Canada Incentives
Reimagining the future of incentive travel
or all the changes we ’ ve seen over the past 18 months , one thing has remained constant : the strong demand for incentive travel programmes to reward top performers with unforgettable experiences . Several microtrends have emerged that are reshaping incentive travel programme design and destination selection .
Here , we unpack three of these trends , with examples from Canada , and provide some actionable ideas to inspire those wishing to create travel experiences that their stars truly want .
Wellness takes centre stage
High performers go above and beyond throughout the year and those efforts — along with endless Zoom meetings and constant connectivity — have left many wanting to recharge , as well as receive recognition .
“ With its wide-open spaces , pristine natural surroundings and diverse wilderness , Canada has no shortage of incentive experiences that can help nourish the soul and calm the mind ,” says Jennifer Attersall , director of incentive travel at Destination Canada .
One option is to consider integrating the Japanese practice of shinrin-yoku — or forest bathing — into your itinerary . Offered at several eco resorts , the form of therapy involves taking a stroll through nature and can provide health benefits , from a reduction in stress to lower blood pressure .
Located in the middle of British Columbia ’ s Great Bear Rainforest , Nimmo Bay offers calming journeys through nature , with itineraries devoting time to forest bathing , guided reflection , meditation and moments of connection . Over at the luxurious Sonora Resort , just a short flight from Vancouver , BC , visitors can immerse themselves in the healing properties of the coastal rainforest as they meander under the canopy of ancient cedars .
Sustainability and Iceberg watching at the edge of the Atlantic
Incentive programmes are constantly evolving , and sustainability has become top of mind for today ’ s top achievers . Not wanting to celebrate their successes at the cost of the planet , they are looking for experiences that limit their impact on the environment and society . When planning trips , these people look to places that share these values . One such spot in Canada is Fogo Island Inn .
Located on Newfoundland ’ s Atlantic coast , the Inn has been built on principles of sustainability and respect for nature and culture . This begins with its design , which uses stilts to minimise the building ’ s impact on the rocks and plants .
Fogo Island Inn also has a partnership with Carbonzero , which provides guests with the option to purchase carbon offsets during their stay and 100 % of operating surpluses are reinvested into the community .
As guests come together to collaborate in the Inn ’ s meeting rooms , they can take inspiration from the truly extraordinary sight of towering slabs of 10,000-year -old icebergs drifting right off the shore .
After the meeting , delegates can take a kayaking trip to get even closer to the glacial giants and observe their colours that range from snow white to deep aquamarine . Visitors could also find themselves paddling right next to pods of dolphins and breaching humpback whales , while puffins , a bird native to the area , fly over . And sipping local iceberg cocktails foraged from the ocean around a beach bonfire is another popular way to
Below : Kayaking off the coast of Newfoundland and Labrador
Image by Rock Adventure , Kayak Tours - Twilllingate finish the day on Fogo Island .
“ Today ’ s travellers are looking for ways to make a positive impact on the world ,” Attersall adds . “ From carbon offset programmes to eco-friendly accommodations , Canada has taken significant steps to help travellers in their quest to protect the environment , communities and cultures .”
Authenticity is the new luxury
High performers want to connect with places in more meaningful ways and crave authentic experiences that provide a deeper understanding of a culture and how locals live . A trip to Canada offers a chance to learn the stories and cultures of First Nations , Inuit and Métis Peoples across the country .
Take Aurora Village , a secluded teepee camp located outside of Yellowknife , Northwest Territories . It is owned by an Indigenous family who share their traditions with visitors . In particular , the ‘ ViTeepee ’ treatment gives teams the opportunity to re-connect over a traditional meal in a private teepee , while watching the Northern Lights .
Canada is home to a vast range of extraordinary experiences and offers incentives clients an abundance of luxury eco resorts , off-the-beaten track lodges and spas and the Destination Canada Business Events team can provide further advice on travel connections and itinerary suggestions .
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