Team Building & Retreats tips
Update on
4/12/2023

How Urban-Close Retreats are Changing the Game for Team Building

Summary
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The trend of urban-near retreats is becoming increasingly popular. This new trend of urban-close retreats is driven by various factors. 


Near-Away Trend Emergence

Firstly, the exponential growth of urbanization has resulted in over  half of the world's population residing in urban areas, and this number is expected to double by 2050. As a result, urban wellness retreats are on the rise to provide a much-needed break from the hustle and bustle of city life.

In addition to the growth of urbanization, people are also facing a scarcity of time off from work and other commitments. As a result, they are increasingly choosing to take shorter vacations closer to their homes. This trend is known as "Near-Away" travel, which involves taking getaways that are even closer to home than the popular "staycation" model that gained popularity during the recession era. One of the key tips for a successful retreat involves the fact of not booking something too isolated or hard to get to.

The benefits of Near-Away travel are numerous. By staying close to home, travelers can save time and money on transportation, which can often be a major source of stress. Additionally, they can choose destinations that are easily accessible and familiar, reducing the anxiety and discomfort that can come with traveling to unknown places.

The popularity of Near-Away travel has led to the emergence of urban-close wellness retreats, which provide an ideal escape for city dwellers seeking a break from their fast-paced lives. These retreats offer a peaceful and rejuvenating environment, with the added convenience of being located close to major urban areas.

New York City and Relaxation

Planning a team retreat can be a fantastic way to build camaraderie, strengthen teamwork and take a much-needed break from the daily grind. However, when choosing the perfect location for your retreat, it's important to keep in mind the objectives and goals you want to achieve. While New York City might seem like a fun and exciting destination for your team, it may not be the best choice if your primary goal is relaxation. With its bustling streets and constant commotion, the city can be overwhelming and stressful for employees who are hoping to unwind. Instead, it might be wise to consider a more outdoorsy venue where team members can enjoy the peace and tranquility of nature. Some studies show that being surrounded by nature is the best way to feel relaxed and rejuvenated, and a retreat location that offers opportunities for activities like hiking, hot tubbing or stargazing can be the perfect way to help your team unwind. So, if you're looking to plan a team retreat that focuses on relaxation and rejuvenation, you might want to look for a venue that is a little bit outside of the city and closer to nature.

Near-Away New York Venues

If you're looking for a retreat location that's closer to nature and away from the chaos of the city, there are plenty of great options to choose from. In fact, there are several venues within just a few hours' drive of New York City that offer a serene and relaxing environment that's perfect for team-building activities, bonding and to boost your team morale and productivity. Here are three top picks for team retreat venues near New York City.

Troutbeck

Troutbeck is a historic hotel and conference center located in the Hudson Valley region of New York State. The property dates back to the 18th century and was originally a private estate. Today, it offers luxurious accommodations, fine dining, and a variety of indoor and outdoor activities, including hiking, yoga, and swimming. The property is surrounded by beautiful gardens and is located close to many cultural attractions, including the towns of Rhinebeck and Hudson.

Troutbeck, Hudson Valley (NY)


Tarrytown

Tarrytown is a village located in Westchester County, New York. It is known for its rich history, including its connection to the legend of Sleepy Hollow, and its stunning views of the Hudson River. Tarrytown offers visitors a wide range of activities, from hiking and biking to shopping and dining. Some of the top attractions in the area include the Tarrytown Music Hall, Lyndhurst Mansion, and the Rockefeller State Park Preserve.

Tarrytown, Westchester County (NY)


AutoCamp Catskills

AutoCamp Catskills is a unique lodging experience located in the Catskill Mountains of New York State. The property offers guests the opportunity to stay in stylishly designed Airstream trailers or luxury cabins surrounded by nature. Guests can enjoy hiking, biking, and other outdoor activities, as well as a variety of amenities, including a communal fire pit, a BBQ area, and a dog park. The property is located close to many cultural attractions, including the town of Woodstock and the Bethel Woods Center for the Arts.

AutoCamp Catskills, Catskills Mountains (NY)


Overall, Near-Away travel has become a preferred option for many people, as it offers the benefits of a vacation without the stress and expense of long-distance travel. Urban-close wellness retreats are one of the most popular destinations for this type of travel, providing a much-needed respite from the chaos of city living.

Although some far-away and exotic locations may still hold a strong appeal for many people, the emergence of urban-close wellness retreats is changing the game when it comes to team retreats. These retreats offer a new model that is more accessible to people living in urban areas, where the majority of the world's population resides. By providing a more accessible and convenient option in terms of budgeting, these retreats are making it easier for people to prioritize their well-being, even in the midst of a busy urban lifestyle.

About the author
Assia Dalla Vedova
Update on
4/12/2023
Assia Dalla Vedova, a marketing maven with a rich background in tech, showcased her prowess at TeamOut (YC W22), enhancing brand presence and SEO strategy. An ESCP Business School alumna, she excels in crafting impactful digital marketing campaigns and fostering brand growth.

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