When travel restrictions came into place in 2020, none of us knew just how long it would last. Resort vacationers, backpackers, and cruise lovers alike had to shelve their travel books and hang up their hiking shoes. Unfortunately, this also included corporate retreats. What was once so integral to team-bonding and positive company culture, suddenly fell by the wayside. Don’t get me wrong, virtual experiences were a very welcome saving grace and are definitely here to stay, but we know that after a year and a half without a whisper of a trip, everyone is going a little stir-crazy. Now, with restrictions easing in many destinations, and wanderlust at an all time high, we’ve done the heavy lifting for you so you can easily navigate all the Covid-19 restrictions and get your travel on!

 We finally get to bring back the best work perk of them all: epic company retreats. It’s the moment we’ve all been waiting for, but now comes the question: where in the world do you go? A company offsite requires a balance of adventure, team-building, and leisure. Throw in the plethora of travel restrictions and safety protocols, and it might feel daunting to give a trip the “green light”. We at Moniker are here to make your life easier, being extremely well-versed in all things travel - including the latest entry, exit, and quarantine requirements. Let us help you choose a destination for your retreat that is safe and sure to amaze. With that in mind, here is a roundup of our top locations to host your company retreat in 2021!

A Note About Safety Protocols

While we’ve thoroughly researched the individual requirements and restrictions for each of the countries hereafter, it’s important to also check with the respective airlines you will be flying with and the hotels or resorts at which you will be staying. They may have specific requirements on top of what the country requires of you. As well, we encourage you to respect all safety recommendations put in place while you are travelling, such as mask wearing, hand washing, and remaining distanced from others not in your bubble when possible. Finally, it is equally critical to research the restrictions of your own country upon return, so you are fully prepared and have a hassle-free travel experience.

Mexico

Come for the white sand beaches but stay for the adventure, food, and ancient architecture. Here’s what you need to know about travelling to Mexico in 2021:‍

Testing: You are not required to get tested before entering the country, but if symptoms are displayed upon arrival, additional testing or possible quarantine may be required.

Required Forms: You must also fill out an online Health Questionnaire before entering the country.

There’s so much to see and do in Mexico, you’re sure to be amazed from the moment you step off the plane. Explore the cultural hubs of Oaxaca City and Guanajuato. Or, head to Sierra Norte for hiking, biking or horseback riding through beautiful mountainous landscapes. Enjoy a food tour in Mexico city, or party it up and explore turquoise water cenotes in the beautiful Tulum. Finally, don’t miss out on an opportunity to visit the ancient ruins of Chichén Itzá, Uxmal or Teotihuacan. Combine a few of these options for an unforgettable company retreat.

Mexico is one of the best locations for a company retreat in 2021

USA

When it comes to visiting the United States, there really is something for everyone. I mean after all, there are fifty of them, each with their own style and flavour. Here’s what you need to know about travelling to the USA right now:

Testing: Required. Proof of a negative PCR test within 72 hours of your arrival.

Required Forms: Travellers must fill out a Disclosure and Attestation Form that can be found here.

Additional Requirements: Individual states may have more specific requirements, so click here to find each of the states’ official health departments.

If you’re craving adventure, try taking your employees out glamping at some of our favourite spots like Paws Up or Dunton Hot Springs. Is the wilderness not your thing? Roam the cityscapes of San Francisco, try some of Hattie B’s famous hot chicken in Nashville, or hop on a riverboat for a tour of the bayou in New Orleans. If you’re looking for some fun in the sun, Hawaii is just the ticket meeting all your beach relaxation, water sport and sailing needs.

Need more help narrowing down a destination within the USA? You can start with choosing your perfect place to stay, and take it from there. Or, get inspired with some of these stunning locations near New York City - perfect for a resort buyout away from all the hustle and bustle. If you want something a little warmer, maybe destinations near the Bay Area are more your style. The point here is, you just can’t go wrong when there is so much variety to choose from… and we’ve got you covered!

Dominican Republic

Did you know that the Dominican Republic is actually the most geographically diverse country in the Caribbean? Yep. This won’t be your grandma’s beach vacation! Here’s what you need to know about travelling to the Dominican republic: 

Testing: Not required, but there will be temperature checks, PCR tests, and visual assessments done at random upon arrival. You will be exempt if you have proof of vaccination or of a negative PCR test within 72 hours of arrival, so we’d recommend being prepared to avoid any delay.

Required Forms: Travellers are required to fill out a Covid Traveller’s Health Affidavit online. 

We all know there is no shortage of beautiful beaches, turquoise waters, and pina coladas in Dominican Republic, but here are some ideas to amp it up a notch. Go canyoning and rappel down 150 foot high waterfalls near Puerto Plata. Try snorkelling and discover a vibrant underwater world in Cayo Arena. Or, zipline to your heart’s content in one of Punta Cana’s adventure parks. These unique activities are sure to bring people together and make memories your entire company can share.

Costa Rica

A good company retreat requires balance, and Costa Rica boasts both wild adventure and relaxing wellness activities to do just that. Not to mention the beautiful landscapes of Guanacaste - straddling both beaches and rainforest. Here’s what you need to know about travelling to Costa Rica this year:

Testing: Not required.

Required Forms: Travellers must fill out an online Health Pass beforehand.

Additional Requirements: Travel insurance that includes full coverage of both Covid-19 medical costs and accomodation in case of quarantine is mandatory for all travellers. More info can be found here. As well, travellers will only be allowed to enter through Juan Santamaría International Airport or Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport. Keep this in mind as it will factor into your destination choices.

I got 99 problems but a beach ain’t one. In fact, the only problem you’ll have in Costa Rica is having too many things to do. Here are just a few of them. Hike through the lush rainforest of Arenal Volcano National Park, and visit a waterfall, take a dip in the hot springs and marvel at an impressive volcano. Or, have your employees bond over wiping out -- oops, I mean surfing the waves at Tamarindo Beach. Find your inner zen with a chill day of yoga and a spa visit. Or, supercharge your trip with ATVing, horseback riding, whitewater rafting, ziplining and more. Whatever you’re looking for, Costa Rica is sure to have it in spades.

Puerto Rico 

A corporate retreat is already pretty amazing, but make it a trip to a Carribean paradise and you’ve got a recipe for success. Here’s what you need to know about Puerto Rico travel restrictions:

Testing: Travellers must provide proof of a negative PCR test within 72 hours. There may be random health screening on arrival.

Required Forms: Travellers will upload their test results through this Travel Declaration and as well fill out this Disclosure and Attestation Form.

There’s no shortage of activities to fill your days in Puerto Rico. Try snorkelling through the turquoise waters of La Cordillera Nature Reserve, or surfing the waves at one of Puerto Rico’s many beaches. Hike through the tropical rainforest of El Yunque and visit magical waterfalls. Sample the Caribbean's most popular spirit on the Casa Bacardi rum tour, or eat to your heart’s content with a food tour of San Juan. Finally, make this the most memorable corporate retreat ever by taking your employees to one of Puerto Rico’s bioluminescent bays to see the plankton light up the water around you like stars in the night!

Want More Ideas?

Envisioning a stroll down a quaint European street? Well, good news for any of you out there that are (or are planning to be) fully vaccinated. Countries such as France, Spain, Italy, Greece and Croatia are opening up to travellers with proof of full vaccination.

Ask The Travel Experts

At Moniker, we know travel, and we are completely equipped to help you plan your corporate retreat start to finish. We focus on creating bucket-list worthy retreats to help you and your colleagues bond, relax, brainstorm, celebrate, and get inspired in some amazing destinations. Take a look at an example of our Retreat Agenda for a more in-depth look at our exceptional organization from start to finish of your trip. With Covid-19 now in the mix of travel considerations, you can set your mind at ease and rest assured your safety will be our top priority. So dust off your suitcases, it’s time to get back out there. Happy travelling!

Don’t forget to check out more in this series of best locations in Lisbon, Canada, San Francisco and Mexico for more inspiration.

Resources

Here are a few more resources for you so you can have the smoothest trip possible.