1. Harmony in motion
In the heart of Toyama Prefecture, groups can experience a two-day, one-night tranquil retreat in the World Heritage Site of Gokayama, renowned for its untouched landscapes and traditional way of life. All accommodations are in the village’s famed thatched roofed homes, where meals featuring mountain-grown vegetables and fresh fish are served around traditional irori hearths.
Optional add-ons include Japanese papermaking, a performance of local folk songs and a visit to the village museum. Fees for the package, which is available year-round, start at 13,000 yen (US$91) per person.
2. A walk on the wild side
Discover an unforgettable experience at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary (CWS), where conservation and culture come alive. CWS has been conserving native wildlife and nurturing the local indigenous heritage for over 75 years. Enjoy private tours of the onsite Wildlife Hospital, caring for over 14,000 animals annually, and immerse yourself in traditional Aboriginal dance and storytelling. Groups of up to 200 people can be hosted at The Homestead banquet-style, where paddock-to-plate dining showcases Australian flavours and produce.
Incentive groups can customise a private experience to get up close encounters with access to the enclosures, have a morning tea in the Koala Nursery with specialist conservation talks and activation, or go on behind-the-scenes hospital tours or enclosure tours to see the animals up close.
3. Island hopping
The Tanjung Kelayang Reserve, a 350-hectare UNESCO Global Geopark on Belitung Island, Bangka-Belitung Province, Indonesia, is a protected natural environment. Bluemind Experience facilitates a full-day programme for up to 50 participants within this reserve.
The day will commence at the Sheraton Belitung Resort beachfront, where participants will embark on a private boat journey through the Geopark’s islands. This excursion reveals 213-million-year-old rock formations, notably Pulau Batu Berlayar (Sailing Rock), with its striking granite emerging from turquoise waters.
The trip then proceeds to Pulau Lengkuas (Galangal Island) to visit the 1882 lighthouse and snorkel among vibrant coral reefs. Following a fresh seafood lunch on Kelayang Island, the itinerary includes visits to Garuda Rock Island and Pulau Pasir (sandbank).
Evenings offer the possibility of culminating on a Private Island for an awards ceremony or a themed dinner beneath the stars.
4. The rock challenge
Embark on a half-day, adrenaline-packed adventure to the Rock Viewpoint in Khammouane Province’s Phou Hin Boun National Protected Area with Green Discovery Laos.
Not for the faint hearted, this adventure sees nine guests brave Laos’ only spider net bridge, climb the via ferrata to fly above one of Asia’s largest limestone forests, soak up stunning vistas of the nature reserve from various ziplines and suspended bridges before enjoying more splendid views during lunch at Phou Pha Marn Visitor’s Centre.
5. White Lotus lore
The Lotus Awakening Escape is an extraordinary four-night retreat through Phuket and Koh Samui.
From lotus rituals at ancient temples to sound healing, walk in the footsteps of The White Lotus characters in a journey that blends heritage, culture, and serenity with curated experiences that offer an insight into the three Anantara properties that were settings for the HBO show. Immerse in shooting locations through experiences like the Passage of the Lotus and exclusive Tree Tops dining, including a stay in the White Lotus Villa – Belinda’s accommodation throughout the show.
6. Desert delights
For incentive groups heading to Dubai, a quintessential experience awaits in the majestic desert. Arranged by FCM Travel, this adventure begins with exhilarating 4×4 transfers across the golden dunes.
As dawn breaks, groups can soar above the stunning landscapes on a hot air balloon adventure. This serene aerial journey offers an intimate setting to enjoy breathtaking vistas, complemented by a traditional breakfast served amidst the scenic desert backdrop. This experience is best enjoyed outside of the summer months.
7. Coastal discovery
This 3.5-hour outing organised by Go Park Sports takes nine guests to Sham Chung, a Hakka village established in the north-west of the Sai Kung Peninsula more than 140 years ago.
Starting from Go Park Aqua, the journey begins with a boat ride, offering scenic views of the Kei Ling Ha Hoi coastline and surrounding mountains. In 15 minutes, the boat arrives at Sham Chung Pier. A guided stroll then leads through lush meadows to the revamped Epiphany of Our Lord Chapel, followed by a walk across a vast grassland, concluding with a Hakka-style lunch in the village.
8. Hidden gems
Swissôtel The Bosphorus, Istanbul offers a Bosphorus Prestige Experience programme good for groups of up to 10.
Onsite experiences include signature treatments at Pürovel Spa & Sport such as Turkish hammam rituals; Turkish wine and raki (traditional alcoholic beverage) tastings led by local sommeliers; and a sunset cruise with live music, cocktails and views of Istanbul’s iconic skyline.
Meanwhile, offsite experiences include VIP guided tours of the Old City; a private culinary walk through Karaköy or Galata with local chefs; and Turkish coffee fortune-reading workshops.
9. Celestial nights
This incentive experience takes groups through Masungi Georeserve’s limestone paths, guided solely by stars and lanterns for a truly intimate and unique journey.
At a scenic rock peak, a group of up to 20 participants can enjoy traditional hot chocolate and rice cakes while stargazing with experts from the Philippine Astronomical Society, who will share captivating stories of the cosmos.
The evening culminates with an organic dinner, wrapped in banana leaves and prepared by the local community, served deep within the forest – a memorable finale for the team.
He was most recently commercial director for Air France KLM in the UK and Ireland.
