • Next, select “View your biographic information” and ensure your date of birth is in the mm/dd/yyyy format and that your passport number is correct.

If you need to correct your passport information or date of birth, or if all your information appears correct and you are still unable to proceed, you should use your myUSCIS account to:

  • Upload a copy of your valid, unexpired passport as Unsolicited Evidence in your Notices tab; and
  • Send USCIS a message from your inbox. In the message, you must identify the information that is incorrect or indicate that your information appears correct, but you are unable to proceed in the CBP One mobile app.

Q45. Are parolees who came to the United States through a family reunification parole process eligible for REAL ID-compliant driver’s licenses or identification cards? Beneficiaries paroled into the United States are not eligible for a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or identification card because parole is not included in the REAL ID Act as a category authorized to receive a REAL ID-compliant license or identification card. However, parolees may be covered by another category eligible for a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license. For example, an approved or pending application for Temporary Protected Status or asylum can potentially qualify the applicant for a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or identification card. In addition, many drivers’ license issuing authorities allow parolees to apply for a driver’s license or ID card that is not REAL ID-compliant. For more information, please see  REAL ID Frequently Asked Questions  and guidance from the Department of Motor Vehicles for the jurisdiction where you live.

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10 tips to make traveling with a large group hassle-free

Posted: June 2, 2023 | Last updated: August 3, 2023

<p>Traveling with a large group can be wonderful. Bigger numbers mean more people to do things with, more memories to be made, and more folks to split expenses between. But without careful planning, group trips can also be miserable. There's nothing worse than misaligned expectations, budgets, and disagreements about the adventure ahead.</p>  <p><a href="https://usebounce.com/">Bounce</a> has assembled a list of first-rate tips for big-group travel in order to ensure the best group trip possible. Whether you're planning a long-awaited family reunion, a coworker offsite, or an adventure with friends, these tips are sure to make your trip go off without a hitch.</p>  <p>Of course, before you take off, or get too far into your planning, be sure to check the <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/travelers/travel-during-covid19.html">CDC</a> for guidance on travel during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. The first step to a successful getaway is making sure everyone in your squad is safe and in adherence to current regulations.</p>

10 tips for traveling with a large group

Traveling with a large group can be wonderful. Bigger numbers mean more people to do things with, more memories to be made, and more folks to split expenses between. But without careful planning, group trips can also be miserable. There's nothing worse than misaligned expectations, budgets, and disagreements about the adventure ahead.

Bounce has assembled a list of first-rate tips for big-group travel in order to ensure the best group trip possible. Whether you're planning a long-awaited family reunion, a coworker offsite, or an adventure with friends, these tips are sure to make your trip go off without a hitch.

Of course, before you take off, or get too far into your planning, be sure to check the CDC for guidance on travel during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. The first step to a successful getaway is making sure everyone in your squad is safe and in adherence to current regulations.

<p>Establishing a group leader or two should be one of the first steps when group traveling. These leaders aren't in charge of making every decision about the trip, but rather they are responsible for coordinating most aspects of travel: assigning tasks—like making dinner reservations or booking off-site adventures, disseminating information throughout the group, and booking tour guides or event tickets.</p>  <p>This will help make sure everyone going on the trip is aware of all dates and activities, on board with the plans, and conscious of how much everything will cost. Good leaders help maintain healthy social dynamics and assure no one feels out of the loop or uncomfortable with any proposed plans.</p>

Assign a group leader

Establishing a group leader or two should be one of the first steps when group traveling. These leaders aren't in charge of making every decision about the trip, but rather they are responsible for coordinating most aspects of travel: assigning tasks—like making dinner reservations or booking off-site adventures, disseminating information throughout the group, and booking tour guides or event tickets.

This will help make sure everyone going on the trip is aware of all dates and activities, on board with the plans, and conscious of how much everything will cost. Good leaders help maintain healthy social dynamics and assure no one feels out of the loop or uncomfortable with any proposed plans.

<p>Once you've established a group leader, get everyone together for a general planning meeting. Use this time to pick dates that align with everyone's work, family, and life schedules, identify a general destination, and come up with a broad framework for your vacation itinerary.</p>  <p>Now is the perfect time to decide things like whether you're all after a more active trip or a more relaxed getaway, if you want to stay in an all-inclusive resort or check out home shares, etc. Don't worry about the smaller details, like where to have dinner every night or what airline to fly, just yet—there will be plenty of time for those decisions down the line.</p>

Plan in advance

Once you've established a group leader, get everyone together for a general planning meeting. Use this time to pick dates that align with everyone's work, family, and life schedules, identify a general destination, and come up with a broad framework for your vacation itinerary.

Now is the perfect time to decide things like whether you're all after a more active trip or a more relaxed getaway, if you want to stay in an all-inclusive resort or check out home shares, etc. Don't worry about the smaller details, like where to have dinner every night or what airline to fly, just yet—there will be plenty of time for those decisions down the line.

<p>One specific thing your group should discuss in a planning meeting is the budget. It's likely everyone will have different ideas about how much they're able or willing to spend, and getting on the same page about finances early on is a key part of a successful group trip.</p>  <p>During this time, ask everyone about what they aren't willing to pay for—like alcohol or fancy dinners out—and the things they are willing to pay for—maybe private airport transfers or admission to cultural sites. Knowing where every member of your party stands on these issues can help you hammer out more detailed itineraries or even multiple itineraries for different subsets of the group. Arguably there are few instances more awkward than on-the-spot fights about splitting a dinner bill or staying behind on an excursion.</p>

Establish budget preferences

One specific thing your group should discuss in a planning meeting is the budget. It's likely everyone will have different ideas about how much they're able or willing to spend, and getting on the same page about finances early on is a key part of a successful group trip.

During this time, ask everyone about what they aren't willing to pay for—like alcohol or fancy dinners out—and the things they are willing to pay for—maybe private airport transfers or admission to cultural sites. Knowing where every member of your party stands on these issues can help you hammer out more detailed itineraries or even multiple itineraries for different subsets of the group. Arguably there are few instances more awkward than on-the-spot fights about splitting a dinner bill or staying behind on an excursion.

<p>Most group trips can often take weeks for everything—from flights to restaurant reservations—to get pinned down. While in the planning phases of travel, keeping everyone in the loop on itineraries and any new information will smooth out the trip overall.</p>  <p>Curating lists and itineraries on platforms like Google Docs or shared iPhone notes can help keep the party up to date. Dropping links for everything from the hotel to that one off-site day trip you're going to take—as well as notes about price, reservation time, etc.—ensures that everyone knows exactly what's being planned and can raise questions and concerns beforehand. And of course, group chats on platforms like WhatsApp can facilitate discussions.</p>

Document itineraries and preferences

Most group trips can often take weeks for everything—from flights to restaurant reservations—to get pinned down. While in the planning phases of travel, keeping everyone in the loop on itineraries and any new information will smooth out the trip overall.

Curating lists and itineraries on platforms like Google Docs or shared iPhone notes can help keep the party up to date. Dropping links for everything from the hotel to that one off-site day trip you're going to take—as well as notes about price, reservation time, etc.—ensures that everyone knows exactly what's being planned and can raise questions and concerns beforehand. And of course, group chats on platforms like WhatsApp can facilitate discussions.

<p>Many airlines, hotels, ground transportation companies, and tours offer group discounts to larger parties. As you're booking the various pieces of your trip, be sure to inquire about the possibility of a deal. Worst-case scenario, the company will tell you no, and best-case scenario, you'll be able to save a few of your hard-earned coins. This tip is particularly important for groups looking to travel on a budget or groups dealing with a huge budget disparity among their members.</p>

Check for group discounts

Many airlines, hotels, ground transportation companies, and tours offer group discounts to larger parties. As you're booking the various pieces of your trip, be sure to inquire about the possibility of a deal. Worst-case scenario, the company will tell you no, and best-case scenario, you'll be able to save a few of your hard-earned coins. This tip is particularly important for groups looking to travel on a budget or groups dealing with a huge budget disparity among their members.

<p>Before you go on the trip, consider establishing a routine for the members of the group. We're not talking about a hard and fast schedule broken down into 15-minute increments, but rather a general plan of how you want the days to go.</p>  <p>How long do you want to spend at each event? An hour at breakfast for example, or two hours at the pool each morning. Most importantly, what time should the group be awake by each day? Keeping the broad strokes of each day the same will help everyone feel calmer and in more control over their time away.</p>

Create a routine

Before you go on the trip, consider establishing a routine for the members of the group. We're not talking about a hard and fast schedule broken down into 15-minute increments, but rather a general plan of how you want the days to go.

How long do you want to spend at each event? An hour at breakfast for example, or two hours at the pool each morning. Most importantly, what time should the group be awake by each day? Keeping the broad strokes of each day the same will help everyone feel calmer and in more control over their time away.

<p>While hotels and all-inclusive resorts tend to be the first type of accommodations thought of when planning vacations, consider a homestay or group lodging instead. Unless you're after a very specific experience or destination, staying in a rented house or group of houses might be a better option. These properties are often more affordable and spacious.</p>  <p>Additionally, they offer more opportunities for cooking meals together or spending downtime as a group. After all, if you've chosen these specific people to go away with, you likely want to be with them as much as possible.</p>

Consider homestays or group lodging

While hotels and all-inclusive resorts tend to be the first type of accommodations thought of when planning vacations, consider a homestay or group lodging instead. Unless you're after a very specific experience or destination, staying in a rented house or group of houses might be a better option. These properties are often more affordable and spacious.

Additionally, they offer more opportunities for cooking meals together or spending downtime as a group. After all, if you've chosen these specific people to go away with, you likely want to be with them as much as possible.

<p>While spending time together is likely your top concern on a group trip, be conscious of how you plan to spend said time. Scheduling too many activities in a single day can leave people feeling tired and stressed, which can cause them to act irritable and anxious. And likely the last thing you want is to be stuck far from home with a group of cranky folks.</p>  <p>Limiting the number of activities you do in a day allows everyone to slow down and enjoy the moment rather than mentally rushing ahead to the next thing. Being less ambitious with planning also helps conserve energy for building happy memories rather than expending it all too early and burning out.</p>

Avoid too many activities in one day

While spending time together is likely your top concern on a group trip, be conscious of how you plan to spend said time. Scheduling too many activities in a single day can leave people feeling tired and stressed, which can cause them to act irritable and anxious. And likely the last thing you want is to be stuck far from home with a group of cranky folks.

Limiting the number of activities you do in a day allows everyone to slow down and enjoy the moment rather than mentally rushing ahead to the next thing. Being less ambitious with planning also helps conserve energy for building happy memories rather than expending it all too early and burning out.

<p>In any group of friends, coworkers, and family members, there are likely a variety of social and mental strengths. There might be one person who is exceptional with directions, another who's good at math and can always calculate the tip accurately, and a third whose outgoing nature makes it easy to ask strangers questions.</p>  <p>Whatever the strengths in your travel group, allow them to shine while you're away together. Giving everyone different jobs keeps any one person feeling overburdened and discourages anyone from turning into a control freak.</p>

Play to each person's social strengths

In any group of friends, coworkers, and family members, there are likely a variety of social and mental strengths. There might be one person who is exceptional with directions, another who's good at math and can always calculate the tip accurately, and a third whose outgoing nature makes it easy to ask strangers questions.

Whatever the strengths in your travel group, allow them to shine while you're away together. Giving everyone different jobs keeps any one person feeling overburdened and discourages anyone from turning into a control freak.

<p>Make sure you leave some time for solo exploration. Even if your group is in agreement about almost every aspect of the trip, there will always be at least one activity not everyone wants to do—and that's natural.</p>  <p>Scheduling time where everyone can head off and do their own thing increases the likelihood of each member of your group leaving the trip feeling happy, fulfilled, and satisfied. And as a bonus, you'll have a wealth of interesting stuff to talk about when you all reunite at the end of the day.</p>  <p>   <em>This story originally appeared on Bounce and was produced and   distributed in partnership with Stacker Studio.</em>  </p>

Plan some time for solo exploration

Make sure you leave some time for solo exploration. Even if your group is in agreement about almost every aspect of the trip, there will always be at least one activity not everyone wants to do—and that's natural.

Scheduling time where everyone can head off and do their own thing increases the likelihood of each member of your group leaving the trip feeling happy, fulfilled, and satisfied. And as a bonus, you'll have a wealth of interesting stuff to talk about when you all reunite at the end of the day.

This story originally appeared on Bounce and was produced and distributed in partnership with Stacker Studio.

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  1. My Travel Group Home Page

    My Travel Group® members get the buying power of a large, professional buying group plus the latest industry leading technology. About My Travel Group Contact Us. Member Login?How to Login. Customer Number. Username. Password. When you login to Air Tickets you agree to our Terms and Conditions.

  2. MyTravel Group

    MyTravel Group plc was a British, global travel group headquartered in Rochdale, England.It was founded in 1972 as Airtours Group. The group included two in-house airlines, MyTravel Airways UK and MyTravel Airways Scandinavia, and various tour operators around the world. On 19 June 2007, the group merged with Thomas Cook AG to form the Thomas Cook Group plc.

  3. 15 Years On: MyTravel Group Merges into Thomas Cook

    LONDON - Exactly 15 years ago today, the MyTravel Group went defunct and merged into the Thomas Cook brand to form Thomas Cook Group Plc. MyTravel in particular, had a significant presence in the United Kingdom, with Manchester being well known for its operations out of the airport as the Headquarters. Let's take a brief history lesson at ...

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  5. Fly My Group

    Every day Fly My Group is buying airline seats for groups to destinations around the globe. Flying groups is our business and we do a lot of it; therefore we have buying power when searching fares and itineraries for your group. When we talk to the major airlines group departments, we speak with the Platinum Desks (top account status), giving ...

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  7. MyTravel Group sells 3 U.S. firms

    Oct 31, 2003. |. MANCHESTER, England -- MyTravel Group, a former powerhouse of cruise, tour and retail brands, shed about a third of its U.S.-based travel businesses in a move to raise capital for ...

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    MyTravel, the £1.1bn UK holiday company, and Thomas Cook, its privately-owned Germany-based rival, on Monday agreed a merger of equals that would create a global powerhouse of tour operators. The ...

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  11. MyTravel Group Company Profile: Valuation, Investors, Acquisition

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    My Travel Groups Home. California Seller of Travel CST #2053942-40 Florida Seller of Travel ST #36618. For information on travel and cruises. call or email. Maureen 805-889-5670. Mary Ann 951-308-9156. Family reunions, destination weddings, business travel groups, religious theme tours, class reunions, friends' getaways - large or small ...

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  26. 10 tips to make traveling with a large group hassle-free

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  28. Today's news in 10 minutes

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  29. International tour packages

    We Are My travel group is the major establishment in the horizon of job placement and tour agency, started in 1990 and serving 30 years of trust. We are providing temporary and permanent placement, across various companies for the job seekers. We are hiring skilled and non-skilled peoples for the educated and general job class category required ...