Let’s be honest, not all group travel needs to involve lanyards and laminated itineraries. Sometimes it’s about a cold beer, a roaring crowd, and pretending you understand the offside rule (or at least that’s the case for us!).
We’ve rounded up some of the most popular sporting events in Asia with Australian and New Zealand clients. Whether you’re planning an incentive, a conference with some leisure mixed in, or a sport-fuelled event, these are the ones to keep on your radar:
Hong Kong Rugby Sevens
It’s the 50th anniversary next year fort this bucket-list event – and they are going all out. We’re talking a brand-new Kai Tak Sports Park with Asia’s second-longest bar, plush seats, and a crowd that knows how to bring the energy. The Australian and New Zealand market already love their rugby – a brilliant option for MICE groups who want big sport with even bigger atmosphere.
Think VIP suites, networking in the South Stand (in costume, if you like), and a hotel like Dorsett Kai Tak just around the corner to keep logistics as easy as a Sunday morning. You can easily build in pre or post adventures – dim sum-fuelled galas, a trip up to Victoria Peak, or a post-match debrief over rooftop cocktails.
It’s loud, it’s legendary, and it’s one to keep in mind.
Singapore Grand Prix (F1 Night Race)
If there’s ever been a sporting event that screams ‘incentive trip’, this is it. The Singapore Grand Prix is Formula 1’s OG night race and still the sexiest one on the circuit – think street racing under city lights, rooftop bar hopping between laps, and pre-race yacht parties where no one actually watches the race (but everyone pretends to).
Hotel sell-out rates are faster than the drivers, so locking in spots early is key. The Fullerton Bay, Raffles, and Mandarin Oriental are top picks for groups who want good views with five-star service and zero stress.
Best part? Singapore is an easy hop from AU/NZ, and the city does premium events very well. Add on a group Michelin hawker-stand hop, a cocktail party, or a recovery brunch with skyline views – the choices are endless.
IPL Cricket, India
This isn’t Sunday arvo at the SCG. The Indian Premier League is pure chaos in the best way — fireworks after every wicket, Bollywood stars in the stands, and music blaring between overs. It’s part sport, part spectacle, and it’s very good for group energy.
Tickets? Not always guaranteed. But the city around it becomes the show — restaurants buzzing, fans everywhere, and the atmosphere dialled to 11.
And if you want something tailored just for your group? We can set up your own cricket match against a local team. Think friendly competition, big laughs, and a CSR angle if you want it.
Cities like Mumbai, Delhi, and Ahmedabad all play host, and there’s so much you can build around it — heritage hotels, street food safaris, and post-match Q&As with cricket legends (we know a few guys…).
While we could go on (and on), we hope this has given you a solid dose of inspiration. From securing premium seats to sorting local logistics, and tying in those magic moments only the locals know about, we’ve got friends in all the right places.
If you’d like to chat through ideas or brainstorm something bespoke, we’re always here (and always up for a good excuse to catch up).