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Oftentimes, the people who travel most for work are ironically the ones who have the most difficult time finding time to travel for personal purposes. Perhaps it’s hard to find a good chunk of time to get away; or maybe the typical hassle that comes with airports and hotels is the last thing they want to deal with on their time off. Whether or not this is the case, adding a little pleasure to a business trip can make constant traveling a lot more bearable. And now that it’s summer and vacation is on everyone’s mind, a strategically planned business trip might actually double into that quick getaway you’ve been yearning for. Here are some tips for spicing up those trips meant solely for work:
Plan Ahead
It’s hard to take advantage of what a new city has to offer if you’re doing it at the last minute. However, if you do some research before your trip and figure out when you will have some spare time, you can plan to do a little sightseeing or fine dining on your own. Not to mention, you’ll be more likely to stick with your plans if you think them through beforehand.
Spice up the Client Meetings
Wining and dining your clients is an expense that usually falls on your company’s tab, which is really nice. But how many salmon dinners or rounds of golf can you take? Try to plan some more interesting outings or explore unique restaurants in the area, so long as they allow you to maintain a professional environment. Consider asking those local clients for suggestions on what they might like to do.
Squeeze in an Extra Day
Consider showing up a day beforehand or leaving a day after, especially if your business trip falls near a weekend. It’s definitely possible to squeeze in personal activities between meetings, but it’s a lot less stressful if you have a day to yourself. If you decide to do this, make sure to inform your boss of your plans, and to show him or her that you will be keeping business and personal expenses separate.
Bring Along Your Significant Other
Maybe your significant other has the flexibility and willingness to travel with you and spend time with you when you aren’t stuck in meetings. If so, you can turn parts of your business trip into a small getaway, and explore the city and some nice restaurants together. Again, be sure to keep your personal expenses separate, and to stay focused on work when you need to be.
Traveling for work doesn’t have to be a drag. All you need to do is find some creative ways to spend your down time, and a boring business trip can all of a sudden become a fun escape.
Happy traveling,
The Doostang Team
