Takeover versus non-takeover

[Desirecupl]

Just wondering what people on this board think about going to Desire during a takeover event versus being there when there is no takeover. We've never been during a takeover event and have wondered about attending one. We'd be interested in your perceptions of how different the mood and the environment are between the two. Any thoughts would be appreciated. In particular:

* If you are at Desire during a takeover and aren't part of the group (if the resort is also allowing non-takeover group guests to book), do you feel completely excluded?

* If you sign up to attend a takeover and it's your first time with that group, is it difficult to "break in" and meet others who may have been visiting together for several years?

* Is it easier to meet compatible couples for lifestyle activities during a takeover, particularly if you've signed up to be part of the group? Conversely, is there more pressure to participate in group and lifestyle activities during a takeover?

[mfay]

There are so many different types of groups that it is hard for anyone to answer that for you.
Many of us who do come with large groups think it is the only way to go. Others who have been at Desire when large groups are here- but aren't part of the group- have a negative impression of groups in general.
It really is all about finding a group that fits you. we are at Desire now with a group of 80 couples. Many of the first timers with the group and others here who aren't part of the group have commented already about how friendly everyone is and how much fun the atmosphere is.
The only way for you to know how it works for you is to give it a try !

[Houston_Hammah]

My fiance and I were there during Week 43 group last October, and are going this week during the Ynots/Hot Tamales. I didn't have any issues with Week 43, and don't expect any with this group as well, but I'll post when I get back with positives/negatives.

[DandAEastTexas]

Mike and Barbara said it best. The only thing I woul add is to do a little "homework" before you book your trip.

See if there is a "take-over" and if so...find out about the group and see if you think you'll fit in. Hint...if it's simply a geographic group YOU WILL FIT IN. But, if it's a "speciality" group.....over/under a certain age or weight....or whose stated idea of "fun" is NOT the same as yours...I would say..find another week.

The chances are great that your newest best friend will be part of a group that you currently don't belong to....but will one day be a senior member.

Please don't think that every member of a group "get's along" with everyone else....hell, actual families seldom do. But everyone shares a little bit of history with everyone else...a new non-group visitors have the honor to write the next chapter.

Don and Annie

[DandAEastTexas]

My fiance and I were there during Week 43 group last October, and are going this week during the Ynots/Hot Tamales. I didn't have any issues with Week 43, and don't expect any with this group as well, but I'll post when I get back with positives/negatives.

Mike and Barbara said it best. The only thing I woul add is to do a little "homework" before you book your trip.

See if there is a "take-over" and if so...find out about the group and see if you think you'll fit in. Hint...if it's simply a geographic group YOU WILL FIT IN. But, if it's a "speciality" group.....over/under a certain age or weight....or whose stated idea of "fun" is NOT the same as yours...I would say..find another week.

The chances are great that your newest best friend will be part of a group that you currently don't belong to....but will one day be a senior member.

Please don't think that every member of a group "get's along" with everyone else....hell, actual families seldom do. But everyone shares a little bit of history with everyone else...a new non-group visitors have the honor to write the next chapter.

Don and Annie

[kjc]

it seems it's a little more lively there when a group is there,also it seems they go a little above and beyond with the entertainment,after all they do want these groups{blocks of people at once} coming back,so I think the place just has a little jump to it.

[vablondie]

Every group is different, some of the factors involved are as follows:
How big is the group?

What is the general interest of the group? (swinger/nudist)

Do most of the people know each other already from past trips?

Is it a group from one central location? (ex. APG is mostly Northern VA)

I'd recommend finding a group that matches your interests. In my opinion for your first group trip I'd look for one that really does take over most of the resort like Lifestyle Lounge for example as it can be easier to fit in as most don't know each other already. One last point, IMHO smallish groups of say 20-30 people are kind of a buzzkill for the Desire experience. They tend to be loud and obnoxious which I am totally down with if they are willing to include everyone else in on the fun. This unfortunately is usually not the case. There's nothing worse than hanging out at the pool in the afternoon trying to socialize and have a good time with others when there is a big noisy group at one end of the pool snubbing everyone else there.

[guestserviceDRM]

I think I can answer the first question. If you come during a takeover, then you will have to book directly with the group. The resort does not allowed individual reservations while takeovers.
Have a great day