Much of the world is warming up, enticing groups to enjoy outdoor activities. Here are seven outstanding destinations where attendees can get a high dose of vitamin D, fill their body and mind with good energy and have unforgettable experiences.
Puerto Rico
In the aftermath of Hurricane Maria, Puerto Rico is now ready to welcome guests at its stunning beachfront resorts and renovated properties. Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, with 5,000 sq. ft. of meeting space, is known for the natural beauty of its surroundings and high-end design. The reserve now includes more than 300,000 native plants, which provide a tropical feel.
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Renovations at the property include the 114 guest rooms, which showcase a beach allure with sea-inspired decor and ocean views. If groups want to experience more local culture, they can visit the iconic El San Juan Hotel in San Juan. Known for its vibrant music and art scene, the property has hosted concerts by legends including Frank Sinatra, Sammy Davis and Liza Minelli. It continues to entertain guests with the Brava program, which features live music and late-night dancing.
Cabo San Lucas, Mexico
Recently opened, 115-room 1 Hotel is an eco-friendly property on Medano Beach, the only swimmable beach in Cabo. Inspired by a hacienda feel, architects and designers used sustainable and low-impact materials to build the complex and furnish the guest rooms. Seated on several hundred feet of shoreline, the property is a peaceful oasis.
Opening this month is Nobu Hotel Los Cabos, Nobu’s first hotel in Mexico. Local aesthetic and a colorful palette blends with the brand’s signature elegance, featuring Japanese style and textures. Each of the 200 guest rooms features minimal design, with natural tones and big windows that open to the water. The hotel will include 14,389 sq. ft. of meeting space.
Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona
In February, Grand Canyon, North America’s largest park, celebrated its 100th anniversary. Spring is a perfect time to plan a trip to this natural destination. Athletic groups can explore the land by choosing among many hiking trails. Some easy options are Rim Train, one of the most popular paths, which extends from South Kaibab Trailhead to Hermits Rest, Hermit Road, a scenic route along the west end of Grand Canyon Village. Groups up for a challenge might try North Kaibab Trail (opening May 15), which requires a bit of training and a lot of energy.
Washington, D.C.
The National Cherry Blossom Festival (March 20–April 14) is welcoming spring in Washington, D.C. It is one of the most popular events in the nation’s capital and honors American and Japanese cultures. On the peak bloom date (Monday, April 1) when 70 percent of the trees surrounding the Tidal Basin open their buds, creating an unforgettable sea of pink and white flowers.
Bears Ears National Monument, Utah
Located inside Indian Creek Canyon in San Juan County, this national monument was established by President Barack Obama at the end of 2016. At the center of the canyon is Bears Ears, two sandstone buttes that rise above Cedar Mesa. The area within the monument is mostly underdeveloped and has a wide array of historical, cultural and natural resources.
Princeville, Kauai Island, Hawaii
April is off-season in Hawaii, so flights and accommodations are generally less expensive. One leading property, Princeville Resort, is set above gorgeous Hanalei Bay. Sandy beaches, crystalline waters and fairy tale-like views make the resort a perfect sanctuary to release and recharge. It has 13,000 sq. ft. of event space.
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Cherry Spring State Park, Coudersport, Pennsylvania
Due to its very dark night skies, astronomers from around the country visit this obscure place to better study and understand the Earth’s location in the universe. During warm weather, the Milky Way comes alive every night, and groups are immersed in a profound silence and surrounded by a whimsical atmosphere.
