Ah, the team offsite. That golden opportunity for bonding, brainstorming, and maybe a little bit of beach time. But as the organizer, you might be staring at a world map thinking, “Should we cross borders for this?”
The short answer: Yes! And believe it or not, jetting off internationally can often be easier on your budget than staying stateside.
Let’s dive into why taking your team offsite to a far-flung locale could be your best decision yet—and tackle a few concerns while we’re at it.
Why Go International? The Perks Are Plenty!
1. Unique Experiences Spark Creativity
Nothing jump-starts creativity like stepping into a completely new environment. Imagine your team brainstorming product ideas while overlooking the Eiffel Tower, or holding a strategy session in a centuries-old Japanese tea house. International locations offer a wealth of unique experiences that can inspire fresh thinking and out-of-the-box solutions—much more exciting than your local conference room, right?
2. Surprisingly Affordable
Believe it or not, international travel can sometimes be cheaper than domestic trips, especially if you plan well in advance. Flights to popular European destinations can be surprisingly low-cost during off-peak seasons, and countries like Portugal or Poland offer excellent value for accommodation and dining. Pair that with group discounts, and you might find yourself paying less than for a retreat in a big U.S. city.
3. Team Bonding on a Global Scale
There’s nothing quite like the camaraderie that comes from navigating a new culture together. Whether it’s trying to order lunch in a foreign language or exploring a new city, these shared experiences can build stronger bonds within your team. And let’s face it—after surviving the chaotic streets of Bangkok or the winding alleys of Rome, your team will be ready to tackle any project that comes their way!
A Few Concerns to Keep in Mind
1. Visas and Customs
Visas can be a bit of a headache, especially for larger teams with diverse nationalities. Make sure you check visa requirements well in advance and consider countries that offer easy access for most of your team members. Customs is another hurdle—while it’s usually straightforward, it’s wise to remind your team to declare while you’re there for work, you’re only there for an offsite and not doing business with the country.
(Unless you are. But that’s another story!)
2. Communication Barriers
Language can be a challenge, but it’s also part of the adventure! However, if you’re worried about miscommunication during important meetings, consider hiring a local interpreter or choosing a destination where English is widely spoken. This can ease the flow of your offsite and ensure that everyone is on the same page—literally.
3. Time Zones and Jet Lag
Crossing multiple time zones can wreak havoc on your team’s energy levels. To mitigate this, plan for a couple of buffer days before the offsite officially kicks off, giving everyone time to adjust. Alternatively, choose a destination with a manageable time difference from your home base to keep everyone fresh and focused.
Beyond the Usual Suspects: Thinking Outside the Travel Box
When people think of international offsites from the U.S., places like Mexico, the Caribbean, or Canada often come to mind—and for good reason. But why not explore a little further? Here are a few lesser-considered destinations that could offer your team an unforgettable experience:
1. Lisbon, Portugal
Lisbon is a fantastic blend of old-world charm and modern amenities. The city’s affordability, sunny weather, and booming tech scene make it an ideal offsite destination.
2. Medellín, Colombia
Once known for all the wrong reasons, Medellín has transformed into a vibrant city with a mild climate, affordable prices, and a welcoming atmosphere. It’s perfect for teams looking for something different.
3. Tallinn, Estonia
Tallinn offers a picturesque old town, cutting-edge tech infrastructure, and easy access from major European cities. Plus, Estonia is a leader in digital innovation—perfect for tech-savvy teams.
So, Should You Do It?
In a word: Yes.
International travel for a team offsite isn’t just a possibility; it’s a fantastic opportunity. From sparking creativity to saving money, the benefits far outweigh the few challenges you might face. So dust off that passport, get your team on board, and start planning an offsite that’s sure to be the stuff of legend.
Ready to take your team on an unforgettable adventure? Give Team, Assemble! and let us help you organize an international offsite that’s as seamless as it is inspiring. Your team deserves it—so why wait?