Athens: a top destination for a sunny incentive trip!
Last September, we had the pleasure of guiding another pleasant, dynamic group on a wonderful incentive trip to Athens. After several months of preparation, we were once again setting sail from our well-known departure point: Amsterdam Schiphol Airport. Curious about the preparations, experiences, and a look back at this spectacular trip? I, Elsbeth – Operations Manager goMICE, would be delighted to take you through this blog!
Unique, sunny, summer incentive destination
But our adventure began earlier this year. We received a great request from one of our clients in the recruitment and selection industry. The clients work according to the following concept: first reward the employees, and then let them excel at budgets and targets. This time, they therefore wanted to go on an incentive trip together with their employees and envisioned this for a unique, sunny, summer destination. A great request, to which a variety of European destinations were suited. We developed several destinations, but it soon became clear that the choice fell on the Greek city of Athens!
Despite being in the midst of a peak in the Corona pandemic, we and the client were optimistic and enthusiastic. We did everything we could to explore the possibilities so that the trip could take place safely and with the full confidence of the participants.
On inspection!
We liaised with our local suppliers almost daily and regularly received updates on the situation in Greece. Fortunately, we quickly received the green light and were able to schedule an inspection trip shortly before the journey was due to take place. All preparations were made, and together with goMICE Project Manager Nadia and our client, we visited Athens for an inspection trip (see the video below ?). All wishes to completely surprise their employees with an unparalleled programme were fulfilled. After a few days of inspections, we returned to the office feeling satisfied, and we were able to finalise the programme and make further preparations.
The unforgettable incentive trip to Athens
And then the time arrived… at the beginning of September, the entire group flew to Athens. It was quite exciting to travel with the then-current travel restrictions. But after all the checks on our passports, Corona certificates, and boarding passes, we could depart with a good feeling. I would like to take you along on this three-day incentive trip:
Day 1: Greek Lunch & Acropolis with a Modern Twist
After a 3.5-hour flight, we landed at Athens airport, where the sun and warmth welcomed us. Our usual bus partner was already waiting for us, after which we set off for the city with the group. After a short stop at the hotel, we wandered through the pleasant and cosy streets that this city is rich in, and it was time for a two-course Greek lunch. The group enjoyed delicious dishes, including real Greek starters like stuffed vine leaves, courgette flowers, and of course, light Greek salads. For the main course, the group enjoyed a delicious meat platter. Meanwhile, Nadia and I quickly went back and forth to the next planned activity to carry out all the checks and preparations there.
After the group had gained enough energy with this filling lunch, it was time for the next highlight: the Acropolis. It is special to visit and climb this structure, but it is even more enjoyable to actually go back in time. We had arranged VR headsets for the entire group, which allowed them to travel back in time to ancient Greece via an app on their phones and a cardboard viewer, and to experience the Acropolis in its ‘original’ state. What an experience! After reaching the summit of the Acropolis, we enjoyed a fantastic view over the city. A great start to this first day!
Nadia and I continued our day back to the hotel and prepared for check-in. After some free time in the city, we met the group at the hotel for a quick check-in. While enjoying a drink and a snack on the hotel rooftop, we handed out the room keys and everyone could get ready for the evening's programme.
Insane rooftop diner
Of course, we already knew where the evening programme would take place, but for our group, this trip was a complete surprise, and so was the unique dinner location… a fantastic rooftop! Because yes, who wouldn't want to dine with a breathtaking view of the Acropolis (which is beautifully illuminated at night)? This restaurant, in the heart of the city, offers not only a fantastic view and delicious food but also top-notch service. The location exceeded all of the group's expectations, how great is that! We ended our evening in a unique cocktail bar where the group enjoyed cocktails and music until the early hours.
Day 2: Relaxing on the water & beach activities
After a fantastic but intense first day, the second day was planned to be a bit more relaxed. Following an extensive breakfast at the hotel, Nadia and the group headed to the port of Athens. Athens boasts a beautiful harbour full of luxury yachts and boats. We boarded two traditional, Greek wooden boats for a day of fun on the water. On board, the group had everything they could wish for: from large lounge cushions and delicious snacks and drinks, to festive music! The atmosphere was great and we sailed towards the island of Aegina. This island is located approximately 200 km from the coast, and after about 2 hours of sailing, we docked in the harbour. It was time to choose from optional activities: water sports, a beach visit, chilling by the boats, or a walk around the island. Something for everyone! After these beach activities, a delicious lunch was served on board, and we sailed back to Athens. What a wonderful day on the water!
Trendy beach club
The last evening was rounded off in beach style! After everyone had freshened up at the hotel, we headed to Athens' trendiest beach club. Flip-flops on, feet in the sand, and the setting sun created the perfect atmospheric setting for the evening. For this group, we had selected a delicious dinner and concluded with a festive drink! The support from goMICE is always from start to finish, so we also stayed with the group until the late hours.
Day 3: Discovering the highlights by bike
The following morning, a city tour by bicycle led by Dutch guides was scheduled. Various highlights were visited, including the beautiful district of Psiri, Monastiraki Square, the Olympic Stadium, and Syntagma Square.
Gyros & Local Surprise
After this cultural immersion, it was time to enjoy our final lunch. For this lunch, we had hired out the rooftop of the hotel where the group was staying. And of course, during this trip to Greece, we absolutely had to have a traditional gyros sandwich... so this was served as our closing lunch! At goMICE, we always love little surprises, so this time, on behalf of goMICE, we arranged a small gift for everyone. This time, we opted for local olive oil (in a tube) along with a handwritten postcard to thank everyone.
And so, another unforgettable incentive trip came to an end. Taking care of our client and ensuring every detail of their travel arrangements is what drives us and makes us happy. Check the box; another satisfied and happy client! We're already secretly dreaming of a next potential destination where we can travel to with our client. ?
Would you also like to know more about the possibilities for an unforgettable group or incentive trip to Athens? Then also read our blog “Must-dos during your group or incentive trip to Athens”or book an online sparring session with us!