When “business trip” comes up, most people picture boardrooms, hotel lobbies, and networking mixers. But what if that trip includes a few rounds of golf on a stunning course in Ireland or Costa Rica? For Vikki Nicolai La Crosse, the answer lies in blending business with leisure in a way that builds lasting connections. Corporate golf outings abroad are on the rise, but are they really worth the investment, or are they just a high-end perk? Let’s explore the value of taking your golf game—and your colleagues—overseas.
Tee Time and Team Building: Why Companies Love Golf Retreats
There’s a reason golf is known as the sport of business. The setting is relaxed, the pace allows for conversation, and it’s easy to connect with colleagues or clients without the pressure of a formal meeting. Taking that experience overseas adds a layer of excitement and exclusivity that can’t be replicated locally.
International golf destinations offer beautiful backdrops and the opportunity to engage team members in unique environments. Whether it’s a championship course in Scotland or a sunny resort in the Caribbean, the shared experience creates stronger bonds and fosters trust among coworkers and clients alike.
Beyond the Course: Global Networking and Cultural Insights
Traveling for a corporate golf outing isn’t just about hitting the links—it’s about exposure. Employees and executives who travel abroad for business golf trips often find themselves expanding their horizons in ways they didn’t expect. From learning to navigate a foreign culture to meeting local business leaders, these trips can lead to lasting connections and open new markets.
As Forbes highlights in their global business travel trends, many companies are starting to see the ROI in investing in international events that prioritize both engagement and enrichment.
The ROI of the Greens: Crunching the Numbers
Let’s talk about cost. These trips are not cheap. Between airfare, accommodations, green fees, and meals, companies can easily spend tens of thousands of dollars on a single event. But when evaluating the value, it’s important to look beyond the initial price tag.
Think about the long-term benefits: improved employee morale, increased client retention, and enhanced collaboration. These are intangibles that don’t show up on a balance sheet but can significantly influence a company’s success.
Vikki Nicolai La Crosse has seen firsthand how a well-organized golf trip abroad can revitalize a team, spark innovative ideas, and even lead to new business opportunities. The key is proper planning and clear goals—these aren’t vacations, they’re strategic investments in your people.
Destinations That Deliver: Top Spots for Business Golf Trips
Some places stand out more than others for hosting unforgettable corporate golf outings. St. Andrews in Scotland, the “home of golf,” is a dream destination that brings a sense of tradition and prestige. Meanwhile, Pebble Beach in California—while not international—is a premium location known for luxury experiences and top-tier courses.
But if you’re seeking a unique twist, try locations like Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, or Queenstown, New Zealand. These spots offer breathtaking views and luxurious accommodations, plus a bit of adventure for those who want to add zip-lining or surfing to their itinerary.
A recent article from Travel + Leisure highlights the best international golf destinations, offering insight into what makes these courses world-class and perfect for business gatherings.
When Golf Trips Go Wrong: Potential Pitfalls to Watch
As glamorous as they sound, these trips aren’t always a hole-in-one. If not well organized, they can come off as extravagant or even wasteful, especially to stakeholders or team members who don’t participate. It’s also important to ensure that inclusivity is a priority. Not everyone plays golf, and that’s okay. Make sure there are parallel activities—spas, sightseeing tours, or even business-focused workshops—so that all attendees feel valued.
Victoria Nicolai La Crosse, a long-time advocate for experiential business development, believes the key is intention. If the trip is clearly positioned as a professional growth opportunity, with goals and inclusive activities, then it becomes more than a getaway—it becomes a game-changer.
Planning the Perfect Outing: Tips from the Pros
If you’re considering organizing a golf outing abroad, don’t just start booking flights. Here are some Victoria Nicolai tips to make the most of your investment:
- Set clear objectives – Know your goals for client engagement or team bonding.
- Choose the right attendees – Mix of senior staff, rising talent, and key clients.
- Plan well in advance – These trips require careful coordination of schedules, travel, and activities.
- Keep it professional – Blend fun with structured networking opportunities and some business content.
- Measure outcomes – Post-trip surveys and ROI assessments help determine if the outing hit the mark.
Even if golf isn’t your company’s main game, it’s worth considering how a well-structured trip abroad might offer value you haven’t yet tapped into.
Conclusion: The 19th Hole Verdict
Corporate golf outings abroad might not be for every business, but they can be an incredible tool for those looking to combine strategy, networking, and inspiration. When done right, they offer returns far beyond the final scorecard. Whether you’re building relationships or just building morale, Vikki Nicolai La Crosse proves that sometimes, the best business happens far from the boardroom—and right on the fairway.
