Incentive travel remains one of the most effective strategies for motivating and rewarding employees, customers and business partners.
Expectations are changing and evolving in line with new traveler priorities, sustainability and technology. Here are the trends for 2025:
PERSONALIZATION AND EXCLUSIVITY.
Travelers expect unique experiences tailored to their interests, such as private dining with local chefs, private museum tours and personalized activities that provide an exclusive touch.
Maldives:
With luxury resorts on private islands, the Maldives offers personalized options such as:
- Dining under the stars,
- Exclusive yacht cruises and
- Overwater villas with all kinds of amenities.
Dubai, United Arab Emirates:
Offers unique experiences such as:
- Private tours in luxury cars,
- Dinners in the desert or
- Exclusive access to high-end events such as the Formula 1 Grand Prix.
SUSTAINABLE TOURISM.
From choosing eco-friendly destinations to greener transportation options. Companies are focusing on offering incentives that promote the preservation of natural resources and respect for local communities.
Costa Rica:
Offers experiences in national parks such as:
- Manuel Antonio and
- Arenal Volcano
Where travelers can enjoy nature while learning about the importance of environmental protection.
Azores, Portugal:
Archipelago that has been a pioneer in sustainable practices. Its volcanic landscapes and hot springs, along with its ecological policies, make it ideal for environmentally conscious travelers.
MULTIGENERATIONAL TRAVEL.
It is no longer uncommon for employees to bring family members or for awards to extend to multiple family members. This promotes a more inclusive travel experience, which can strengthen loyalty and ties to the company. This offer is tailored to different age groups, from outdoor adventures to activities for children.
Canary Islands, Spain:
These islands offer a perfect blend of beaches, culture and nature, allowing families to enjoy family activities as well as moments of relaxation.
Queenstown, New Zealand:
Perfect for a multigenerational trip, it offers everything from adventure activities such as bungee jumping and rafting to more leisurely options such as boat rides on Lake Wakatipu or visits to local wineries.
LOCAL CULTURE.
Every day we see more and more the desire to connect with different cultures, so now we see cooking workshops, visits to local markets or craft classes giving guidelines to immersion and learning about that culture.
Marrakech, Morocco:
With its historic medina, spice markets and local craft workshops, Marrakech is the ideal destination to immerse yourself in the local culture through activities such as Moroccan cooking classes or pottery workshops.
Kyoto, Japan:
With its Buddhist temples, Zen gardens and tea ceremonies, Kyoto is perfect for those seeking a deep and authentic cultural experience.
UNCONVENTIONAL DESTINATIONS.
Nowadays travelers are moving away from mass tourism, they are no longer interested in popularized places but are looking for a more authentic experience, something that surprises them and takes them off the traditional radar. From remote mountain villages to exotic desert islands, even little-visited cities.
Lofoten Islands, Norway:
Breathtaking scenery, activities such as hiking in the mountains and exploring small fishing villages, perfect for groups looking for something out of the ordinary.
Mongolia:
Ideal for those seeking authentic adventure in the steppes, living with nomads in traditional tents (yurts) and exploring the Gobi Desert.
WELLNESS.
Vemos cada vez más empresas apostando por programas que ayuden a los empleados a recargar energías y mejorar su salud física y mental. Se han estado implementando desde retiros en destinos tranquilos hasta actividades enfocadas en la meditación y el yoga.
Bali, Indonesia:
Known for its yoga and wellness retreats, Bali offers experiences such as meditation, traditional massages and wellness sessions in beautiful resorts surrounded by nature.
Sedona, Arizona, USA:
Famous for its wellness centers and the energy of its spiritual “vortexes,” Sedona is a perfect place for those looking to relax and reconnect mind, body and spirit.
IMMERSIVE TECHNOLOGY.
Augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) are transforming how travelers experience their destinations. Such as virtual escape rooms, games and competitions in augmented reality.
Tokyo, Japan:
Known for its technological advances, Tokyo offers futuristic experiences such as virtual reality tours in museums or interactive exhibits in places like the Miraikan (National Museum of Innovation and Science).
Seoul, South Korea:
The South Korean capital is famous for its use of technology, from interactive VR tours to tech-savvy shopping experiences.
As the world continues to evolve, so do the expectations of incentive travelers.
In 2025, the key will be to offer unique, personalized and sustainable experiences that not only reward participants, but also inspire them to be a responsible tourist.