If you’ve ever tried to plan an event or incentive trip from abroad, you’ll know it’s a bit like assembling flat-pack furniture without the instructions… in the dark! That’s where a DMC comes in. We give you an insight into what a DMC is, and why it’s a very good idea to use one.
What is a DMC?
A DMC, or Destination Management Company, is your local expert, fixer, translator, problem-solver, and creative partner all rolled into one. They’re the people who make sure your event or incentive experience not only runs smoothly but also reflects the culture, style, and soul of the destination.
At TOMA & COE, we describe a DMC as your local eyes and ears. But we’re also your local feet on the ground: helping you get things done, on time and on budget, without the stress.
Spain is bursting with opportunity for incentive travel, corporate retreats, and luxury experiences – from flamenco in Seville to rooftop tapas in Madrid, vineyard tours in La Rioja to Gaudí’s architectural wonders in Barcelona. But getting under the surface of these places, and turning them into memorable experiences for your clients or team, takes serious local knowledge.
That’s what a DMC like TOMA & COE offers. Based in Spain, we don’t just know the best venues, we know the family that’s been running the finca for generations. We’ve got relationships with chefs, winemakers, flamenco dancers, artists, and artisans. And we don’t just suggest activities. We design journeys that reveal the authentic Spain, in a way that’s tailored to your goals, values, and guests.
We also work in neighbouring Portugal, which offers its own unique charm – from the sun-kissed Algarve to the cosmopolitan buzz of Lisbon and Porto. The logistics of putting together a multi-day event across these regions can get complicated. A DMC ensures those complications stay behind the scenes.
What does a DMC actually do?
Here’s a taste of what you can expect from a Destination Management Company:
Venue sourcing and management
A DMC doesn’t just book a venue; it finds the right venue. Whether you need a state-of-the-art conference centre, a historic palace for a gala dinner, or a quirky space with character for a team workshop, we help you find the perfect match. We also handle the finer details: floorplans, AV requirements, catering options, accessibility. Acting as the go-between with local suppliers, we ensure everything is crystal clear and confirmed well in advance.
Logistics and transport
From touchdown to take-off, a DMC ensures your group gets where they need to be – on time, in comfort, and without stress. That could mean airport transfers with a meet-and-greet service, private coaches for a group excursion, or luxury vehicles for VIP guests. We also help with transport scheduling, signage, multilingual drivers, and contingency planning for smooth transitions between every element of the itinerary.
Accommodation bookings
With so many options on offer – from five-star hotels to boutique hideaways or even exclusive villa rentals – it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. A DMC narrows down your choices based on your budget, goals, and group size. We can negotiate group rates, arrange room drops, and manage rooming lists. We also visit properties in person, so we can recommend places we trust and that we know will deliver the right atmosphere and level of service for your event.
Cultural and experiential activities
This is where we shine. A DMC doesn’t just suggest “a wine tasting”. We might propose a private visit to a family-run bodega, followed by a sunset flamenco performance in the vineyard. Whether it’s a tapas tour through historic neighbourhoods, a hands-on cooking class, or an olive oil tasting with the farmer who pressed it, we curate authentic, creative experiences that show off the best of local culture in ways that are interactive, inspiring and unforgettable.
Creative planning and event design
Great events don’t happen by chance, they’re carefully crafted. We work with you to develop a creative concept that ties everything together, from the visual theme to the entertainment and flow of the day. Need a flash mob to kick off your gala dinner? Want to brand your conference with custom decor and thoughtful touches? We help you bring your vision to life in ways that surprise and delight your guests.
Local expertise and support
When things don’t go to plan – and at events, something always pops up – having someone on the ground makes all the difference. A DMC acts as your safety net. We’re available around the clock, we speak the language, and we know how to navigate local systems to fix issues fast. Whether it’s a sudden weather change, a guest with a dietary need, or a last-minute transport switch, we’re on hand to sort it out.
Why TOMA & COE?
We believe Spain and Portugal aren’t just places on the map, we know they’re rich, living cultures with stories to tell. As a boutique DMC, we specialise in creating immersive experiences that go far beyond the ordinary. Whether you’re planning an incentive trip for a top sales team, a corporate retreat to brainstorm under Andalucian skies, or a series of high-end experiences for VIP clients, we bring a mix of creativity, precision, and insider knowledge.
So if you’re asking, “What is a DMC?”, the short answer is: it’s the partner who transforms your event idea into a real, organised, standout experience. And in Spain and Portugal, that means showing your guests a side of the Iberian Peninsula they’ll never forget.
Contact us today for more information on how we can make your event incredible.
