Marrakech is a destination that blends luxury, tradition, and adventure, making it an exceptional choice for incentive travel and corporate events. This December, we had the pleasure of hosting an exclusive FAM trip to explore the best of what this vibrant city and its surrounding landscapes have to offer.

In an era where environmental consciousness is paramount, the travel industry is undergoing a significant transformation. Destination Management Companies (DMCs) are at the forefront of this change

Beyond the Beach: Exclusive Insights from a MICE Mauritius Fam Trip Day 1 Descending into Mauritius is a thing of beauty – the lush green landscape and crystal blue coastline wakes us up immediately from our overnight flight, as excitement peaks we head off the plane and see a welcome sign with our names before as we walk across the gate bridge. The group and I are escorted to a separate exit, greeted by the private cars to whisk us to the Jet Prime Lounge for an exclusive arrival experience. Breakfast platters and fizz are served as we hand our passports over to the team for the formalities whilst we relax in the lounge. The Emotions team Annick and Teelasha welcome us with beaming smiles as we hop on our transfer to the first of the LUX* hotels we’re visiting. A short transfer along the coastline with some information and history of Mauritius from our guide Vom (aka Voice of Mauritius!) and we arrive for breakfast at Tamassa. The group are met with the iconic vista that all of the LUX* properties have in their reception, a trademark welcome of theirs, and after a quick freshen up we head for breakfast. The vibe of the resort was warming and fun, and we experienced a meditation session under the wishing tree and a tour of the Santosha Spa. I wonder how many of us wished to have the chance to return to Mauritius already… We head back to the transfer, and it doesn’t take us long to reach the towering landscape of Le Morne, a beautiful area with a deep history. The group enjoy taking in the view of the beach from the Treehouse with canapes and fizz at LUX* Le Morne before heading to the The Beach restaurant for a beach view lunch. The hotel has a serene retreat vibe, and already the group was experiencing the vast choice of hotel styles in Mauritius. “I’m going to have a nap on the coach” said one of the group members, and I chuckle that they won’t want to sleep during the next transfer to the North of the Island. Little did they know that we were about to head on a helicopter transfer across the island to land at LUX* Grand Gaube! Our pilots allow us to enjoy the sights from above whilst giving information on where we are during the flight, and as we land at LUX* Grand Gaube helipad, we’re welcome once again by warm smiling faces and refreshing coconut beverages. The hotel is a mix of retro chic, and the bedrooms are neutral in tones with different textures to bring warmth. After checking in to our rooms and refreshing, and a quick show round of the hotel including its cinema, we enjoy an authentic Mauritius dinner under the banyan trees at the hotel, complete with rum tasting sessions and a fire show. A few of us stay chatting on the beach after, watching the stargazing event some of the hotel guests were enjoying. Day 2 After a breakfast at the hotel’s The Palm Court restaurant, the group are welcomed at reception by a parade of vintage cars to discover the north of the island – not just any vintage cars, but the drivers own the cars themselves and are eager to tell us about the history of the cars and their beloved country. After taking in some stops including the red roof church and dodging a few showers, we arrive at Château de Villebague for a delicious private lunch. Some time at leisure back at the LUX* Grand Gaube is then available for the group before a sundowner gin masterclass at the Turkish restaurant Bodrum Blue, complete with a DJ and sunset photo opportunity. Luckily the showers kept at bay, and we were able to enjoy a BBQ on the beach under the festoon lights, enjoying a Sega dance lesson, a traditional dance in Mauritius, where us UK agents really showed our moves… Day 3 An early start was on the agenda for the group as we travelled to the East of the Island for breakfast on the beach of LUX* Belle Mare. As we arrived, we were met by a small cluster of yoga mats laid out on a green area in front of the beach where we embraced some gentle stretching while listening to the sound of the waves. The hotel recently reopened after a devastating fire, and the transformation is stunning. After breakfast we head to our speedboat ride along the coast. We stop for a spot of snorkelling in beautiful a beautiful coral area, before heading for another surprise stop – a floating bar with snacks at Ile aux Aigrettes. The surprises kept coming, as one of the crew members climb onto a rock with a guitar and started singing, and we all join in! We could have stayed all day, but we had the wonderful Shan waiting for us at Ile Des Deux Cocos for lunch, and Island you can privatise for your group or head straight to from the airport with its close proximity. After a snooze on the transfer to the Grand Baie, the group soon perk up when arriving at the LUX* Grand Baie – the newest addition to the LUX* portfolio in Mauritius. Uber trendy and sophisticated, we’re checked in promptly and taken to our modern rooms, before meeting for pre-dinner drinks at one of their exclusive villas with private pools. After taking in the luxury of the villa and canapes, we head to Ai Kisu for an oriental feast, and some of us even make it to the onsite Club Ai Kisu dancing the night away. Day 4 We start the day with breakfast at Beach Rouge, before splitting into smaller groups to enjoy the hydrotherapy offerings at the spa and a spin class and yoga session at Niyama. Even a gymnophobe like me left with endorphins! The hotel has a focus on wellness and even has

Unveiling the Success of Pearl Annual Workshop 2024 : A Journey Across the UK A Journey Across the UK In the dynamic world of professional gatherings, the Pearl Annual Workshop 2024 stood out as a beacon of innovation, collaboration, and networking. Spanning five exceptional venues across the United Kingdom, this year’s workshop was a testament to the unwavering dedication of Pearl Global Collection, Pearl Representation, and their individual suppliers to foster buyer engagement and enhance brand awareness. The meticulous orchestration of events across Cotswolds, Midlands, Leeds, Manchester, and Maidenhead provided a unique platform for suppliers to engage directly with buyers, setting a new benchmark in the industry. A Unique Format for Unmatched Engagement Cotswolds – Lygon Arms In the dynamic world of professional gatherings, the Pearl Annual Workshop 2024 stood out as a beacon of innovation, collaboration, and networking. Spanning five exceptional venues across the United Kingdom, this year’s workshop was a testament to the unwavering dedication of Pearl Global Collection, Pearl Representation, and their individual suppliers to foster buyer engagement and enhance brand awareness. The meticulous orchestration of events across Cotswolds, Midlands, Leeds, Manchester, and Maidenhead provided a unique platform for suppliers to engage directly with buyers, setting a new benchmark in the industry. Midlands – Harpurs of Melbourne The Midlands chapter unfolded at Harpurs of Melbourne, where an elegant afternoon tea set the stage for networking and personal meetings. This casual yet sophisticated environment facilitated meaningful conversations and connections. Leeds – Tattu Leeds presented a vibrant twist with a cocktail masterclass at Tattu, accompanied by Asian canapés. This engaging activity not only served as an icebreaker but also paved the way for fruitful 1:1 meetings in a memorable setting. Manchester – The Ivy Spinningfields Manchester’s The Ivy Spinningfields hosted an evening on The Skylight Terrace, where canapés and bowl food complemented networking sessions and personal meetings, offering a chic urban experience. Maidenhead – Cliveden House The tour concluded at Maidenhead’s Cliveden House, where the French Room’s elegance enhanced networking lunches and 1:1 meetings, wrapping up the workshop with a touch of historical grandeur. Strengthening Ties Through Collaboration and Networking A notable feature of this year’s workshop was the unprecedented collaboration between DMCs and hotel representatives, including notable names such as Abercrombie & Kent, American Guest, and The Lux Collective. These partnerships were instrumental in facilitating the approx 500 1:1 meetings, demonstrating the workshop’s significant role in enhancing supplier relationships and expanding the scope for buyers. A Touch of Excitement: The Lucky Draw Amidst the intensive networking and insightful 1:1 meetings, the Pearl Annual Workshop 2024 infused an element of thrill and anticipation with a lucky draw that left attendees buzzing with excitement. This special feature offered a chance to win amazing prizes generously provided by our DMCs, turning an already memorable event into an unforgettable experience. Prizes included overnight stays in the glamorous French Riviera, enchanting nights at Susona Bodrum, LUX* Resorts Mauritius, Sun Siyam Resorts in the Maldives, Italian Hospitality Collection hotels, breathtaking hot air balloon rides in Cappadocia, tickets to Broadway shows, and many more. This lucky draw not only added a fun twist to the workshop but also showcased the diverse and luxurious experiences our DMCs offer, further enriching the attendees’ engagement and satisfaction. Special Happenings and Heartfelt Feedback The Pearl Annual Workshop 2024 was punctuated with special moments, from the private buyout of the James Martin Tavern at Lygon Arms to the team dinner in Leeds. These occasions not only added an exclusive touch to the event but also allowed for deeper connections among attendees. Feedback from buyers and suppliers alike underscored the workshop’s success. Buyers appreciated the fantastic venues and the opportunity to meet valuable partners, while suppliers lauded the event’s organization and the quality of interactions. This positive reception highlights the workshop’s effectiveness in meeting its objectives and setting a high standard for future events. A Testament to Collaboration and Innovation The Pearl Annual Workshop 2024 exemplified the power of well-orchestrated events in fostering business relationships and industry growth. Through its innovative format and strategic locations, the workshop achieved its main objectives of increasing brand awareness, facilitating direct engagement between suppliers and buyers, and promoting buyer engagement. The overwhelming positive feedback from both buyers and suppliers attests to the event’s success and its invaluable contribution to the industry. As we reflect on the achievements of this year’s workshop, we are reminded of the importance of innovation, collaboration, and genuine connections in driving our industry forward. The Pearl Annual Workshop 2024 has not only set a new benchmark for professional gatherings but also laid the groundwork for future events to build upon its remarkable success.  

An incredible journey across Argentina – A Blog by Rakesh & Matthew Have you considered Argentina for an incentive? We recently travelled to Argentina exploring the possibilities of this wonderful country for a group incentive. Argentina is the second-largest country in South America, bordered by Chile to the west, Bolivia and Paraguay to the north, Brazil to the northeast. The country’s geography is incredibly varied, ranging from the Andes Mountains in the west to the vast Pampas plains in the centre and the diverse Patagonian region in the south. Argentina boasts a range of breathtaking natural wonders. The Andes Mountains offer stunning landscapes, including the highest peak in the Americas, Aconcagua. The southern region of Patagonia is known for its glaciers, like the famous Perito Moreno Glacier and dramatic landscapes. Iguazu Falls, located on the border with Brazil, are some of the most impressive waterfalls in the world. Argentina has a rich cultural heritage influenced by various immigrant groups, including Spanish, Italian, and indigenous populations. Argentine cuisine is heavily influenced by its agricultural heritage. Asados or barbecues are a central part of the culinary culture, with high-quality beef and various cuts of meat being grilled to perfection. Empanadas, pastries filled with a variety of ingredients, are another popular dish. The country is also renowned for its wine production, especially in Mendoza. Buenos Aires is accessible from the UK on direct flights from London Heathrow or connecting through various European cities and offers delegates the possibility of travelling on overnight flights landing in Buenos Aires the next day. Argentina is only 4 hours behind the UK meaning that your delegates can start an incentive program on the day of arrival. Buenos Aires Arriving in Buenos Aires is a simple 30-minute transfer to downtown hotels. Buenos Aires is the capital and largest city of Argentina, situated on the eastern coast of the country along the Río de la Plata. It is a city rich in history, culture, and diversity, and stands out as one of the premier destinations in South America. Buenos Aires is often referred to as the European capital city of South America. The architecture of Buenos Aires is diverse and reflects its multicultural history. Styles range from neoclassical to art nouveau and modernism. From our downtown hotel we joined a private walking tour of Buenos Aires and explored the iconic neighbourhoods La Recoleta, home to the famous Recoleta Cemetery where historical figures like Eva Perón rest. There is an obvious influence from European, Italian and French immigrants. Buenos Aires has a great selection of international hotels and several locally owned properties that offer a wealth of choice for Meetings and Incentives. Some of these include Four Seasons, Hilton, Park Hyatt and local hotels like the famous La Faena and Alvear properties to name a few. La Boca Outside of the city centre, La Boca, a working-class area near the Riachuelo River is a wonderful place to explore or host an event. El Caminito is a pedestrianised area renowned for its vibrant coloured houses, art scene and cultural charm. The colourful houses originated from the locals painting their homes with left over paint. The street is a hub of artistic expression, with street performers, musicians, and tango dancers entertaining visitors. Art galleries and craft shops offer a diverse range of local artwork and crafts, from paintings to sculptures and authentic tango experiences. La Boca offers some amazing options for authentic lunch and dinner venues. A great option for a group lunch in La Boca is Gran Paraiso. This authentic parillada (BBQ) is a colourful courtyard with indoor and outdoor options. This restaurant offers the possibility of smaller privatised areas or use of the courtyard and reflects the surrounding area with colourful building facades surrounding the courtyard and authentic live BBQ allowing delegates to see how this is cooked. This venue can host groups of up to around 200 people and is best used as a lunch venue so that delegates are able to enjoy the surrounding areas. Dinner Experiences in Buenos Aires El Fogon Asada is a fantastic dinner experience for delegates in groups of up to 30 people. This is not just a dinner, but it is an educational and interactive cooking experience with an exquisite wine pairing. Dinner is set up at a sitting bar which surrounds the cooking area, live grill and BBQ and each side of the bar has its own staff who serve the delegates and explains the cooking techniques and wine pairings throughout the 7-course tasting menu. Delegates will also get to create their own Chimichurri sauce to be served with their main course. This is a cozy evening around the BBQ kitchen with great interaction with local waiters and staff who interact with delegates and offer great information on how food is traditionally cooked. Argentina as a twin centre destination. This destination has so much more to offer than just a city incentive and by adding an additional destination in Argentina, it is a great way for your delegates to experience Argentina. Logistically flying is necessary when adding a second destination. For domestic flights Buenos Aires has a very central domestic airport that is no more than 15 minutes away from most hotels. This is a conveniently located airport to move delegates to a second destination without long transfer times or the complication of large airports. Some key options for a second destination are Mendoza – the wine region, El Calafate – the city in Patagonia to explore the famous glaciers and Iguazu Falls – one of the seven wonders of the world on the border of Argentina and Brazil. El Calafate “Patagonia” is a region located at the southern end of South America, encompassing parts of both Argentina and Chile. The name “Patagonia” is derived from the word “patagón,” which was used by early European explorers to describe the native people they encountered in the area. The region is known for its vast and diverse landscapes, including rugged mountains, expansive grasslands,