50th Birthday Destination Party

We all agree that turning 50 is a big deal. Whether you're planning a 50th birthday party for yourself or someone else, consider planning a destination birthday!

• Where: Consider places that you or the guset of honor has always wanted to go. Popular destinations include the beaches of Hawaii or an Alaskan cruise. Or, maybe you want to feel the white sand of the Caribbean beaches between your toes or the rush of skiiing the mighty Swiss Alps. Explore options for all-inclusive vacations. These range from tropical resorts to fast-paced sightseeing tours to activity-based trips like hiking adventures.

• Who: One thing to keep in mind with a destination party is that the number of guests in attendance will probably be smaller than if you hosted a party at home. But think of the memories you'll have with this intimate group of family and friends. Since a much smaller number of people will be attending your destination birthday/vacation, decide how you want to handle the expenses. If you're in a position to pay for everyone, that's wonderful. In some cases, the host will pay for hotel while the guests pay for their own air fare or vice versa. However you decide to divvy up the costs, just make sure everyone is on the same page to eliminate confusion later on.

• When: Now that you've decided to have a destination party, you're probably eager to book the flights and start planning. However, keep in mind that you will want to consider your destination and the time of year you plan to go away. Will you be going to the destination on- or off-season? What will the weather be like? If you're flexible, you may decide to celebrate your 50th destination birthday two months after the big day to avoid high season.

Once you've decided where to go, when you're going, and who you want to invite, send guests themed birthday party invitations that include a photo of the party destination. How will they be able to resist? 

BONUS: If you send your invitations through Punchbowl, you can make it super easy for your guests to book their flights. Just turn on the "Travel Center" that will appear after a guest RSVPs. The Travel Center allows guests to easily search and book flights for your destination birthday.

Bon voyage!