We recently designed an exciting incentive program in Toronto with a unique twist. Unlike most incentive trips, which focus primarily on sightseeing and entertainment, this program centered on health and wellness—a reflection of our client's culture and the value they place on their executives' wellbeing. It was a refreshing challenge for our event designers.
As Canada's largest city, Toronto offers an impressive collection of wellness experiences, from innovative fitness concepts to restorative spa therapies, all complemented by vibrant neighborhoods, exceptional dining and luxury accommodations. To create a seamless experience, we built the itinerary around walkable districts where wellness, culture and cuisine naturally intersect.
Arrivals
Upon arrival, the group was welcomed at the airport and transferred to their home for the program: the sustainably minded 1 Hotel Toronto. From reclaimed wood furnishings and energy-efficient systems to organic cotton linens and a zero-waste kitchen, the hotel embodies environmentally conscious luxury.
After check-in, it was time to dive straight into the wellness experience with a visit to Othership. Inspired by the Wim Hof Method and Finnish sauna traditions, the guided session combined dry saunas with invigorating cold plunges ranging from 32 to 39 degrees F. While the icy immersion certainly pushed everyone outside their comfort zone, participants left feeling energized, mentally refreshed, and ready for the days ahead.
Lunch followed at Kupfert & Kim, where the group enjoyed nourishing plant-based dishes, including cauliflower tahini bowls and vanilla cacao smoothies.
That afternoon, the focus shifted to movement at Jaybird, where participants challenged themselves with a yoga-inspired workout in a candlelit studio heated between 80 and 95 degrees F. The demanding class not only delivered an excellent workout but also fostered plenty of encouragement, laughter and team bonding.
Dinner was served at Pai, one of Toronto's most celebrated northern Thai restaurants. The menu featured vibrant flavors and plenty of plant-forward options, including seasonal mango slaw, khao soi, pad see ew and richly spiced curries, all of which could be prepared vegetarian or vegan.
Day Two
The second day began with one of North America's fastest-growing sports: pickleball. Courts were reserved at Fairgrounds, where the group enjoyed several friendly matches that brought out both competitive spirits and plenty of laughs.
Afterward, everyone headed to Skylight, the rooftop Mediterranean restaurant at the W Hotel. Lunch featured an abundant spread of mezze, including eggplant and pine nut sambousek, baba ghanoush, muhammara, hummus, beet labneh and olives—an ideal meal for sharing while overlooking the city.
The afternoon encouraged participants to embrace something completely different with a circus arts class at The Circus Fix. Learning aerial hammocks and aerial hoops required everyone to step outside their comfort zones, creating moments of vulnerability, laughter and mutual support that strengthened the group's connections in unexpected ways.
As evening settled over Toronto, the city came alive. Patios filled with conversation, music drifted through lively neighborhoods, and the relaxed energy of a summer evening provided the perfect setting to unwind. Whether enjoying craft cocktails, exceptional food, or simply good company, the group experienced another side of Toronto's vibrant culture.
The program concluded much as it had begun: with a renewed sense of connection and wellbeing. By combining movement, mindfulness, healthy cuisine, and memorable shared experiences, Toronto proved to be the perfect destination for an incentive trip designed to leave participants not only rewarded but refreshed.
To plan a rewarding and refreshing incentive plan for your own champs, let the professionals at GMS curate a custom program to motivate and to connect.