HAVANA INCENTIVE – CUBAN ADVENTURE FOR TOP TEN SALES PERFORMERS

THE BRIEF:

Our client, who operates within the Tech sector, asked us to create, develop and execute an incentive event that was truly unique, motivating and that would provide their top 10 salespeople with a money-can’t-buy experience.

THE IN2EVENTS SOLUTION:

With the challenge set, we got straight into curating an incentive programme that would surpass all expectations, designing every element of the itinerary with the client’s sales team firmly in mind. We wanted to produce an incentive that would not only ‘wow’ guests, but also inspire future target breaking performances.

From the start of the process, one place stood out as the perfect destination for this incentive, Havana, Cuba and whilst we pitched a number of alternatives, Havana was the clear run-away favourite with the client, who loved the scope of the location and the potential it had to deliver a different yet exhilarating experience for their top sales performers.

HERE’S THE AMAZING 5-DAY INCENTIVE WE UNVEILED FOR OUR CLIENT AND THEIR SALES TEAM WINNERS…

DAY 1

The journey from London Gatwick to Havana is approximately 10 hrs and 5 minutes, so we ensured that guests flew upper class on their Virgin flight. Travelling in style meant that the group arrived happy, refreshed and excited to embark on their Cuban adventure.

DAY 2

With transfers to the hotel arranged via a 40-minute private shuttle, it wasn’t long before the group were welcomed into the Gran Hotel Manzana Kempinski La Habana, for a light lunch and Mojitos by the pool. The Kempinski was selected for this incentive because it offers contemporary 5-star luxury accommodation, whilst simultaneously providing guests with the fantastic character and personality of Old Havana town centre.

After some downtime and having the chance to explore the hotel and their rooms, the group were invited to attend a private 3 course dinner at The Palace restaurant, followed by the opportunity to discover the vibrant nightlife of the Cuban capital; with atmospheric bars and nightclubs the group could completely immerse themselves in the Latin American vibes of this rustic and charming city.

DAY 3

It was important for us to create a balanced incentive schedule that not only showcased the very best of Havana, but that also gave guests the chance to relax and unwind. Day three therefore started with a chilled morning by the pool and a chance for the group to check out the luxury spa facilities situated within the hotel complex.

Following a leisurely day, the group were transported to a traditional restaurant to experience authentic Cuban dining at its best. After an early dinner, the group were taken on a guided bar tour of the capital, cue arm-wrestling, cigars and Mojitos a plenty. After partying the night away in one of Havana’s trendiest nightclubs, the sales team winners and their guests were taken back to the hotel by local taxis.

Destination Tip: When looking for a simple and easy way to get around Havana city, the local taxis in the capital definitely offer the best solution.

DAY 4

A walking tour – what better way to get to know a destination? The arrival of day 4 saw the group getting a taste of downtown Havana by foot, which allowed them to soak up the historical heritage and the eclectic culture and architecture of the area.

Refuelled with lunch and drinks at a local bar, it was time to rev the afternoon up with a car tour. Stepping inside the iconic old-style cars, which are still so synonymous with Cuba, was like taking a seat back in time; the collection of colourful vehicles provided a vantage point of Havana that the group loved and to mix things up, the guided adventure even scheduled in a visit to Fusterlandia (a transformative design project by artist Jose Rodriguez Fuster) and Pina Colada stop-offs.

We rounded the day of activities up with a traditional Mojito making class at the International Hotel, which was great way to bring everyone back together ahead of dinner and drinks at the Fabrica de Arte Cubano restaurant.

The mixture of excursions and activities were specifically tailored to allow the incentive group to really get underneath the facade of Havana and to help them uncover the magic and enchantment of the city.

DAY 5

Even on the last day, we wanted the group to absorb as much of Havana’s charm as possible, so following a late breakfast, the group headed out into the bustling local markets in search of souvenirs and trinkets to take home.

Before departing for the airport, we made sure that there was some more time allocated for guests to enjoy the hotel’s rooftop pool, which offered panoramic, Instagram worthy views of the stunning Havana skyline.

From beginning to end, it was our mission to provide a luxurious travel experience for our client’s group, therefore giving them VIP lounge access before their flight home seemed like the ultimate way to finish off this incentive trip.

THE VERDICT

For every incentive that we manage, we make it a priority to ask guests for their honest feedback. This brings us in on what they loved about the trip and gives us the means in which to measure the ROI against our client’s objectives.

Havana was a fantastic backdrop to this incentive programme; the people are so warm and welcoming and the fusion of the traditional and contemporary facets of the city give it an unrivalled energy that can’t fail to capture the hearts of all those that visit. Add in the fascinating history, assorted architecture and alluring culture and you’ve got a diverse destination option that we can’t wait to recommend again to future clients looking for something unconventional and remarkable.

Talk to the In2Events incentive team today and start creating unforgettable incentive travel experiences for your teams, partners or customers. Whoever your audience, whatever your requirements, we’re here to turn every vision and idea into AMAZING realities that make a powerful impact. Call: 02392 320 581 or email: info@in2events.co.uk.