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.
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:
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.
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.
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.
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:
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.