Location:
The Wynn is an impressive hotel and one of the few great last minute options for a large group (300+). The sheer number of guest rooms and meeting rooms available between the Wynn and Encore can only be matched in one other conference hub, Orlando.
Time Save:
How a simple FAQ's page for your next incentive trip can save you hundreds of emails and hours of your time!
Questions, questions and more questions are the biggest time suck when planning an incentive trip. This can be for an internal planner and/or an outside travel agent. Many times the same questions are asked over and over again that you start to copy and paste your answers. You understand the need for information but there must be a better way then one-off email responses.
Two Impressive Hotel Groups (Not Chains):
Given the constantly changing environment in the hotel industry it is important to find a trusted source when looking to book your next trip. Some rely on friends' recommendations, others a Google search and many simple Tripadvisor reviews. As the review market is beginning to shift and it is more difficult to separate paid advertising versus honest reviews, we are finding more travelers disappointed each week. We have found one way to help lower the risk of being disappointed is to stick with a trusted hotel group you have enjoyed in the past.
Here are two great hotel groups that do not disappoint:
Destination:
Year after year St. Maarten is on the list as one of the top destinations in the Caribbean. It is a hub for many of flights throughout the Caribbean and has daily direct flights from New York, Philadelphia, Charlotte, San Juan, Atlanta and Miami. Recently airlines have added busy season weekend direct flights from Washington DC, Boston, Chicago, Newark, and Ft. Lauderdale.
So one major perk of St. Maarten for incentive travel is the ease of getting to the island. Another great thing about St. Maarten is the unlimited number of activities available from America’s Cup sailing races, to snorkeling excursions, zip lining, perfume making classes, Anguilla day trips, St. Bart’s shopping adventures, and spa options. A third benefit of choosing St. Maarten is the unbelievable restaurant options, from Grand Case to Marigot and even Simpson Bay as of recently. Finally, the white sand beaches, crystal clear water and eighty degrees year around helps increase the value of the destination.
Customer Service Win:
This review is with no bias just from personal experiences of a travel coordinator who struggles year after year to find the perfect flight options at a reasonable price and with least stops possible. It’s not an easy task when there’s limited daily flights and only one direct option each day.
The ladies at the JetBlue groups desk make this process bearable and over the years it’s refreshing to speak to the same women month after month. When Becky or Linda answers the phone, you know it will be a good experience.
South Beach, Miami:
Perfect property for your next incentive trip. Great location on South Beach, multiple pools, outdoor space for cocktail parties, impressive rooftop terrace, large rooms, and staff that makes you smile. The style is perfect for companies with guests from ages 25-60. The driftwood, natural living theme is warm and inviting as it presents the perfect backdrop for a relaxing few days. For those looking for more action, there’s a trendy upscale rooftop bar on property along with plenty of bars/clubs/restaurants just a few steps away. The staff that services the main pools and beach are always looking to please and are great about learning names and making sure you have the best experience ever. The drinks are refreshing, the menu is perfect for pool-side dining. Overall it’s the perfect spot with private cabanas, pool-side beach chairs and loungers throughout.
Highlights Include:
Many companies ask the same question year after year when building out their incentive program. Is it better to only induct % of the top performers of your sales team or is it better to widen the eligibility and induct all sales reps who beat the Minimum Percent Quota Attainment Or Minimum Revenue to Qualify. There are many factors that go into this decision and there should be a few different members of your business analyzing this difference.
Timing & Budget:
For NYC companies looking to plan their first incentive trip you have endless amount of options given the high number of direct flights from the three area airports. If your budget is tight and a Caribbean destination is important then we recommend looking to host your first trip between April 15-July 15th. The weather is still great in the Caribbean and contracts are easier to negotiate. Right now other popular destinations include South Florida, Las Vegas, Scottsdale, Palm Beach, Bahamas, Mexico and Dominican Republic.Highlights Include:
Anguilla Hotel Luxury Experience:
“Throughout the Anguillan resort, modern architectural forms interplay with the natural environment, while sophisticated, contemporary interiors by designer Kelly Wearstler add rich textural contrast. The resort's signature restaurant, Cobà, offers dining with exquisite views of Barnes Bay and Meads Bay, and the dramatic bay-view Sunset Lounge and cliff-side Half Shell beach bar and restaurant add to the culinary offerings at this stunning luxury Caribbean resort. Two white sand beaches, our glimmering Sunset Pool, an array of water sports, a spa and fitness center, and programs for children and families add to Viceroy's rarefied experience.”
Corporate Events:
As your President's Club trip or annual Sales Kickoff grows, the question many ask is when does a charter flight make sense. If you have 240 employees flying from NYC to Vegas or Boston to Mexico, isn't it the best option?