celtic, the biggest thing to consider here is how the kids get along. If the kids don't play well together, it's not worth it. I'm sure if the adults went away together it could be great. Throw in a bunch of kids at different ages and personalities and it might not be worth it.

The families we traveled with all had kids with only about a four year span. The families we go away with in the summer became friends thorugh the kids so it always worked. Our kids grew up playing sports and going to school together, playing in the neighborhood, spending nights at one another's homes.

Had just the parents been friends, and the kids a bit awkward with one another (especially pre-teens and teens) it may not have worked.

It's totally worth it if you think the kids will occupy one another because then it's a fun vacation for them too.

Your gut should be able to tell you if the kids will get along.