Food, flamenco, sunshine and an unexpected extra day: Abstract Team Building Trip 2026
When the Leeds team at The Abstract Group headed to Malaga, we were looking forward to a few days away from the usual day-to-day, and the trip certainly delivered.
From Spanish food and flamenco to sunshine, beach days and one rather unexpected extra night, it was a trip full of laughs, new experiences and memories.
Day 1: Hello Malaga
Friday morning started with the team making our way from Leeds to Malaga.
After arriving, we headed to the hotel for a welcome lunch before checking in, unpacking and taking some time to relax after the journey.
That evening, we went out together for drinks and dinner at the marina. With the sun setting over the water, it was the perfect way to kick off the trip.
Day 2: Paella, Tapas and Flamenco
Day two was all about getting a taste of the local culture, quite literally.
We started with a paella and sangria making class, which quickly turned into a friendly competition. Split into teams, we took on chicken, vegetable and seafood paellas, and after some serious tasting, the vegetable paella was crowned the winner.
In the evening, we enjoyed traditional Spanish tapas before heading to a flamenco show.
For many of us, it was a completely new experience, and the performance was one to remember. The speed, energy and passion of the dancers were incredible, and it left quite a few of us wondering just how exhausting it must be to perform like that.
We finished the night with drinks at a rooftop bar, taking in great views of Malaga. It was one of those evenings where everyone could properly relax and get to know each other outside of work.
Day 3: Sun, Sightseeing and a Surprise Extra Night
Sunday gave everyone the chance to explore Malaga in their own way. Some of the team headed into the city to visit the cathedral and castle, while others made the most of the sunshine at a beach club.
The beach club gave us a few hours to soak up the sun and enjoy the sea, although the waves were definitely making their presence felt. Unfortunately for one member of the team, they also claimed a pair of sunglasses.
After a day of exploring and relaxing, we headed back to the hotel, packed our bags and made our way to the airport, ready to head home. Unfortunately, the journey didn't quite go to plan.
After a delay, our flight was cancelled and moved to the following afternoon. Not quite the ending we had planned, but it did mean one more night in Malaga together.
The next morning, we headed back to the airport once again, and this time we made it onto the flight home.
In the Teams Words
Meenarani Kumaresan, Senior Automation QA Engineer
"I recently had a wonderful trip to Málaga with my colleagues. It was a great mix of team bonding and exploring a beautiful new place. We enjoyed the Spanish food, explored the city and did some fun activities together. It was my first trip to Málaga, and I really enjoyed creating some lovely memories with the team."
Jimmy Chak, Senior Software Engineer
"It was a really good trip to recharge, and it brought the whole team closer together outside the office."
A Trip to Remember
The Malaga trip was about much more than getting away for a few days. Having the Leeds team together gave us the chance to spend time with colleagues outside our normal working environment, meet people from teams we don't always get to speak to, and build stronger relationships across the company.
From making paella and watching flamenco to relaxing on the beach and exploring the city, it was a trip that gave everyone something to remember.
And despite the slightly unexpected ending, we made the most of every minute.