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Writer's pictureRobyn Davis

Castles, Cows, and Culture: Memorable Incentives in European Destinations

Updated: Aug 7

When it comes to corporate incentive trips, the allure of sun-soaked beaches and tropical paradises often takes center stage. While there's no denying the appeal of fun and sun, it's worth considering the untapped potential of European destinations for a truly memorable experience. These trips offer a unique blend of culture, history, and natural beauty that can leave a lasting impression on attendees.


As a corporate planner, I have the unique privilege of visiting global destinations and searching for experiences to showcase to my clients. Recently, I had the privilege of exploring London, Edinburgh and Dublin, and the experience was nothing short of extraordinary. From the moment we arrived, the journey was filled with unforgettable moments that you simply can't find on a beach. This trip truly opened my eyes to the magnificent group potential of these three destinations. The hidden gems are countless!


London, England

In London, our experience was captivating. We stayed in a very historic hotel that exuded charm and elegance. One night, we enjoyed jazz in a hidden speakeasy, an experience that felt like stepping back in time. We encountered huge pelicans roaming freely just outside Buckingham Palace, a delightful surprise.

Mousetrap London

To top it off, we saw the world's longest-running play, "The Mousetrap," which was a true cultural treat. To find out "whodunit" you'll have to see the show yourself!



 
Edinburgh Castle
Edinburgh High Tea in a Castle

In Edinburgh, we delved into the city's rich history with visits to magnificent castles, where centuries-old stories came to life. Touring the Britannia, the Queen's yacht, was a highlight, providing an in-depth look at the history of England's royalty and their revered status in Scotland. High tea in a castle added a touch of elegance to our trip, making us feel like royalty.


Engaging with locals in cozy pubs, we savored traditional cuisine and enjoyed the lively atmosphere that only a Scottish pub can offer. Another highlight was learning how whisky is made, which gave us a deeper appreciation for this iconic beverage.

Scotland Highland Cow

In the Highlands outside of Edinburgh, the Highland cows we encountered and fed added a charming touch of rural Scotland, making us feel truly immersed in the local culture. We savored delicious smoked salmon in a cozy little restaurant, accompanied by fruity sparkling wine, cheeses, and other delights. We never would have discovered this hidden gem if it weren't for our guide, whose friend owned the establishment.

Scotland Oldest Tree in Europe

We stood beside the oldest tree on record in Europe and in a 13th century monastery, our guide serenaded us with a period song on the guitar, creating a magical moment that transported us back in time.




 
Book of Kell

In Dublin, the adventure continued with visits to historic sites and cultural landmarks. We marveled at the Book of Kells, a stunning example of medieval artistry, and enjoyed the Guinness Experience, where we learned about the rich history of Ireland's iconic beer.


Kilkea Castle Falconry Ireland
Kilkea Castle Ireland

The chance to hold a falcon outside a beautiful hotel that is also one of Ireland's longest inhabited castles was an exhilarating experience, adding a touch of adventure to our trip.


Sheep Herding Ireland

Outside of Dublin, the sheep and sheep dogs we encountered further showcased the charm of rural Ireland. Learning how sheep dogs are trained was fascinating, and it was equally enlightening to understand the impact of synthetic materials and the decline in people entering the farming industry on the sheep industry. We especially loved meeting the little lamb that greeted us, adding a charming touch to the experience.


Ireland Organic Farm

Visiting a 100% organic farm provided insight into sustainable farming practices and introduced us to a unique event venue. Attendees can sample homemade rums, ciders, chocolates, oils, and vinegars under a massive tree while learning how these products are made without any pesticides.


Howth Haunted Pub

Dining in a haunted pub added a unique twist to our Irish experience. We learned about the witch trials that took place there and felt the chill of the lower level. This venue also featured a fantastic event space with a built-in stage, perfect for Irish musicians and dancers to perform. Visiting the seaside fishing village of Howth provided a very different topography filled dotted with sailing vessels and a bit of history too.

Howth Ireland

The beauty of Ireland is awe-inspiring, and the people we encountered quickly became friends. As our partner in Dublin said, "It's all about the characters you meet in Ireland."


The opportunities to explore between the cities, coastal towns, and mountains are endless. These experiences are just a glimpse of what European destinations have to offer. While beach destinations are fantastic for relaxation, they can start to blend together when chosen year after year. By alternating with trips "across the pond," you introduce variety and create unique memories that stand out.


Another added value of European destinations is that many attendees often extend their stay to explore more of the region, turning a corporate incentive trip into a personal adventure. This makes the incentive even more valuable and memorable for the attendees.


As the plaque in my office wisely states, "Go as many places as you can. You can always make more money. You can't always make memories." Incentive trips to Europe provide an opportunity for attendees to explore new cultures, enjoy diverse landscapes, and engage in activities that are both enriching and unforgettable. So, the next time you're planning an incentive trip, consider the value of these incredible destinations. Your team will thank you for the memories that will last a lifetime.


RCD Events Worldwide

Use RCD Events Worldwide to custom plan your group's incentive trip because we will make the experience unique, memorable, and well-planned for your attendees. We cannot wait to introduce your group to the many "characters" and off-the-beaten-path experiences we can share with them in destinations all over the world.

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