In the Buyer’s Eye — Sweet Spots
With Valentine’s Day right around the corner, it’s the perfect time to fall in love with a new destination for your incentive program or even a personal getaway with your special someone. Taking time off to travel is the best form of self-love, if you ask me. I’m quite enamored by the lovely collection of “sweet spots” showcased below. You could say I’m a secret admirer… although it’s definitely not a secret at all!
In Case You Missed It: In the Buyer’s Eye – International Anticipation
Lovely Locations Around the World
Looking to impress your incentive winners? The beauty of these picturesque locales will take everyone’s breath away. From pristine beaches to romantic metropolises to natural wonderlands, there’s truly a paradise for every pursuit in these “sweet spots.”
Hudson Valley, New York
Wildflower Farms, Auberge Resorts Collection
Picture 140 secluded acres in the heart of New York’s Hudson Valley, where the Hudson River meets the foothills of the Catskill Mountains… A match made in heaven. Here you’ll find Wildflower Farms, Auberge Resorts Collection, set to open in the fall of 2022 and accepting groups in 2023.
A mere 90 minutes from the Big Apple, 65 free-standing bungalows, cottages, and suites await. Individual accommodations are surrounded by soaring white pines and colorful perennials. Adding to the charming atmosphere are the cozy fireplaces, window seats, wooden decks, firepits, and private patios. A 9,000-square-foot spa and indoor and outdoor pools allow for calming relaxation, and thanks to the working farm on property, a true farm-to-table culinary experience is not just possible but probable as an engaging (and delicious) group activity.
True to the resort’s name, hand-picked wildflowers welcome every guest. This thoughtful touch is just one embodiment of Wildflower Farms’ simple yet elegant ambience, where natural beauty and world-class amenities abound.
Vienna, Austria
Rosewood Vienna
Often called The City of Dreams or The City of Music, Vienna, Austria, has a new option for incentives: Rosewood Vienna is scheduled to open in the summer of 2022. Ideally situated in the most famous square of Vienna’s Old Town with exquisite shopping and dining just steps away, this luxurious property offering 99 spacious and contemporary guest rooms and suites will surely be cherished by all guests.
The property’s rooftop bar will be a hot spot for gatherings thanks to its mesmerizing views of the historic city, while an intimate restaurant in a garden setting serves European cuisine and craft cocktails curated for guests and locals alike. Sense, A Rosewood Spa, is an exclusive oasis to experience relaxation and restoration away from the sights and sounds of the city.
A jewel of Europe, there’s much to love about Vienna. And if one sweet spot isn’t enough, Salzburg, Austria, home of The Sound of Music, is a scenic train ride away. Other interesting and easy pairings include two European capitals: Budapest and Prague. On its own or dovetailed for a dual destination, consider Vienna for an unforgettable visit.
Rendezvous Bay, Anguilla
Aurora Anguilla Resort & Golf Club
You had me at Rendezvous Bay! This idyllic Caribbean paradise spans over 300 acres and is positioned on Rendezvous Bay and Merrywing Bay on the west side of Anguilla, facing the Caribbean. Formerly known as CuisinArt Golf Resort & Spa and opened as Aurora Anguilla Resort & Golf Club in December 2021, this is a true destination resort. There are a total of 178 guest rooms, suites, and villas all showcasing glimpses of refined, winsome, and enchanting décor.
How about a commingle of barefoot luxury, serenity, and sport? Imagine a round of golf on a course slated to be the best in the Caribbean, completely redesigned by Greg Norman and on target to open in the spring of 2022. Dream of the Sorana Spa guaranteed to completely refresh and revitalize with treatments inspired by the natural splendor of Anguilla. All this awaits along with unbelievable dining options, the alluring rhythm of the island, and the soothing ebb and flow of the sea. Transport your group to an oasis that will envelop them from the moment they arrive, creating memories to last a lifetime.
Novi, Montenegro
One&Only Portonovi
Several years ago, I was introduced to Montenegro and immediately fell in love. The teeny tiny country is hypnotic and overflowing with stunning, natural beauty. The rugged mountains, dreamy beaches, and historic coastal towns all entrance anyone lucky enough to visit.
Discovering the wonders of this dramatic, high-end destination became even more enticing with the 2021 opening of One&Only Portonovi. This first One&Only in Europe is a shiny new jewel sitting on the edge of the Adriatic Sea, a short one-hour drive from Dubrovnik. There are 113 stylish rooms, suites, and villas waiting to warmly welcome elite incentive groups. Lounge at one of the six shimmering pools, relax on the private beach, indulge in the many culinary options, and sprinkle in a spa visit to One&Only’s first Chenot Espace. As the name implies, this luxury resort is a unique, “one and only” experience!
Lanai, Hawaii
Four Seasons Resort Lanai
I would be remiss if I ended this article about sweet spots without mentioning my recent sunrise hike from Four Seasons Resort Lanai to Pu’u Pehe, otherwise known as Sweetheart Rock, Lanai’s legendary landmark. More details on Lanai and the Big Island will be shared in an upcoming article… Stay tuned!
Contributor
Mary Enke, CIS
Sr. Destination & Experience Design Lead
Meetings & Incentives Worldwide, Inc.