March 2, 2012 / in Featured Destinations Ireland, known for its Scottish heritage, is an island found just off the coast of continental Europe. Ranking third in size among all local islands, Ireland is a smaller neighbor to the United Kingdom. Its geography includes central plains, rivers, and lush vegetation with a milder climatic atmosphere fed by the Atlantic Ocean along with the Celtic Sea. Limerick is an Irish city found in the mid-western portion of the region with a history dating back to the early Viking settlements of the 800’s. The Normans brought notable architecture to Limerick with the most famous being King John’s Castle and St. Mary’s Cathedral. This city slowly grew into a trade area up to the eighteenth century; however, was hit hard by famine and political changes shortly after. Additions such as railways slowed down the economic decline, which ended in the nineties. These changes caused Limerick to become a central communication point for the region. Local Irish Geography The area climate is said to be temperate oceanic meaning it is mild with average temperatures ranging from sixty-eight degrees to thirty-nine degrees Fahrenheit depending on the time of the year. Limerick spans the Shannon River banks and has a bustling city environment due to its status as the Midwestern commercial capital. Individuals do not have to take roadways or travel extended distances to see the offered sights. Attractions can be found in the main section of the city on streets located to the south of the region’s most famous landmark, King John’s Castle. Irishtown surrounds this landmark and provides a good look into the cities historical origins. The castle was built on remnants of the original Viking settlement by the Normans and was taken over during the fall of Limerick to the Europeans. Today, the area is a cultural center to Ireland with University Concert Hall, the Customs House, and newer institutions offering a unique experience to visitors. Limerick Area Attractions Access to Limerick City is easily accomplishable through the Shannon Airport located only fifteen minutes away. King John’s Castle, built in 1212, is a top tourist attraction located next to the River Shannon. The fairly intact structure contains a few Viking architecture remnants that have been uncovered on site. St. Mary’s Cathedral, founded in 1168, is a dedication to the Virgin Mary that remains as one of the oldest buildings in the city. Individuals can see the cathedral on all days except Sunday as it is still used by locals as a worship facility. Hunt Museum, home to the family’s personal collection, is available for exploring in an eighteenth century historic building called the Old Custom House. It houses thousands of artifacts from the region of Ireland along with many from other areas of the world. Seasonal tours can also be taken by boat or foot to view the city in its entirety. Limerick City Museum residing next to the castle offers numerous displays centered on the destinations history and manufacturing origins. Architecture, culture, rich history, and various attractions can be viewed by anyone traveling to this exclusive destination.

March 6, 2012 / in Featured Destinations Yasawa Islands, Fiji is a group of varying sized landmasses with six specific locations being considered as the main region. The archipelago has a volcanic origin supplying mountainous views that stretch across the area making shipping difficult with the exception of this waterway location. Cruises have been common for numerous years; however, land tourism was not allowed until the late eighties. Three resorts began operations on Tavewa in the early eighties with Nanuya Levu or Turtle Island serving as a prominent resort area. This specific landmass was the focal point in the famous movie “The Blue Lagoon” and later purchased by Richard Evanson after filming was completed. Visitors must have permission to explore all islands with the exception of Tavewa making thorough planning essential when wanting to see this destination. The Main Islands The Yasawa Islands are found northwest of the Fiji mainland on the far most portion of the chained peninsula. They are surrounded on the western side by the South Pacific Ocean, but also bordered by three specific seas: Solomon, Coral, and the Tasman. Landmasses include: Kuata Waya Naviti Nanuya Nacula Yasawa Scenery comprises of the deep blue ocean, peaceful bays, and jagged mountain peaks. Activities include backpacking, snorkeling, beach fun, and participating in local cultural events. The Waya Islands, found in the southern portion of the chain, offers an astounding portrayal of the scenery found throughout this group of landmasses. Naviti is the largest island consisting of grassy hills, small offshore isles, and fairly many congregations. Nacula, on the northern side of Naviti, is comprised of eight smaller isles where three upscale resorts operate. All other islands serve as backpacking havens for travelers with their own unique mix of scenery. The area is one of the easiest to access portions of Fiji and popular among individuals wanting to experience their own version of paradise. Main Attractions The Kuata and Waya region deliver stunning walking paths, rocky peaks, and deep bays. Budget resorts for those desiring a stay right on the coastline are easy to find in this area. Kuata is an uninhabited location where a resort for nature oriented activities such as backpacking resides. Individuals can backpack in the natural scenery, dive, or snorkel. Naviti, the largest landmass, consists of thick forests, grassy ridges, and small fishing villages. Tourists come to the location to swim with the manta rays or view countless tranquil lagoons. Resort environments with white sanded beaches provide various amenities to travelers. Original Yasawa Island travel began in the vicinity of Tavewa, Nanuya, and the Nacula Isles. It is the busier portion of this chain offering many of the same activities as with the addition of private beaches. Boats are the key access method with departures occurring daily. It is a beautiful destination individuals enjoy due to its closeness to nature, paradise like activities, and peaceful atmosphere. Any person wanting to spend a week in a location much like the paradises depicted in motion pictures should definitely consider Yasawa Islands as a top travel choice.

March 9, 2012 / in Featured Destinations Paris, France is known for tourist attractions like the Eiffel Tower, Disneyland, and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier; however, the city holds many more marvels. Located near the English Channel, Paris offers an experience unlike any other. Area climate is fed by the North Atlantic Current and provides a mild, yet sometimes wet environment. Summer days bring sunshine, a pleasant breeze, and temperatures from seventy-five to eighty degrees Fahrenheit. Rain can occur any time of the year with sudden showers being typical. June through September is the best time to visit in regards to the average weather pattern. Temperatures remain above sixty degrees Fahrenheit during the day to create an ideal atmosphere for seeing all the sights of this grand cultural city. Notre Dame de Paris This twelfth century cathedral of Gothic nature is located in the eastern portion of Paris. It contains the official chair of the Archbishop of Paris and is considered to be a fine example of French Gothic building design. While the cathedral did suffer damage during the French Revolution, the structure was restored to its original state by Eugene Viollet-le-Duc. It is an architectural masterpiece every individual should take a few minutes to view when visiting this city. Napoleonic Arc de Triomphe Monument construction began in 1806 by the ordering of Napoleon; however, it was not completed until 1836. The monument stands over fifty-one meters tall with a width of forty-five meters and provides visitors a stunning view of the city. As one of the most famous landmarks, the Arc de Triomphe resides in the midst of Place Charles de Gaulle for every individual to clearly see. It is a cornerstone for the line of monuments found between the Louvre courtyards and the Grand Arche de la Defense. The standing piece of artwork sets a patriotic tone for additional monuments in the city. Musee du Louvre Known as the Louvre Museum is the largest art institution throughout the world. The museum is located in the 1st arrondissement district on the right side of the Seine. It holds almost thirty-five thousand artifacts from periods prior to the nineteenth century in an exhibit area of more than six-hundred thousand square feet. This particularly famous museum is housed in a twelfth century fortress built for Philip II, the last King of Franks. The institution holds artifacts of Egyptian, Greek, Etruscan, Roman, Islamic, and modern origins. It is a must see for anyone who enjoys viewing historic art or the creations of varying cultures. Tuileries Gardens Originally the site of Tuileries Palace on the right side of the Seine River, this location is now the a focal point surrounded by the Louvre, the Seine, Place de la Concorde, and the Rue de Rivoli. The courtyard was opened to the public in 1883 with the garden spanning approximately sixty-three acres between local landmarks with a slight curve due to the nature of the Seine River. A contemporary art museum can be found at the Northwest corner along with numerous pools and foliage. It is a beautiful place to take a relaxing stroll or break while seeing all the exquisite sights held by this city.

March 17, 2012 / in Featured Destinations Individuals can find Vancouver, BC Canada next to the immense body of water known as the Strait of Georgia off the Detroit de Georgie. The location serves as a coastal seaport for mainland British Columbia, Canada. It ranks only eighth in size among all Canadian cities, but third among the countries metropolitan areas. As one of the most ethnically diverse cities, Vancouver was originally called Gastown. It began forming in 1867 when a logging mill and tavern were established. The name transitioned to Granville with Vancouver becoming prevalent after a railroad was placed in the city. The railway opened up trade relations between the Orient, London, and Eastern Canada toward the end of the 1800’s. Today, the port is one of the most active in the country and is a diverse port in the Americas. Forestry has always been a big industry in the region; however, tourism has emerged as a close second. Film studios reside in the region and have made it an important production location next to places such as Los Angeles. This area offers the warmest climate of Canadian cities with dry summers delivering minimal participation. Rain or snow can be experienced more frequently from the months of November to March. Sunset Beach Sunset Beach resides at the southern edge of the West End portion of the neighborhood. It is a scenic coastal line where some of the most stunning sunsets can be taken in. The changing color of the skyline creates a beautiful view of the Inuksuk statue landmark by peoples of this region. Indian Arm A glacial fjord found nearby the city of Vancouver is a destination delivering kayaking excursions and cruise tours. The setting includes deep blue waters, mountain wildlife, and a more rugged atmosphere. This fjord, formed at the time of the last Ice Age, extends from the Burrard Inlet to the mountain wilderness with waterfalls such as Granite Falls being part of the scenery. Indian Arm Provincial Park is where many tourists participate in wilderness activities. VanDusen Botanical Garden Located not far from downtown Vancouver, this extensive display of plant life covers approximately fifty-five acres. Tree-lined paths, flower gardens of contrasting colors, lakes, and mossy woodlands are a few of the sights offered by this plant life sanctuary. Spring is a good time of the year to visit this attraction; however, autumn brings its own transition of color combinations. Capilano Suspension Bridge Capilano Suspension Bridge allows visitors to make their way through the gorgeous Pacific Northwest rainforest. This four-hundred fifty foot creation passes over the Capilano River to provide visitors with a one of a kind view of the treetops as it leads into a twenty-seven acre natural rainforest park. Vancouver, BC Canada can provide countless wonders to individuals wanting a location with city perks yet a little closer to nature. Grouse Mountain, Lighthouse Park, Nitobe Memorial Garden, Fraîche Restaurant, and Stanley Park are among highly recommended activities. Visitors receive unique sites such as the Indian Arm fjord mixed with relaxing activities and beautiful scenery.

March 12, 2012 / in Featured Destinations Corfu Island, Greece ranks second in size among all Ionian isles with a history dating back as far as Greek mythology. The name links to the god of the sea, Poseidon, as well as one of the most important rivers Asopos. It is referred to as Kerykra in ancient Greek. In relation to Asopos’ daughter, Korkyra, who Poseidon abducted to marry. They arrived on this island, were married, and he gave it her name, which later grew into Kerkyra. Local inhabitants are called Phaiakes, Phaeacians in modern day, after their conceived child Phaiaxes. Today, Corfu Island displays its history in the form of castles still standing throughout the area. Its capital is often referred to as the “castle city” due to it being surrounded by two long standing fortresses. Its history is filled with conquests by the Venetians, Turkish, and British. Old Town Corfu city can be found inland at the broadest part of the island and is separated from other parts of the area by an artificial moat that is now used as a marina. Old towns developed within a fortified location meaning much of the traditional designs from previous times was preserved. The streets are very narrow, paved with cobblestones, and create a labyrinth within the city. A large portion of the pathways are too small for vehicles to travel on. The square holds an extensive selection of restaurants and cafés where individuals can relaxingly take in the scenery. Palaio Frourio This Venetian fortress, constructed on a man-made inlet, includes fortifications around its perimeter. A few sections have begun to erode over time; however, a restoration was completed on the interior for cultural events to be held at this location. Events such as concerts and historical reproductions can be seen during various times of the year with modern effects such as lighting being part of the entertainment. It is one of many fortresses visitors can explore when touring this destination. Palaia Anaktora Located north of the lower square, Palaia Anaktora or “Old Palaces” is a Roman style building complex previously used as a home for the King of Greece and British Governors. Viewable by the public today, the complex delivers a series of halls and buildings where numerous exhibits can be seen. Individuals have the opportunity to view displays in the Museum of Asian Art or take a stroll in the gardens to see stone aquariums surrounded by exotic plants. The gardens provide an exquisite view of the bay while the grounds café presents another area of gathering with local and international cuisine. Corfu Island, Greece contains a vast array of architectural styles including Italianate, Roman, Venetian, and German creations. Those interested in older style building design have countless wonders to choose from. Individuals can see the “Kaiser Bridge”, the Achilleion, or the city square filled with examples of Italianate architecture. Corfu Island is a distinct cultural area containing multiple elements from older to more modern times. Museums of archaeological, art, financial, historical, and dedicative nature can be found throughout the region. Musical festivities common to the area create a one of a kind atmosphere for everyone who has an opportunity to visit.

March 26, 2012 / in Incentive Travel Articles It is easy to focus on the organizational benefits received from an incentive travel award such as better productivity or increased sales; however, another important positive effect is also provided by a well-planned program. A striking incentive reward becomes a motivator at an individual level because it provides individuals with the opportunity of a unique experience. While the end result is essential, an organization begins to gain advantages prior to reaching this portion of the event. Incentive travel improves employee involvement, creates a competitive environment, and promotes hard work throughout an organization. The fostered competitiveness feeds the urge for additional effort in a healthy manner. An organization typically sees the changes as a program progresses: Improved Attitudes Promptness Teamwork Boosted Morale Heightened Involvement Pride in Work Why are employees so motivated when this opportunity is presented in the workplace? Location and value are two of the largest inspirational factors being put on the table by trip incentives. Thousands of people dream about visiting places like Rome or Paris; however, they never receive the opportunity to make these trips happen. Individuals place a value on an incentive travel package* the same if not more than the cost set for attainment. Cash rewards or small gifts simply do not hold the same effect on an individual as the possible chance of a getaway. A good promotional campaign regarding the program is essential for continued results as employees strive to complete objectives. These incentive packages can be used to create a fun work atmosphere where everyone gets wrapped up in the excitement. Employees are not tense, walk into the office ready for their day, and do not dread the moments when they come to the workplace. Most individuals show increased pride in their daily work. Every person is on time, ready to do their job, and delivers quality due to the destination. This creates a specific type of environment where everyone is driven, positive, and engaged. Incentive travel can be used to add a little fun to each day as the program is being administered. Here are a few things companies are doing to increase excitement and create a fun atmosphere: Themed Snack Tables Posters Drawings Games Decorations Promotional Videos Destination Supportive Emails Intermediary Prize Giveaways These efforts create continual excitement among employees and supply further motivation toward meeting program goals. Small efforts to make the workplace increasingly fun do not hinder productivity or prevent responsibility completion. They foster the improvements necessary for success while supplying the hardest workers a significant prize. The above are used to heighten morale as employees put out the extra effort. A professional service can assist with the planning of a program as well as supply ways to continually encourage employees for the duration of the event. They are essential when a company does not have the experience, resources, or time to set the incentive up. Experts ensure all details are covered, deliver a desirable destination, and keep a company within their determined budget. Numerous additional resources can be found online for providing continued encouragement through workplace fun. This type of atmosphere can boost program success tenfold and is important when employees are being pushed to the limit.

April 11, 2012 / in Incentive Travel Articles Incentive travel programs have been a long-used motivational tool by businesses to inspire the accomplishment of set objectives by offering achievers a unique reward. These goal-centered packages are meant to recognize earners by supplying a trip to a one of a kind destination. What exactly drives an implemented package to be effective in this setting? Every program is different in its own sense; however, certain core elements have been noted as essential: Recipient and Goal Selection Communication Package Design Executive/Manager Reinforcement Detailed Record Keeping Selection of individuals to receive the reward must be based on the determined business objectives. The program along with each participant’s progress must be communicated in a consistent manner. This communication should be used to generate anticipation about the upcoming reward for continued motivation. A program has to include a desirable destination, a good itinerary, and include collaborative sessions to maintain excitement. All upper level administrators should reinforce the organizations overall commitment to the award. Detailed records allow each participant productivity to be properly tracked to determine who will be given the award. What Additional Event Aspects Maximize Success? A company cannot simply throw together a set of objectives, a trip package, and then announce it in any random meeting. These incentive travel approaches require a fully designed plan to ensure the desired results are received. An event should also recognize earners, supply continued motivation, offer networking possibilities, and nurture collaboration. A program does not stop after earners have been determined, but instead continues to serve as a motivational tool beyond this point. Earners should be recognized and inspired to continue putting forth their maximum effort. Networking opportunities with key administrators are important for building beneficial relationships within the organization. Earners can collaborate with higher level managers or additional earners to generate stunning ideas, create best practices, or inspire others to work toward future goals. Studies have shown this inspirational approach to have an impact on participants long after their timeline has expired. Incentive travel programs offer more value to individuals than a coffee mug or small monetary reward. The organization, receiving individuals, chosen location, and professionals assisting with the package receive benefits from this implementation. Companies are supplied specific advantages when a package is carried out correctly: Relationship Building Opportunities Motivated Employees Improved Organizational Culture Positive Work Environment Employee Gratitude Better Retention Desired Behaviors It is the consistent benefits supplied by incentive travel that makes it appealing to an organization. A program must be put together correctly, properly communicated, and continuously promoted to maintain motivation throughout goal achievement. This creates a lasting effect on all involved employees where motivation is significantly boosted. Those receiving the reward have the opportunity to not only see an outstanding destination, but also network with key personnel within the company for future success. They serve as an inspirational tool to anyone who did not earn the reward. Awarded persons are encouraged by future incentive travel programs and influenced by the received trip for an extended period of time after completion. The above items make a strong program where an organization can meet objectives and create a highly motivated, successful staff.

April 17, 2012 / in Incentive Travel Articles Numerous companies view incentive travel as another organizational expense; however, this perception does not appropriately portray the true significance of the approach. These programs supply an exciting, motivating way for investing in your employees to receive improved productivity and build loyalty. Just as with a college trust fund, this approach is a way to invest in the future of your business by creating a productive environment where employees feel valued. Staffs who feel important are further encouraged to work toward company goals. Trip rewards increase the bottom line of an organization and offer a great investment return when they are planned appropriately. The environment within a workplace today is far more competitive than it once used to be. Staffs are competing against each other in a negative manner to receive recognition, promotions, and additional benefits. Businesses within specific industries rival to gain the best employees from their competitors. Incentive travel creates an environment for positive competition where everyone works together to achieve determined objectives while striving to receive something they desire. These reward programs also increase employee attitudes regarding the organization thus improving your chances of retaining the best staff members rather than losing them to the competition. Why Consider Employing a Professional Service? A professional service can ease the cost of this endeavor by assisting with destination selection, accommodation booking, itinerary planning, and execution. Incentive travel services help you to create the best program at a set price. This makes it easy to maintain an affordable yet effective program for continued investment in a quality staff. These packages are not just a getaway that has been put together on the fly. Professionals create a plan with: Uniqueness to the Business Focus on the Determined Goal Incorporated Work Elements With the right expertise, knowledge, and experience, a professional has the ability to make any plan a true work of art. Each incentive travel package is unique in regards to the business and goals being achieved. Service providers can include a meeting or charitable event to ensure the trip has the elements necessary to make such a reward justifiable. Having this assistance allows you to create the best plan while freeing up time to focus on the organization. Incentive travel is a motivational concept that has been used in the business setting for centuries; however, many companies do not know the best route or how to get the ball rolling. An extensive selection of program types makes determining the best choice for a particular industry or business objective difficult. You can choose from these categories among others: Individual Group Team Company-Wide Performance Sales Incentive Training Programs Customer Loyalty Product Launch Choosing the perfect destination, great accommodations, and a rewarding itinerary are the professional’s responsibility. An organization can take their time reinforcing the goals at hand by promoting the program to personnel while being able to focus on core functions. Professionals are available to help develop the most optimal package for improved motivation and goal achievement. Incentive travel is one of the most successful ways to get more out of your staff and the right help guarantees the desired results are received.

April 20, 2012 / in Incentive Travel Articles Group incentive travel is a proven method for gaining the increased sales a company needs when certain profit objectives must be met. The idea of a vacation stirs the motivation an individual or team requires to supply maximum effort. Most people dream of a distant location, but never have the opportunity to make it a reality. Financial complications, children, and additional factors escalate the difficulty experienced when an individual desires this type of break from the norm. Incentive travel in a work environment gives everyone the chance to enjoy a free vacation. This motivation is shown in daily productivity and received sales as program progresses. Even though only a few selected people will win the award, everyone realizes its benefits and works hard to have their chance of a dream vacation. The incline in effort supplied by each staff member boosts an organization’s bottom line regardless of how many will actually have the opportunity. Generated leads, attitudes, productivity, and brought in profits all experience an upsurge when these programs are implemented correctly. Group incentive travel typically focuses on a team of individuals working in the same area such as sales. Everyone attempts to reach a specific sales range or to sign on a set number of customers over a specified time period. Those surpassing set objectives have the chance to be rewarded for their additional effort with a once in a lifetime trip. How Can Programs Be Used to Achieve Heightened Results? Incentive travel can have multiple purposes in a business setting depending on the desired goals to be achieved. Here are a few reasons for implementing travel related motivational programs: To Reward Individuals or Teams for Additional Effort As a Conclusion to Meeting a Short Term Objective Use of Destination Meeting Locations to Facilitate Team Building Promote the Company or Services to Prospective Customers Award Long Term Customers A highly motivated staff with exceptional morale has a better chance of closing each sale. Employees work better when they know they will be awarded for the amplified effort. Regular salary motivates an individual to be productive to an extent, but does not always encourage individuals to work beyond the bare minimum. Incentive travel takes over at this point by providing exactly what a staff needs to continue pushing themselves. Awards can be offered over a shorter time span to receive a fast increase in sales or only be given to those who receive the highest number of new customers or transactions throughout the year. Free giveaways, customer reward programs, destination meetings, and various other purposes can offer better results when incentive travel is added to the picture. A professional service assists with the itinerary, cost, and planning of the trip. These experts have the ability to put together goal-oriented packages to top destinations at a rate within an organization’s financial capability. Companies using group incentive travel to heighten sales can add inspiration by visually posting progress, holding drawings, and creating quality runner up awards. A qualified professional ensures rate, location, and situational needs are in place to provide a stunning experience.

April 25, 2012 / in Incentive Travel Articles Companies are beginning to see the benefits of choosing incentive travel over handing out merchandise. Despite popular belief, a trip reward is easier to budget and manage than its product-based alternative. Trip rewards provide a much longer effect than monetary or merchandise tactics. Here are a few of the reasons why a travel-based motivational approach is the simplest option: Buying Upfront Is Not Necessary No Time Required to Pick Out the Item Stocking and Shipping Are Non-Existent Do Not Have to Worry About Participants Having the Item No Contract No Minimum Fees to Guarantee Availability Prize Does Not Become Obsolete Remaining Product or Return Hassles Are Not a Concern These factors greatly reduce the time required to manage one of these programs. A professional assists with the destination selection, planning, and implementation portion of an incentive travel program. Your company focuses on promoting the event and monitoring employee or customer progress. When it is all said and done, you pay with the profit already received from accomplishing the achieved goal. Why Is This Approach Effective? The opportunity to see a distant location serves as an immense driving force to any individual. Everyone wants the chance to walk on the sandy beaches of Fiji or to experience the artistic presence of Paris, but in many cases never gets the opportunity. Nothing has the motivational impact like a well-planned incentive travel program and products do not provide the same effect. Larger merchandise also loses recipient effect; however, the improved productivity usually made through other sales or team travel incentives has increased hype that can last throughout the entire length of the program with the right promotion. This excitement and inspiration allows the individual to earn experiences chosen destination and remains present long after they have returned to the normal work environment. Experts Make the Process Easier How does an expert service help make trip incentives better than any possible merchandise award? You must begin by choosing a provider with immense experience in the industry who has the ability to design not only the basic program but the grand reward. A quality service provider can tailor the package to your needs and reinforce the goal at all times as the main focus throughout its entirety. Experienced professionals perform these among other functions: Airline Booking Reserving Accommodations Itinerary Creation Sightseeing Tour Reservations Meeting Scheduling Charity Event Booking Day or Night Event Reservations An incentive travel program can be awarded individually or to an entire team for their efforts. Individual awards are easy to manage whereas group travel entails a little more work. Group trips require more time to plan and secure; however, they offer the benefits of increased enthusiasm, shared satisfaction, and improved teamwork. A product-based approach cannot provide comparable results and this factor has caused numerous organizations to choose incentive travel programs over any other option. You will have to set goals, announce the contest, and promote the award for the duration of the program. Professionals take care of all the rest to make this approach just as rewarding for your company as it is for each winner.

April 30, 2012 / in Featured Destinations Kinvara is a sea port area located to the south of County Galway in Ireland with a population of just under 1200 people. It was once a thriving export location for corn and seaweed, but was diminished for a few years by a famine along with emigration troubles. The beautiful area has been steadily growing since the 1980’s and today is a stunning tourist location. It lies on an inlet of the Galway Bay offering various historical sites in addition to one of a kind landscaping. A few of the historical sites visitors can see while touring this destination include: Dunguaire Castle – A historical tower house of the region visitors can find in the eastern portion of the village. Built during the 16th century, this castle remains a beautiful focal point of the town and was as the filming location for the home of the main character in the movie “North Sea Hijack”. Athenry – This medieval settlement, established in the thirteenth century, is surrounded by a large curtain wall, a moat, and towers. A spectacular three story tower resides within the settlement’s defensive walls. It remains as a prominent tourist spot nearby the town of Kinvara. Aughnanure Castle – Built in 1500, this historical sight resides near the Lough Corrib shores on a rocky island. It is one of the most well-preserved Irish towers in the region and offers picturesque views. These sites deliver a look into the medieval significance of this Ireland region and additional ones can be found further outside of Kinvara. Several attractions are available for those who are not as interested in the historical background of this Irish town. Fleadh na gCuach or the Cuckoo festival in May is an event designed to welcome the upcoming summer. Visitors can listen to traditional music, see artwork, view crafts, and even experience a little local drama. The Festival of Crinniu na mBaid, held every August, is an event among the top to commemorate historical trade relations. Even if it is not a period of festivity, a visitor can find plenty of things to do when traveling in or around Kinvara. The Kinvara Farmers Market, located on the main street of the region, begins to operate in April. Visitors have their choice of local fruits, vegetables, cheeses, organic bread, herbs, natural soap, and additional hand crafted items. Connolly’s Bar, most famously known for its live music and picturesque views, is a family business that has remained in operation for many generations. The owners celebrated the businesses one-hundredth anniversary back in 2008. Individuals can enjoy exquisite sessions while taking a drink and overlooking the Galway Bay. Historical sights are one of the largest drawing factors of this location; however, numerous visitors also come to experience the unique heritage of the Irish. Whether interest resides in the past, culture, or supplied scenery, Kinvara offers a magnificent atmosphere full of natural beauty and one of kind sights. Visitors can view the medieval architecture of the area, experience the Irish pub atmosphere, take in the natural scenery, or partake in the arts while enjoying a relaxing stay.

May 2, 2012 / in Incentive Travel Articles Incentive travel became an unspoken term among business environments as a dwindling economy caused financial cutbacks within organizations. A recovering economy along with the recognized need for heightened employee motivation has brought this concept back full force. Recent surveys have reported an expedient rise in use of this motivational tool in the next three years. Incentive travel is slightly different than previously applied programs seen a few years ago. If you have been considering new ways to inspire employees to perform better, a few facts must be covered to provide the complete view of what this motivational program has become today. These programs, previously viewed as simply fun, have transformed into a more serious type of incentive approach where companies are focused on factors such as accountability, bottom line spending, execution, and promotional aspects. They want to make certain dollars are dispersed appropriately and that the program remains centered on the achieved goal from implementation all the way through trip completion. What caused incentive travel to take such a dip only a few years ago? You might remember the issue of a particular insurance company spending a large sum of money on a reward while on the verge of receiving government bailout funding. The resulting outrage of shareholders and the general public caused many companies to drop these inspirational tools altogether. How Are These Programs Making Their Way Back into the Workplace? Incentive travel has taken center stage again as the economy stabilizes and the smoke has finally blown over; however, the event caused the outlook of these programs to be a little different. Proposals must include hard data showing the value of implementation in order to justify the expense. Chief Financial Officers want to be capable of justifying such a program to ensure organizational interests are the top priority. Budgeting, financial requirements, and goal oriented itineraries are essential for this justification. If it cannot be justified, then the odds of approval are far less. Adding a business meeting to the itinerary is one way to better justify this type of reward. Authentic experiences offering insight on the uniqueness of a location are another justification method being applied by companies. Some destinations offer the chance to incorporate social responsibility projects as part of the getaway by holding charitable events where visitors can partake on behalf of the company. Various changes such as the above mentioned have caused a surge in the popularity of incentive travel and a professional hand with the planning aspects of a program to make certain the right impression is provided. Incorporation of supportive business features has caused these programs to become increasingly rigorous to gain the offered reward. The investment is being justified long before it is offered and each program is tailored to specific objectives. Incentive travel provides the experience individuals need to strive toward achievement. It offers a longer lasting effect than alternative motivational methods and can be used to promote the success of numerous organizational goals. Recent changes have furthermore improved an already effective approach and allow an organization to maintain a desired reputation while rewarding employees for their good work.