Good news travels fast — and right now, the Aussie dollar is having a moment. Sitting at its strongest level in nearly two years, it’s stretching travel budgets further and unlocking real value for incentive programs abroad. Translation? There’s never been a better time to start looking at the USA for your clients. When the AUD is hovering at 70c and above, programs go further — from upgraded hotels and premium experiences to longer stays and added “wow” moments.
A stronger Aussie dollar means more flexibility across every line item — accommodations, experiences, production, and hospitality. The U.S. offers scale, variety, and world-class infrastructure, making it easy to design standout programs that feel elevated, seamless, and rewarding.
With Super Bowl LXI returning to Los Angeles, Priority Pass access is quickly becoming one of the most sought-after assets for incentive and hospitality programs.
At a glance, programs can include:
We’re seeing a wave of new dining concepts across Waikīkī and beyond that work beautifully for incentive group dinners, networking lunches, and social welcome events. These venues pair strong design with flexible layouts that easily accommodate dine-arounds, hosted meals, and semi-private receptions.
One of Waikīkī’s newest dining arrivals pairs a striking interior with a lively, welcoming atmosphere. Its flexible layout supports hosted dinners, receptions, and partial buyouts, with menus designed to satisfy groups while still feeling elevated.
Mahina & Sun’s at Surfjack Hotel & Swim Club (Waikiki)
A beloved local destination sits poolside, now offers creative group-centric possibilities — including mixology/bartending classes, dine-around setups, and available buyout options. This flexibility makes it especially compelling for incentive groups seeking social or outside-the-box programming.
The FIFA World Cup 2026™ will take place across multiple U.S. host cities, creating a rare window to anchor incentive and hospitality programs around one of the world’s most watched global events. Matches will be held in Los Angeles, San Francisco Bay Area, New York/New Jersey, Miami, Dallas, Atlanta, Boston, Seattle, Houston, Kansas City, and Philadelphia, with tournament play running from June through July 2026. For the full schedule and match info, click HERE.
Beyond the matches themselves, select host cities — particularly Los Angeles — are emerging as standout bases for corporate and incentive programs, offering a concentration of tech-forward venues, modern event infrastructure, and design-driven spaces well suited for high-impact hospitality and executive gatherings.
New York City remains one of the world’s most aspirational incentive destinations, delivering instant energy and global appeal. With the current exchange rate, planners can lean into next-generation luxury — including highly anticipated new openings that pair dramatic design, immersive hospitality, and flexible event spaces built for high-impact group programs.
FAENA NEW YORK
Freshly opened September 2025, this highly anticipated newcomer brings Faena’s theatrical, culture-driven glamour to West Chelsea. Expect bold design moments, immersive programming, a high-style lounge scene, and a dining program that merges art with performance. For planners, the property offers flexible entertainment-driven spaces ideal for welcome receptions and premium buyouts, backed by Faena’s globally recognized service culture.
IE INSIGHT: Faena’s dramatic, photogenic design sets the ideal tone for welcome events or incentive arrivals that need instant visual impact.
On our Insider’s Insight, we’ll explore how wellness is shaping the future of incentive and corporate programs. From movement and mindfulness to restorative experiences and meaningful connection, our upcoming Insider’s Insight will share fresh ways to weave balance, energy, and intention into group travel — no matter the destination.
