Corporate Travel Destinations

Corporate travel is always a balance between profitability and exclusivity. Simply put, profitability is the benefit derived from any activity minus the costs and opportunities lost by taking the course of action. This causes many to inherently think of affordable destinations for corporate travel, but this is where exclusivity comes into play. Exclusivity is the concept that the more unique or interesting the destination, the more the trip is generally worth in a less quantifiable manner.

For example, an incentive cruise for employees to Hawaii is probably considered to be a lot more interesting than an incentive travel promotion to Nebraska. While there is nothing inherently wrong with Nebraska, it is simply not considered to be as exclusive and/or interesting as Hawaii. The key is to strike a balance between cost effective travel options and here are a handful of destinations that are surprisingly cost effective while generally being viewed as very exclusive:

Bimini – While small, it is a very affordable locale for hosting small gatherings and meetings. Just do not plan anything during hurricane season.

Oregon – Believe it or not, Oregon is home to a wide range of climates and terrain, which makes from some very interesting and affordable locales.

Sedona – Gorgeous sunsets, excellent hiking, top-notch spas and world-class golfing make this relaxed venue a great spot for meetings and corporate events.

According to the American Society of Travel Agents, the top corporate travel destinations include states such as Florida, Nevada, and California. Cities such as Orlando, Las Vegas, and San Francisco are popular destination sites, and trips to cities such as these can ideal for corporate incentive travel. However, when incentive planning for employees that perform over and above par, corporations may want to consider offering an incentive cruise for these top-notch employees. A cruise event is a break from the norm of land-based venues, and the lure of exotic destinations may be more motivating for many employees.

Top incentive cruise destinations for meetings at sea include the Bahamas, Aruba, the Virgin Islands, and Barbados. These Caribbean destinations are perfect getaways, and can help employees relax and unwind. Because the Caribbean is within close proximity of the U.S., 3-4 days cruises can be easily arranged. Corporate meetings held at sea can be very productive as employees are given the opportunity and venue to think creatively without the limitations of office walls. This time away from the office may be when some a corporations employees are the most innovative and imaginative. Other popular cruise destinations include Vancouver and Whistler, Australia, and Croatia.

If you are looking for a top-notch group travel choice that is both easy and affordable, look no farther than the As in your phone book–Aruba. Prized for the accommodations, food, nightlife, and local customs, there is another reason seasoned meeting professionals keep coming back to Aruba for their incentive travel needs. The tiny island paradise is so friendly that the hotels and other businesses help each other help the visitor. If one hotel can’t help you make arrangements, they will send you to someone who can, even if it is a competitor.

This makes Aruba the perfect choice not only for incentive groups, but also for meetings, conventions, continuing education conferences, and many other groups that meeting planners encounter in their daily lives. Here are some other advantages to booking events in Aruba.

Accessibility. Aruba is located in the Caribbean, so it’s a short flight from the southeast United States airports. Aruba is also a popular port of call for cruise lines, so if you are considering a cruise meeting, you could include a stop in Aruba as part of the plans. Continue reading »