September 13, 2023
Top 10 Incentive Travel Destinations That Motivate, Inspire and Deliver Results
Incentive travel isn’t just a reward, it’s a results-driven strategy. Companies are moving away from cash bonuses and toward experiences that inspire, engage, and deliver long-term value.
Why? Because shared experiences have power. They build loyalty, drive performance, and fuel momentum across teams and customers alike. At First Event, we design corporate events and incentive programmes that do more than motivate, they transform.
Whether you’re an experienced event planner or exploring incentive travel for the first time, this list will spark ideas for memorable and meaningful rewards.
Want to understand the value of incentive travel first? Download our Benefits of Incentives Guide to see how experiences can drive real business outcomes.
What Makes an Incentive Destination Great?
An effective incentive destination should:
- Offer unforgettable, unique experiences
- Feel aspirational yet achievable
- Be flexible to accommodate your business goals, group size, and budget
- Create the kind of buzz that builds momentum across your wider team
From short-haul gems to bucket-list locations, here are our top picks.
1. Sicily
Sicily offers an incredible blend of sun, sea, and centuries-old charm. Think: walking tours through ancient theatres, visits to Mount Etna, and vineyard dinners overlooking coastal views. For incentive events that balance relaxation with enrichment, Sicily delivers on every level.
2. Reykjavik
Iceland’s capital offers a landscape unlike anywhere else. From geothermal spas to Northern Lights viewing, Reykjavik creates memories that spark stories for years. Ideal for teams who value the road less travelled.
3. Vietnam
Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon) brings together rich history, vibrant street life, and a sense of discovery that’s perfect for incentive programmes. Activities range from Mekong Delta speedboat tours to rooftop fine dining and visits to the Cu Chi Tunnels.
We’ve created tailored itineraries that combine luxury, adventure, and cultural insight—all within budget.
4. Florence
Florence is short-haul yet world-class. From its Renaissance treasures to the rolling hills of Chianti, it’s a destination that inspires. One of our client programmes here helped boost sales significantly, combining immersive cultural experiences with strategic recognition moments.
Read our Florence incentive case study to see how it was done.
5. New York
Few places energise like New York. Whether it’s team photos in Times Square or private dinners in hidden Brooklyn venues, the city delivers impact and inspiration in equal measure.
Our event planners can also design bespoke experiences in lesser-known boroughs like Queens or Staten Island for something more unexpected—while still delivering that unmistakable New York buzz.
Explore New York incentive ideas in our detailed overview.
6. Liverpool
Liverpool combines cultural heritage with top-tier event infrastructure. The waterfront setting, rich music history, and venues like ACC Liverpool make it ideal for combining meetings with incentive experiences.
It’s a smart option for UK-based organisations looking for impact without international travel.
7. Cape Town
Cape Town is more than stunning views, it’s a full sensory experience. Incentive programmes can include vineyard tours, Table Mountain treks, harbour cruises, and world-class hospitality. This is a destination designed for once-in-a-lifetime impact, and well worth the investment for your highest achievers.
8. Dubai
Dubai stands out with its bold architecture, high-end experiences, and quick access to desert landscapes. A well-planned itinerary can include luxury city stays, desert safari adventures, fine dining and cultural encounters. Ideal for recognising excellence in style.
Looking for support planning your Dubai incentive? Our team has helped organisations of all sizes navigate venues, budgets, and itineraries with ease.
9. California
From San Francisco’s innovation hubs to LA’s star power and the calming beaches of Santa Monica, California offers diverse options within one trip. Perfect for mixed groups or companies looking to combine city energy with outdoor beauty.
Plan your trip around the seasons with Visit California’s guide.
10. Vilamoura
A quieter gem in Portugal’s Algarve region, Vilamoura offers white-sand beaches, marina-side dining and premium golf courses. Ideal for shorter travel times and high-end group incentives with a relaxed pace.
Incentive Travel That Builds Momentum
At First Event, we design and deliver incentive programmes that go beyond the reward. We help you build lasting engagement, energise your teams, and deliver measurable outcomes, whether that’s improving retention, boosting performance, or strengthening relationships.
Our role as a strategic event agency means we combine creativity with logistics and data-driven thinking to ensure your investment translates into results.
Ready to Create an Incentive Programme That Performs?
If you’re planning your incentive scheme, we’re here to help make it unforgettable, for the right reasons.
- Speak to our team of expert event planners
- Get bespoke destination and itinerary ideas
- Let us manage everything from logistics to delivery
Download our Benefits of Incentives Guide to get started or get in touch to begin planning with our team.
