As the 2019 architecture study tour to South America draws closer, the final pieces are being put together for what promises to be a fantastic study tour. Steeped in history, South American cities have charm, beauty, and elegance unparalleled, and are simply begging to be explored. It’s not hard to be mesmerized by all that South America has to offer – majestic waterfalls, dense Amazonian jungles, unparalleled cuisine, wildlife both fascinating and mysterious – and with all the logistics taken care of, all you’ll have to do is relax and enjoy the journey!

If you’re searching for inspiration for your next adventure, then look no further; we’ve picked the five best reasons why you should join us in exploring South America!

1. Brasilia

Brasilia made international headlines not just for the speed of its construction, but for its remarkable buildings. No-one had ever seen anything like Niemeyer’s elegantly whimsical constructions, which embraced the ideals of modernism while displaying a very Brazilian sensuousness. The tour will spend two days in Brasilia exploring this architectural masterpiece.

2. Iguassu Falls

Heralded as one of the most jaw-dropping experiences you can have on planet Earth, the almighty Iguazu is made up of 275 or so waterfalls and is twice as tall and three times as wide as Niagara Falls. From the Brazilian side the views are incredible; from the Argentinian side you can get right up to the action of the “Devil’s Throat” in a tour boat. On this tour, you’ll be lucky enough to do both!

3. Christ the Redeemer

A symbol of Christianity across the world, the statue has also become a cultural icon of both Rio de Janeiro and Brazil, and is listed as one of the New7Wonders of the World. The statue is the largest Art Deco-style sculpture in the world. As a group we will take the funicular to the top of the Corcovado, to view Rio’s most iconic landmark.

4. Tango Show at Esquina Carlos Gardel

The impassioned stares, the seductive body movements, the mind-blowing rapid, flicking feet – watching an electric tango here is a thrilling experience and an absolute must if you’re in Buenos Aires. The music seems to dominate every facet of metropolitan culture, as Argentina’s most famous form of creative expression is seen everywhere. Our group will enjoy a dinner and show experience like no other!

5. Brazil’s Biggest City – Sao Paulo

Much to the surprise of many Brazil’s biggest city isn’t Rio but São Paulo, a madcap metropolis full of incredible art, culture, food and nightlife. There’s so much to seek out in the city lovingly dubbed “Sampa” by locals and as a group we get to enjoy two full days in Sao Paulo.

Check out the event website here so you can make the most of this rear opportunity to travel the world with like minded travelers, while earning CPD points as you go! For further questions or to book your place on the tour, don’t hesitate to contact our team at Impact Events on 1300 240 826 or by emailing info@impactevents.com.au

2018 has been a year of outstanding events, trips and conferences for our clients and team. As you might have learned from previous posts, our team is a well-travelled crew of events and conference experts and this year we’ve used up a few more pages in our passports and discovered some spectacular events and conference locations.

Here are the highlights of 2018 according to our team members…

Unique Ulster (Northern Ireland)

Mike, Founder

Ulster is the one part of the UK I hadn’t visited but always wanted to. Unlike the many medieval cities in the UK, Belfast developed in the 19th Century; hence it has a modern grid layout and some spectacular Victorian architecture.

Being a Titanic tragic, the Titanic Museum was top on my list of things to see. In 2016 it was voted the world’s leading tourist attraction and it did not disappoint. Built on the original Harland & Wolff shipyards it also has excellent function spaces for banquets of 300 plus, one of which has a backdrop replica of the famous Grand Staircase.

The restaurant and pub scene in Belfast is vibrant with a growing culinary reputation and the meals we had there are testimony to that.

Visiting the famous sights on the spectacular north coast, the Giants Causeway, Carrick-e-Rede Bridge, sights familiar to Game of Thrones fans as well as Bushmills Whiskey Distillery and Londonderry with its ancient medieval walls gave us great insights into the history of this fascinating corner of the UK.

Northern California Dreaming

Kevin, Operations Manager

My highlight trip of 2018 has undoubtedly got to be my experiences across Northern California. Visiting the Yosemite Falls National Park was spectacular and seeing  the Yosemite Falls in its natural glory was amazing. We then got to contrast this with watching the sun set over San Francisco from the top of the famous Fairmont Hotel. We happened to be there when Tony Bennett was honoured with the renaming of the street outside the Fairmont to ‘Tony Bennett Way’.

Carpet Court Conference

Bec, Account Manager

My highlight for the year has got to be the outstanding conference we managed for one of our clients, national retailer Carpet Court. The conference was a large-scale event with detailed planning and preparation and we were so pleased with the results. Check out this video which sums it up.

Global adventures from Asia to Scandinavia

Hayden, Business Development Executive

I had two highlights in what’s been a busy year of events. The first highlight has to be the two weeks I spent leading the Building Design Association of Victoria (BDAV) Study Tour to Scandinavia. Along the way we saw some amazing architecture, experienced the different Scandinavian cultures and more importantly met some great people. With this BDAV travel experience fresh in my memory I’m already looking forward to next year’s tour to South America which promises to be just as incredible.

My second highlight was the week-long famil trip to Bangkok and Koh Samui. We stayed at some amazing hotels, ate in the most luxurious venues and did some fun activities. Again I was lucky enough to meet some great people along the way and the Impact team can’t wait to take a group to Thailand.

Amazing Alaska

Anne, Senior Account Manager

My 2018 highlight was our program to Alaska in June. Alaska provided a complete contrast to a busy program in San Francisco with picturesque scenery and warm local hospitality. We stayed at the Alyeska Resort and then had 2 days in Anchorage before taking an Inside Passage cruise from Anchorage to Vancouver.

The resort is nestled amongst the Chugach mountains and surrounded by 7 glaciers. The highlight activity without doubt was the glacier dog-sledding. The trip involved a return helicopter trip from the nearby heli base to a summer dog camp situated high up on a glacier, see video. These dogs are trained for races such as the famous Iditarod and can’t afford to lose their peak physical condition in summer, hence why the operators run dogsledding trips for the tourists. As we discovered, it’s ALL about the dogs!

From Anchorage, the group of 150 was treated to a flightseeing tour to the Knik and Colony Glaciers.  The gigantic Knik glacier is 5 miles wide and 25 miles long.  The return trip took around 1.5 hours with the plane landing at the foot of the Colony Glacier. The scenery was spectacular and we saw majestic blue glaciers, ice falls, giant icebergs and of course various wildlife including moose.

Looking ahead to 2019

In 2019 we have events taking place in locations including Hamilton Island, the Yarra Valley, Gold Coast, Melbourne, Brazil, Argentina, Switzerland, France and Italy with plenty more in the pipeline.

As our events software’s functions and capabilities evolve each month, we’re thrilled to be able to uncover new opportunities for our clients and value being a part of their organisations’ growth.

We wish everyone a very merry Christmas and a safe, healthy and prosperous New Year in 2019.

I recently attended an industry famil in Byron Bay hosted by The Byron at Byron Resort and Mary Jane from Fusion Marketing. As many Australian and international readers will know, Byron Bay is simply stunning. Despite a bustling  town centre and many tourist attractions, the town still feels eclectic and tranquil.

For those of you who aren’t in the travel or conference sector, a famil is an industry invite to experience a region or accommodation setting. It gives travel and events professionals a first-hand experience of what their clients can expect through future bookings. Of course it’s also one of the best perks of working in this great industry.

The Accommodation

We arrived at Byron and made our way to the Byron at Byron Resort. This beautifully appointed and tranquil hotel is hidden in the rainforest hinterland. A boutique hotel, it’s perfectly positioned in one of the best parts of Byron Bay and is set amongst subtropical palm trees and birds.

The food on offer at the resort is exquisite; Executive Chef Matthew Kemp highlights the local produce in all of his dishes. The menu includes a number of fresh and unique seafood dishes and a full cocktail list.

You begin your day with a walk along the beach or complimentary yoga on their all-weather Spa Deck. The suites feature a separate lounge and dining area, a fully equipped Kitchen and two enclosed balconies.

Activities and Experiences

Byron Bay Kombis

We toured Byron in the back of two Byron Bay Kombi vans. The quintessential hippie mobile and an icon of Australia’s coastal culture, the kombi gave us the ultimate way to get around Byron. We took is some stunning coastal sights and even sighted the most eastern point of Australia and the famous Byron Bay Lighthouse.

The Farm

Simply named but with a big impact, The Farm is a favourite day trip destination for many Byron visitors. Principally a working farm, it houses a collection of micro-businesses all sharing in a common goal. There is a beautiful café onsite called Three Blue Ducks, a produce store, bakery and garden shed. Don’t miss a wander through the paddocks to meet some of the four-legged residents.

Cape Byron Distillery

Also situated on a large farm close to Byron Bay, the Cape Byron Distillery is establishing itself as a premier gin distillery and top tourist destination for specialty tours and tastings. For over 30 years, Cape Byron has been infusing their award winning gin varieties with local botanicals from the region.

Other highlights of the visit to Byron

The Fusion Marketing and Byron at Byron teams made every experience comfortable, fun and memorable. Over the course of the short visit, we discovered new local businesses that each added an enjoyable element to the experience.

Little Hopper is a beautifully designed portable coffee cart that can be brought into the hotel for coffee breaks during conference sessions. We enjoyed the barista coffee as a way to relax and reenergise on breaks.

The sister business to Little Hopper, Little Tini Trike awaited us on the balcony at Byron at Byron Resort prior to our dinner and we were served delicious Espresso Martinis.

We also met Nick Maynard from Maui Jim Sunglasses when we arrived at the hotel. Apart from offering the world’s best sunglasses, we have worked with Nick on previous client conferences where Maui Jim set up a stand onsite and fit people with a new pair of sunglasses. This is something fun, offering a practical item high quality gift for coastal destinations as well as a super stylish souvenir to take home, one that will be treasured for many years to come.

As you can probably tell from this little Byron Bay report, this is a town that still offers the perfect combination of luxury and relaxed coastal fun for all types of visitors. With boutique accommodation, spas and conference centres as well as world-class restaurants, it’s worth considering for any conference or incentive trip. For more insider tips or to learn what would work best for your organisation, get in touch with the Impact Events team on 03 9535 3600.

Our CEO Mike Tuzee recently attended a client event run by Darrell Hardidge, a colleague of Mike’s in the CEO Institute.

The name of the event, ‘The practice of being unstoppable’ said it all. The event uncovered some of the new strategies top companies are using to win loyalty from customers and dominate their markets. Darrell has over two decades’ worth of experience in helping teams create what he terms ‘extreme customer loyalty’ and we’ve tried to implement a lot of these strategies into our own offering and the experiences we create for Impact Events clients.

Business lessons from swimming the English Channel

The event audience heard from Chloe McCardel who had a goal to swim the English Channel, not once but 3 times in a single swim. Astonishingly she is now aiming to swim 4 crossings! The adversity, hurdles and challenges she faced to achieve this feat made for an inspiring story of resilience and offered great insights for the business people in the room to reflect on.

Chloe spoke about both the physical and mindset components of her epic swimming feat. She’s passionate about living outside of her comfort zone and finding the gold in moments of failure. Her message of seeking opportunities for growth and learning was echoed by Darrell’s presentation.

Measuring client appreciation

Darrell himself is author of The Ten Commandments of Client Appreciation. His company Saguity is a leading expert in Customer Experience and offers some valuable metrics in measuring customer satisfaction.

We learned from case studies of Saguity customers who have used this measurement and feedback system and achieved outstanding results in customer satisfaction.

The enormous benefits of increased sales and reduced costs that flowed to these organisations made for some compelling stories on how companies can benefit from truly listening to what their customers have to say.

Darrell organises similar information days regularly and they are well worth attending. You can keep up to date with Saguity events via their Eventbrite page.

Our wonderful team member Anne Gray recently visited Hawaii. A favourite holiday destination, Hawaii offers amazing travel experiences and is also a popular events and conferences destination.

On her return from Hawaii, Anne took some time to reflect on the accommodation trends she discovered and the insights she most wanted to share with Impact Events clients. As expected, whether you’re looking for a small retreat, a family getaway or team conference, Hawaii offers something special.

Waikiki accommodation options

While Waikiki is becoming a rather large “city by the sea”, there are both brand new and existing hotels that offer a break from the hustle and bustle of central Waikiki.

The Alohilani is a new hotel that’s emerged on the busy Waikiki scene. Just steps away from the beach, this resort caters for both leisure and conference guests. The Alohilani Resort is located towards the Diamond Head end of Kalakaua Avenue – just far enough away from the crowds to make you feel like you’re in a calm oasis.

The hotel has recently been transformed by a US$21 million renovation that includes a very impressive hotel facade, a 280,000-gallon oceanarium (with live fish feeding daily) and a spectacular pool deck with sparkling infinity pools and very comfortable rooms with city, ocean or Diamond Head views. The conference space perfectly caters for small to medium sized groups.

If you want a little more of an ‘outer island’ experience without the stress of connecting flights, the Kahala Resort is worth considering.  This luxurious property is located around 15 minutes drive from Waikiki and is perfect for clients who really want to get away from it all for a dedicated staff retreat.

The resort provides a complimentary shuttle to Waikiki and Ala Moana Shopping Centre, so you never feel isolated from the action.

The beachfront property offers 5-star accommodations, world-class restaurants and large conference spaces for groups of up to 300 delegates.  The hotel’s dolphin program that offers people the opportunity to swim with their well cared for dolphins, which can be a memorable experience for guests.

Maui and beyond

While Waikiki has much to offer, if you really want the true Hawaiian experience, there’s nothing like discovering one of the outer islands and getting a taste of Hawaii off the beaten track.  Each island has something different to offer, with Maui being one of the most commonly visited.

The Fairmont Kea Lani with its luxurious oceanfront suites and spacious villas is located on the Wailea coast.  This outstanding resort is an ‘all suite’ hotel, so every room is incredibly spacious. It’s ideal for conference groups, incentives and families alike.

Maui is brimming with opportunities for both adventure and relaxation. For a new visitor it can be hard to know where to start.  From snorkelling to sunset cruises, helicopter tours or more adventurous activities like ziplining and hiking the Haleakala volcano, there’s truly something for everyone.

Our team lives and breathes travel, and we know how much corporate meetings and incentives can benefit your business. Like Anne, many of our team members are widely travelled and work hard to scope out the best experiences for your event. Get in touch with us on 03 9535 3600 for more inspiring tips and ideas – and let us craft an unforgettable experience for you and your team.

How Tech Trends are Changing Events

 

Imagine engaging in conversations, polls, competitions and more with your conference attendees – all before the conference has even started. This is what’s now happening thanks to the rise of events technology and apps.

The events industry is adopting some exciting tech trends and gamification that’s set to change the face of corporate events and incentive trips. We’ve been closely following as these trends become popularised and refined to great effect. Through clever gamification and engaging features, smart events tech can add to an all-round improved events experience and smoother event operations.

Here’s how a successful events gamification design might look.

Pre-event activity from your smartphone

Those of us who love travelling to conferences and events know that the anticipation is often as exciting as the event itself. That’s where the ability to engage with other attendees, learn about the conference and get familiar with the program can be of great benefit.

Often a private social network is created specifically for the event. Just like a Facebook group but on a customised platform, this network will give participants the ability to make introductions, post pictures, short videos and comments privately within the network.

Conference managers can choose to incorporate sponsor advertising and news items to keep attendees engaged and informed from the very beginning of their event or conference journey.

Innovating the conference check-in

A positive check-in and conference start is key to engaging a large group of delegates. Events tech and Internet of Things is now making the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Bluetooth beacons are deployed at the entrance of any venue, syncing with smart phones and tablets allowing delegates to check into the conference instantly on arrival. Instead of navigating queues, they’re now free to explore, mingle and prepare for the event.

Name badges are then automatically printed and they receive a personalised instant message notifying them to pick it up and welcoming them to the event.

Essential event information, agendas, schedules and important details are listed in the app, putting everything that conference delegates need to know instantly accessible from their phones.

Gamification and ‘goals’ for conference delegates

A tech buzzword and trend across a wide range of industries, gamification in events is all about building attendee engagement, activities, games, quests and goals to enhance the overall experience.

Using a smartphone or tablet app, your attendees can set and achieve customisable ‘goals’ for the duration of the conference. These goals may be personal, learning or networking related.

Through meeting their goals, the attendee will earn points, win prizes or even be able to purchase gifts.

Goals can be achieved by connecting with other attendees or exhibitors, by participating thoughtfully in the private social network, answering trivia questions, checking into sessions and functions, or even finding hidden objects in mystery locations! If this all sounds like too much fun for a typical conference, you’re right. But gamification is shaking up this industry and the results in engagement and experience speak for themselves.

Entertainment that engages

Prize draws are conducted live with names instantly beamed onto the conference stage screen, creating a sense of excitement and ensuring integrity in the prize draw. Through watching their points accumulate throughout the conference, attendees are easily motivated to stay engaged and build their ‘score’.

An attendee’s points can be used to purchase gifts, products or even a coffee and snack from the venue café. This gives a fabulous and tangible incentive to earning points at every stage of the conference.

Social interaction and face-to-face networking go hand in hand, especially during a live event. Attendees’ comments, images, videos and conversations all contribute to the energy and “buzz” at an event.

Instant feedback and data

The beauty of the events tech trends gaining traction is that in addition to enhancing the conference and event experience, they provide valuable data to the event organisers.

During and immediately following an event, organisers can access insights and data related to a number of important event metrics. They’ll get statistics on how engaged the audience was, the attainment of goals and where parts of the conference could be altered or improved.

Impact Events has access to all of this technology and more. The brilliant news is that these apps and technologies can be rolled out at minimal cost for your next event or conference. Get in touch with us on (03) 9535 3600 to find out about designing your event tech solution and a demonstration of how it can work.

Our team member Hayden Blucher recently went on a trip to Bangkok and Koh Samui in Thailand. This presented a great opportunity for him to explore venues and team activities available within the meeting and incentive sector in Bangkok and Koh Samui.

Hayden visited a range of exciting venues, luxury hotels, preferred suppliers and service providers that offer the best in class event delivery in Thailand. Here, he shares his top recommendations for Bangkok and Koh Samui.

Thailand is known as the Land of Smiles for good reason. Everywhere you go, you’re welcomed by grinning locals! It’s a warm, welcoming culture with an array of delights for all visitors. Home to culinary delicacies and natural wonders alike, the charms of Thailand are endless. Its convenient infrastructure, modern facilities and longstanding presence in the industry makes it an excellent place for MICE Events.

Bangkok

A bustling, colourful metropolis, Bangkok boasts both glistening golden temples and towering modern skyscrapers. This is perhaps the liveliest of the cities in Thailand to visit. Here, Thai culture and Asian modernity converge, resulting in a blend of lights, delicious food and exciting adventure.

Nestled on the majestic Chao Phraya River, Bangkok also has a fascinating history centered around its waterways and canals, where you’ll still find beautiful floating markets.

Where to stay

“Playful Luxury” – SO Sofitel Bangkok

SO Sofitel Bangkok is a contemporary hotel, designed around the five elements (Water, Earth, Wood, Metal, and Fire) – a collaboration between renowned Thai designers and Monsieur Christian Lacroix.
This stylish and luxurious hotel is situated in an upscale living area on Sathorn Road overlooking a stunning view of Lumpini Park, within close distance to main cultural attractions along Chaopraya River and city shopping areas. The hotel is conveniently located near to the MRT subway at Lumpini station opposite the hotel and BTS skytrain at Saladaeng station on Silom Road.

The hotel features 237 themed rooms and suites, 7 meeting rooms, a rooftop restaurant and bar, a market-style restaurant, two conceptualised bars and the latest wellness experience, which enhances the city lifestyle.

Where to go

Bangkok’s ultimate rooftop dining experience – Vertigo

Vertigo offers an al fresco dining experience set atop a roof terrace overlooking the glittering cityscape of Bangkok. Here, at Asia’s first grill-and-bar experience, you can dine on fork-tender seafood and premium steaks while feasting your eyes on the city’s vast skyline.

Moon Bar puts you at ease in an informal setting 61 floors above the city and offers premium drinks, such as the classic Vertigo Sunset, a melody of pineapple, cranberry and lime juices blended with just the right amount of Malibu.

Suggested team building activity

The Tuk Tuk Challenge

Once participants have been split into teams and briefed, the group will conduct a fun filled adventure around the Rattanakosin and Chinatown areas of Bangkok. Take in the sights and sounds of these culturally rich areas whilst in the back of Thailand’s most instantly recognisable modes of transport, the Tuk Tuk.

Koh Samui

Ko Samui, Thailand’s second largest island, lies in the Gulf of Thailand off the east coast of the Kra Isthmus. It’s best known for its palm-fringed beaches, coconut groves and dense, mountainous rainforest – plus luxury resorts and spas.

The landmark 12 metre tall golden Big Buddha statue at Wat Phra Yai Temple is located on a tiny island connected to Ko Samui by a causeway.

Where to stay

“Signature Thai hospitality” – Anantara Bophut Koh Samui Resort

Anantara Bophut Koh Samui Resort offers guests a resort lifestyle imbued with signature Thai hospitality. Sitting on Bophut Bay near the charming fisherman’s village, experience an array of activities and leisure facilities.

Feast on fiery local cuisines, or design a customised meal for a special and memorable experience. Soak up the sun in Bill Bensley designed tropical gardens and enjoy world-class amenities at this peaceful retreat.

Where to go

Dining on the Rocks – Six Senses Hideaway Samui

Six Senses Samui resort has a reputation for serving some of the best food on Koh Samui, and uses fresh herbs, vegetables, and organic greens from the resort’s own gardens.

The award-winning Dining on the Rocks Restaurant is located at the tip of the headland and presents 270 degree views, whilst Dining on the Hill offers regional and international cuisine.

Suggested team building activity

CSR activity with ‘Trash Heroes’

Trash Heroes, the worldwide movement sweeping across the globe, presents a perfect opportunity to engage in some CSR and team building through beach cleaning. They waste as little as possible, reuse as much as possible and work to preserve and improve the spaces they’re in, wherever they may be.

Our team lives and breathes travel, and we know how much corporate meetings and incentives can benefit your business. Like Hayden, many of our team members are widely travelled and work hard to scope out the best experiences for your event. Get in touch with us on 03 9535 3600 for more inspiring tips and ideas – and let us craft an unforgettable experience for you and your team.

4 reasons you should add team building activities to your next conference or incentive trip

Conferences and incentive trips offer so many commercial and cultural advantages to a modern organisation. We’ve seen their impact first-hand with our clients who invest in them. Though learning and professional development might be the driving force for your conferences and incentives, don’t overlook the culture and team building opportunities.

Consider these four benefits.

1. It’s dedicated time away from the workplace

Conferences can be a brilliant opportunity to build stronger links, trust and communication within your team. How often do you collectively gather as a group outside of the time constraints and agenda of the working day? For many of us, it’s a rare event.

Whether it’s a resort, a new city, an ‘escape room’ experience or just a new modern events centre, the dynamics within the team will likely shift in a new space.

2. A neutral environment can break down barriers

A change of scenery can do wonders for your team building efforts. Getting out of the office environment can help strip away any lingering tensions or hierarchical patterns within the team, encouraging a more open discussion and rapport.

A study into teamwork in organisations found that about 75% of employers rate teamwork and collaboration as “very important”, yet only 27% of employees feel confident about their communication at work. This suggests that there’s a significant communication skills gap. Team building activities are often designed to address this deficiency through enjoyable team activities that don’t feel like work.

In a fresh space with no ‘history’, team members can be encouraged to relate as peers and collaborators.

Of course, this needs to be supported through expert facilitation and organisation. Only through working with professional team building facilitators and events staff will you get the true benefits of your change of scene team activities.

3. Team building offers a fun reprieve from speakers and workshops

If you’re a regular events and conference attendee, you’ll be aware of how easy it can be to ‘switch off’ when speakers and presentations extend into hours. The human brain has a finite attention span when it comes to absorbing a lot of new information.

Engaging keynote speakers with dynamic presentation skills can help. But even better is designing your conference and incentive trip days to have plenty of breaks and activities.

4. It’s an enjoyable way to explore your conference or trip location

Budgeting time and resources for the perfect destination conference can be a tough feat. But through integrating team activities ‘on location’ with the other conference and event formalities, you’ll find extra value and enjoyment for attendees.

It’s a shame to gather in a new place or city without getting the chance to explore at least some of the sites. So for your next trip make sure you get out of the conference centre and create team experiences that will make a lasting impact. The activities can be as adventurous or relaxed as you need them to be.

We spend a third of our lives at work so it makes sense that for some of us, our team becomes akin to a family. By investing in team building at conferences and events, your organisation can show its commitment to fostering strong team relationships.

We’re happy to share with you some of the things we have done before with our other clients, so feel free to get in touch 03 9535 3600. We’ll turn your dream into a reality.

This August, Impact Events was thrilled to join a group of 22 architects and building designers on the BDAV (Building Designers Association of Victoria) Study Tour of Sweden, Finland and Denmark.

The Nordic countries are a real delight to lovers of design and nature alike so the destination couldn’t have been more suited to this group of architecture aficionados.

Known for convenience and style (iconic local companies including IKEA, Nokia, Skype, Spotify and Marimekko spring to mind) and its rich history, the Nordic region proved to be a delightful part of the world to uncover.

We started in Stockholm, Sweden…

The tour began with four nights in the Swedish capital city of Stockholm, where the group toured through the old town of Gamla Stan, visited the world-famous Vasa Museum and Skansen Park and took a trip out to the Swedish countryside.

Stockholm is made up of 14 islands, connected by 57 bridges. And unlike other major metropolitan waterways, Stockholm’s water is so clean that you can swim and fish in it – and even drink it!

Gamla Stan – the Old Town – is a definite must-see while in Stockholm. It’s the original area of Stockholm, founded in 1252, and one of Europe’s oldest and best-preserved medieval cities

One highlight in Stockholm was the group dinner held at ‘Fem Sma Hus’—a restaurant serving classic Swedish food in nine separate tiled cellar vaults extending through five buildings.

The visit to the UNESCO world heritage listed ‘Drottningholm Palace’ was a fine example of European architecture from the 17^th Century.

Then we headed to Helsinki, Finland…

After four nights in Stockholm we travelled by ferry through the Stockholm Archipelago to Helsinki. The perfect weather allowed the group to sit out on the deck as we travelled through the cluster of 30,000 islands, skerries and rocks while enjoying a glass of wine.

The arrival into Finland marked what was to be a busy few days taking in architecture, particularly the work of Alvar Aalto.

Our two nights in Helsinki were followed by a night in Tampere and two nights in the Finnish lake district at Jyvaskyla. Each destination was the site of some of Alvar Aalto’s most famous works including Finlandia Hall, Aalto House, Alvar Studio and the Muuratsalo Experimental House.

The capital Helsinki was named World Design Capital in 2012 – and between architecture, fashion and furniture design, and a thriving contemporary art scene, it was easy to see why.

But Helsinki’s natural appeal proved to be just as stunning – a third of Helsinki is forest or park. In between the busy schedule a few members of the group even managed to squeeze in a game of golf set amidst the picturesque Finnish landscape.

And convened in Copenhagen, Denmark.

Dubbed the happiest country in the world (according to the UN) three times, our first-time (and returning) visitors to Denmark were thrilled to visit Copenhagen. We concluded our tour with four nights in the capital Copenhagen, where the group stayed in a heritage-listed 1780s building located on the beautiful waterfront.

Our visit to Copenhagen centered on discovering the architectural works of Jørn Utzon. Many will know Jørn Utzon as the architectural innovator behind the Sydney Opera House. Visiting his native Denmark, we were able to view some of Utzon’s other significant works including the Bagsvaerd Church, Paustain House and Fredensborg Houses.

The group also visited the three central palaces, enjoyed the canals on a boat tour, had lunch at the alternative sub-cultural town of Christiania and spent a day exploring the architectural district of Copenhagen – ‘Copenhagen S’. Here we were treated with access to the award-winning residential buildings VM Mountain and 8Tallet, designed by architect, Bjarke Ingels (BIG).

It was a Tour to Remember

This incredible Study Tour showcased the amazing architecture that can be found in Scandinavia. Beyond this, the trip forged new friendships, life-long memories and renewed enthusiasm after what was a fantastic two weeks abroad.  The countdown is on to the next BDAV Study Tour in May 2019 to South America. For more information on this, visit the event website at www.bdavsouthamerica.com.au

With many of Impact’s clients based in Sydney and Melbourne, sometimes it can be easy to overlook the seaside city gem so close to home. That’s Hobart – named by Lonely Planet as one of the world’s Top 10 destinations. Known for its historic markets, stunning natural vistas, world-famous arts scene and food culture – this is a city that packs a cultural punch.

For organisations considering a conference, incentive trip or team event, Hobart is a choice unlike any other Australian capital city. The pretty former penal colony, just a short flight from the mainland, offers delegates a truly memorable experience.

The ideal base

You’re spoilt for choice when it comes to accommodation across Hobart. With choices by the harbour waterfront or within short walking distance to the Salamanca Markets, you’ll find options to suit your organisation’s needs.

The Hotel Grand Chancellor Hobart is a favourite for conference organisers and delegates alike. It combines excellent conference facilities with fabulous views and a perfect locale. The central waterfront location is ideal for strolling the pier or grabbing a coffee in between conference activities.

Getting around

A compact township, Hobart is comfortably walkable for most visitors’ needs. Just 10 minutes walking at a relaxed pace can take you from the waterfront to some of the city’s best conference destinations.

Conference and event venues

Macq2 situated on the historic Hunter Island is a modern warehouse with sleek industrial style that provides an exceptional space for a large gala dinner.

On the other side of the waterfront is Princess Wharf One. This venue is home to the famous Dark Mofo festival and the Taste of Tasmania. Princess Wharf One backs directly onto the iconic Salamanca Place. These venues are a blank canvas for events – meaning you’re only limited by your imagination.

For something more intimate, Hobart offers countless small venues that are perfect for a dinner or welcome function. In the same vicinity as the harbour is the Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery with its unique exhibitions and displays of Tasmanian history and culture in a relaxed yet elegant atmosphere.

Then there’s MONA. Having single-handedly set Tasmania on the art world map, MONA continues to be a leading attraction for both international and mainland visitors to Tasmania. This stunning precinct and gallery is known for its subversive exhibitions and unique art experiences.

It’s an ideal venue for delegates to enjoy a bespoke dinner or welcome function they won’t forget. The MONA ferry leaves from Hobart’s water front just 5 minutes’ walk from the Grand Chancellor. The ferry journey is sure to make for a memorable start to any event.

An island of natural bounty

When most people think of Tasmania, they might think of the world-class seafood, fresh produce, fine wine and craft beer. But don’t forget the scenic natural beauties: breathtaking seascapes, mountains, forests and lush vegetation. Why not combine all these sensory delights, get out of the city and visit Frogmore Creek or Cole Valley Vineyard?

Formerly the best-kept secret of Hobart locals, the Tasmanian craft breweries, whiskey, vodka and gin distilleries are now famous worldwide.

Microbreweries and new distilleries are popping up across Tasmania and provide a fabulous and informative side trip. These venues provide a great option for an offsite activity all of your delegates are sure to enjoy. Sullivan’s Cove Whiskey and Sheep’s Whey Vodka have taken pride of place on the world stage after winning International Awards. Put them at the top of your list for an off-site visit.

The apple isle’s adventurous side

For a conference activity or team building experience that’s a little more adventurous, there are plenty of Tasmanian options.

Check out Aardvark Adventures – a local adventure tour company offering activities as broad as abseiling to ‘Amazing Race’ style outdoor team building exercises. Set in the stunning Tassie wilderness, your delegates will leave inspired and exhilarated.

Another brilliant option is a tour with Pennicott Wilderness Journeys. With almost 3000 kms of coastline and a fifth of the state protected as Wilderness World Heritage sites, experiencing Tasmania’s natural beauty is an experience like no other.

No matter what your conference theme or team building goal, you can be assured that Hobart is a wise destination choice. You’ll find something to delight every delegate – all just a short flight or cruise from the mainland.

If you’d like to discuss how a Hobart based incentive, conference or team program could be designed for your organisation, get in touch with one of our experienced consultants on 03 9535 3600. We’ll turn your dream into a reality.