THE BRIEF
Take 90 guests on a three-night trip to Cape Town. The client wanted a long-haul trip that only lasted three days. It was a new internal incentive that had to stand out immediately, yet not break the bank. So, Cape Town, a world away from the UK, yet on the same time zone, fitted the bill perfectly.
Day One
The 12-hour flight to Cape Town is rewarded by the minimal time difference between there and the UK, making it a very doable 3-night incentive destination! So, after an overnight flight and a late morning arrival, the group were ready to head straight up to Signal Hill for a very special welcome. A Bedouin tent was set up so guests could enjoy their lunch shaded from the midday sun, whilst embracing magnificent views alongside Table Mountain and overlooking the whole of Cape Town. After lunch, it was a transfer to the V&A Waterfront where guests were greeted by the infamous Cape Minstrels, who paraded guests around the harbour as they performed with an array of musical instruments, before arriving at the Table Bay Hotel in style. Situated on the beautiful V&A Waterfront with an abundance of bars and shops on the doorstep, and views from the bedrooms over Table Mountain, this hotel is one of the best in Cape Town.
A private check in was followed by some time to relax, before heading out for dinner. There is no better way to kick off the trip than with a private Champagne reception at the top of Table Mountain. The Champagne was cold, the weather was amazing, and the view of the sunset was like no other. The sun set and it was a transfer back down to the V&A Waterfront for the group to enjoy an exclusive dinner at Baia where fabulous seafood and fine wines come as standard.
Day Two
Some amazing photo opportunities and the chance to see a different part of Cape Town were in store for day two. Guests set off on a beautiful scenic drive towards the most Southerly point of Cape Town along Chapman’s Peak Drive. Once at Cape Point, guests took the Cape Point Funicular up to the lighthouse for stunning views of the amazing coastline and ocean. A private lunch was awaiting at Buffels Bay, with a sumptuous BBQ buffet set by the beach. There was free time after lunch to enjoy drinks, volleyball, or a swim in the sea for those that were brave enough!
A private dinner was in Camps Bay this evening, at the fantastic beach view restaurant Blues (now Bilboa). After dinner, guests hit the array of bars on the beachfront before heading back to the hotel after another highly enjoyable day.
Day Three
Robben Island plays a huge part in the history of South Africa, so it was an important visit for the guests on day three. A wonderful but emotional experience, guests were taken over to the island where Nelson Mandela was once incarcerated, by a ferry boat also previously used to take prisoners over. The tour of the island gave guests the chance to see first-hand what awful conditions prisoners were subjected to, as they were taken round by private mini coach with a tour guide who himself had once been imprisoned there. There were a few tears, but nevertheless an unforgettable experience was had by all and stories were taken away that they will remember forever.
A spectacular gala dinner was held at the Castle of Good Hope, where guests were welcomed by the Castle guards and enjoyed drinks in the open-air courtyard to the sounds of a local marimba band, whilst fire pois performed on the walls of the castle. An exclusive purpose-built marquee in the gardens was set up especially for the dinner, where delicious food was served and the drinks continuously flowed. A reveal for next year’s event lifted spirits even higher, before they danced into the night to the amazing 5-piece band.
Day Four
After a mid-morning check out of the hotel, guests headed towards the winelands area, where they stopped at different wineries including Boschendal and Grand Provence to try some of the outstanding locally produced wines in the beautiful gardens. The final wine-tasting was served at Haute Cabriere where the farewell lunch was served. After lunch, one final surprise, an interactive drumming session was organised for guests to show off their musical skills. A laugh for both those playing and watching, it was the perfect way to come together to end the fantastic trip before heading to the airport to fly back to the UK.
