Monday, October 26, 2020

Office Holiday Party Ideas

They're back! Yep, the holidays are almost here. And with them, comes the annual "What in the world can I schedule to celebrate the season with colleagues or friends, during a pandemic?" 

If this sounds familiar, you're not alone. This is the time of year that's typically filled with lots of socializing, office parties and get togethers. For many companies, the holidays are usually when employees participate in meaningful Corporate Social Responsibility programs like our Bike Build  or Charity Give Back Bus Tour/Experience. 



While COVID 19 may have changed the way events are executed, it hasn't taken away our need for social interaction. If anything, we need these positive team experiences more than ever. The good news? We've got lots of answers to all your holiday planning questions! All time tested VIRTUAL and  IN PERSON activities that make the same old holiday party pale in comparison. 

So what are you going to do? Another boring office get together or a MEMORABLE experience? 


Our lineup of Virtual & In-Person Holiday Experiences includes:  

*Holiday Themed Scavenger Hunt: Exactly what you've been looking for

*Jeopardy: The Holiday Edition... Alex Trebek would really be impressed 

*Famous Family Face Off... Let the holiday feuding begin

*Holiday Cooking Showdown... Gordon Ramsay eat your heart out 


*Livestream Best of San Diego Show... Discover the Hidden Gems!


*Smartphone Video Challenge…become a video sharpshooter using our iMovie filmmaking tips 


 

Contact us as soon as possible to know our entire lineup of Holiday Experiences and book your favorite before it’s sold out.  And oh yes, Happy and Safe Holidays from all of us!




Where You Want To Be Tours & Team building

619.917.6037

www.wheretours.com




                                 Creating unique Team Building Experiences since 2003




Looking for fun, competitive Team Building GAMES?

Visit our sister company, Out of the Ordinary 


Friday, August 14, 2020

Rewarding Remote Employees

Finding unique and meaningful ways to thank your employees is SO important. Especially now, given what's happening in the world and the fact that majority of U.S. employees are working remotely. According to a Gallup poll, remote workers are more likely to feel lonely and isolated as compared to  colleagues who work at the office. Because of this simple factor, it's crucial that employers recognize and acknowledge team members for their hard work, on a regular and consistent basis. 

While some companies can offer things like luxurious hotel stays or golf excursions, not everyone has deep pockets.  The good news? There are plenty of ways you can show your team you care, without breaking the bank. Here's one idea - give them an EXPERIENCE of a lifetime.  For example, find out what their favorite restaurant is and treat the employee and their spouse. But here's the thing, don't treat them to just any old restaurant. Do your research. Pick a 5-star restaurant you know they love but either can't afford OR don't have time to find a babysitter. In that case, go the extra mile and hire a babysitter for the night! 


Doing something that's totally "Out of the Ordinary" is another way to go. Maybe treat them to a Hot Air Balloon ride, or how about a Zip line Adventure on Catalina Island? (We still remember doing this for a client!) One of our popular offerings is our Dream Day Experiences.   These are custom experiences that are typically designed around a person's preferences. Are you an animal lover? Maybe our De-stress with Dogs/Cats is your thing. Or perhaps you enjoy seeing incredible views? Our Best Views in San Diego is a custom tour showcasing one-of-a-kind views from cool roof top lounges to historical monuments. 

Does your employee enjoy fun adventures that he can share with his family & friends? How about one of our Urban Challenge Scavenger Hunts? And yes, it's Covid safe!



The bottom line: think outside the box and don't be afraid to do more than the typical corporate gift card or cash. If you have an employee OR employees you'd like to reward and need ideas, give us a call. Creating unique memorable adventures is something we absolutely ENJOY doing!  Email us at menkin@wheretours.com OR call 619-917-6037 to schedule an adventure. 


Happy Travels & See you soon!

Marc & Darlynne
Where You Want To Be
619.917.6037
www.wheretours.com


Schedule a meeting with us: 


Darlynne & Marc Menkin run Where You Want To Be & Out of the Ordinary, two San Diego based companies that create fun Team building Adventures & unique tours to secret spots. They're also Travel Writers and enjoy writing about cool West Coast destinations such as California and Hawaii. Be sure to check out some of their Travel Video segments on their YouTube Channel, WhereYouWantToBeTV.      

Tuesday, July 7, 2020

Safe Outdoor Activities During Covid

Ever since COVID-19 came about, it seems like all we hear is what we CAN'T do. NO indoor dining. NO large public gatherings. NO fans at sporting events. The list goes on and on.  It makes us wonder: Is there anything we CAN do?  Actually, there's PLENTY we can do!  The key thing to remember: Keep it outdoors!

Because we live in San Diego where the weather is typically beautiful year round, finding fun things to do OUTSIDE is not a problem. And now that it's summer, the temps are super nice and the days are longer so it's an ideal time to be outdoors.


Besides the "fun factor," there's also plenty of health benefits to being outside. Studies show that exposure to sunlight and breathing in the fresh air often leads to better concentration levels, happier moods, and an increase in physical stamina and fitness levels.. just to name a few.




If you're tired of being cooped up, our advice is to get OUTDOORS and enjoy Mother Nature!  Here's a list of fun & safe OUTDOOR activities you CAN DO during Covid-19:

*Go for a Walk:  Our new division, Where You Want To Be Fit Club, is now offering one-hour small group Wellness Walks.  This easy going hike is a perfect way to discover cool San Diego spots while practicing physical  distancing & safety guideline rules. Sign ups will be limited, in an effort to keep everyone safe. Click HERE for dates & registration.  Don't miss out on the FUN!

*Secret Spots Super Challenge:  Gather everyone in your Social Bubble and sign up for our ridiculously FUN Urban Challenge Scavenger Hunt! Teams will be given a series of fun tasks that will take them all over Balboa Park.  Physical distancing & safety guideline rules will be followed. Sign ups will be limited in an effort to keep everyone safe. Click HERE for dates & registration. Don't wait to register!

*PRIVATE Experiences: Prefer doing a fun outing with people ONLY in your SOCIAL BUBBLE?  No problem! We do offer PRIVATE SMALL GROUP EXPERIENCES. Email us at menkin@wheretours.com OR call 619-917-6037 to schedule a PRIVATE GROUP ACTIVITY.

Happy Travels & See you soon!

Marc & Darlynne
Where You Want To Be
619.917.6037
www.wheretours.com



Darlynne & Marc Menkin run Where You Want To Be & Out of the Ordinary, two San Diego based companies that create fun Team building Adventures & unique tours to secret spots. They're also Travel Writers and enjoy writing about cool West Coast destinations such as California and Hawaii. Be sure to check out some of their Travel Video segments on their YouTube Channel, WhereYouWantToBeTV. 




Monday, June 29, 2020

Healthy tips for Employees

There's no question that the world is in unique times. New developments are happening every day and with the current lock down, physical distancing rules and more people working from home, it's no wonder stress levels are at an all time high. 

But studies show that if you want to help your employees lead a healthier lifestyle, there are some easy things you should encourage them to do.  First, get them outdoors. Going for a 10-minute walk around the neighborhood is much better than eating lunch at your desk. Research shows that fresh air and exercise releases chemicals called endorphins, which produces positive feelings in the body. As a result, productivity levels typically go up.



Now that the warm weather is here, it's also a perfect time to be outdoors. Instead of doing the usual Zoom Meeting call, why not set up an Walking Meeting for your staff?  You can still wear masks and practice physical distancing but you'll be outside enjoying the summer time weather, as opposed to being cooped up indoors.  Some of our more popular Team building programs include our Outdoor Meetings and Wellness Walks.   We have noticed that companies who take advantage of these kinds of programs, often have happier employees and less conflict at the workplace.

The good news is that all of this is easy and it doesn't cost much. All it requires is an attentive boss (that's you!) who's "in tune" with the staff.  Want more tips on how to keep your team happy and healthy?  Check out our latest episode of "Live Your Dream."   Click HERE. 


In addition to being Travel writers, Marc and Darlynne run two Team Building companies, headquartered in San Diego. Where You Want To Be specializes in memorable Team Building EXPERIENCES. Out of the Ordinary creates high energy Team Building GAMES. 

Wednesday, May 27, 2020

Mastering Virtual Meetings

As a team building company, our focus is all about strengthening relationships and face to face interactions. But because of COVID-19, that's all changed. For the time being, in-person meetings have been put on hold and as a result, many people are working remotely and communicating through online platforms such as Zoom, Webex and Remote HQ.

For some, this Virtual world can be scary. The lack of comfort can make it hard for some to open up, relax and communicate with each other virtually. Before starting our business, I was a TV News Reporter so I understand how speaking in front of a camera can be uncomfortable for some people. During my news career, it wasn't uncommon for my interview subject to freeze up right before the camera started rolling. Fortunately, I learned pretty quickly the art of calming down a person's nerves!


Now years later, I'm leaning into those very same skills. When COVID-19 first hit, we received calls from nervous colleagues wanting advice on how to look and sound good on Zoom. The questions ranged from "How come I look so pale" to "Yikes, that's what my voice sounds like?" As funny as these questions sound, they're all good questions. And, that's what led us to create our online course "Mastering Virtual Meetings." But, here's the thing. Mastering this new Virtual world is so much more than knowing what color to wear OR what your background should look like. It's knowing how to build content that will engage and inspire your audience, so they're moving with you and not against you.

Although many in the meetings industry and business world are still trying to figure out their "next steps," a growing number have already transitioned their conferences to full-on digital events OR the hybrid approach, which incorporates both face-to-face elements with a digital component.

And for those of you in sales? Videos will play an even bigger role in the Sales process. The bottom line? Getting comfortable with this Virtual world AND understanding the power of video, is a must if you want to stay ahead of the competition.


As uncomfortable as this may all sound, it doesn't have to be. In fact, once you master the Virtual world, it's quite FUN. And, it shouldn't cost you an arm & a leg. To help you navigate through this new medium, we've put together an online workshop which consists of three main topics:

A. Mastering the Online Platform: How to look & sound good virtually + Bonus Tips!
B. Creating Engaging Videos: How to shoot & edit videos using your smart phone
C. Video Marketing Content: Using video to set yourself apart

It's no secret that we LOVE the Video world and we understand its many advantages. But like many of you, I've been in the business world for a long time so I get your concerns. In fact, it's my combined experience as both an on-air talent and longtime business owner, that gives me a fresh perspective... allowing me to empathize with other business owners/leaders in a unique way. There are SO many benefits to this Virtual world and I'm excited to share our knowledge with you!


This online Workshop is designed for those who want to pivot their career to the next level but aren't sure how to get there. It's also ideal for Sales Teams wanting to up their game.

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TO SIGN UP FOR OUR NEXT WORKSHOP, EMAIL US AT: MENKIN@WHERETOURS.COM 
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Cost: $44.00 per person, per class.
Added value: Pricing also includes one 30-minute private follow-up coaching call.

MASTERING VIRTUAL MEETINGS: ONLINE WORKSHOP DATES

June 9, 2020: Mastering the Online Platform
June 16, 2020: Creating engaging videos - bring your smart phone/iPhone for this session
June 23, 2020: Video Marketing Content

Online Workshops run from 12:15 PM to 1:30 PM. Includes Q&A component.
Seating is limited so sign up now, to reserve your spot.

Looking forward to making a difference, together!

All the best,
Darlynne Reyes Menkin
Team building Facilitator/Media & Video Coach
Where You Want To Be, Inc.
www.wheretours.com


In addition to being a Media & Video Coach, Darlynne oversees two Team Building companies headquartered in San Diego, with her husband Marc. 
Where You Want To Be specializes in memorable Team Bonding EXPERIENCES.  
Out of the Ordinary  creates high energy Team Building GAMES. Darlynne was in the TV News industry for more than 20 years as a writer, Assignment Editor, Producer and News Director before moving on as a News Anchor & Reporter. She worked in New Hampshire, Philadelphia, Washington, D.C., Las Vegas and sunny San Diego. 


Wednesday, April 29, 2020

Introducing our New Travel Show - This Is Our Town!

If you've ever been on one of our tours, then you know we're all about the unique places. You know, areas that are off-the-beaten path? Living in San Diego is a perfect destination for our adventurous spirit because there's so many interesting places to check out.  From hidden walking paths to beautiful roof top lounges and fun historical landmarks, San Diego has a lot to offer. So when we were asked to create a fun Travel show focusing on hidden gems, how could we refuse? It's right up our alley!


"This is our Town" showcases secret San Diego spots and has the same fun, laid back feel as our walking, biking and custom Rent-a-Local tours. We've been creating these personalized tours since 2003 and we absolutely love taking people to these hidden areas. And let's face it. With everything that's happening in today's world, we all need a little escapism!



Our first episode focuses on one of our favorite neighborhoods - Mission Hills! We felt this was a perfect way to kick off our new series as this community is so special - and truly reflects the uniqueness of San Diego.

We want to give a Shout Out to our Publishing Partner, Seacoast Media Labs, for making this happen! Seacoast produces The Poway Eagle, Scripps Ranch News and the new Digital Magazine, Words & Pictures.  In addition to their online platforms, "This is our Town" will also be available on this blog, as well as our Facebook & Instagram pages, and YouTube Channel.

Let's head to Mission Hills!




Happy Travels! 

Marc & Darlynne Menkin
Where You Want To Be
www.wheretours.com

Thursday, April 16, 2020

Stay at Home Super Challenge

With most people working remotely, there's all sorts of interesting dynamics are happening.  Not to mention, schools aren't open so the kids are home and suddenly, parents are faced with being the breadwinner, Mom & Dad plus school teacher.

Given everything the world is experiencing, we started thinking about our role - and what we could do, to help. We came up with lots of ideas but one thing that stood out for us was giving the gift of "fun." So, we decided to create the Great STAY AT HOME SUPER CHALLENGE!




Since we're known for creating cool Scavenger Hunts, we felt this was the perfect answer. It is FREE, family friendly and anyone can play it, regardless of where you live.  And thanks to some very generous partners, the winning team will walk away with a fabulous San Diego Staycation prize!

The First Place team will win:

*One Night stay at Andaz San Diego + Valet Parking
*2 Jet Ski Rentals courtesy of San Diego Bay Adventures
*Movie Tickets for 2
*Urban Challenge Scavenger Hunt for up to 12 people


Entries must be received by April 22, 2020 so don't delay!  


To get started, CLICK HERE.   Be sure to watch the video for helpful tips!

Good luck, stay safe and Happy Hunting!

Where You Want To Be
619.917.6037
www.wheretours.com