Are you ready to start selecting destinations for incentive trips in 2023 or 2024? There are many locations from our 2022 list that made it this updated list.
Since companies started traveling again, incentive locations have been harder and harder to find in short booking windows.
If you’re ready to start planning, don’t delay!
Take a look a these top ten incentive trip locations to be better prepared when your company finally says “Ok, let’s do this!”
Destination 1: George Town, Grand Cayman
Why We Love It
Grand Cayman combines luxury and nature in every step, from the award-winning Seven Mile Beach to the rare blue iguanas at Queen Elisabeth II Botanic Park to visitor-friendly stingrays.
It boasts four amazing and luxurious properties that are perfectly suited for any incentive trip: Grand Cayman Marriott Beach Resort, Kimpton Seafire Resort + Spa, The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman, and the Westin Grand Cayman Seven Mile Beach Resort &Spa.
Getting There
Because this island is a little farther south in the Caribbean, it can be a bit of a trek from the North West United States. However, this beautiful Caribbean destination is easily reached within three hours or so from major cities in the Southeast USA.
When to Go
For the best weather, visit between March and June when the highs are in the mid-80s and lows in the 70s. The waters are usually calm and clear then, making it ideal for snorkeling, diving, sailing, and fishing.
Avoid July through November as it’s hurricane season, which means the weather can be unpredictable.
Destination 2: Jackson Hole, WY
Why We Love It
Jackson Hole offers unparalleled nature and unique activities. With over 60 art galleries, exclusive offsite mansions are perfect for private events. Between Yellow Stone and Grand Teton Parks, and a plethora of winter adventures, this area is ideal for corporate groups.
The amazing Four Seasons Resort and Residences Jackson Hole lets guests enjoy staying at the doorstep of a national park and as close to nature as possible.
Getting There
This is a great location for central and western US-based companies as it’s just a quick flight or half-day’s drive from anywhere west of the Mississippi. For southern US-based companies this destination is an ideal spot for a complete change in topography and weather.
When to Go
Late November through the end of February is the best time to visit and enjoy the amazing winter activities. Temperatures range from low single digits to the high 20s, which will ensure powder-style snow for every ski run you want to do.
April through May is perfect for seeing animals emerge from hibernation, but it can also bring quite a bit of rain.
September through October is when the temperatures are in the 50s to 70s and beautiful autumn foliage bursts with bright colors of red, orange, and yellow.
Destination 3: Mallorca, Spain
Why We Love It
Companies who are looking for a high-end incentive trip focused on health and wellness will do well to consider Mallorca. It is filled with all kinds of landscapes, from amazingly lush mountain ranges to the peaceful plains to splendid beaches of warm, crystal-clear waters.
It hosts unique and luxurious resorts and an endless array of water activities, amazing eateries, night life and shopping.
Getting There
A great destination when you have guests traveling from both the east coast of the United States as well as a number of European locations.
When to Go
If you’re interested in spending most of your time on the water or at the beach, June through September would be ideal. If you prefer hiking in crisp and clear air, then both February through March and October through November are great.
For cooler temperatures, around 45 degrees Fahrenheit, book your group travel between December and January.
Temperatures are much cooler from November through April, with lows in the low sixties, which can be a surprise for guest expecting a warm sun-filled beach experience.
Destination 4: Los Cabos, Mexico
Why We Love It
Situated on the Pacific side of Mexico, which is more mountainous with deep blue waters, Los Cabos teems with over 45 hotels and more than 11,000 rooms. Meeting venues surround prime entertainment locations within steps of Cabo San Lucas’s exhilarating nightlife and waterfront dining.
There are quite a few all-inclusive resorts available in Los Cabos, such as the Paradisus Los Cabos, with a number of properties that offer European-plan options as well, like the luxurious Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedregal. Regardless of where you stay, this location is best for guests who enjoy everything water-related like fishing, boating, diving, paddle boarding, snorkeling, surfing, etc. and those who enjoy seaside relaxation.
Getting There
You can catch a flight from twenty-three cities in the US directly to the Los Cabos International Airport which makes it a quick hop from your hometown to a sandy beach.
When to Go
Although this location is beach side, it is on the Pacific Ocean, which runs colder throughout the year than the Gulf of Mexico. The best time to enjoy outdoor activities is from May to late September, when temperatures range from the low 70s to the low 90s. and a dip in the ocean helps you cool off from the heat.
Temperatures are much cooler from November through April, with lows in the low sixties, which can be a surprise for guest expecting a warm sun-filled beach experience.
Destination 5: Guanacaste, Costa Rica
Why We Love It
Costa Rica offers unspoiled nature experiences, varied cultural opportunities and some of the friendliest people on earth. From ziplining, horseback riding, diving, whitewater rafting, golf, sunbathing, surfing and more, Costa Rica offers something for everyone.
The Guanacaste area is perfect for groups of 150 or more, as its hotels can house everyone and still offer beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean. There are quite a few four- or five-star hotels along the coast including, Dreams Las Mereas Costa Rica, JW Marriott Guanacaste Resort & Spa, The Westin Reserva Conchal and the Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica at Peninsula Papagayo.
Getting There
Flights to Costa Rica can cost a little more than those heading to the Caribbean, ranging anywhere from $375-$600 out of Dallas for example, so budget management is key.
When to Go
We suggest those looking to escape the cold winter weather head to this destination between December and April when Costa Rica enjoys its dry season and is filled with sun and warmth. May to November is generally a heavy rainy season, which may allow for lower room rates but makes it tough to sunbathe and explore.
Destination 6: Malta
Why We Love It
This unique island off the coast of Italy boasts 7,000 years of history ready to be explored. From its architecture to the island scenery, its honey-colored stone creates an amazing backdrop for any incentive trip.
From luxurious resorts like the Intercontinental Malta to the Westin Dragonara Resort, Malta, there are quite a few locations to review for your guests.
Getting There
Part of the European Union, Malta, is a unique destination that is within easy travel reach for guests traveling from eastern US and Europe. Most airlines servicing major European cities have connecting flights into Malta International Airport.
When to Go
The best time of year to enjoy Malta is April through June when the weather is mostly sunny, and the temperatures are beginning to get warm and guests start heading to the beach. This is also the best time to beat the crowds during tourist season, which lasts from June through September.
Destination 7: Riviera Maya, Mexico
Why We Love It
This location is lined with beaches and features over 50 hotels containing more than 26,850 rooms, as well as meeting space specifically designed to host large groups for conferences, incentive tours and pre- and post-convention activities.
More than 80% of the hotels in the area are all-inclusive with access to both historical ruins nearby (Tulum and Coba) as well as the traditional leisure activities such as golf, spa, and water activities. Some of the can’t-miss day trip spots include Puerto Morelos, Playa Del Carmen, Puerto Aventuras, Mayakoba, Playacar, Akumal and Tulum. The area also boasts excellent golf courses.
Getting There
Most guests will fly into Cancun’s International Airport, which is accessible from most major US and European cities. Alternatively, they can fly to Cozumel and take a ferry. If private ground transportation is not part of an incentive package, it is best for guests to request airport transfers directly from their hotel or resort.
When to Go
The water on the Gulf side of Mexico near Riviera Maya is warmer than the water on the Pacific side, but the temperature doesn’t get as hot as the Pacific side. The best time to go is from late March to early November when highs are around 83 degrees and lows are in the lower 70s. If you plan an incentive outside these months, lows are much cooler, dipping below 70.
Destination 8: Montréal, Canada
Why We Love It
With so many things to see and do, we wouldn’t dream of trying to list them all here! But rest assured, you’ll find numerous options for your group, whether big or small. In addition to traditional sightseeing excursions that highlight famous landmarks such as Notre Dame Basilica, historic districts like Old Montreal, and the Botanical Garden, there are some unusual and unique things to do in Montreal as well.
Getting There
Located in the southeast corner of Canada in the province of Quebec, visitors can reach Montreal by air in three hours or less from most major central and eastern US cities. Downtown Montreal and most points of interest are a brief taxi ride from Montreal-Trudeau International Airport (YUL). For many in the northeastern US, it’s a half-day’s (or less) drive to the city center, or train ride to Gare central. Even the cruise ships make stops at Grand Quay of the Port of Montreal on the St. Lawrence River.
When to Go
Between March and May temperatures slowly begin to rise in Montreal making sightseeing and enjoying the city a little more amiable. There is still a possibility of snow, but it’s also a shoulder season, so lower hotel prices should be prevalent.
Summer is peak tourist season, so if you choose to hold your incentive during this time, be aware that limited availability for certain attractions might be a problem. The temperatures hover around the mid to high 70s, which is great, but prepare to be among larger crowds of tourists, so booking ahead is key.
September through November is another great should season for Montreal, hotel rates seem to taper off but the temperatures also begin to cool off. So bring your jacket. And, if you really want to have a snow-filled winter incentive, December through February is your time frame. From single digits to the 20s, Montreal can be a winter wonderland if you know what to do. Ice skating, skiing, sleigh rides, etc.
Destination 9: Kauai, Hawaii
Why We Love It
Hawaii is the original incentive location dating from the 1950s and continues to be the preferred incentive trip destination for businesses all over the world. Kauai is truly a tropical paradise, with its breathtaking waterfalls, pristine beaches, and island hospitality. From the Napali Coast, to Waimea Canyon to the Wailua River, there are some amazing natural wonders to see here. Guests can also explore small towns like Hanapepe, Koloa, Waimea, Kapaa and Hanalei for local shopping and eateries. The amazing Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort and Spa is a great choice for hosting your incentive group.
Getting There
Companies based in both Asia and the western United States are a great fit for this location because flight times are relatively manageable. But the appeal of Kauai is strong, and your guests may feel it’s worth the extra travel time to get there. Keep in mind that dollar for dollar, room rates, activities and most experiences offered on the island can be considerably higher priced than on the mainland US.
When to Go
Airfares are lowest in January and September and most expensive in June and December. Room rates are typically lower in the fall. For weather that is warm and dry, travel between April and September. Because of this, tourists from both the US and Asia tend to visit during the last two weeks of April and the first week of May.
Hurricane season runs from June through November, so keep that in mind. Local festivals are primarily held in October.
Destination 10: Santorini, Greece
Why We Love It
First and foremost, Santorini is a beautiful, one-of-a-kind city with its crystal-clear waters that are an amazing juxtaposition to its vibrant white city walls. Perfect for adventurous groups who like to get out and explore, Santorini offers activities such as visiting ancient ruins, enjoying local wine, fishing, boating and swimming.
Guests can hike along the caldera from Fira, where the city of Atlantis was said to have once stood. Smaller groups that don’t require meeting space would enjoy staying at Canaves Oia Santorini, built in 1985 and renovated in 2013. This property has everything for a dream Santorinian experience.
Getting There
Santorini is a bucket-list type of destination for people around the world, so it’s an amazing motivator and worth the effort to get there. Guests will need to first make their way to Athens and then either fly or ferry to Santorini. Flights are typically 40 minutes, but more adventurous guests may prefer the high-speed ferry trip which can take approximately four to five hours.
When to Go
September to October and April to May are the best time frames to head to Santorini for warm weather and scarce crowds, except for Easter which draws larger crowds. Most of the region’s precipitation is from October to March, so avoid that timeframe if you prefer hot and dry weather.
Bargain room rates can be had if you visit between November and March. Summertime, between June and August, is packed with crowds, but it’s also when the outdoor festivals occur, like the Jazz Festival Santorini or the Festival of Megaron Gyzi. Hotel prices are understandably highest during this time.