The Meridian at Brandon recently completed its second extended-stay Vacation Club adventure, a three-day, two-night getaway to Kissimmee that gave residents new opportunities to travel, relax and explore together beyond the community.
Residents stayed together in a six-bedroom vacation home at Solara Resort, where they enjoyed resort amenities, time by the pool, backyard barbecues and shared meals. The group also visited Disney Springs and Celebration, Fla., combining planned outings with time to unwind and enjoy one another's company.
"Vacation Club is about much more than visiting a new place," said Chris DeFrieze, Executive Director of The Meridian at Brandon. "It gives residents space to reconnect with the parts of themselves that have always loved travel, discovery and time with friends, while creating new memories together. These residents are not people who used to have adventures. They are still adventurers."
The Vacation Club reflects The Meridian at Brandon's focus on helping residents continue pursuing the experiences that make life meaningful. Extended stays allow the community team to support a range of needs while giving residents the freedom to settle into a destination, share everyday moments and experience group travel with confidence.
Residents are also helping shape the club's future by suggesting destinations and weighing in on potential trips. As the program grows, the community is exploring possibilities that could include cruises, all-inclusive resorts and international travel.
"Count me in every time. I don't want to miss a second of the fun," said David Kerns. Another resident, Sue Cynowicz, added, "Every trip we take just gets better and better, and this one was the best yet."
On the final night, residents and team members gathered around the dinner table for a toast. The moment captured what the Vacation Club is designed to make possible: friendship, independence, new experiences and the freedom to keep discovering what adventure can look like at any age.
The Vacation Club is now preparing for its next adventure: a stay in a seven-bedroom castle in historic downtown St. Augustine, Fla. The itinerary and logistics are being finalized, and excitement is already building among residents.
"Each trip teaches us something new about what is possible and gives residents an even greater voice in where we go next," said DeFrieze. "We are already dreaming bigger, and one thing is certain: we are just getting started."
About The Meridian at Brandon
The Meridian at Brandon offers Supportive Independent Living, Assisted Living and secure Memory Care in spacious, well-designed apartment homes ranging from studios to two-bedroom suites. The 117,000-square-foot community combines a boutique hotel look and feel with engaging daily activities, multiple dining options and personalized care. For more information, visit www.themeridianatbrandon.com or call (813) 896-0740.