What is incentive travel?

what is incentive travel

20/04/2021

updated 30/03/2025

What is Incentive Travel and Why Spain is the Perfect Destination

Introduction to Incentive Travel

Incentive travel is more than just a holiday — it is a strategic tool for companies to inspire, reward, and retain talent. These trips mix leisure and light business in a meaningful way, creating unforgettable experiences that show appreciation and strengthen team connections.

At Meridional Events, we design bespoke incentive travel programmes across Spain, tailored to your company’s goals, culture, and people. Whether you are rewarding performance, boosting morale, or celebrating success, incentive trips are a proven way to invest in your team.

Want to dive deeper into the value of group activities? Check out our blog on organising unforgettable team gatherings.

The Benefits of Incentive Travel for Companies

Incentive travel can deliver both emotional and economic returns for your business. Here is how:

  • Boosts performance: Teams feel recognised and motivated to exceed expectations.
  • Enhances loyalty: Employees stay longer when they feel valued.
  • Strengthens relationships: Shared experiences break silos and build trust.
  • Reduces recruitment costs: With higher retention, you spend less on hiring and onboarding.

In our experience, companies that run regular incentive programmes see significant improvements in both productivity and morale. It is not just a trip — it is a smart investment in people.

For a client-focused perspective on how we make that happen, read about our Amazon-style customer service.

Why Choose Spain for Incentive Travel?

With more than 300 days of sunshine a year, a diverse landscape, and unmatched hospitality, Spain stands out as one of Europe’s top destinations for incentive travel. Each region offers something distinct, from buzzing city energy to tranquil coastal charm.

Here is a taste of what you can expect in some of our most popular locations:

  • Malaga: Sunshine, art, and stunning beaches. A favourite for Mediterranean elegance and accessibility.
  • Seville: Ideal for flamenco evenings and architectural gems — perfect for culturally rich experiences.
  • Mallorca: An island escape with luxury venues and coastal activities for high-end incentives.
  • Valencia: A vibrant mix of innovation and tradition, with gastronomy and futuristic architecture.
  • Alicante: Serene beaches, seafood, and a relaxed pace — ideal for unwinding and celebrating.
  • Madrid: The capital buzz, with rooftop bars, museums, and elegant venues for business and fun.
  • Granada: A historic treasure with the Alhambra, ideal for cultural immersions and scenic retreats.
  • Marbella: Glitz, glamour, and golf — for teams seeking upscale, coastal incentives.

Wherever you choose, we ensure your trip reflects your brand, goals, and team spirit. Spain is not just a destination — it is the setting for your company’s next chapter.

What Makes a Great Incentive Trip?

At the heart of every memorable incentive trip lies thoughtful planning, a clear objective, and authentic local flavour. A successful incentive programme should leave your team energised, connected, and inspired — and that is precisely what we deliver at Meridional Events.

Whether you are combining meetings with unique experiences or organising pure leisure retreats, the key is to strike the right balance. From a rooftop cocktail in Malaga to a treasure hunt through Seville’s cobbled streets, we ensure that every moment aligns with your goals.

Curious about goal-setting for your trip? Read our blog on how to set clear objectives for your corporate event.

How Meridional Events Designs Tailor-Made Incentive Trips

We start with one thing: listening. Our team takes the time to understand your group size, travel preferences, company culture, budget, and the feeling you want to create. Then we design a tailor-made proposal that ticks all the boxes — and a few you had not thought of.

Every itinerary includes multiple options, complete with photos, descriptions, and added value ideas. Whether it is a German-speaking tour guide in Madrid or a traditional Andalusian dinner in Seville, we build your trip with care, clarity, and creativity.

All logistics — transfers, accommodation, catering, accessibility, entertainment, and cultural nuances — are handled with meticulous detail, so you do not have to worry about a thing.

Unique Experiences We Offer Across Spain

Every Spanish city tells a different story. That is why we work with local partners to craft authentic, memorable experiences that your team will talk about long after the trip ends. Here are just a few ideas:

Looking for something unique or unusual? We also organise inclusive catering options and bespoke CSR activities like beach cleanups, tree planting, or volunteering opportunities. The sky is the limit.

Our Team's Local Knowledge is Your Superpower

One of the things our clients love most about working with Meridional Events is our deep local know-how. We are not just an agency — we are your local DMC partner based right here in Spain. That means we speak the language, know the customs, and have long-standing relationships with the best venues, guides, caterers, and entertainers in each city.

From knowing the quietest hour to visit the Alhambra in Granada, to securing private dining at a hidden gem in Alicante, our insider access gives you and your team an unmatched experience.

Plus, with multilingual support and 24/7 assistance during your trip, you will always feel in safe, professional hands.

Sustainability in Incentive Travel

In today’s world, meaningful travel is about more than indulgence — it is about impact. That is why we integrate sustainability into every stage of your incentive trip. From eco-conscious hotels to locally sourced catering and low-emission transport, we ensure your event leaves a positive footprint.

We also offer a variety of CSR-focused activities that give back to the local communities — such as reforestation, charity workshops, and coastal clean-ups — ideal for teams who want to connect with a purpose.

Looking to combine business with social responsibility? Ask us about our CSR incentive trip options across Spain.

Real Results from Real Clients

Don’t just take our word for it — here is what one of our clients recently had to say about their experience with Meridional Events:

We had an amazing experience working with Meridional Events! Their team went above and beyond to organise a fantastic social programme for our event, finding the perfect activity and restaurant. Everything was seamless, and our attendees had a wonderful time.

Their professionalism extends to every detail—even the poster provider they arranged was incredibly efficient and easy to work with onsite. Meridional Events truly has a solution for everything, making event planning stress-free. If we return to Spain, we won’t hesitate to work with them again! Highly recommended!

— Olalla Barceló

This is just one of many testimonials we have received from satisfied clients. You can view more on our Google Business profile.

Common Challenges – And How We Solve Them

Organising an incentive trip abroad can feel overwhelming — especially when you are managing it from another country. But with Meridional Events by your side, you will avoid all the common pitfalls.

Here is how we help:

  • Logistics & Coordination: We take care of everything from airport pickups to dietary preferences, so you do not have to juggle 10 suppliers.
  • Language Barriers: Our multilingual team bridges communication gaps and ensures smooth local operations.
  • Unexpected Issues: We provide 24/7 on-site support to handle last-minute changes or emergencies without stress.
  • Special Requirements: Accessibility needs, halal/kosher meals, or niche cultural requests — we have done it all.

Our blog on catering for special diets offers more insight into how we meet diverse requirements with style.

How Much Does an Incentive Trip to Spain Cost?

Incentive travel is flexible — and so is the budget. Whether you are planning a high-end experience in Marbella or a cultural journey through Seville, we tailor everything to suit your financial framework without compromising on impact.

Pricing depends on several factors:

  • Destination and season
  • Number of attendees
  • Duration of stay
  • Type of accommodation and transport
  • Experiences and meals included

We are fully transparent with costs, and our proposals always include multiple options. No hidden fees — just honest, expert planning.

When to Start Planning Your Incentive Travel

The earlier you plan, the better. Ideally, we recommend starting preparations 6 to 12 months in advance, especially for spring or autumn trips, which are peak seasons for incentive travel in Spain.

Here is a quick guide to planning times by season:

  • Spring (Mar–May): Book by the previous summer for the best venues and weather.
  • Autumn (Sep–Nov): Start planning by February/March for smooth coordination.
  • Winter (Dec–Feb): Perfect for Southern cities like Malaga and Alicante, where 20°C days are common.
  • Summer (Jun–Aug): Great for coastal cities like Mallorca or Valencia, especially for shorter, leisure-heavy trips.

If you are not sure where to begin, we are happy to jump on a quick call and walk you through the process — just reach out to our team.

FAQs About Incentive Travel in Spain

What is typically included in an incentive trip package?

Our incentive trips can include everything from flights and accommodation to team-building activities, gala dinners, private transport, cultural tours, and on-site support. We tailor the package based on your goals and budget.

Can you customise the experience to fit our industry?

Absolutely. Whether you are in pharma, tech, finance, or academia, we create experiences that resonate with your team's interests and professional context. Site visits, expert speakers, or industry-specific activities can be arranged.

Do you offer support throughout the trip?

Yes — our team is with you on the ground, offering 24/7 multilingual support. We there from the moment you land to the final farewell, ensuring everything runs like clockwork, being one of the most appreciated services.

Can you accommodate dietary or accessibility requirements?

Of course. We regularly organise inclusive experiences and work closely with suppliers to meet all accessibility and dietary needs. Read more here.

Is Spain suitable for incentive travel year-round?

Yes! With over 300 days of sunshine per year and a variety of destinations like Granada, Madrid, and Marbella, Spain is ideal for every season.

Contact Meridional Events – Let’s Plan Your Dream Incentive Trip

Ready to motivate your team and create an experience they will never forget?

At Meridional Events, we make incentive travel easy, enjoyable, and effective. Our expert team will guide you through every detail — no stress, just results.

📞 Let's chat!

Or head to our Incentive Travel Services page to explore all our destinations and ideas.

Conclusion: Let Spain Inspire Your Team

Incentive travel is not just about beautiful places — it is about creating meaningful experiences that uplift your team and drive business success. With the right partner, it becomes seamless, strategic, and memorable.

Whether it is soaking up the sun in Malaga, sailing in Mallorca, or flamenco dancing in Seville, your dream incentive trip in Spain starts here.

Let’s create something extraordinary — together.

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L. Brand 🇬🇧

 
Amazing service from Carolina at Meridional Events. From the first time we contacted Carolina to the completion of our event, the communication and arrangements were first class.

We are certainly hoping to be able to work with her again in the future. Thanks to the team from all at Chase Buchanan.
 
Seville

N. Scha 🇩🇪

 
Meridional Events helped us to plan and organize our business meeting in Malaga. Everything went perfect and the agency is very flexible and makes everything possible!

Next time we plan an event in Andalusia, I will definitely work again with Meridional Events! Thank you for everything!
 
Malaga

M. Fantin 🇮🇹

 
I had a great time with the agency Meridional, always super helpful and thanks to her help the 5 days event in Malaga was fantastic!

I recommend it to everyone! Thank you for your support and constant presence!

(original comment in 🇮🇹 )
 
Costa del Sol

A. Król 🇵🇱

 
Meridional Events organised a wonderful event for us! It was a team integration of company management. The organisation was smooth and enjoyable.

Carolina took very good care of us. She's very creative, kind and patient - it was a pleasure to work with her. I highly recommend the services of this agency!
 
Valencia

L. Réka 🇭🇺

 
Meridional Events is very professional, the cooperation is smooth with them.

My clients were very satisfied with the service and highly appreciated the personal assistance on the spot.
 
Marbella

M. Mi 🇪🇦

 
They are an agency specialized in creating experiences adapted to groups.

They knew how to balance and keep everyone happy by offering us a wide variety of activities. Here lies the difference from the rest of the agencies.

Truly a very complete and exclusive agency.

(original review in 🇪🇦)
 
Granada

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