Guest writer PRL, Scranton PA: We just returned from a family gathering in Florida. All in all, it was a pleasure to meet and schmooze with relatives we just don't see often enough. But there were some drawbacks.

All the out-of-town visitors had to book local hotels, and the prices were out of sight. We arrived at the Fort Lauderdale airport ahead of schedule at midnight, so we had to spend the rest of the night at a nearby airport motel before we could be picked up by car for the destination hotel in Miami. The charge was $300 plus all kinds of taxes, adding up to $350. When we asked why it was so high, the snooty clerk said it was because it was "the season" in Florida. Oh, sure, although the airport motel was 30 miles from the nearest beach, we're sure vacationers flocked to that lovely resort motel to bask in its sunshine on the tarmac.

With families spread all over the land these days, the reunion site should be chosen for convenience, economy and location. Our most enjoyable and successful family reunions in recent years were in Las Vegas.

It has direct and non-stop flights from virtually anywhere in the US and Canada. Hotel rates are comparatively low, and many within walking distance of each other. Facilities are readily available for reunion families, with spaces ranging from small meeting rooms to huge convention centers.

Food prices are moderate, especially the famous Vegas buffets, and the choice of restaurants is endless. Shopping centers and exclusive stores in many of the upscale hotels are plentiful for those looking for the latest fashions.

Entertainment, also conveniently located along the Strip, is the best and most varied in the world. Excursions are plentiful, including helicopter flights over Hoover Dam and the Grand Canyon, and bus visits to other natural wonders nearby.

For the kids, most people are surprised at the many activities in Vegas designed just for them. Carnival rides, free outdoor exhibits, games, water slides, magic shows, horseback riding in nearby mountain resorts and many, many more.

For our next reunion, everybody, we're going to Las Vegas!