Woman Takes All 20 of Her Staff to Madrid as a Christmas Treat (Photos)

Last year the employees (pictured) got to go to London to see a West End show - but this year their boss raised the bar with a trip abroad 

Most people get excited about the prospect of a free bar for their Christmas party - but staff at one marketing agency were beside themselves when their boss took them on a holiday to Madrid for their festive do.

Arabella Lewis-Smith, 42, has been dubbed 'the best boss in the world' after flying all 20 of her team to Spain for a two-night getaway last week.

The founder of Poole-based marketing agency Salad Creative forked out £5,000 for the trip, which included return flights from Gatwick, Airbnb accommodation and two boozy dinners.


The grateful employees basked in Spanish winter sunshine, a far cry from the wind and rain lashing down at the office in Dorset.

Last year the festivities at Salad Creative included a trip to London to see a West End show, while other outings have included kayaking sessions and walks in the New Forest.

Employee Fleurie Forbes-Martin, a marketing manager, said: 'When Arabella announced the Christmas do to us in a meeting a few months ago, there were whoops and cheers.

Ms Lewis-Smith (pictured), who founded the company 16 years ago, says she'd always wanted to take her employees abroad.

'We were so excited about it and it did not disappoint. 'We all enjoyed exploring the sites, the great food, a few cocktails and a boogie. 'It's all we have talked about since.

'Our boss is pretty awesome in general but this was the cherry on top.'

The colleagues took off for the Spanish capital at the crack of dawn last Friday, taking part in a quiz on the way organised by strategy director Daniel-Ward Murphy.

When they got there they stayed in an 'enormous' apartment in the city centre, strolling around sight seeing.

They visited the famous El Retiro park and explored the city's Christmas markets.

Arabella Lewis-Smith, 42, has been dubbed 'the best boss in the world' after flying all 20 of her team (pictured) to Spain for a two-night getaway last week They had two paid-for dinners followed by a night of dancing at a club.

Ms Lewis-Smith, who founded the company 16 years ago, says she'd always wanted to take her employees abroad.

She said: 'We are a company that cares about its people and being able to treat our 20 staff with a trip to Madrid was a delightful feeling. 'I think getting together as a team is really important and you can see the benefits as it brings every one closer together.

'Last year we went to the West End for a show and a meal out and this year we wanted to do something a bit different. 'We've had an amazing year and I wanted to reward everyone for their hard work.

'We decided to celebrate in style with a Christmas party to remember.'