The corporate travel landscape features a wide variety of remarkable destinations to enhance how companies connect, celebrate milestones, and motivate their teams. From iconic urban hubs to serene retreats, businesses can choose the right locations for their teams to foster collaboration, reward performance, and build stronger team dynamics.
To help our clients create a relevant and impactful corporate meeting strategy, we continuously analyze recent data and insights from the evolving corporate travel industry and our own experience. Our comprehensive view blends emerging trends, popular destinations, and key considerations, ensuring our clients’ meeting needs align with the latest trends of today’s workforce.
Top Incentive Travel Destinations in 2024
2024 saw incentive travel programs flourishing in destinations that offered unique cultural experiences, luxurious accommodations, and immersive activities. Here are the destinations that stood out as the top incentive travel destinations in 2024:
- Hawaii
- Las Vegas
- Florida
- Western Europe
- Central America
According to the Incentive Research Foundation's 2024 report, incentive travel is a powerful motivator, with 91% of people saying group trips to exciting destinations are "very" or "extremely motivating”. Participants value free time in places like Hawaii and Florida to relax on the beach, or destinations in Western Europe where they can explore new cultural experiences.
SDI’s Highlights: Destinations for Incentive Travel
From breathtaking landscapes to immersive cultural experiences, SDI curates trips that inspire and reward attendees in meaningful ways. A growing trend in incentive travel is the rise of eco-luxury destinations, featuring green certifications, carbon-neutral options, and sustainable practices, as well as immersive nature experiences that align with companies' values.
In addition, "all-inclusive" venues are gaining popularity, offering comprehensive packages that include accommodations, wellness activities, and gourmet dining. This trend underscores the importance of fostering mental well-being and work-life balance, enhancing team performance and overall satisfaction.
European Cities:
- Rome, Italy: Renowned for its ancient landmarks like the Colosseum and Vatican City, Rome blends timeless history with modern amenities for an unforgettable experience.
- Tenerife, Spain: This Canary Island gem offers a vibrant mix of historic charm and exotic beaches, ideal for relaxing or exploring.
Tropical Islands:
- Bora Bora, French Polynesia: Overwater bungalows and crystal-clear lagoons create a luxurious backdrop for unwinding or celebrating special moments.
- The Caribbean: A tapestry of islands boasting turquoise waters, lush landscapes, and vibrant cultures perfect for rejuvenation and adventure.
Coastal Cities:
- Charleston, SC: Cobblestone streets and historic architecture meet Southern hospitality, creating a charming and picturesque destination.
- Miami Beach, FL: Known for its Art Deco skyline and pristine beaches, Miami offers a vibrant blend of sun-soaked luxury and lively nightlife.
Iconic Cities:
- New York, NY: The city that never sleeps delivers iconic attractions, world-class dining, and endless opportunities for exploration and inspiration.
- San Francisco, CA: Home to the Golden Gate Bridge and the lively tech hub of Silicon Valley, this city combines innovation with breathtaking coastal scenery.
Green Landscapes:
- Ireland: Rolling emerald hills, historic castles, and cozy pubs make Ireland a magical destination for relaxation and exploration.
- Costa Rica: From misty rainforests to volcanic hot springs, Costa Rica’s diverse landscapes offer endless opportunities for adventure and connection with nature.
SDI’s Top Destinations for Corporate Meetings in 2024
In 2024, SDI hosted corporate meetings in exceptional locations that allowed business efficiency to blend seamlessly with stunning and inspiring environments. These corporate meetings were carefully planned to facilitate each team’s growth towards their company’s united goal. As a result, each corporate meeting destination was carefully curated to complement the company’s goals, needs, and intentions.
Cultural and Urban Hubs:
- Atlanta, GA: Known for its connectivity via Hartsfield-Jackson Airport, Atlanta provided a seamless mix of accessibility and cultural landmarks like the Georgia Aquarium.
- New York, NY: Iconic venues like The Langham offered upscale meeting spaces alongside the vibrant energy of the city that never sleeps.
- San Francisco, CA: The Palace Hotel combines timeless elegance with modern meeting amenities, which are ideal for high-impact corporate events.
Luxury Mountain Retreats:
- Jackson Hole, WY: Nestled in the breathtaking Teton Range, this destination paired corporate gatherings with outdoor adventures like skiing and hiking.
- Moab, UT: Red rock landscapes and team-building opportunities made this an unforgettable choice for inspiring creativity and camaraderie.
Sun and Sophistication:
- Naples, FL: The Ritz-Carlton provided a refined Gulf Coast retreat, perfect for balancing professional engagements with leisure.
- Scottsdale, AZ: The Arizona Biltmore’s resort-style atmosphere ensured attendees experienced both relaxation and productivity.
Where Can SDI Take You Next?
In 2024, incentive travel destinations tended to be international, whereas corporate meeting destinations were, more often than not, domestic. Comfort levels for international travel are rising, with attendees signaling a strong readiness for more distant trips. This means that in 2025, international travel is likely to become a common trend for both incentive travel and corporate meeting destinations. Such locations not only inspire fresh ideas but also provide ideal settings for team-building and innovation-focused programs.
Looking ahead, we anticipate continued interest in corporate meetings and incentive travel destinations that offer immersive experiences. As a result, the following destinations are likely to grow in popularity in 2025:
Bora Bora, French Polynesia:
Famous for its overwater bungalows and serene turquoise waters, Bora Bora provides the perfect setting for high-level strategy meetings. Host brainstorming sessions in an open-air bungalow and unwind with your team over a sunset cruise. It’s an ideal destination for senior executives who need a tranquil yet inspirational environment.
Costa Rica:
Known for its eco-friendliness and lush biodiversity, Costa Rica provides everything from jungle retreats to beachfront venues. Teams can bond while hiking through rainforests, ziplining over treetops, or brainstorming in tranquil, open-air meeting spaces.
Rome, Italy:
Picture hosting a meeting in a villa overlooking the hills of Tuscany or in Rome surrounded by centuries-old architecture. Italy’s blend of history, art, and gastronomy creates an unforgettable atmosphere for any business gathering. Treat attendees to vineyard tours, Italian cooking classes, and networking under the stars.
Mexico:
Cancun’s all-inclusive resorts, Playa del Carmen’s laid-back vibe, Cabo’s stunning Pacific coast and Tulum’s improved access are Mexican destinations that offer affordable luxury. Picture brainstorming sessions on a private beach and team-building through snorkeling or cave exploration.
Caribbean:
The Caribbean is set to become a top corporate travel destination in 2025 due to its perfect mix of relaxation, culture, and modern facilities. Destinations like Jamaica, Aruba and Curacao offer pristine beaches, luxury venues, and activities like water sports and boat tours, ideal for team bonding.
The SDI team is committed to staying ahead of industry trends to providing our clients with unparalleled experiences that connect, celebrate, and inspire their teams. From the vibrant streets of New York to the tranquil waters of Aruba, we help clients create memories that go beyond the conference room. Contact us today for a personalized consultation, and let’s design an experience that aligns with your vision and goals.
