The Bahamas is ideal for team-building experiences. Photo courtesy of ALHI

When the snow starts falling and the temperature begins to plunge, many people’s thoughts turn to warmer locales for corporate meetings and incentive travel. Even during the hotter months, the Caribbean has proven to be a great option for corporations looking to host a gathering in a memorable, exotic destination.

Jamaica

Jamaica is the ultimate destination for corporate events — offering the perfect blend of convenience, world-class infrastructure, and unforgettable experiences that today’s planners and corporate attendees desire.

With convenient airlift from major international gateways, Jamaica is easily accessible for global attendees. The island also boasts an impressive inventory of leading hotels and resorts tailored to the meetings and incentive market, as well as major venues such as the Montego Bay Convention Centre or Jamaica Conference Centre, capable of hosting large-scale conferences and exhibitions.

However, what truly sets Jamaica apart is its ability to transform any event into an immersive experience. With everything from amazing natural attractions, first-class golf courses and vibrant offsite venues to duty-free shopping, local craft markets and unmatched dining, there is no shortage of opportunities for planners to both impress and inspire their groups.

Ellie Soucy, CITP, president and CEO of Incentive Meeting Services, has held several incentive trips in Jamaica with groups as large as 800 people, and she has two more events taking place in the island nation next year, with repeat clients that asked to return to this stunning locale.

“Jamaica is one of our most requested destinations, as once you have been here, you want to come back for more,” Soucy says. “Our company will be returning and bringing over 1,000 people to Jamaica in 2026.”

Soucy and her team try to look for all-inclusive resorts with a AAA rating of at least four diamonds or higher. They also seek venues that offer opportunities for excursions, easy airlift and good weather.

“The destination also must have competitive rates both on property and outside,” Soucy says. “There are other great islands in the Caribbean, but it is expensive to go out to restaurants or [go] shopping. Clients nowadays want to explore and [have] adventure, and they don’t want to spend a lot of money. The next generation wants to see those Instagram-able moments and experience [them] hands-on as much as possible.”

Jamaica also offers a wide range of curated activities ideal for team-building and networking — whether it’s a private catamaran cruise, a rum tasting at a historic estate or a reggae-themed reception on the beach.

Most importantly, Jamaica’s warm, welcoming people and rich cultural heritage remain at the heart of every experience. From the beat of the music to the flavors of its world-famous cuisine, Jamaica delivers authentic connections that resonate with corporate travelers long after they leave the island paradise.

To ensure a seamless corporate event, meeting planners should leverage the Jamaica Tourist Board’s groups and conventions department, which offers planning support, site visit coordination, RFP assistance and local product sourcing. Soucy also advises corporate meeting planners to take advantage of the Jamaican culture by incorporating authentic touches — such as craft markets, natural attractions, scenic excursions and the inclusion of offsite venues. In addition, by adding elements such as reggae entertainment, rum tastings, steel bands, natural art and local cuisine, your event will celebrate the natural joys of Jamaica and help create memorable, immersive experiences.

“Plenty of meeting space both inside and outside the ballroom — with the ocean as your backdrop — makes this a natural landscape for sustainability,” Soucy says. “Take full advantage of what is already here, because it is unique to the other islands and comes with a smile and ‘yeah mon,’ as the locals want to please you and have you come back for more!”

Dominican Republic

For many corporate groups interested in an exotic Caribbean getaway, the Dominican Republic has proven to be an excellent low-cost alternative. The island offers world-class resorts, pristine beaches, off-the-beaten-path ecotourism opportunities and fantastic golfing opportunities for gatherings of all sizes.

Specifically, Casa de Campo Resort & Villas in the Dominican Republic boasts plenty of flexible meeting space, thoughtfully distributed across three distinctive conference centers — each designed to elevate business and social gatherings alike. For corporate and incentive groups seeking unique outdoor settings for private events, the resort offers an impressive portfolio of unique venues to deliver unforgettable experiences in an extraordinary Caribbean setting.

Brittany Clark, senior account manager at Além International Management, Inc., has held two high-end incentive programs for 50 to 60 couples at Casa de Campo. One group of attendees was from the automotive industry, while the other was from the marine industry.

“For our incentive programs, we seek properties that go beyond the standard resort experience,” Clark says. “We value destinations that offer exceptional service, outstanding activities, world-class spa facilities and personalized experiences designed to meet the unique preferences of each guest. The Caribbean offers an ideal setting for both planners and guests, with its vibrant culture, exceptional cuisine, warm hospitality and a wide array of exciting activities.”

Clark says the key to a successful event in the Caribbean lies in partnering with a trusted and reliable venue.

“From the moment guests arrive at the airport, to the time they set foot on the property, every aspect of their experience should exceed expectations,” Clark says. “With the right partner, an exceptional program becomes not only possible but a reality. Fortunately for our company and clients, Casa de Campo has consistently delivered on this promise.”

One of the most iconic and unparalleled elements of the resort is Altos de Chavón, an incredible replica of a 16th-century Mediterranean village. Perched above the Chavón River, this architectural gem transports guests to the cobblestone streets and stone facades of old-world Europe — a setting as dramatic as it is romantic. Altos de Chavón also features a collection of versatile spaces that can accommodate groups of up to 500, making them ideal for cocktail receptions, themed dinners or cultural performances under the stars.

Among the most sought-after event spaces within Altos de Chavón is Chavón Plaza. Located in the heart of the village, this open-air venue offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding hills and village skyline. Equally captivating is the Altos de Chavón Amphitheater, a majestic 5,000-seat open-air venue that has hosted world-renowned performers. Inaugurated by Frank Sinatra in the 1980s, this historic amphitheater remains a show-stopping location for concerts, ceremonies and grand group events.

If an oceanside celebration is what you’re after, Casa de Campo’s Minitas Beach offers a pristine, private stretch of sand on which to host events for up to 600. Adjacent to the beach is the Minitas Beach Club, which features a stylish pool deck overlooking the Caribbean Sea, providing attendees with the perfect view of the destination’s breathtaking sunsets.

Atlantis Paradise Island in The Bahamas. Photo courtesy of ALHI

The Bahamas

For Kristi Allan, group vice president of partnerships and events at Associated Luxury Hotels International (ALHI), The Bahamas has proven to be the perfect idyllic Caribbean locale for hosting corporate and incentive events. This includes the ALHI Executive Exchange, a conference that assembles the most influential decision makers from the MICE industry, including ALHI leadership and executives, as well as representatives from ALHI member hotels. This three-day event features discussions on industry trends, keynote speakers, professional development, destination experiences and significant networking opportunities.

Recently, Allan planned the ALHI Executive Exchange for 350 attendees at the lush, oceanside Atlantis Paradise Island. The resort boasts more than 500,000 sf of indoor/outdoor flexible meeting space with state-of-the-art technology, plus an array of interactive experiences customizable for groups both large and small. The property features 61 unique meeting spaces, including ballrooms, boardrooms, hospitality suites and outdoor venues.

“What made the event truly memorable was our collaboration with the expert team at Atlantis Paradise Island and local DMC partners. We embraced the spirit of the Bahamas by incorporating local customs, cuisine and entertainment, creating an authentic and immersive experience,” Allan says. “Various resort venues were transformed into unique activation zones, each with its own distinct theme, energy and entertainment style.”

Indeed, Atlantis Paradise Island provides the perfect setting to host team-building experiences for all ages. From games and events to leadership and problem-solving exercises, the activities at Atlantis emphasize essential skills and foster effective collaboration in a fun, dynamic environment.

The grand finale for the ALHI event was the group’s “Passport to The Bahamas” evening — a captivating, experiential journey through seven islands. Each stop highlighted the unique culture and character of a different island, offering attendees an unforgettable taste of The Bahamas.

Atlantis also boasts the award-winning Mandara Spa and Fitness Center, which is currently undergoing a luxurious transformation and expected to reopen next year. Until then, attendees can visit the resort’s tranquil Mandara Boutique Spa to enjoy a range of rejuvenation and beauty treatments, as well as shopping. Plus, for those who want to get some exercise while experiencing the natural beauty of the region, the resort’s Ocean Club Golf Course features stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and Nassau Harbor.

“When planning an event in The Bahamas, one of the most important pieces of advice is to partner closely with local experts, including your hotel and DMCs and additional trusted destination partners,” Allan says. “The Bahamas has a rich cultural identity, and those who live and work there know best how to bring that authenticity to life in a meaningful way. From incorporating local cuisine and music to leveraging unique venues and traditional entertainment, local partners can help you design an experience that goes far beyond a standard meeting or event.”

In addition to enhancing the cultural flavor of your program, Allan says that local teams are also invaluable when it comes to navigating logistics, customs regulations, transportation and working with local vendors. Their expertise ensures smoother execution and often presents opportunities you might not find out about otherwise.

Says Allen: “By collaborating with these partners, you not only save time and avoid common pitfalls but also elevate the overall experience for your attendees, leaving them with a stronger emotional connection to the destination.”

Aruba

As senior meeting planner at Captive Resources, Carissa Roberts has found Aruba — specifically the Hyatt Regency Aruba Resort Spa and Casino — to be one of her favorite locations to hold gatherings of the company’s board.

“Our meetings look more like an incentive with a mix of meetings, networking activities and evening dinners,” Roberts says. “The staff at Hyatt Regency Aruba is experienced, helpful and professional. [Everything from] the planning to the execution of each meeting and event is seamless. The beachfront location is perfect, and the rest of the resort is filled with lush tropical flowers and foliage! The resort is well maintained and in a great location, walkable to the many shops, restaurants and nightlife [options] in Palm Beach.”

Located on 12 acres of stunning beachfront property, Hyatt Regency Aruba Resort Spa & Casino is a year-round resort that offers an authentic island experience with elements including an open-air lobby with koi lagoon, cascading waterfalls and stonework modeled after local historic
monuments. Recreational facilities are abundant and include a three-level pool complex complete with a two-story waterslide, an adults-only pool and 10 outdoor private cabanas. There is also a spa with fitness center, tennis courts and a casino.

A favorite of corporate meeting planners, this stunning and versatile beachfront property provides an unparalleled natural backdrop for unforgettable events. With up to 23,779 sf of combined indoor and outdoor space — including boardrooms and ballrooms for conferences — the resort is ideal for corporate and incentive gatherings. In addition, the resort recently underwent a series of renovations, including a revitalization of the grand lobby and courtyard lounge, the debut of a brand-new steakhouse and enhancements to the Governor’s Suite, a 2,745-sf oceanfront sanctuary perched on the 9th floor and designed to feel like a private residence.

Says Roberts: “With little free time between meetings and events, it’s great how much you can do on property and close by — walk the beach, relax at the adult pool or grab something light from casual beachside shops. The Caribbean in general tends to get great attendance, as people look forward to a vacation destination when they aren’t attending meetings and group events.”

The U.S. Virgin Islands

The U.S. Virgin Islands (USVI) has consistently earned recognition as an award-winning destination for corporate meetings and incentive travel, and for good reason. Planners seeking an exceptional Caribbean experience will find knowledgeable meeting professionals, experienced DMCs and diverse venues tailored to everything from executive retreats to incentive programs with spouses and children.

Beyond that, there are plenty of nonstop flights to the USVI from major U.S. cities, and no passport is required for U.S. citizens. The USVI also offer a diverse range of venues, from luxury resorts to intimate hideaways, ideal for incentive programs and corporate meetings alike.

The Westin Beach Resort & Spa at Frenchman’s Reef in St. Thomas is a newly reimagined oceanfront property that boasts more than 85,000 sf of indoor/outdoor meeting space, including a nearly 10,000-sf ballroom and 20 event rooms with stunning views. Outdoor venues such as Seacliff Terrace and Harbor View Deck are especially popular for group functions.

Another meeting and event gem is the Ritz-Carlton, St. Thomas. Situated on Great Bay, this luxury resort features over 5,000 sf of indoor/outdoor meeting and event space. Its ballrooms boast stunning floor-to-ceiling views, and the hotel also provides a range of room venues — along with beachside pavilions and oceanfront terraces — that allow for highly customizable setups. In addition, the resort offers exclusive buyouts, providing groups full access to the property for private events.

Located along Great Cruz Bay, the Westin St. John Resort Villas feature 252 villa-style accommodations, as well as the 3,500-sf Great Cruz Bay Ballroom, which can host up to 300 attendees for theater-style events or receptions. The resort also blends work and leisure with onsite beach access and proximity to hiking trails, snorkeling and the Virgin Islands National Park, making it an excellent choice for incentive groups and retreats.

Puerto Rico

When it comes to selecting a convention destination that effortlessly blends accessibility, cultural richness and value for your money, Puerto Rico certainly stands out. And within this dynamic island, El Conquistador Resort offers a truly unmatched setting for unforgettable conventions, conferences and incentive programs.

With more than 120 daily nonstop flights from major U.S. cities, Puerto Rico is one of the most accessible island destinations for U.S.-based groups. No passports are needed for U.S. travelers, and the use of the U.S. dollar simplifies budgeting and transactions.

At El Conquistador Resort, attendees will enjoy the perfect blend of exotic ambiance and U.S.-based logistics. Following a transformation costing more than $200 million, the property offers around 140,000 sf of indoor/outdoor event space, including a modern Grand Ballroom, ocean-view terraces and breakout rooms infused with natural light. Planners benefit from high-speed internet connectivity, expert AV support and a team of seasoned professionals who are dedicated to the flawless execution of your event.

The resort’s elevated coastal setting offers panoramic ocean views and lush surroundings, creating a sense of international escape while maintaining the regulatory and infrastructure advantages of being on U.S. soil. Most of El Conquistador’s 750 spacious accommodations offer stunning ocean and/or rainforest views.

El Conquistador also offers something very unique — an all-in-one retreat experience that enhances attendee engagement. Whether it’s a sunset networking cocktail at the marina or a team-building activity on the island, the backdrop is stunning. In addition to its white-sandy beach, the resort’s private 100-acre Palomino Island will serve as the perfect setting for a once-in-a-lifetime private business event in the evening.

With so many incredible options, the Caribbean remains a top destination for corporate and incentive events of all types and sizes. Just ask your attendees. C&IT