Top 10 destinations for corporate retreats

A change of scenery is often the secret to sparking creativity and strengthening team bonds. Corporate retreats are more than just a getaway; they are a strategic investment in your team's success.

Choosing the right destination is crucial. You need to find an inspiring, relaxing, practical, and easy-to-access location. An ideal location makes a lasting impression and gives your team a chance to connect on a deeper level.

Let’s explore some top destinations and the key factors to consider when planning a memorable corporate retreat.

Key factors for picking the perfect corporate retreat destination

Choosing the ideal location requires careful thought. Here are some of the most important factors to keep in mind to ensure your retreat is a success.

1. Ease of travel and access

Getting your team to the destination should be a smooth process. Look for locations with a major international airport and straightforward transportation options. Easy access minimizes travel stress and ensures everyone arrives refreshed and ready to engage.

2. A diverse range of activities

The best retreats offer a mix of focused work time and fun activities. The location should provide unique experiences that cater to different interests.

• Outdoor adventures: Hiking, kayaking, or a local sports tournament.
• Cultural immersion: Cooking classes, historical tours, or exploring local markets.
• Relaxation: Spa treatments, yoga sessions, or simply enjoying the beach.

A good balance of work and play will keep your team engaged and ensure they return feeling rejuvenated.

3. Budget

You need to find a location that aligns with your company’s budget. Remember to factor in not just flights and accommodation but also meals, activities, and local transportation. A well-planned budget ensures your retreat is both successful and financially sustainable.

4. Time of year

The time of year can significantly impact your retreat. It influences the available activities and the overall vibe of the trip. For example, if you want to escape to the sun, consider visiting the opposite hemisphere for more options. Always check for local seasonality, such as monsoon or hurricane seasons, which can interfere with flight schedules and planning.

5. Visa requirements

Remember to consider visa requirements for international team members. Choosing a location with a friendly visa policy or one where your team members have easy access can save you a lot of logistical headaches.

6. Reliable connectivity

Your team needs to stay connected, even on a retreat. Strong Wi-Fi and reliable cellular service are non-negotiable. Whether it's for a quick meeting or staying in touch with loved ones back home, seamless connectivity is essential.

This is where a business eSIM solution like Airalo for Business can be a game-changer. Airalo offers business eSIMs that provide instant connectivity in over 200 countries and regions at a corporate discount that helps reduce roaming expenses by up to ~90%. This means your team can skip the hassle of searching for local SIM cards or dealing with expensive roaming fees. They can land and immediately connect to a reliable network, making the entire experience smoother and more productive. 

Top 10 destinations for your next corporate retreat

1. Lisbon, Portugal

Lisbon is a city that effortlessly blends old-world charm with a modern, creative energy. It's a fantastic destination for teams looking for a city buzz, with a variety of beaches and nature close by.

• Culture: The city’s welcoming atmosphere and beautiful coastal setting are perfect for productive work sessions and relaxing downtime.
• Access: Lisbon has a well-connected international airport (LIS) with direct flights from many major cities across Europe, North America, and the Middle East.
• Activities: Your team can explore historic neighborhoods like Alfama, enjoy a sunset cruise on the Tagus River, or participate in a Portuguese cooking class. They can golf, enjoy a day at the beach, or visit the city. It's also a hub for street art and has a vibrant culinary scene.
• Weather: With mild winters and warm, sunny summers, Lisbon's pleasant weather is ideal for a retreat almost any time of the year.
• Budget: Portugal is a more budget-friendly option than other major European cities, without compromising on quality or experience.
• Visa considerations: As a part of the Schengen area, many nationalities can visit Portugal for up to 90 days in a 180-day period without a visa for business activities like meetings and conferences. For other nationalities, a Schengen business visa may be required.
• Best time to go: The shoulder seasons of spring (March to May) and early fall (September to October) are perfect. The weather is warm but not too hot, and you'll avoid the peak summer crowds.

2. The Scottish Highlands, UK

The Scottish Highlands are the perfect choice if you're looking for a retreat that truly takes your team away from it all. The rugged landscapes and peaceful isolation are ideal for deep work and genuine bonding.

• Culture: The rich history and stunning natural beauty provide a backdrop that inspires reflection and teamwork.
• Access: While a bit more remote, the Highlands are accessible via international airports in cities like Inverness (INV) and Edinburgh (EDI), followed by a scenic drive.
• Activities: Teams can bond over a hike up a Munro (a Scottish mountain), try whiskey tasting at a local distillery, or go for a round of golf. The focus here is on disconnecting from daily life and reconnecting with each other.
• Weather: The weather is famously unpredictable. Summer (June to August) offers mild temperatures and long days, while winter (December to February) brings a magical, snowy landscape.
• Budget: This destination can be cost-effective if you choose a single, all-inclusive lodge or estate for the duration of your retreat, which helps control accommodation and activity costs.
• Visa considerations: The UK has its own visa system separate from the Schengen Area. The Standard Visitor visa allows for business activities like attending conferences or meetings for up to six months. Many nationalities do not need a visa for these activities, but others will need to apply for a visa in advance.
• Best time to go: Late spring to early autumn (May to September) is the best time for a Highlands retreat. The weather is warmer and drier, and the days are longer, allowing for more outdoor activities.

3. Bali, Indonesia

Bali is a peaceful haven for teams looking to combine productivity with wellness and relaxation. The island’s stunning scenery and spiritual atmosphere create a unique and rejuvenating experience.

• Culture: Known as the "Island of the Gods," Bali's culture is deeply spiritual and artistic. Your team can immerse themselves in local traditions, from visiting ancient temples to learning traditional crafts.
• Access: Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS) is the main entry point, with many direct and connecting flights from around the world.
• Activities: The island is perfect for yoga sessions, traditional cooking classes, and exploring vibrant rice terraces. Your team can also enjoy water sports, hiking, and spa treatments.
• Weather: Bali has a tropical climate with a wet and dry season. The dry season (April to October) offers sunshine and low humidity, making it ideal for outdoor activities.
• Budget: Compared to Western destinations, Bali is a very affordable option, allowing you to get more value for your budget with accommodations and unique experiences.
• Visa considerations: Many nationalities can get a Visa on Arrival (VOA) in Bali for business purposes like attending meetings. The VOA is typically valid for 30 days and can be extended once. It is essential to check the latest Indonesian immigration rules and to confirm that your team's business activities are allowed on this type of visa.
• Best time to go: The dry season, from April to October, is the perfect time for a retreat. The weather is consistently sunny and warm, ideal for all the outdoor adventures Bali has to offer.

4. Cancun, Mexico

Cancun offers a perfect mix of stunning beaches, ancient history, and vibrant nightlife, making it an exciting and easily accessible destination for a corporate retreat.

• Culture: Beyond the beaches, Cancun is a gateway to the rich Mayan culture. Your team can visit ancient ruins like Chichén Itzá and Tulum to learn about a fascinating civilization.
• Access: The Cancun International Airport (CUN) is a major hub with direct flights from across the Americas and Europe, making it one of the most convenient destinations on this list.
• Activities: Your team can explore the underwater world by snorkeling or diving, go on a boat trip to Isla Mujeres, or participate in a tequila-tasting workshop.
• Weather: Cancun has a tropical climate with sunny weather year-round. The dry season from December to April is particularly pleasant.
• Budget: Mexico offers a wide range of options, from all-inclusive resorts to more boutique stays, allowing you to tailor the budget to your needs.
• Visa considerations: Many nationalities, including those from the US, Canada, and most European countries, can enter Mexico for up to 180 days for business without a visa.
• Best time to go: The dry season from December to April is the best time to visit for warm weather and minimal rain, though this is also peak tourist season. For a more budget-friendly option with still-great weather, consider the shoulder seasons of May or November.

Fun fact: In 2024, the Airalo team connected in Cancun for our annual "Airalo Away" retreat. We had a fantastic time focused on team building, enjoying delicious tacos, and soaking up the warm weather and beautiful beaches. It was an inspiring and memorable experience for the entire team.

5. Tenerife, Spain

Tenerife, the largest of Spain's Canary Islands, is an island of contrasts, offering everything from volcanic landscapes to beautiful beaches. It’s an ideal location for a retreat that blends adventure with relaxation.

• Culture: The island has a unique blend of Spanish and Canarian cultures. Your team can explore charming villages, enjoy traditional Canarian cuisine, and experience local festivals.
• Access: Tenerife has two international airports (TFS and TFN) with excellent connections to Europe and other parts of Spain, making it a convenient choice.
• Activities: Your team can hike up Mount Teide, Spain's highest peak, go whale and dolphin watching, or simply relax on one of the island's many beaches.
• Weather: Known as the "Island of Eternal Spring," Tenerife boasts a warm and pleasant climate year-round, with minimal temperature changes.
• Budget: Compared to mainland Europe, Tenerife is a more affordable option for accommodation, dining, and activities, offering great value for a retreat.
• Visa considerations: As part of Spain, Tenerife is in the Schengen Area. This means a Schengen visa or visa-free travel applies, depending on your team members' nationalities.
• Best time to go: Tenerife is a fantastic destination year-round. However, for the best weather and fewer crowds, consider visiting in late spring (April to June) or early autumn (September to November).

6. Salzburg, Austria

For a retreat with a touch of elegance and old-world charm, Salzburg is an excellent choice. Nestled in the Alps, this city is famous for its Baroque architecture, musical heritage, and breathtaking scenery.

• Culture: The birthplace of Mozart, Salzburg is a city steeped in musical history and a rich cultural scene. Your team can enjoy a classical concert, explore historic palaces, and wander through the charming Old Town.
• Access: Salzburg Airport (SZG) offers good connections to major European cities. The city is also easily accessible by train from Vienna and Munich.
• Activities: Your team can take a "Sound of Music" tour, hike in the surrounding mountains, or visit the medieval Hohensalzburg Fortress for a stunning view of the city.
• Weather: Salzburg experiences four distinct seasons. Summer is warm and sunny, while winter brings a magical, snowy landscape, perfect for a cozy retreat.
• Budget: Salzburg can be a more upscale destination, but it offers a range of options for accommodations and dining to fit various budgets.
• Visa considerations: As part of the Schengen Area, Austria has the same visa requirements as other member countries, allowing for visa-free travel for many nationalities for short-term business activities.
• Best time to go: Summer (June to August) is ideal for outdoor activities and soaking in the city’s vibrant atmosphere. For a truly unique experience, a winter retreat (December to February) offers a magical, festive feel, with Christmas markets and snowy landscapes.

7. Marrakesh, Morocco

Marrakesh is a city of sensory delights, offering a truly immersive cultural experience. The vibrant markets, stunning gardens, and historic architecture create an inspiring backdrop for a corporate retreat.

• Culture: The city is a vibrant hub of Berber, Arabic, and French cultures. Your team can get lost in the souks of the Medina, visit the famous Jardin Majorelle, or learn about traditional Moroccan crafts.
• Access: Marrakesh Menara Airport (RAK) has direct flights from many European, Middle Eastern, and North American cities, making it a relatively easy destination to reach.
• Activities: Teams can take a cooking class to learn how to make a traditional tagine, ride a camel in the Agafay Desert, or simply enjoy a mint tea in a rooftop café overlooking the city.
• Weather: Marrakesh has hot, dry summers and mild winters. Spring and autumn offer a more pleasant climate for exploring.
• Budget: Morocco is a very budget-friendly destination, offering a broad variety of unique experiences.
• Visa considerations: Many nationalities can enter Morocco without a visa for up to 90 days.
• Best time to go: Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are the best times to visit. The weather is warm and pleasant, perfect for exploring the city without the intense heat of summer.

8. Dubai, UAE

Dubai is a city of futuristic skyscrapers, luxury, and opulence. It's a destination that promises to impress, with a focus on innovation and world-class experiences.

• Culture: Dubai is a multicultural city that blends traditional Arabian culture with a cosmopolitan, modern lifestyle. Your team can visit the historic Al Fahidi neighborhood or go on a desert safari to experience a different side of the city.
• Access: Dubai International Airport (DXB) is one of the world's busiest airports, offering unparalleled global access with direct flights from virtually everywhere.
• Activities: Your team can ascend the Burj Khalifa for a breathtaking view, go on a desert safari, or enjoy a team-building yacht cruise on the Arabian Gulf.
• Weather: Dubai has a desert climate with very hot summers. The winter months are warm and pleasant, making it the ideal time to visit.
• Budget: Dubai is generally a more expensive destination, but you can find a range of options, especially if you plan ahead.
• Visa considerations: Visa requirements for the UAE vary by nationality. Many can get a visa on arrival, but it's essential to check with the UAE embassy or consulate in your country beforehand.
• Best time to go: The winter months from November to March are the best time to visit. The weather is warm and sunny, perfect for outdoor activities.

9. Hoi An, Vietnam

Hoi An is a charming and historic city that offers a peaceful and culturally rich retreat. With its ancient architecture and beautiful lanterns, it provides a tranquil and inspiring environment for your team.

• Culture: As a UNESCO World Heritage site, Hoi An is a living museum of Vietnamese history. Your team can explore the ancient town, visit traditional tailor shops, and learn the art of lantern making.
• Access: Hoi An is a short drive from Da Nang International Airport (DAD), which has excellent connections to major cities in Asia.
• Activities: Your team can take a cycling tour through the rice paddies, go on a traditional basket boat ride, or enjoy a cooking class to master the local cuisine.
• Weather: The weather is best in the dry season (February to August). The rainy season runs from September to January and can bring heavy downpours.
• Budget: Vietnam is an incredibly affordable destination, offering high-quality experiences and accommodations at a fraction of the cost of many other countries.
• Visa considerations: Visa requirements for Vietnam depend on your nationality. However, Vietnam is one of the more visa-accessible countries on this list.
• Best time to go: The spring (February to April) and late summer (August) are the best times to visit, when the weather is mild and the rainy season hasn't fully set in.

10. Tuscany, Italy

For a retreat focused on fine dining, wine, and a slower pace of life, Tuscany is the ultimate destination. The rolling hills, historic vineyards, and charming villages create a serene and inspiring environment.

• Culture: Tuscany is the heart of the Italian Renaissance. Your team can explore masterpieces in Florence, visit historic wineries, and enjoy the region's world-famous cuisine.
• Access: The main international airports are in Florence (FLR) and Pisa (PSA), with good connections to major European cities.
• Activities: Your team can take a pasta-making class, go on a wine-tasting tour, or explore the beautiful countryside on a bike.
• Weather: Tuscany has hot, dry summers and mild winters. Spring and autumn provide a beautiful climate for exploring the region.
• Budget: Tuscany can be a more expensive destination, but you can find great value by staying in agriturismo (farm stay) accommodations or planning ahead.
• Visa considerations: Italy is a part of the Schengen Area, so the same visa rules apply as for Portugal, Spain, and Austria. Many nationalities can travel up to 90 days for business without a visa.
• Best time to go: The shoulder seasons of spring (April to May) and autumn (September to October) are the best times to visit. The weather is perfect for exploring, and you'll avoid the crowds and high prices of the peak summer season.

Airalo for Business FAQs

How does Airalo for Business simplify connectivity for our travel admins and finance teams?

Airalo for Business is designed to streamline connectivity. Instead of dealing with multiple reimbursement requests and expense reports from different employees, our platform allows you to purchase, assign, and manage eSIMs from one centralized dashboard. 

You get a single, consolidated invoice for your entire team’s eSIM plans, which makes cost tracking and budgeting incredibly simple. This saves your admin and finance teams a ton of time and effort, so they can focus on more strategic tasks.

What cost savings can we expect by using Airalo for Business instead of traditional roaming?

Traditional roaming fees are notoriously expensive and unpredictable, leading to surprise charges on your company's mobile bill. With Airalo for Business, you can save up to ~90% on connectivity expenses. This is because you purchase prepaid eSIM plans at local rates and at a corporate discount, which are often a fraction of the cost of roaming. And, our transparent, upfront pricing ensures there are no hidden fees.

How does a business eSIM solution like Airalo for Business benefit our employees directly?

A business eSIM solution is a huge productivity and convenience perk for your team. They can activate their data plan instantly upon arrival, avoiding the hassle of hunting down local SIM card vendors or relying on spotty, insecure public Wi-Fi. Plus, it allows them to keep their primary phone number active for calls and texts while using the eSIM for data, so they never miss important messages from home or the office.