Take a further trip for more reward in spring 2024
With travel continuing to open up and return to natural form after years of Covid, the world is once again an oyster for meeting professionals looking for an international incentive trip or executive retreat that will be memorable and expand geographical and cultural horizons of attendees. With “experiences” continuing to be the key word of the meetings and events industry, Smart Meetings has compiled a list of exotic and international destinations that are ideal for incentives and executive retreats that will deliver all that is advertised and more for “spring break” 2024!
Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
A well-known tourist destination, incentive travelers may be surprised with some of the lesser-known elements and attractions of Puerto Vallarta. The Malecon Boardwalk is more than a haven for partying spring-breakers—it is a cultural and artistic collaborative venue for locals and visitors alike. Sculptures and restaurants by acclaimed local artists and culinary masters are ubiquitous and present Mexican culture at its best along the coast of the Pacific Ocean. What is more Spring than the vibrant color and life that Puerto Vallarta has to offer?
Read More: Smart Chat: Annette Gregg on Incentive Travel and Leadership
Algarve, Portugal
This European destination provides the best of both worlds—all-inclusive resorts with luxury amenities, yet the Western side of the province on the Atlantic Ocean with less tourism and much more Portuguese culture and lifestyle. The beaches such as Praia do Amado, Carrapateira and Praia da Arrifana are referred to as having “butterscotch sand” and border the Parque Natural do Sudoeste Alentejanto e Costa Vicentina (Southwest Alentejo and Vicentine Coast Natural Park).
Anchorage, Alaska
Head up north—way north—to Alaska’s largest and one of its most visited cities. For wildlife lovers, there is nothing that beats the seaplanes taking off from the base of Lake Hood and flying over national parks like Far North Bicentennial Park or Kincaid Park. Explore the Chugach Mountains with its various trails that traverse glaciers, rivers, outdoor gathering areas and areas of known wildlife sightings. For urban living enthusiasts, Anchorage is home to more public art and residents involved in the food, music and general culture scene than any other city in the state. Visit one of the many galleries, restaurants and showrooms in Anchorage to learn about life on the edge of the Arctic Circle.
Nanjing, China
The beautiful, cultural, adventurous and historical city of Nanjing, China is quite often overlooked for Beijing yet has as much excitement and charm as its famous counterpart with more affordable travel costs. Purple Mountain is a stunning location in East Nanjing, given its name for the purple and golden clouds that are the backdrop to the landscape and for Plum Blossom Hill at the base of the mountain. With over 30,000 plum trees blossoming in the spring, it is no wonder that the Nanjing International Plum Blossom Festival draws so many springtime visitors.
Cartagena, Colombia
After being featured as a cast trip for the Bravo television hit series Real Housewives of New York City, Cartagena has been receiving more tourism than ever and living up to the hype. The amalgam of vibrant cultures from South America, the Caribbean Islands and historical European influences create a one-of-a-kind destination in Colombia. With easy access to shopping, dining, entertainment and historic venues overlooking the city and the Caribbean Sea, Cartagena offers accessible luxury and memorable experiences.
Read More: Vamos a Los Tropicos!
