For today’s business traveler, the lines between work and leisure are increasingly blurred. Whether you’re extending a work trip for some personal time or taking your office on the road, concepts like bleisure, workcations, and blended travel are transforming the way professionals experience travel.
Bleisure travel combines business with leisure, allowing travelers to make the most of their work trips by exploring new destinations and enjoying hotel amenities. Blended travelers take a similar approach, frequently incorporating leisure into work trips. Meanwhile, a workcation is ideal for remote workers who want to travel while staying productive—working from a destination before transitioning into full vacation mode.
Business travel can be a mixed bag. For those who don’t frequently travel for work, it might sound like a dream—flights and accommodations covered, new destinations to explore, and networking with industry professionals worldwide. However, if you’re traveling back-to-back for meetings, it can be exhausting, making you miss home and personal events.
That’s where bleisure travel, workcations, and blended travel come in, transforming traditional business trips into exciting and fulfilling experiences.
Bleisure meaning refers to mixing business with leisure, allowing travelers to make the most of their work trips by exploring new destinations and taking advantage of hotel amenities. A blended traveler experiences a similar lifestyle, frequently incorporating leisure into work trips. A workcation, on the other hand, is the perfect option for remote workers who want to travel while staying productive, working from a destination before transitioning into their official vacation.
A top tip for corporate travelers is to extend your trip if you’re in a bucket-list destination. For example, if your business meetings run Wednesday to Friday, consider staying the weekend or taking Monday off for an extended break. This approach aligns with hybrid work travel, allowing professionals to merge remote work with on-site business activities seamlessly.
If your business trip takes you to Nairobi, Kenya, extending your stay is a fantastic idea. Nairobi is a vibrant city with a unique mix of urban energy and natural beauty. The Executive Residency by Best Western, Nairobi is an excellent choice for business travelers, offering well-equipped meeting rooms, co-working spaces, and top-tier amenities that make work seamless. Once your meetings are done, Nairobi National Park is just a short drive away, providing a rare opportunity for a quick wildlife safari before heading home.
For those looking for a business-friendly location in the heart of the financial district, Best Western Nairobi Upper Hill is a top pick. Located in Upper Hill, Nairobi’s key business district, this hotel offers convenient access to both of the city’s main airports and the central business district. Guests can enjoy premium amenities, including a fitness center, terrace, and garden, along with complimentary Wi-Fi and concierge services to enhance their stay.
Doha, Qatar, is a fast-growing business hub that offers the perfect blend of work and leisure. Whether you’re attending high-level meetings or exploring new opportunities, Best Western Plus Doha provides an ideal base for your stay. The hotel is situated in a prime business location, featuring executive meeting rooms, co-working areas, and concierge services that cater to business travelers. But Doha isn’t just about work, when you’re ready to unwind, the hotel’s location places you close to The Pearl, high-end shopping malls, and the city’s breathtaking waterfront. Whether it’s a quick evening stroll or an extended weekend to explore the city’s luxurious side, Doha is an excellent choice for blended travel.
For those traveling to Europe and seeking a work-friendly yet relaxing destination, Best Western Plus Hotel Amstelveen in the Netherlands is a hidden gem. Located just outside the busy city of Amsterdam, this hotel provides a calm, green environment that allows you to focus on work while being just minutes away from world-class attractions. With modern meeting rooms, quiet work lounges, and excellent transport links, it’s a fantastic option for business travelers who want convenience without the chaos of a city center. In the evenings, you can explore Amstelveen’s cycling routes, boutique shopping, and charming canal-side dining spots, making it the perfect blend of work and relaxation.
Why Workcations & Bleisure Travel are Game-Changers
Workcation benefits go beyond just extending a trip. One of the biggest advantages is cost-effective travel. By simply adding a few extra days to a business trip, travelers can enjoy a personal vacation without having to pay for separate flights, making it a win-win situation.
Another major perk is easier holiday planning. Instead of spending hours deciding on a destination, finding flights, and booking hotels, you already have the location set. The only thing left to do is research local activities, which saves time and effort.
Perhaps the most important benefit is the improved work-life balance. By combining work and leisure, business travelers can enjoy a more fulfilling and stress-free experience, reducing burnout and increasing productivity. In fact, knowing that you’ll have time to relax after work can make your meetings even more productive. Bleisure travel is becoming increasingly popular, so don’t be surprised if your colleagues start taking full advantage of it too!
Packing smart is key when combining business with leisure. A good business travel backpack should include essentials like a laptop, chargers, notebooks, sunglasses, and even medication. It’s also wise to pack business trip essentials, such as a spare business outfit in your carry-on in case your checked luggage is delayed.
For those planning to work while on vacation, choosing the right workcation wardrobe is essential. Opt for neutral, versatile pieces like linen trousers and a crisp white shirt for warmer destinations, or stylish jumpers for cooler evenings. Dresses are also a great option since they’re easy to pack and can transition from business to casual wear effortlessly.
If you travel frequently, investing in an attachable extra screen can be a game-changer, allowing you to work more efficiently—yes, even by the pool!
Bleisure travel is booming, and for good reason. With the right planning, you can seamlessly blend work with relaxation—without the hassle. Whether extending a business trip or taking a workcation, the key is to choose the right destination, accommodations, and travel essentials.
Book your stay with Best Western® Hotels & Resorts today.