Corporate Travel Destinations

If you have heard of incentive cruises but are not entirely sure what they are, then you might have a lot to think about when you discover what an incentive cruise is. Simply put, an incentive cruise is a cruise that is offered as an incentive for meeting certain goals or criteria/criterion. Incentive cruises can be offered to employees, partners, suppliers, customers, and even potential recruits. Here are some interesting thoughts regarding incentive cruises from multiple points of view:

• Employees and recruits tend to view incentive cruises as a major perk and fringe benefit, and it can also be considered a source of inspiration. Those workers that meet the requirements to go on an incentive cruise are often the standard to which other employees hold themselves.
• Partners and supplies may value their business relationship more with partners that show a willingness to build rapport and look at the big picture. This could prove vital in cases where globalization or other factors shift the position of a company in a volatile market.
• Valued customers may feel a similar connection to a company that shows just how much their business is valued by offering incentive cruises to their top clients. In some industries these types of incentives are even the norm, but in others that are niceties that separate the serious players from the rest.

No taxpayer wants to see her hard-earned dollars being wasted by companies on the public bailout dime. Misused funds are one way American businesses got into their current predicaments in the first place. However, nixing meetings just because they look like they are in a “fun” place–and companies getting bailed out should not have any “fun”–has created tensions not only in the companies who are canceling their meetings, but with gaming community hotels and convention services, and the meeting planner.

As understandable as the restrictions are, they are largely unwarranted. Gaming communities, Las Vegas included, are hurting for business right now and have become flexible and cost effective for business meeting needs. Other considerations, such as travel within the city, large room blocks, and good meal choices, are also good for companies pinching pennies–much of Vegas is within walking distance, food is less expensive than other cities, and there are excellent choices of hotel rooms. Continue reading »