It’s time to grab the passports (maybe dust them off) and do some traveling outside the US! The desire is certainly there—clients are excited to offer the sun, sand, and sea. Powdery white beaches, crystal clear turquoise waters, colorful coral reefs, and abundant sunshine… A tropical paradise is calling. The decision is, which one?

In this issue, we showcase long (and we mean long) awaited re-openings, re-inventions, and new offerings in high-demand destinations. There is definitely “water, water, everywhere”—but still with plenty of drinks!

In Case You Missed It: In the Buyer’s Eye – On and Off the Beaten Path

Destinations with International Flair

Selecting the perfect location for your incentive program can be a daunting task. It goes beyond planning, knowledge, and attention to detail… It helps to have a global expert by your side. To get your creative inspirations started, we highlighted a few international destinations on our radar, but the list is endless.

St. Barth

Rosewood Le Guanahani

The largest hotel on this tiny, stunning Caribbean island reopens in November: Rosewood Le Guanahani St. Barth (formerly Le Guanahani Resort), offering 66 enchanting and unique rooms and suites. Accessible by plane through St. Maarten, San Juan, Antigua, or St. Thomas or by ferry from St. Maarten, a haven of natural beauty awaits all fortunate visitors. It may not be the easiest resort to access, but that is part of the allure.

Once settled, it’s all about flawless beaches, exquisite food and wine enhanced by the French culture, and a specific brand of laid-back luxury. At Rosewood Le Guanahani, sophistication blends seamlessly with the casual Caribbean lifestyle.

Turks and Caicos

The Ritz-Carlton, Turks and Caicos

Turks and Caicos are on so many people’s bucket lists that it seems like a place one can only dream about. It’s not hard to see why: With the mesmerizing waters, the wide blue sky, the comfortable soothing climate, and the breathtaking scenery and unique activities, it’s a true paradise.

In fact, the islands are quite easy to get to and certainly worth considering for a group. The opportunities for a larger, high-end group expanded in June 2021 with the opening of The Ritz-Carlton, Turks & Caicos, presenting 155 all oceanfront or ocean-view guest rooms & suites. A few coveted features of this seaside oasis include an adult-only pool, a recreational pool, private cabanas, a state-of-the-art spa with island-inspired treatments, multiple dining experiences showcasing local ingredients, and a luxury casino. I don’t need any further convincing… I’m in!

Mexico

Four Seasons Resort Tamarindo

If I could click my heels or twitch my nose and be here for the opening in early 2022, I absolutely would (maybe I should try—being born on the eve of Halloween, I may have some witchcraft powers that I haven’t discovered!). For now, I’ve had to content myself with virtual visits that made me say “take me away!” every time. Mexico is always popular, and many clients hit the same spots. Not that we have anything against Cancún or Cabo; both certainly have a resort inventory that fits all budgets and styles. That said, it is fun to introduce something new and different, and this resort in La Manzanilla is a wondrous discovery.

The Four Seasons Resort Tamarindo will be a memorable “aha” moment for anyone who visits, a place that inspires endless (and deserved) bragging rights. All 157 guest rooms and suites offer indoor and outdoor spaces with captivating natural beauty combined with pure and simple elegance.

Just one hour from Manzanillo-Costalegre International Airport (with direct flights from Mexico City and many US and Canadian cities), this undiscovered paradise is closer than you may think and well worth the effort. It will envelop you from the moment you arrive. Take a chance on this wild card—you won’t regret it.

Bermuda

St. Regis Bermuda

Just like the shorts, when it comes to style, Bermuda has always been an on-and-off incentive destination. Luckily, there are now more styles to choose from with the May 2021 opening of the St. Regis Bermuda. The resort features 120 guest rooms and suites, nearly all with enviable views of the shimmering white sand and azure water of St. Catherine’s Beach.

Any client in search of an incentive option, especially from May through October, should consider this beach escape. The oceanfront elegance paired with lush accommodations, delectable dining, and refined relaxation makes this a perfect fit. Don’t worry—there are still endless activity options if that’s more your style.

Mexico

Fairmont Mayakoba

An absolutely stunning renovation is underway, and it will be exciting to see the end result. In the meantime, take advantage of what will be complete as of November 2021: most guest rooms, an all-new lobby and lobby bar, gourmet restaurants, new pools on the beach, a world-class spa, and much more.

The Fairmont Mayakoba has always been on the top list for Mexico, and with 401 rooms, it works so well for larger incentives. Now, they are elevating the experience even further, so make this a top consideration for awarding your clients. This private-gated resort in the Riviera Maya is without a doubt worth considering now and in the future.

What’s Next?

Want to learn more about trending incentive destinations and properties? Need assistance researching, sourcing, and contracting a venue? Looking to elevate your next incentive trip experience? CONTACT US and we’ll put you in touch with one of our M&IW Incentive Travel Experts.

Additional Resources

Like a fine wine, building luxurious 5-star hotels in Napa Valley takes considerable time. As one of the most desirable destinations in the world, Napa Valley has spent considerable time revitalizing its tourism offerings to extend into large group travel for global businesses. Luxury Incentive Travel Comes to Wine Country

Travel Expert journey mapping and the newest incentive industry trends as well as take away some trip ideas to implement into your next program? Incentive Travel Trends and Attendee Journey Mapping