by Rob Morgan, Business Development Manager, Banks Sadler – The UK’s leading event management and incentive travel experts.
Rob visited Saint Lucia on a MICE fam trip, gaining an exceptional insight on what is available for Incentive Buyers. Here he talks about his experience and made recommendations for small and large incentive groups, highlighting the best places to stay and the top things to do while in Saint Lucia.
‘Saint Lucia … an exotic island, shaped like a tear drop with overwhelmingly beautiful scenery’
Did you know that flying to Saint Lucia from London is quicker than flying to Miami?
Saint Lucia offers multiple hotel choices for incentive trips; from all-inclusive packages, to once in a lifetime experiences staying in ocean-front boutique style villas, to luxury all-inclusive health and fitness resorts hidden in lush green mountainous surroundings situated next to Saint Lucia’s most extraordinary natural harbour.
Transfers from the airport to a resort can take between ten minutes to an hour, where you’ll drive across the small island along the windy mountain roads, overlooking breath-taking scenery and all the plants and animals that live there. If your transfer time is more than anticipated, then local ground agents can offer creative ideas to keep the group energised and excited about the trip.
Small Incentive Groups
For small groups I would recommend Capella Marigot Bay Resort and Marina, one of Saint Lucia’s most luxurious resorts, surrounded by lush green mountains and beautiful tropical gardens, providing ample space for individuals or couples to have some rest and relaxation time. Capella Marigot Bay was a personal favourite of mine; I can’t praise this hotel enough, from the luxurious accommodation, incredible staff, delicious food to its exclusive location.
Capella, Marigot Bay
Individuals or groups can take a private boat transfer to a nearby beach soaking up the Caribbean Sea on their way. Incentive groups can be taken by boat to Jade Mountain – one of Saint Lucia’s most exclusive and must see resorts. Jade Mountain offers guests a once in a life time experience to stay in a sanctuary (known as a suite to most people) that overlooks out to the Pitons and Caribbean Sea. Each individual sanctuary has been designed with no windows, so you feel nestled into a mountain cave, with some sanctuaries having their own private infinity pool. Whether you decide to stay at Jade Mountain or not, the resort has a tropical beach, scuba facilities, a chocolate making workshop and fantastic catering facilities for lunches, dinners and cocktail receptions. The resorts’ architecture alone is worth a visit.
Large Incentive Groups
For a larger incentive group, who might be willing to share with colleagues, couples or families; I would suggest The Landings Resort & Spa by Elegant Hotels. The Landings Resort & Spa by Elegant Hotels offers condo-style accommodation, plenty of space, fully equipped with all the amenities you desire plus some even have a private Jacuzzi. The Landings has its own exclusive marina, offering great access for day trips by private boat or catamaran to explore the island or to even go further afield and head over to neighbouring islands like Martinique.
The Landings also has access to a glorious golden beach that looks out to Pigeon Island – the perfect spot to relax throughout the day or organise beach activities followed by a cocktail at sunset. Near to The Landings is Rodney bay which offers numerous restaurants, beautiful resorts, nightlife, thrilling activities and a historically notorious marina – a real tourist hotspot.
Things not to miss on island
• Piton Mountains
• Sulphur Springs (try mud-bathing)
• Pigeon Island National Park
• Fort Rodney
• Castries Market
• The former French port of Soufrière
• Marigot Bay and Gros Islet
Overall view on Saint Lucia
Hotels: An exceptional selection of high standard resorts – perfect for reward and recognition events
Food: Provides the perfect meal for every craving
Activities: Scuba, Sea Trek, Snorkelling, Zip Wiring, Mud Baths, Wine & Cheese Tasting, Spa Treatments, Rum Tasting
Destination: I would 100% consider Saint Lucia for an Incentive group who want to go further afield, have budget to enjoy the fine things the destination offers and want to feel rewarded.
For more information, please feel free to contact me at RobMorgan@banks-sadler.co.uk or 02074243310
Snorkelling in Saint Lucia