Reprint from Hosts Global Alliance Press Release – August 1, 2016
On the heels of the successful 4th Annual HGA Global Forum, Hosts Global Alliance (HGA), along with Cuba Incentive Travel Associates, hosted an exciting and educational fam trip to Cuba. The group of 21 people consisted of HGA clients, members, and staff, who were treated to three days of music, culture, historical sites, and plenty of warm Cuban hospitality.
“The HGA fam trip to Cuba was one of the highlights of my meeting management career,” remarks Steve Goodman, Managing Director at MeetingAdvice. “Not only did we get the chance to see this fascinating country forbidden to most Americans, but we saw hope and opportunity at every corner. Havana has such potential to be the hotspot of the Caribbean, with welcoming people, beautiful architecture and of course, those 1950s cars!”
With the location of the 4th Annual HGA Global Forum in South Florida, it was the perfect opportunity to include a post trip giving clients the chance to explore the possibilities that Cuba has to offer incentive and corporate groups. HGA partnered with Cuban Incentive Travel Associates to create an itinerary that would immerse guests in Cuba’s gracious, lively culture while highlighting the unique experience that this emerging destination is excited to share with U.S. travelers.
“It was not only a superbly executed trip, it was an incredible experience getting to know everyone. I feel as if I made lifelong friends among my peers in our industry,” comments Kathy Murphy, President of Gray Consulting International.
The schedule was filled with visits to iconic Cuban locations and there was plenty of entertainment included. Guests enjoyed a night of music by the legendary Buena Vista Social Club, caught a show at the Tropicana Nightclub, and attended a symphony performance at the Gran Teatro.
Other highlights of the trip include a motorcade of classic 1950’s vintage cars for their VIP arrival at the Hotel Nacional to take in the oceanfront views before dinner at La Guarida and another night guests dined at San Cristóbal restaurant, now famous for hosting President Obama and his family. An afternoon stroll through the San Jose Almancenes Artisan’s Market let guests peruse unique Cuban art, cigars, and craft goods. At every stop locals were eager to welcome the group and hear firsthand about life the U.S. while proudly sharing stories about Cuba.
“We had a great trip to Havana! It is always so much fun to witness U.S. incentive buyers’ excitement when they experience Cuba for the first time and discover the unexpected possibilities for meeting and incentive groups. The absolute best part of the experience for our team was the privilege of revealing the destination to HGA clients for the first time and hearing, ‘We can’t wait to come back with our groups,’” comments Scott Andrews, President & Founder of Cuba Incentive Travel Associates.
About Hosts Global Alliance
Hosts Global Alliance (HGA), is a worldwide consortium of select Destination Management Companies. We believe that every destination holds the promise of an inspiring experience. Hosts Global Alliance delivers on that promise with unparalleled service, fresh thinking, and a global network of local experts. HGA currently represents over 50 Destination Management Companies, servicing over 300 locations. Hosts Global Alliance provides a full service approach for customers planning group programs in the meetings, convention, and incentive industry for corporations, associations, meeting management, and incentive travel companies. There is always a Hosts solution. Every time. Everywhere.