Multiple Sims in Different Neighborhoods

I never played Sims or Sims 2 so I'm unsure how the non open world works when you are controlling a family of sims. Do I have a screen reload just to check on my sims who are off in other neighborhoods?

If I remember correctly, everyone in the family has to come with...
But if not, and they do separate, you would have to make your main Sim move to wherever your other Sims are to be reunited again.

Edit: I'm not sure how TS4 works. I'm just describing TS2, lol. Sorry if I'm no help.

they have already stated that unlike sims 2 you can move freely between sims on different lots/worlds/neighborhoods. there will of course be a load screen.

also with their "away actions" thing apparently from what i understand you can send sims off to say a gym to have them work out while playing a different sim at home ect.

That's good news!