The “Camp Granada Song” by Allan Sherman was a playful novelty when it debuted back in 1963. It depicted a little boy’s fictional complaints and created an image of camp in the minds of listeners that has lingered through the years. While playful and fun, it is not the camp or retreat experience that guests wax nostalgic for in 2023. No one wants “Hello Muddah, Hello Fuddah, here I am at Camp Granada” anymore.

So, what do they want? A safe environment with upkept buildings and grounds. Tasty food with accommodating menus. Comfortable beds and bathrooms with privacy. Welcoming and inviting programs where everyone is included!

• Do you want to bring in new guests? What is the first impression of your facility? If the first impression is unsafe, dirty, messy, and unkept … I’m NOT staying here, and my child is NOT staying here.  Safe, clean, organized, and cared for sites are critical and everyone’s responsibility. Hire and train to a standard of “if you see something amiss … you own it to get corrected.”
• How about serving special diets? Eating gluten free is not just a trend for many people, it’s a food accommodation akin to a nut allergy. Vegetarians are not trying to make your food service people annoyed and stressed … they are eating a healthy diet. Invest in new and creative ways to make “special diets” an integral part of an amazing food service for EVERYONE and guests will return again and again.
• Have you slept in your beds recently? How did your back feel in the morning? Could my partner and I sleep together during the family event geared to extend your “shoulder season?” Buy some queen beds for your guests that are so comfortable they come back … with their adults.
• I know ramps are expensive and sometimes understanding someone else’s life experience can be challenging. Yet, if you do not provide respect, privacy, emotional safety, and inclusion for the everyone … who’s to say you do for anyone? 



1963 to 2023…the world is a different place entirely. We can lament or embrace the changes but they are going to keep coming. Today’s social media platform will be tomorrow’s AOL. The slick wealth engine linked to your CRM will undoubtedly be replaced by some AI service. Nostalgia isn’t a forward-facing business plan. No one wants “Hello Muddah, Hello Fuddah, here I am at Camp Granada” anymore.