Go Global: The Ultimate Guide to Choosing International Offsite Destinations
In today’s competitive workplace, offsites aren’t just about stepping out of the office—they’re about creating transformative experiences that leave your team feeling refreshed, connected, and inspired. One emerging trend is taking these experiences global. Why consider taking your offsite abroad? International retreats offer incredible opportunities for unique team-building experiences while maximizing value.
But with the world as your oyster, it can be daunting to know where to go. Happied and AllFly have teamed up to give you the ultimate guide to choosing the best international destinations for your next company retreat. Together, we make offsite planning seamless and cost-effective, from booking flights to curating unforgettable itineraries.
Here’s why going global might be your best decision yet.
3 Big Reasons to Take Your Offsite International
1. Stretch Your Budget Further
Many international locations offer high-end experiences at significantly lower costs compared to domestic alternatives. From affordable luxury accommodations to reasonably priced dining and activities, the savings can quickly add up. For example, a beachfront resort in Mexico or Jamaica might cost a fraction of a similar venue in the U.S., and even flights can be surprisingly economical during off-peak travel dates.
With AllFly’s budget tool Forecast, you can easily compare destinations and dates side-by-side to determine which location and timeframe offer the best value for your team.
2. Inspire Creativity Through Cultural Immersion
A change of scenery does wonders for creativity. Experiencing a new culture—whether it’s the lively energy of Spanish festivals or the serene beauty of a Costa Rican rainforest—can spark fresh ideas and new ways of thinking. Your team will return not only rejuvenated but also brimming with inspiration and new perspectives to apply to their work.
3. Create Unforgettable Memories
An international offsite signals that you’re willing to go the extra mile for your team. Sharing unique experiences—like watching a sunset in Santorini or exploring a Moroccan souk—builds stronger bonds and boosts team morale. These shared memories often become defining moments in your company’s culture, creating a sense of camaraderie that lasts long after the retreat ends.
Top International Destinations for Offsites
1. Portugal
Portugal offers a unique mix of old-world charm and modern amenities, making it an exceptional destination for company offsites. The capital city, Lisbon, enchants visitors with its cobblestone streets, historic architecture, and thriving food scene. Just a short drive away, Cascais provides a picturesque coastal escape, perfect for teams who want to blend work with relaxation. The Algarve region, with its golden beaches and dramatic cliffs, offers a stunning backdrop for team-building activities like hiking or water sports.
Happied Pro Tip: Travel in the spring or fall to avoid peak tourist season and enjoy mild weather. For team activities, consider wine tours in Douro Valley or a sunset cruise along the Lisbon coast.
AllFly Travel Tip: Book flights to Lisbon or Porto early to secure the best deals. Direct flights to Lisbon offer the most efficient travel experience, and choosing mid-week departures can help reduce travel costs and airport congestion.
2. Mexico
Mexico’s diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage make it an ideal destination for any team. Cancun is known for its turquoise waters and luxury resorts, offering a perfect setting for teams to unwind. Mexico City provides a vibrant cultural experience, with world-class museums, historic sites, and an unparalleled culinary scene. For a more off-the-beaten-path retreat, Oaxaca delivers a mix of rich traditions, artisan crafts, and stunning scenery. Mexico’s close proximity to the U.S. means shorter travel times and more affordable flights.
Happied Pro Tip: Opt for an all-inclusive resort to simplify meal planning and team dining. Look for accommodations with meeting spaces to combine work and play seamlessly.
AllFly Travel Tip: Take advantage of direct flights to major Mexican cities like Cancun or Mexico City to save time and reduce travel stress. Booking flights during off-peak seasons can also help lower costs and ensure a more relaxed airport experience.
3. Spain
Spain’s allure lies in its incredible diversity, from the bustling streets of Barcelona to the tranquil beaches of the Balearic Islands. Barcelona combines artistic innovation with historic landmarks, making it a dynamic city for team exploration. For a slower pace, the Balearic Islands, such as Mallorca and Ibiza, offer stunning beaches and a relaxed atmosphere, ideal for fostering team connections. Inland destinations like Seville and Granada add a dose of history and culture, with breathtaking architecture like the Alhambra and iconic flamenco performances.
Happied Pro Tip: Book a private walking tour to explore local history while encouraging team interaction. Plan team dinners during Spain’s late evening dining hours to give everyone time to unwind.
AllFly Travel Tip: Consider booking flights to Spain during the shoulder seasons, such as late spring or early fall, to take advantage of lower airfare and fewer crowds. Direct flights to Barcelona or Madrid also make travel more efficient, allowing your team to start their adventure with minimal hassle.
4. Costa Rica
Costa Rica is the perfect retreat destination for teams that crave adventure and natural beauty. This eco-friendly paradise offers pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and towering volcanoes. Teams can bond through thrilling activities like zip-lining through treetops, white-water rafting, or hiking in national parks such as Manuel Antonio or Arenal. For a more laid-back vibe, the Pacific Coast’s beach towns like Tamarindo and Santa Teresa provide opportunities for surfing, yoga, and relaxation. Costa Rica’s commitment to sustainability and its “pura vida” lifestyle will leave your team feeling recharged and inspired.
Happied Pro Tip: Choose a retreat center with sustainability certifications to align with eco-conscious company values. Schedule downtime between excursions to allow your team to recharge.
AllFly Travel Tip: For group travel, consider booking a charter flight to Costa Rica to streamline logistics and ensure everyone arrives together.
5. Jamaica
Jamaica offers a perfect mix of relaxation and adventure, making it an excellent choice for company retreats. Montego Bay and Negril boast all-inclusive resorts with stunning ocean views and a variety of on-site amenities. For more adventurous teams, excursions to Dunn’s River Falls or rafting on the Martha Brae River provide unforgettable bonding experiences. Jamaica’s vibrant culture, from reggae music to its world-famous jerk cuisine, creates a lively and welcoming atmosphere for any team.
Happied Pro Tip: Schedule offsite activities like catamaran cruises or snorkeling to foster team bonding. Avoid peak holiday seasons for the best rates and a quieter atmosphere.
AllFly Travel Tip: Book non-stop flights to Montego Bay or Kingston to minimize travel time and simplify logistics for your team.
6. Greece
Greece combines ancient history, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality for an unforgettable retreat experience. Athens offers a mix of modern amenities and iconic landmarks like the Parthenon, making it an inspiring starting point for any retreat. The islands, including Santorini and Crete, provide breathtaking views, crystal-clear waters, and charming villages that feel like a world apart.
Happied Pro Tip: Consider planning your offsite during the shoulder season (April-May or September-October) for pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Include a cooking class to engage your team in a fun, interactive experience.
AllFly Travel Tip: Book flights to Athens and take advantage of short connecting flights or ferries to the islands
7. Morocco
Morocco’s unique blend of African, Arab, and European influences creates a rich tapestry of experiences that will leave your team inspired and energized. Marrakech captivates with its bustling souks, colorful markets, and luxurious riads, while the Atlas Mountains offer serene escapes for hiking and team reflection. The coastal town of Essaouira provides a more laid-back vibe, with its historic medina and stunning seaside views.
Happied Pro Tip: Incorporate cultural experiences like a traditional Moroccan tea ceremony or a visit to the local markets. Choose accommodations in riads for an authentic and intimate setting.
AllFly Travel Tip: For a seamless arrival, check if your airline offers direct connections to your destination, allowing for more efficient travel and less stress for your team.
Ready to Plan Your Next Adventure?
An international offsite isn’t just a getaway—it’s an investment in your team’s growth and culture.
Pro Tip: With Happied and AllFly by your side, you can focus on creating memories while we handle the logistics.
How Happied and AllFly Simplify International Offsites
Happied takes the stress out of planning by managing every detail of your offsite, from selecting the perfect destination to curating activities that align with your team’s goals. Whether it’s creating the perfect AV set-up, team-building adventures, or unforgettable cultural experiences, we ensure everything runs smoothly.
AllFly makes group travel a breeze. Their intuitive platform allows you to easily book, track, and manage flights, ensuring your team gets the best rates and arrives at the destination hassle-free.
