Have you decided where to host your 2025 corporate event?
Hosting your event internationally opens up a world of possibilities and advantages.
In this blog post, we’ll guide you through some of our top recommendations for where to host your event and provide insights on how to select the perfect destination abroad.
Top International Corporate Event Destinations
Selecting the right destination for your corporate event can be a challenging task. Many factors play a role in this decision, such as attendee preferences, partner and supplier locations, business objectives, and budget.
Here are the top international destinations to consider as you begin brainstorming where to host your next corporate event:
- Lisbon, Portugal
- Vancouver or Toronto, Canada
- Cabo San Lucas or Mexico City, Mexico
- Guanacaste, Costa Rica
- Bali, Indonesia
- Barcelona or Mallorca, Spain
- Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Singapore
- Dubai, United Arab Emirates
- Sydney, Australia
- Bonus: Puerto Rico
These destinations were selected based on factors such as accessibility, infrastructure, activities, and overall appeal to business travelers.
It's important to choose a destination that not only meets your business goals but also has the power to elevate your event from ordinary to unforgettable.
Now, let’s dive into the details.
1. Lisbon, Portugal
Hosting your corporate event in Lisbon has many advantages, including excellent accommodation options, suppliers, and efficient ground transportation. Being in Western Europe, Lisbon is fairly easy to access for attendees flying in from the U.S., and often with direct flights on TAP Air Portugal.
In Lisbon, your dollar can stretch further, allowing your team to enjoy the city’s rich culture and incredible cuisine without having to worry you’ll go over your event budget.
What to do in Lisbon
There are plenty of exciting activities for your attendees to enjoy in the lively capital city of Portugal.
Whether they prefer spending their time learning history, enjoying food, or going on an adventure, there’s something to suit every taste:
- Try a delicious pastel de nata from the famous Pastéis de Belém bakery
- Take a Tram 28 ride through Lisbon’s charming neighborhoods
- Take a day trip to Sintra and visit Pena Palace
- Visit the National Tile Museum (Museu Nacional do Azulejo)
Where to stay in Lisbon
Lisbon offers a diverse selection of venues and accommodations to suit events of any size and style. Here are some of our favorite places to stay in Lisbon:
( The Four Seasons Hotel Ritz Lisbon)
2. Vancouver or Toronto, Canada
Vancouver and Toronto, Canada, stand out as excellent choices for hosting your corporate event, thanks to their proximity to the United States. This makes them particularly appealing for companies with operations spanning both countries and convenient for attendees traveling from either side of the border.
Additionally, favorable exchange rates offer added purchasing power, making these cities advantageous destinations for hosting your next conference, meeting, or incentive trip.
You can also host a multi-stop corporate event, beginning with business meetings in downtown Vancouver and then traveling by seaplane to Whistler for an incentive trip to the mountains.
What to do in Vancouver
Nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the Coast Mountains, there are plenty of activities for event attendees to enjoy in Vancouver:
- Walk or bike along Stanley Park, one of the largest urban parks in North America
- Visit Granville Island and Public Market for shopping
- Adventure in the iconic Capilano Suspension Bridge Park
- Stroll along the VanDusen Botanical Gardens
(Stanley Park)
Where to stay in Vancouver
From modern spaces with stunning cityscape views to elegant ballrooms, Vancouver offers an impressive variety of venues for your corporate event. Here are some of our recommendations if you’re looking for a place to stay:
What to do in Toronto
Toronto may be known as the financial capital of Canada, but there are plenty of exciting activities for guests to enjoy outside of the boardroom.
In the summer months:
- Visit the Toronto Islands
- Take a Harbourfront Cruise along Lake Ontario
- Explore Kensington Market
- Walk through the Toronto Music Garden
In the winter months:
- Visit the Distillery District's Christmas Market
- Ice skate at Nathan Phillips Square
- Attend a Toronto Maple Leafs hockey game
- Drive a couple hours north to ski at Blue Mountain Resort
Where to stay in Toronto
Toronto offers a variety of venue options to suit any event, whether it’s a small meeting or a large conference. Here are some of our favorite venues in the city:
( The 1 Hotel Toronto)
3. Cabo San Lucas or Mexico City, Mexico
Cabo San Lucas and Mexico City are popular choices for hosting corporate events. They offer easy accessibility for those traveling from the United States, and with favorable exchange rates, you can indulge in a variety of experiences at great value.
What to do in Cabo San Lucas
Whether you're seeking relaxation or adventure, Cabo San Lucas has something for everyone to enjoy:
- ATV tours through Cabo’s rugged desert terrain
- Sunset cruise along the coast
- Golfing at one of Cabo’s world-class courses
- Snorkeling or diving with whale sharks or manta rays
Where to stay in Cabo San Lucas
When hosting your event in Cabo San Lucas, you can anticipate top-notch service and hospitality. The majority of resorts are relatively new, designed specifically to cater to tourism and give attendees an elevated event experience.
Here are some of our favorite resorts in Cabo:
- Chileno Bay Resort & Residences
- Grand Velas Los Cabos (a great all-inclusive)
- Esperanza Cabo San Lucas
- Montage Los Cabos
- The Cape, A Thompson Hotel, by Hyatt
- Pedregal: Los Cabos Luxury Resort
Check out a sample incentive trip itinerary, including food and activities, for Cabo.
What to do in Mexico City
If your company operates in the Americas, consider Mexico City for your next corporate event. This metropolitan city offers rich culture and cuisine that will wow your attendees. Here are some post-event activities to enhance their experience:
- Explore Chapultepec Park
- Visit the Historic Center (Centro Histórico)
- Tour the National Museum of Anthropology
- Explore World Heritage sites like Xochimilco
- Try a food tour and sample street tacos, tamales, chilaquiles, and other specialties at local markets
Some people argue that Mexico City has the best coffee and pastries in the world, although Paris may beg to differ.
Where to stay in Mexico City
For an unforgettable corporate event in Mexico City, we recommend hosting yours at one of the city's rooftop hotels, offering views of the bustling metropolis below. Here are a few of our top picks for venues in Mexico City:
(The Ritz-Carlton, Mexico City)
4. Guanacaste, Costa Rica
Hosting your corporate event in Guanacaste, Costa Rica offers the perfect mix of work and play. While Costa Rica is well-known for its appeal as an incentive trip destination, it also serves as a great destination to weave in corporate meetings.
Costa Rica offers excellent value in comparison to other international destinations, making it a great option for business gatherings looking to maximize their budget.
What to do in Costa Rica
Costa Rica is known for its beaches, volcanoes, and lush biodiversity. Here are some of our favorite activities to do in Costa Rica:
- Mountain bike through Rincón de la Vieja National Park
- Zipline through Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Preserve
- Explore Arenal Volcano National Park
Where to stay in Costa Rica
Who says business can't be enjoyable? Costa Rica boasts numerous eco-resorts, providing fantastic amenities and experiences in stunning natural surroundings. For your stay in Costa Rica, we suggest:
- JW Marriott Guanacaste Resort & Spa
- Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica at Peninsula Papagayo
- Andaz Costa Rica Resort At Peninsula Papagayo
Read a full itinerary for an incentive trip to Costa Rica, including recommendations on activities, food, gifts, and packing.
5. Bali, Indonesia
Bali, often associated with incentive trip adventures, is also a fantastic choice for corporate events, especially for businesses with ties to Asia. Although a bit further for guests traveling from the United States, it offers a unique and exciting experience many attendees have yet to discover.
What to do in Bali
This island offers a wonderful blend of natural beauty, thrilling adventures, and cultural exploration. Some ideas for team-building exercises and activities include:
- Scuba diving and snorkeling to sites like Tulamben, Menjangan Island, and Nusa Penida
- Explore the Ubud Monkey Forest
- Try a Balinese Cooking Class
- Visit iconic temples like Tanah Lot, Uluwatu Temple, and Besakih Temple
Where to stay in Bali
Elevate your corporate event in Bali by selecting a luxurious beachfront resort or a private villa nestled in the jungle, offering an ideal backdrop for both meetings and relaxation. Our top picks for Bali include:
6. Barcelona or Mallorca, Spain
Spain offers a versatile setting perfect for both corporate conferences and incentive rewards.
Barcelona is a popular destination known for hosting corporate meetings, conferences, and incentive trips. With its mild climate, upscale hotels, and stunning coastline, the location attracts companies looking to gather from all corners of the globe.
Additionally, Mallorca offers a unique setting for incentive trips, offering a fresh destination that your attendees likely haven’t explored yet. Your attendees will be treated to stunning coastal views and a variety of outdoor activities for them to enjoy.
What to do in Barcelona
Barcelona is not only known for its excellent beaches and weather but also its gastronomy and architecture. There’s no shortage of things to do or sites to see in Barcelona.
Here are some of our recommendations for things to do in Barcelona:
- Visit Sagrada Família and Park Güell
- Stroll down La Rambla
- Discover the Gothic Quarter
- Relax at Barceloneta Beach
- Indulge in Catalan Cuisine (paella, seafood, jamón ibérico, and crema catalana)
Where to stay in Barcelona
There are hundreds of quality hotels across the city of Barcelona – the hardest part is choosing the right one for your event.
We suggest selecting a venue near the attractions that matter most to you, considering the city's size. Do you want to be near the beach or La Rambla? Do you want to be close to the convention center or the Gothic Quarter?
Here are some of our top hotel recommendations around the city:
What to do in Mallorca
Mallorca is known for its incredible beaches, mountains, and lively nightlife. There is something for everyone to do on the island, and here are some of our favorites:
- Visit Palma Cathedral and Castell de Bellver
- Take a scenic drive or hike through the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Serra de Tramuntana mountain range
- Cycle the historic Soller Railway or drive the scenic route from Palma to Soller
- Experience Nightlife in Magaluf
Where to stay in Mallorca
With a selection of over 600 hotels, Mallorca offers a variety of options depending on your event goals and attendee preferences. Think about whether your attendees want to stay in the city center of Palma or the quieter outskirts of the island.
Here are our top recommendations for your next incentive trip to Mallorca:
View a sample incentive trip itinerary for Mallorca.
7. Buenos Aires, Argentina
Buenos Aires offers a vibrant, cosmopolitan event setting for companies with business ties in South America. With its diverse range of hotels and amenities, this city serves as a versatile destination for both conferences and incentive trips, similar to Barcelona.
What to do in Buenos Aires
Buenos Aires is a city that never sleeps, and is known for its bustling nightlife, food markets, and attractions. Here are some activities that will keep your attendees entertained during their stay:
- Enjoy a tango show
- Eat and shop at San Telmo Market
- Stroll the streets of La Boca
- Walk from Plaza de Mayo (the city center) to the Obelisco de Buenos Aires
Where to stay in Buenos Aires
Buenos Aires has 4 convention centers and over 200 hotels to choose from, providing a variety of opportunities for networking, collaboration, and professional development. Here are some of our top recommendations for your corporate event:
- Four Seasons Hotel Buenos Aires
- Park Tower, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Buenos Aires
- Sheraton Buenos Aires Hotel & Convention Center
- Buenos Aires Marriott
(Sheraton Buenos Aires Hotel & Convention Center)
8. Singapore
Singapore's strategic location at the heart of Southeast Asia makes it a popular destination for international business events.
With Changi Airport offering direct flights from over 100 cities worldwide, the city-state is easily accessible for business partners located in the Eastern Hemisphere. Additionally, Singapore is known for its cleanliness and abundance of suppliers, making it a great destination for corporate events.
What to do in Singapore
Singapore has a multitude of cultures, offering a diverse variety of experiences for travelers from around the world. It’s incredibly safe with low crime rates, making it easy to explore with peace of mind. Here are some of the most popular attractions to visit after your event wraps up:
- Gardens by the Bay
- Singapore Botanic Gardens
- SkyPark Observation Deck
- Cloud Forest
- Universal Studios Singapore
Where to stay in Singapore
Singapore boasts a selection of cutting-edge venues that rank among the best in the world. With 4 convention centers and over 700 meeting rooms spread across the city, you have access to a range of options, from ballrooms for large conferences to intimate spaces for board meetings.
Here are some of our recommendations for a more luxurious experience:
9. Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Dubai is an excellent destination for hosting corporate events, boasting world-class amenities, and cutting-edge infrastructure. Its business-friendly environment is a hub for multinational corporations, making it a great location for business events and conferences.
What to do in Dubai
Dubai is widely regarded as the most modern city in the world due to its rapid economic growth, infrastructural development, and technological advancements in recent years.
There are a ton of unique activities to participate in:
- Go off-roading in the desert
- Surf the largest wave pool in the Middle East at Breaker’s Bay
- Ski at an indoor ski resort and meet penguins
- Learn the history and visit Jumeirah Mosque
Where to stay in Dubai
Dubai, being a global economic hub, provides a variety of venue and hotel choices for business events catering to different budgets. Here are our top recommendations for accommodations in Dubai:
- JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai
- Waldorf Astoria Dubai Palm Jumeirah
- Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach
10. Sydney, Australia
Sydney has everything you need from a corporate event destination. They have the practical things covered including incredible infrastructure, venues, accommodation options, and supplier support. Additionally, the city boasts a welcoming, lively atmosphere and exciting attractions for your attendees to explore post-event.
Sydney is a fantastic location for companies with business ties in Asia. By choosing Australia as the meeting point, your partners from Asia can save valuable time and avoid the long 16-hour flight to the United States.
What to do in Sydney
After your corporate event wraps up, your attendees can explore a variety of activities in Sydney:
- Visit the Sydney Opera House and Royal Botanic Garden
- Soak up the sun at Bondi Beach and swim at the Bondi Icebergs
- Take a scenic cruise around Sydney Harbor
Where to stay in Sydney
There are many hotels and venues along the Darling Harbour in Sydney including the International Convention Center (ICC Sydney) where most of the city's larger events are held.
Here are some of our recommendations for places to stay near the ICC Sydney:
(Sydney Harbour Marriott Hotel at Circular Quay)
11. Bonus: Puerto Rico
Although it’s not technically an international destination, it can still provide your event with a worldly atmosphere, offering your attendees an international experience without the need for a passport. The island is familiar among event planners for its hospitality, facilities, and fun activities for guests to enjoy.
What to do in Puerto Rico
San Juan, the capital of Puerto Rico, is known for its beach bars, casinos, and colorful Spanish colonial architecture. Your group can enjoy a stroll through the Old San Juan Neighborhood, leading to the El Morro and La Fortaleza fortresses.
Your event attendees can enjoy a taste of Puerto Rican cuisine with classic dishes such as Empanadillas, Mofongo, and Pastelón, all of which can be integrated into your event menu.
With Puerto Rico’s beautiful landscape of mountains, waterfalls, and the El Yunque tropical rainforest, there is an activity for every attendee to enjoy. Here are some ways to enjoy Puerto Rico’s natural beauty:
- Hike in El Yunque National Forest
- Visit Cueva Ventana (Window Cave)
- Kayak in Bioluminescent Bays
- Explore the Island's Beaches
- Discover the Camuy River Cave Park
(The Cueva Ventana/ Window Cave)
Where to stay in Puerto Rico
You’ll love the diversity of venues that Puerto Rico has to offer. Puerto Rico has the perfect venue for every event, from beachfront resorts to historic mansions to modern conference centers.
Some of our favorite event venues in Puerto Rico:
- The St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort, Puerto Rico
- Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve
- Fairmont El San Juan Hotel
The Benefits of Going Abroad For Your Event
Hosting your event abroad has many advantages. By exposing your team to places outside the U.S., you can unlock valuable connections and economic opportunities for both your attendees and company.
Reason #1: Buying Power and Supplier Expertise
Hosting your corporate event overseas opens up a world of possibilities. One of which may be taking advantage of better prices on services and accommodations within international markets. You also gain access to resources and suppliers with an understanding of the destination inside out.
Reason #2: Unique Cultural Experiences
Planning your event in a unique destination provides your guests with the chance to have once-in-a-lifetime experiences. From trying the local F&B to learning about a country’s cultural traditions and history, these moments bring teams together.
Reason #3: Business Understanding
Hosting your corporate event overseas deepens business understanding by allowing employees to immerse themselves in diverse cultures where the company operates or has business connections. For instance, if your team is based in California, how can they effectively conduct business in the Middle East without first-hand experience? This is a crucial consideration for many companies.
Providing employees with direct exposure enhances collaboration, strengthens relationships, and ultimately leads to more successful global business operations.
Reason #4: Attendee Travel Time and Restrictions
Hosting your event abroad can offer advantages in terms of attendee travel time and restrictions.
By choosing a location with minimal travel restrictions, you ensure accessibility for all participants, especially those facing challenges entering the United States.
Additionally, selecting a central location can decrease overall travel time for attendees coming from different parts of the globe.
Things to Keep in Mind When Selecting the Best International Event Location
There are many things to consider when selecting the best location for your corporate event including attendee preferences, accessibility, budget, and safety.
Read our full article on best practices for planning your international conference.
Find Your Next Corporate Event Destination with GoGather
Not sure where to start? GoGather can help you select the perfect location for your 2024 and 2025 corporate events. Let's meet to brainstorm your next event.
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