Destinations that make you want to unplug
Staying connected to technology and committing to constant communication can feel as though its pertinent to incentive recipients and corporate retreat attendees. However, with experiential experiences and wellness-oriented focuses from resorts trending now more than ever, meeting profs can explore destinations that are less business-oriented and more “off-the-grid.” There is something to be said about being present in a beautiful location and avoiding interaction with a screen so your mind, body and spirit can push the proverbial reset button. Smart Meetings has rounded up a few obscure luxury destinations that will take attendees of incentive trips and executive retreats away from their phones and computers and provide tangible experiences of relaxation, nature, culture and history.
Sport Fishing and Buggy Beauty in Costa Rica
In the rainforest of Costa Rica lies the adventurous resort Botanika Osa Peninsula, Curio Collection by Hilton offers the quintessential island experience with zip lining, nature hikes and deep-sea fishing. Luxury and authentic Costa Rican experience come together as Hilton provides unfussy amenities to match the off-the-grid vibe while still staying authentic to the culture and experiences of the island.
Leave your phone, laptop, tablets and everything else in the hotel room as you visit Osa Peninsula and experience places like Golfo Dulce, one of the only tropical fjords in the world. Crocodile Bay Marina is one of the closest full-service international marinas to the Panama Canal and celebrates the Costa Rican tradition of sport fishing in the fjords of Golfo Dulce.
With nature always a focus of Costa Rica, groups can visit the Science and Nature Center. Diego Oviedo, general manager of Botanika Osa Peninsula, recommends it highly.” Guests traveling to the Osa Peninsula should visit the Botanika Science and Nature Center to learn more about the unique flora, fauna and biodiversity in The Osa,” says Oviedo. “Botanika has also partnered with the non-profit foundation BioSur to host the largest insect museum in southern Costa Rica…the collection is so expansive that it has been designated a National Heritage Site by Costa Rica.”
Luxury Tents in Panama
Spanning across a blissful archipelago off the shores of Panama, Islas Secas Resort offers remote island luxury at its finest. The secluded casitas offer almost complete privacy and blend indoor/outdoor living with tented ceilings. The archipelago’s dedication to environmental conservation elevates the term of “off-the-grid” to something that benefits the world.
Nature and wildlife is precious to the culture in Panama and it is reflected in the reverence for the ecosystem and sustainability measures Islas Secas takes to protect the environment. The resort is an environmentally protected area and is required by law to keep 75% of the archipelago underdeveloped. Guest water is collected through filtration systems to reduce impact on ground water supply and food scraps return to the earth as compost. As their website states – “We hope that our guests’ experience at Islas Secas is proof that the travel industry can benefit conservation, cultural heritage, and local economies through sustainable properties and experiences that have a regenerative impact on each destination. There should be no other choice!”
Authentic Cuisine in Peru
Take a trip back in time, before you were glued to technology, to experience the rich history of ancient cultures, even from pre-Inca times, while still being in a luxury hotel like Hotel Paracas, a Luxury Collection Resort and close to the metropolitan city of Lima.
Although it is a luxury resort, the destination honors its ancient land and culture through culinary experiences that use regional products to produce traditional Peruvian food with an elevated flare. Guests can also dive in deeper to Peruvian cuisine with the resort’s cooking masterclass at its Chalana restaurant located on the private dock of hotel. The class can teach guests to make their very own Peruvian ceviche with the freshest local ingredients.
Trekking in Chile
Hike in the splendor of mountains, forests, glaciers and more as you visit the South of Chile and stay at Tierra Patagonia Hotel & Spa, Torres del Paine. If guests have adventurous spirits, they can go on the “Tierra Style” hike which requires camping in Southern-hemisphere weather conditions and must be prepared for heavy lifting of their gear and multi-day treks. For individuals or groups seeking to experience the exquisite nature of Torres del Paine National Park yet may not be experienced hikers and/or campers, Travel with excursion guides who are expert planners and cater to the needs of each guests. Trips between the park and the hotel are offered so guests can experience Chilean nature and then relax in the hotel’s jacuzzi.
