Origin Travels - our top 2012 resolutions:
If you're going to throw a party, do it in style!
New Year's Eve, fireworks, Sydney Harbour, a boat and a long way from the miserable weather hanging over our London HQ. Hell yes. If you've never done this, book it now!
Don't stick to the beaten path - try new things
We're always looking for fresh ideas for our clients. Which, of course, requires lots of research. So, whilst eventing in Australia, we felt obliged to go to Tasmania. Not that it was a chore! And we were rewarded with treasures aplenty, the most memorable of which were the beautiful Wineglass Bay and the Bay of Fires.
Make the most of your inside knowledge
We've got strong Scottish ties and in 2011 used our years of local knowledge to throw a great incentive event in Edinburgh, including a day's driving at the Knockhill Race Circuit.
Take time out to recharge the batteries
We took another incentive group out to Bangkok and Krabi in February. The Thais really understand customer service and the group returned feeling thoroughly pampered. Make sure you head to Sirocco, the famous Bangkok rooftop restaurant. You'll feel like you're eating on top of the world.
Contrast is good
After the heat and relaxation of Thailand we headed to the snow-laden, adrenaline-fuelled Alps, taking a group out skiing for a long weekend.
Keep fit
Before embarking on your own intensive exercise programme to work off those festive calories, get some tips from the pros. Melbourne for the opening day of the Australian Open Tennis Championship is a great event and perfect for your fitness programme preparation, with tips from some of the very best, such as Sharapova, Wazniacki and Federer.
After exercise, replenish the reserves
In May we took a group to Faro in Portugal; great as a short-haul destination with lots to offer, not least of which is the caf-culture and the Pasteis de Nata - those small, but delicious, custard tarts.
Sales conferences don't have to be boring!
We supported a major sales conference in Paris in June. The venue was truly 'funky'. The activities weren't limited to just indoors with plenty of outdoor options too, which added variety and flair to what was a very successful event.
If at first you don't succeed, try again
We have clients who love Dubai and some that aren't fussed. We went there again in October; with only 6 hours flying time and 7 star service it really does lend itself well to the UK market, and there's much more than just shopping. Two highlights of this trip were the dinner at Pier Chic and the Friday brunch at Fairmont Dubai . don't miss these.
In times of Euro uncertainty, look to markets further afield
Our last trip of the year takes us out to Hanoi in Vietnam to see in the New Year. No wonder we love event management! We'll report back on this destination in January so you can decide whether it might meet your event requirements.
So get in touch if you want us to help you with your events, or even just your New Year's resolutions!
Wishing you a fantastic 2012.