Karen van den Berg
So there you are, your manager has put you in charge of organizing an incentive trip abroad for 140 colleagues. There aren't many requirements, as long as the trip takes place in a fun and centrally located European destination and the program includes various elements to positively boost team bonding. This can go in two directions:
No stress! Organizing these kinds of trips is exactly our specialty. Engage a partner who will work with you. GSE The Agency to the rescue!
At GSE The Agency, we know exactly what needs to be arranged and what's involved in organizing a successful group trip abroad. It's a specialized and complex task, which is precisely what energizes us. Organizing a group trip like that on your own, without outside help, is a tough job guaranteed.
A while ago, we were introduced to Mirja, an organized and structured professional. She had also organized small business trips abroad before. So, she didn't immediately see any obstacles when she was assigned to arrange another group trip. Unaware that this time it would be for the entire company... Still, she pulled out her trusted playbook, contacted the accommodation chain she had worked with for years for some European options, and looked into restaurant choices.
Now you might be thinking: what's the problem?
Well, in no time she received word from the accommodation chain that they couldn't offer availability for a group size like this, and it turned out that finding quality restaurants with space for everyone wasn't so easy. Let alone the logistical picture within the program...
This was the moment Mirja decided to hire GSE The Agency. We tackle these kinds of challenges head-on and found a Amazing destinationA characteristic village overlooking beautiful vineyards near Madrid. The village with luxury houses and private pools was made exclusively available to the group. An offer they couldn't resist!Â
This was the flying start to our collaboration. But we weren't there yet, because in addition to accommodation, a next-level travel program naturally belongs here. Leave that to us!Â
How much and what we arrange depends entirely on the assignment and wishes of the client. For example, some clients prefer to do most of it themselves in control stay and we have clients who prefer to hand everything over.
Communication is key: we clearly express mutual expectations and adhere to agreed-upon arrangements.
GSE The Agency organizes trips, meetings, and events that are truly nice. We enjoy thinking outside the box and love originality. Exceeding expectations is always our goal. With us, the sky is truly the limit. Sometimes even literally, because if you want to go skydiving or paragliding with colleagues? We'll arrange it. May your adventures bring you closer together!
Organization & Communication with the accommodation regarding the reservation:
From check-in to room assignment, food and drinks, amazing dinners including unique decorations, dietary requirements, and more (think for example of surprises in the room, drinks in the bar)
Organization and communication with the party venue regarding the setup and arrangement of the rooms, the logistical schedule, the DJ and any other (guest) performers, breaks, and (external rental of) necessary AV equipment such as sound systems and microphones.
Because, yes, there was also a joint party night on the agenda.
All flight tickets or bookings for other means of transport to travel from the Netherlands to the location.Â
And the organization of all transfers between the airport, accommodation, and activities for all guests. Even if they land at different airports (and have different arrival times). And no, the transfer doesn't have to be by bus only!
Organization down to the last detail for team building activities, parties, relaxation, sightseeing, and culinary experiences in other locations.
In the first phase, we primarily work based on the client's budget. We keep a close eye on this so we can deliver what's possible and make adjustments when necessary.
With our (regular) suppliers, we often succeed in making nice deals. This means more is possible than you might think!
The GSE project managers handle the complete preparation of trips and events from our office in Alkmaar. We almost always travel to the chosen locations in advance for an inspection. During the planning phase, we always face challenges. That's what makes our project managers' blood pump faster. Give us a challenge, and we'll find a solution!
The beauty of this is that you as a customer won't notice any of it. Because we take the work out of your hands, you don't have to stress. Meanwhile, we'll stay in close contact with you to fine-tune the itinerary. GSE The Agency often travels with clients to handle organization and communication on the destination. This way, you can also be in ‘full enjoyment mode’ yourself during the trip!
How nice is it that you can also enjoy the journey yourself instead of constantly dealing with side issues in the background?
All communication will be handled by us. This means we will be the point of contact for all suppliers during the group trip.
In addition, we are also the point of contact and the face for the participants. They can also come to us with organizational and personal questions.
Does the group trip involve a lot of logistical organization?
Don't worry, we'll make sure every bus or other transfer is on time for arrival and departure. Oh yes, we'll also ensure no one is forgotten.
We take care of all the small things in the background ourselves. The advantage? No hassle for our client.
And should a bigger decision need to be made? We present the researched options to you, and together we'll make a decision, which saves a lot of time and hassle.
We are the first to arrive and the last to leave. This way, we ensure that everything at every location is ready before the participants arrive. We turn off the lights and don't leave until we've seen the last guest out.
A final evaluation is a standard part of our process, as it is a valuable exercise where we carefully reflect on our experiences and achievements together. This allows us to jointly assess the quality of preparation and execution, and it fosters growth in our collaboration. We also do this with clients who have previously organized an event or group/sports trip with GSE The Agency on multiple occasions. Because this is precisely what gives us the opportunity to learn and become more successful.
GSE The Agency is part of Uniglobe Alliance Travel, a strong global business travel partner. This allows us to combine our personal, slightly cheeky touch and unique approach with the power of a global player. We've been doing this for over 20 years with a team of experienced, creative, and enthusiastic professionals.
Every day, we look forward to curating surprising and unique experiences. From group trips to meetings, events, incentives, and conferences.
We challenge you. Broaden your horizons and those of your colleagues or relationships.
Karen van den Berg
Team Manager
