One of the advantages of business travel is the opportunity to explore a new city. However, it can be quite disheartening when your schedule is filled with presentations, client meetings, and the relentless pursuit of deadlines. Nevertheless, it is important not to succumb to disappointment and abandon your desire to discover the area. Even the most demanding work trips can serve as chances to visit new locations, engage with new individuals, and much more. By adopting a balanced approach, one can successfully manage both professional obligations and personal travel aspirations.

In a recent interview, Vikash Kejriwal, COO of SKIL Travel, provided valuable insights on maximizing the benefits of work-related travel. His advice encompasses various strategies, from effectively merging travel with work responsibilities to crafting well-thought-out itineraries.

The travel tips shared by Vikash include:

Plan a smart itinerary

A thoughtfully constructed itinerary can facilitate the balance between work obligations and opportunities for networking and exploration. Prior to your visit, dedicate time to research your destination. Be sure to allocate extra time for informal conversations over coffee or lunch. Additionally, arrange your schedule to avoid the need to rush from one meeting to the next. Allow yourself some buffer time to explore or engage with local experts in a more relaxed atmosphere. A strategic itinerary ensures that your trip is not solely focused on work, but also serves as a chance to broaden your network and gain fresh insights.

Opt for local restaurants and hangout spots

Business travelers frequently choose hotel restaurants or conference venues, which can lead to missing out on the local cultural experience. Instead, take the initiative to explore the city’s finest dining establishments, cafes, and social venues. Local eateries and popular gathering spots provide a more informal setting for meetings with industry professionals, potential clients, or fellow business travelers. Individuals are often more inclined to engage in open conversation over lunch than in a formal meeting environment.

Go for local transportation

Experiencing a city through the lens of its residents offers an unparalleled perspective. Engaging with public transport options such as the metro, buses, and trams can lead to unexpected interactions and networking opportunities. Initiating a dialogue with fellow travelers may connect you with individuals from diverse industries or backgrounds, enriching your understanding of the local work culture. Additionally, utilizing local transportation is typically more cost-effective and allows for the discovery of hidden treasures that might otherwise go unnoticed.

Take meetings out of the boardroom

When circumstances permit, propose relocating meetings to a more stimulating setting. Consider venues such as a local eatery, an outdoor café, or a historical site that embodies the city’s heritage. This approach fosters a more relaxed environment, facilitating the establishment of meaningful connections by alleviating the constraints of formal settings.

Stay updated on the latest bleisure travel trends

The trend of "Bleisure" travel, which merges business and leisure, is increasingly embraced by professionals seeking to balance work commitments with personal exploration. Many organizations now support employees in extending their stays in a city or utilizing remote work options while traveling. Prior to your trip, verify whether your employer permits bleisure travel, which may involve arriving a day early or prolonging your visit to experience the destination at a more leisurely pace.

Explore between meetings and conferences

A frequent oversight among business travelers is the underutilization of their free time. Rather than returning directly to your accommodation post-meeting, take the opportunity to explore nearby attractions. Research cultural landmarks, parks, or local sites that are within walking distance of your conference location.

Micro-Touring

If your timetable does not permit lengthy sightseeing excursions, consider micro-touring as an effective alternative. Rather than waiting for an available afternoon, incorporate short yet impactful activities into your daily agenda.

Here’s an example:

• Enjoy a morning stroll through a local market or historical area.
• Dine at a nearby restaurant for lunch.
• Conclude your day with a leisurely evening walk in a local park or along the waterfront.

In conclusion, as suggested by Vikas, optimizing your business trip requires some effort, but the rewards are significant. Even the most hectic work trips can transform into enriching travel experiences by embracing the concept of bleisure, as articulated by Vikas. Ultimately, a business trip can be more than just work; it can also serve as a chance to expand your horizons and engage in new experiences.

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