Antigua, an isle found in the West Indies as part of the Caribbean region, was given its name by Christopher Columbus in reference to a portion of the Seville Cathedral. Wadadli, a name given by its original inhabitants, is also used when referencing the island. Antigua, covering approximately one-hundred eight square miles, contains a population of just over eighty thousand people. Tourism serves as a major supplier to the isles economy with the main local market being agriculture. St John’s, the capital of this location, houses more than thirty thousand residents. English Harbour can be found on the south-eastern portion and serves as a shelter point when violent storms reach the area. A restored naval station of Britain, referred to as Nelsons Dockyard, resides on the harbor. This portion of the isle is most known for yachting, sailing, and as a provisioning area.
Information about the Island
Antigua’s significant history began as explorers started traveling to the coastline of North America. It is the same characteristics the Royal Navy noticed when creating a Britain base that have caused travelers to make their way to this destination. Trade Winds allow for the perfect sailing environment and the once protecting coral reefs now provide visitors with exceptional snorkeling. Area beaches offer a secluded atmosphere of soft sand for miles. The nearby landmass named Barbuda, once a shipwreck site, is now a bird sanctuary. It is a natural paradise where visitors are able to unwind, enjoy dreamed about beach scenery, and have an experience unlike any other.
Individuals can find Antigua amidst the Leeward Islands as part of the Eastern Caribbean. It lies approximately seventeen degrees north from the Equator and ranks largest among Leeward isles using the English language. Winter temperatures remain around the seventies with summer temperatures spanning from eighty to ninety degrees Fahrenheit. With rainfalls for the year being approximately forty-five inches, this particular Eastern landmass offers the most sun of all Leeward locations. Antigua also experiences low humidity throughout the entire year consequently making it a true paradise to visitors.
What to Do at the Island of Antigua
The island delivers a wide variety of excursion activities to meet the individual desires of visitors. Here are a few options to consider when seeking fun water related events:
- Kayaking
- Snorkeling
- Diving
- Boating
- Fishing
- Sailing
Excursions in the area can be taken by land or water with day cruises, helicopter rides, sailing expeditions, deep sea fishing, and scenic tours being common. Numerous additional excursion choices exist for individuals wanting to see nature or simply do something different from the tourist norm. A bike ride or hike across the island is a good land activity for those who like to explore. Tennis, golf, hunting, and riding are a few of the sport related activities on the island of Antigua. Shirley heights supplies a stunning view of the English Harbour with festivities being held at the site on Sundays. Harmony Hail Art Gallery, Museum of Antigua, and Sea View Farm Village are additional area attractions. Visitors from all over the world come to this location to kick back and relax in an absolutely picture perfect beach atmosphere.
Antigua, West Indies: An Incentive Travel Featured Destination
/in Featured DestinationsAntigua, an isle found in the West Indies as part of the Caribbean region, was given its name by Christopher Columbus in reference to a portion of the Seville Cathedral. Wadadli, a name given by its original inhabitants, is also used when referencing the island. Antigua, covering approximately one-hundred eight square miles, contains a population of just over eighty thousand people. Tourism serves as a major supplier to the isles economy with the main local market being agriculture. St John’s, the capital of this location, houses more than thirty thousand residents. English Harbour can be found on the south-eastern portion and serves as a shelter point when violent storms reach the area. A restored naval station of Britain, referred to as Nelsons Dockyard, resides on the harbor. This portion of the isle is most known for yachting, sailing, and as a provisioning area.
Information about the Island
Antigua’s significant history began as explorers started traveling to the coastline of North America. It is the same characteristics the Royal Navy noticed when creating a Britain base that have caused travelers to make their way to this destination. Trade Winds allow for the perfect sailing environment and the once protecting coral reefs now provide visitors with exceptional snorkeling. Area beaches offer a secluded atmosphere of soft sand for miles. The nearby landmass named Barbuda, once a shipwreck site, is now a bird sanctuary. It is a natural paradise where visitors are able to unwind, enjoy dreamed about beach scenery, and have an experience unlike any other.
Individuals can find Antigua amidst the Leeward Islands as part of the Eastern Caribbean. It lies approximately seventeen degrees north from the Equator and ranks largest among Leeward isles using the English language. Winter temperatures remain around the seventies with summer temperatures spanning from eighty to ninety degrees Fahrenheit. With rainfalls for the year being approximately forty-five inches, this particular Eastern landmass offers the most sun of all Leeward locations. Antigua also experiences low humidity throughout the entire year consequently making it a true paradise to visitors.
What to Do at the Island of Antigua
The island delivers a wide variety of excursion activities to meet the individual desires of visitors. Here are a few options to consider when seeking fun water related events:
Excursions in the area can be taken by land or water with day cruises, helicopter rides, sailing expeditions, deep sea fishing, and scenic tours being common. Numerous additional excursion choices exist for individuals wanting to see nature or simply do something different from the tourist norm. A bike ride or hike across the island is a good land activity for those who like to explore. Tennis, golf, hunting, and riding are a few of the sport related activities on the island of Antigua. Shirley heights supplies a stunning view of the English Harbour with festivities being held at the site on Sundays. Harmony Hail Art Gallery, Museum of Antigua, and Sea View Farm Village are additional area attractions. Visitors from all over the world come to this location to kick back and relax in an absolutely picture perfect beach atmosphere.
Barcelona, Spain: An Incentive Travel Featured Destination
/in Featured DestinationsBarcelona, a major bustling port in Spain, offers a mixture of sea and wooded scenery. While this scenery can be found as part of the external surroundings, Barcelona also supplies a cosmopolitan atmosphere. Local eateries are typically packed with people enjoying great food that surpasses nearby tourist locations. The city is extremely dynamic with a little bit of older styled aspects and a large focus on the technical industry. As the capital of Catalonia, Barcelona has remained on the path toward making a mark in the arts, architecture, and fashion since the end of the 19th century. The region has its own specific language complimented by an interesting history.
While the city offers countless things to do, promising adventures lie right outside the inner limits. Beaches complimented by mountain ranges make up the external scenery of this tourist destination. Barcelona consists of a modern quarter called the Eixample, which contains several buildings with art nouveau style. The independent town of Gracia joined the metropolis during the 20th century. It consists of a younger cosmopolitan atmosphere where tourists are not as common. Sants-Montjuic, Sant Marti, and the Inland Suburbs are additional districts visitors have available when wanting to get a feel for the region.
Exploring the Exquisite Metropolis of Barcelona
Individuals or groups planning a trip to this beautiful city have to be careful as to when it takes place. August is one of the most hectic times of the year; however, various shops are closed during this time period. Owners of retail stores take their own vacation from August to September. Those wanting to experience the city when it is quieter can book at this time to receive reduced rates and arrive in a less active location as locals take vacations to other areas. It is a family location where locals put a great significance on the happiness of children. Residents attempt to cheer little ones up by entertain bored children and take measures to stop crying when a child becomes upset in public.
Visitors can get around by bus, bicycle, scooter, metro, and car depending on the location. Those wanting to experience the art of the city can purchase what is called an “articket” to cut costs involved with visiting the several museums located in the area. It covers the admission price for seven different museums for a day full of art by famous persons such as Picasso. Barri Gotic consists of zigzagging streets, beautiful squares, and stunning palaces. Guadi architecture can be found throughout portions of the city including:
A guidebook showing the art nouveau sites of all districts can be obtained from the Modernisme Centre. Visitors with children can consider attractions such as the Museum of Natural History, the Museum of Science, and the sandy beaches. Barcelona is a location full of history, stunning architecture, beautiful beach scenery, and plenty of things to do. It is a place many individuals choose to visit multiple times in order to experience the fun and astonishing beauty this cosmopolitan region has to offer.
Aruba, Dutch Caribbean: An Incentive Travel Featured Destination
/in Featured DestinationsAruba, an isle located in the Caribbean Sea, is part of what is sometimes called the ABC islands. The isle combines with three additional Dutch countries to form what is known as the Kingdom of the Netherlands. The region is flatter, has no rivers, and is most desired because of its famous white sanded seashores. Stunning beachfront can be found to the West and South where the land is protected from rough currents. The North and Eastern sides of the island do not receive this same protection. It is a destination tourist can visit year round with the average temperature remaining around eighty five degrees due to the Atlantic Ocean trade winds. Precipitation is minimal throughout the year making this location an ideal getaway spot. Visitors have countless beach areas with a widespread contrast in scenery to choose from.
The Beaches of Aruba
Nothing creates a more picturesque view than the turquoise coloring found in the Caribbean waters. A touch of sun, consistent trade winds, and the sanded seashore provide the ultimate atmosphere for relaxation and fun. A seven mile stretch of resort lined beach front can be found on the west coast. Visitors can find plenty to do on this portion of the island including:
Those not wanting to take part in these activities can relax in a lounger reading a good book or just simply sipping a drink and observing everyone around them. While countless travelers stay on resort oriented portions for water related activities, the exposed portions of the coast offer their own magical wonders. These coastal points are not a good choice for swimming, but do provide a secluded atmosphere where limestone coves are abundant. Every beach on the island delivers a breathtaking view of the Caribbean Sea and is accessible to the public.
Things to Do in Aruba
Aruba may be known as an island paradise with endless water activities; however, it delivers plenty of choices for fun on land as well. The turquoise waters, an ivory colored coastline, and calm surroundings do make water oriented sports quite enticing. Individuals desiring a relaxing, laid back getaway can spend their time sunbathing, taking walks on the beach, or going on a horseback ride. Trails spanning over twenty miles of rugged territory can be explored by foot. Golf creates a whole new challenge with the trade winds providing a steady breeze. Nearby Arikok National Park delivers plenty of additional activities besides hiking to those wanting to experience nature on the island.
Aruba can be toured by motor coach, jeep safari, or by mountain bike with caution being recommended. Stretches of seashore with resorts supply calm waters perfect for a day of swimming. Wave conditions are challenging and this attracts several windsurfers to the area each year. All day sails, jet-skiing, fishing excursions, kayaking, and diving are additional activities offered by this destination. Aruba, Dutch Caribbean provides a large variety of choices to anyone desiring an active or laid back getaway. It is the perfect paradise for individuals to get a well-deserved breather from the stress of everyday life.
Nevis, West Indies: An Incentive Travel Featured Destination
/in Featured DestinationsThe Caribbean is a destination numerous individuals seek to travel to at least once in their lifetime. Several locations exist beyond the regions frequently discussed when referencing this area. Nevis, an isle within the Leeward chain, resides in the West Indies and offers a unique beach paradise atmosphere to visitors. The Nevis Peak, located at the landmasses center, contributes to the island’s cone shape. Sandy beaches can be found surrounding the north and west sides along with freshwater springs. Travelers receive the chance to relax in volcanic created hot springs found on the Western Coast. It is a great place for nature lovers offering various forms of coastal wildlife, snorkeling opportunities, and shipwreck scuba diving. Those who love to explore can take a stab at archeology or experience historical sites of the Amerindians.
Island History
Its history dates back to before explorers began arriving from the European continents. Columbus landed on the isle in 1943 to make the first written account of the regions existence. It was originally given the name Dulcina by early inhabitants, but renamed after Columbus’s landing. Alexander Hamilton was born on this island and later became a founding father of America. Lord Horatio Nelson, one of Britain’s well-known admirals, resided on the isle when it was used as a military base. Nevis remained as part of the British colony properties until the late 1900’s and did not officially become independent until 1983.
All the Charm of the Tropics
Music festivities with local dances can be viewed by travelers during various times of the year. Tropical plant life is used as herbal medicine by locals and includes these among other varieties:
Natural plants are used to preserve foods, make structures, create rope, and even produce guitars. Travelers have the opportunity to experience countless forms of wildlife including a wide array of international bird species. The island is noted on bird lists as one of the best locations for this type of nature observing.
Abundant Activities for Every Type of Visitor
A broad range of activities on Nevis make it easy to accommodate the individual interests of visitors. Nature oriented experiences include hiking or guided tours with one of the most popular arriving at the top of Nevis Peak. Hikes bring individuals close to nature and allow them to learn about the plants, wildlife, and history from area experts. The isle is a little quieter than what is characteristic to a Caribbean getaway location; however, it still offers the same activities many individuals are drawn to. Visitors have a chance to experience deep sea fishing or kayaking with scuba diving being common as well. Yacht charters can be taken to explore the island or individuals are welcomed to assist with sea turtle nest tracking. Snorkeling tours are another great option to those who want to spend time viewing the underwater wildlife. It is a place where people can relax, experience unique culture, and have the chance to do things they previously only dreamed about.
Incentive Travel is Bouncing Back: The Comeback Continues
/in Incentive Travel ArticlesIncentive travel seemed to be dead for many companies; however, recent studies show this motivational concept to be making a strong comeback. A decline in these motivational awards was seen as the recession took hold. In 2011, the industry began seeing significant business increases that have continued to steadily climb. Why the change of mind as the economy began to take a turn for the worse? Companies were forced to cut costs and even encouraged to eliminate these programs due to the less than desirable actions of other businesses. AIG, in particular, gained bad publicity as they continued to deliver trip incentives while applying for government bailout money. The impressions left on the public after this event caused numerous organizations to eliminate these programs.
This concept has re-entered administrative processes, but is a little different from before thanks to the series of events right after the recession began. Companies need to be able to provide the right motivation and rewards. Budgeting, program justification, and business centered rewards have become prevalent as incentive travel gains popularity once again. Some of the less permanent changes seen include:
These changes accommodate strains put on businesses by the economy while maintaining public image. A shorter, closer trip is easier to justify over the countless distant destinations available for this type of package. As the economy begins to upsurge, several companies are beginning to expand their programs in an effort to inspire individuals or teams to meet a goal or set of objectives. One of a kind destinations, reasonable travel lengths, and comfortable accommodations can be affordable when handled by a professional.
What Permanent Program Changes Are Being Seen?
A few changes are expected to never go away as incentive travel continues to become increasingly popular. Organizations have heightened focus on justifying the business benefits of offering an incentive such as this. The financial aspects are thoroughly evaluated and must be shown to provide sufficient benefits for the money spent. Companies are incorporating business meetings, charitable events, and additional items to make this type of reward more reasonable. Social media is being applied for the promotional aspects of an incentive travel package and used by various organizations as a form of continuous communication involving the award.
While the justification process can seem extreme, multiple individuals see these alterations as positive. Absence of these programs has enlightened their true benefit to organizations in need of increased productivity, morale, or individual performance. Employee engagement has drastically dropped and individuals are in severe need of something that creates a more positive environment as well as the impact necessary for future success. Incentive travel professionals can meet strict financial budgets without taking away the “WOW” factor individuals need to continue striving to achieve the award. It takes the right planning, effective communication, and an exceptional prize to make these programs work. Professionals understand the obstacles faced when desiring to implement this type of program today and can create a rewarding experience for even the smallest organization.